The Contracting Handbook: Builder & Trades Construction Podcast

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Claimed

► Tell us about you and your podcast

I am a 17 year veteran general contractor representing Zone 8 in Fairbanks, Alaska. This podcast is about the nuance of running a construction company and everything that comes along with it. I host builders and tradespeople from all over the world to talk about the construction business and working in the trades. The cool thing is, my guests and listeners relate to each other's stories wherever they live. The show has been downloaded in over 70 countries and I have received thank you notes from listeners in at least 7 of those countries. TCH podcast has provided listeners with affirmation and confidence to proceed with their careers and even go off on their own and start a new business. Industry veterans are taking note as well because the next generation sees life a bit differently. Here at TCh, we explore the contemporary, universal construction experience. Join us!

► Why & how did you start this podcast? 

The podcast was to test proof of concept for a book I wrote about starting a contracting business, while yet to be published, the concept proved widely popular! While growth seemed slow at first as an unsponsored, independently produced podcast, the message is resonating as I've reached the top 3% of all podcasts globally in under 2 years. I launched my first trailer on May 1, 2021 after having read a book about producing podcasts in March. It wasn't until mid-April of that year that I decided to dive in. So, within a month, I recorded and produced two interviews and two topical episodes.
 

► How'd you find the time and funding to do this podcast?

During each season, I release one episode per week. Each episode takes about 10 hours to produce including emails, pre-interview calls, recording, and finally editing. Social media and show art add some time as well. Though it's time consuming, I do enjoy the interaction and the rewards. I still run my construction contracting business but make time for the podcast during slower months. Talking about building and the struggles going from tradesperson to business are natural for me. When I started my contracting company, I was a hell of a carpenter but had no business skills. The lessons came hard and fast. All said and done, the podcast costs about $700/ year to produce and is self funded, though I have gotten $150 from listeners on Venmo.

► What do you gain from podcasting?        

I have no sponsors yet as I have not been approached by anyone who shares my values. The podcast benefits the building community. I will use it to market my book, but those proceeds will be limited. Eventually, I would like to monetize the podcast or get picked up by a larger producer.

► How does your podcasting process look like? 

I use a microphone, camera, and zoom. I edit using pro tools. Will be moving to Riverside FM. 

► How do you market your show?

50% iTunes
25% spotify
25% Instagram and others
 

► What advice would you share with aspiring (new) podcasters?

It takes a lot more time to record and produce a podcast than I expected. I did not expect the incredible community I found in an industry where trade secrets are held so tightly.
 

► Where can we learn more about you & your podcasts?

https://www.thecontractinghandbook.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thecontractinghandbook/?hl=en
info@thecontractinghandbook.com
Venmo: @mike-knoche-1