#29 Self-Employed vs Employed Tradesmen | Why Going Self-Employed Isn’t Always Better (The Truth Nobody Talks About)

Is going self-employed really the dream… or is it one of the biggest myths in the trades industry?In this powerful episode of the Off The Tools Podcast, Wayne Bettess and Andy Jones tackle one of the biggest and most controversial topics in the trade world:Should you stay employed or go self-employed?If you're a plumber, heating engineer, electrician, builder, gas engineer or tradesman considering going out on your own — or currently struggling with self-employment — this episode could save you years of stress, burnout and financial pressure.Because here’s the truth…Self-employed doesn’t automatically mean more money, more freedom or a better life.Wayne and Andy break down the REAL numbers behind employed vs self-employed tradesmen, uncover hidden costs nobody talks about, and explain why many tradespeople accidentally build themselves the worst job in the world.Self-employed vs employed tradesmen explainedWhy going self-employed isn’t always an upgradeThe REAL income comparison between employed & self-employed engineersHidden costs of running a trade business nobody talks aboutWhy good tradesmen still struggle in businessHow modern customers have changed the gameWhy “doing a good job” alone is no longer enoughHow stress, burnout & financial pressure destroy trades businessesWhy many tradesmen become trapped in self-employmentHow to think like a business owner instead of just a tradesman✅ Tradesmen business coaching✅ Plumbing business coaching✅ Heating engineer business advice✅ Gas engineer self-employment advice✅ Running a trades business in the UK✅ Trade business growth strategies✅ Self-employed vs employed plumber✅ How to grow a successful trades business✅ Job management software for tradesmen✅ Marketing for trade businesses✅ Pricing, profit & cash flow for trades businessesAre you actually building a business…Or have you just built yourself a stressful, low-paid job?Wayne and Andy discuss why many tradesmen end up overworked, underpaid and overwhelmed — working longer hours for less reward than a good employed engineer.They also reveal what separates the tradesmen who thrive from the ones who stay stuck.Self-employed plumbersHeating engineers & gas engineersElectricians & buildersTradesmen thinking about going self-employedStruggling sole tradersTrades business owners feeling overwhelmedAnyone wanting more profit, time & freedom in their trade businessBeing self-employed is NOT the goal.Building a profitable, secure, stress-free life is.Whether that means employment, self-employment, or building a proper business — the key is making the right decision for YOU and your family.Because in 2026, being a good tradesman alone is no longer enough.🔥 In This Episode:⚒️ Topics Covered:💥 The Big Question:🚀 Perfect For:🎯 Key Takeaway: