In this RFI episode of the Blue Collar Future Podcast, hosts Jaden Robison and Jessie Demler answer listener questions covering everything from concrete finishing to career transitions. They dive into when (and when not) to use steel on exterior concrete, the difference between “safety on paper” versus real-world safety, and practical advice for young tradespeople with a Class A license. Jaden and Jessie also explore the growing number of people leaving white collar jobs to pursue fulfilling careers in the trades.

Takeaways

• Concrete finishing is all about timing and technique.

• Paper safety policies don’t matter if people aren’t truly protected.

• For young workers, responsibility and mindset matter more than experience.

• The trucking industry can be a stepping stone or a career—know your goals.

• More people are leaving white collar jobs for trades than you’d think.

• Living below your means builds stability in any career path.

• Real satisfaction comes from working with your hands and creating something lasting.

Chapters
(00:00) – Introduction and Personal Updates
(04:24) – Q1: When to Use (or Avoid) Steel in Exterior Concrete Finishing
(18:10) – Q2: Safety on Paper vs Safety on the Job
(22:40) – Personal Responsibility in Workplace Safety
(30:56) – Q3: Advice for a 20-Year-Old with a Class A License
(36:56) – Q4: How often(or not) are people getting into trades from white collar?
(41:49) – Financial Responsibility and Stability in the Trades