The Importance of Education in the Trades The Trade #220 Mike Duncan

Welcome to The Trade Talks Podcast, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every other Saturday for the Trade Talks Podcast and every Wednesday from 3-4 PM for the Trade Talks Live as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! In this episode, we sit down with Mike Duncan, Master Plumber and owner of Duncan Plumbing Solutions in Waxahachie, Texas, to talk about his journey into the trades—and why plumbing is more than just a job… it's a profession. From struggling in school and being told he wasn't "college material," to building a successful career in plumbing, Mike shares how persistence, mentorship, and real-world experience shaped his path. We dive into the realities of starting out in the trades, the importance of learning from the right people, and how mindset can make or break your career. We also discuss the reality of running a trades business — the ups and downs of cash flow, the importance of trust and honesty with customers, and why the skilled trades (especially plumbing) are in huge demand right now. If you're a plumber, contractor, trades professional, or homeowner who wants to understand how water damage claims, mold remediation, and restoration actually work, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Whether you're in plumbing, automotive, HVAC, electrical — or you're a young person trying to figure out your path — this conversation shows how powerful the trades can be when you commit to excellence. The trades aren't a backup plan. They're a wealth-building plan. If you're in the trades (or thinking about it), drop a comment below and tell us: 👉 What made you fall in love with your craft? And if you got value from this, make sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear this message. Let's build the next generation of skilled trades professionals the right way. — Roger Wakefield