Untapped with UpSmith
Wyatt Smith, Alex Hudgens
5.0from 2 ratings
- 18
- Episodes
- 2
- Ratings
- 2024
- First episode
About Untapped with UpSmith
UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. Hosted by Wyatt Smith, Founder & CEO of UpSmith, and Alex Hudgens, UpSmith's resident storyteller. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Thanks for tuning in! Get in touch and learn more about UpSmith at www.upsmith.com. More about the hosts: Wyatt Smith is founder and CEO of UpSmith, a technology company on a mission to combat America’s skilled worker crisis. Before UpSmith, Wyatt led business development for Uber Elevate, Uber’s aerial ridesharing business unit. At Uber, Wyatt led a team responsible for 25+ commercial partnerships across the air mobility value chain, generating more than $5B in private sector investment. Prior to Uber, Wyatt served as a consultant at McKinsey. He began his career as a corps member with Teach for America, receiving the 2013 Sue Lehmann Award as a national teacher of the year. Wyatt holds an MBA with Distinction from Harvard Business School and a BS from Vanderbilt University. Wyatt grew up on a family-owned cattle ranch in rural Alabama. He and his family live in Dallas. Alex Hudgens is a highly-recognized speaker and Emmy-nominated journalist, known best for her work on NBC’s Access Hollywood. From red carpets on international television to national conventions, expos, and college campuses, Alex has worked with companies like AT&T, Chase, QVC, COMPLEX, The James Beard Foundation, and more. Starting her own consulting practice, Alex has developed the brands of several venture-backed startups and serves as Communications & Content Lead at UpSmith. Alex’s dad, grandpas, and uncles are all tradesmen– storytelling about skilled workers is close to her heart. Alex and her family live in NYC.
- Publisher
- Wyatt Smith, Alex Hudgens
- Category
- business · business · technology
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 8 Feb 2024
- Latest episode
- 30 Sept 2024
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
30 Sept 2024
118: Building a Performance Culture in Quick Service Auto Maintenance with Shawn Ferguson
In this insightful episode of Untapped with UpSmith, Wyatt welcomes Shawn Ferguson, an entrepreneur from North Texas who runs a chain of quick service auto-lube locations, including Kwik Kar Lube & Tune. Shawn shares his journey from college athlete to business owner, discussing his background and the experiences that shaped his work ethic. He explains the operations of his auto-lube business, emphasizing the importance of customer trust, team performance, and personal interaction. Shawn ...
19 Sept 2024
117: Explosive Growth and Marketing Insights with Sam Preston of Service Scalers
In this episode of Untapped with UpSmith, Wyatt is joined by Sam Preston, CEO of Service Scalers, to discuss effective home services marketing. Sam shares his journey from college dropout to leading a successful marketing agency, revealing strategies for driving high-quality leads and managing rapid growth. Wyatt and Sam dive into topics including handling seasonal dips in leads, the importance of PPC (pay-per-click) advertising, and the value of accountability and productivity within teams. ...
7 Sept 2024
116: Are You Missing Out? Search and Marketing for Home Services Businesses with Scorpion’s Jamie Adams
In this episode of Untapped with UpSmith, Wyatt welcomes Jamie Adams, Chief Revenue Officer at Scorpion, to discuss the importance of lead generation and digital marketing for small businesses. Jamie shares insights into his role at Scorpion, a company focused on helping service-based businesses grow through effective marketing strategies. He recounts his career journey, starting from a small town in North Louisiana to becoming a leader in the digital marketing industry. Jamie emphasizes the ...
29 Aug 2024
115: Scaling Success: How John Wilson Grew His Family's Home Service Business to Millions
In this episode of 'Untapped with UpSmith,' John Wilson, CEO of the Wilson Companies, shares his journey from taking over his family's small plumbing business in his early twenties to scaling it to $26 million in revenue. John discusses his unconventional paths through education, the challenges of scaling up, the importance of leadership, and his strategies for successful recruitment and growth. Listen in to gain insights into the significance of training, adaptation, and maintaining a high-p...
13 Aug 2024
114: Empowering Contractors with Conduit Tech Co-Founder, Shelby Breger
In this episode of Untapped with UpSmith, Wyatt interviews Shelby Breger, Co-Founder of Conduit Tech. The discussion covers the impact of Conduit Tech's innovative design and sales platform on residential energy efficiency and the skilled labor shortage. Shelby shares her journey as an entrepreneur, the inspiration behind Conduit Tech, and insights into creating tools that support contractors. The episode delves into customer success stories, the importance of the homeowner-contractor relatio...
24 Jul 2024
113: ServiceTitan’s Chris Hunter on Unlocking Contractor Success: From Tradesman to Industry Leader
In this episode of Untapped with UpSmith, Wyatt Smith is joined by Chris Hunter, Principal Industry Advisor at ServiceTitan, formerly Director of Customer Relations. Chris shares his journey from accidentally entering the trades through a high school air conditioning class to running a successful air conditioning business that expanded to multiple locations before being sold to Turnpoint Services. He discusses the critical importance of leadership, investing in people, and creating systems for business growth. Chris further delves into key strategies like offering multiple service options and leveraging financing to drive contractor success, and the value of maintaining a servant leadership mentality. Highlighting his role at ServiceTitan, Chris explains how he helps bridge the gap between technological innovation and contractor needs. The episode also touches on productivity hacks, the importance of planning, and some of Chris' favorite book resources and podcasts for continuous learning. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:37 Chris Hunter's Journey into the Trades 03:16 Building and Growing a Business 05:48 Leadership and Overcoming Challenges 10:09 Role at ServiceTitan and Industry Insights 14:27 Current Industry Challenges and Solutions 22:17 Challenges of Maintaining Performance 22:26 Transforming the Worst Ship into the Best 24:48 Importance of Multiple Options for Customers 26:20 Recognizing and Rewarding Best Practices 34:43 Writing a Book: Lessons and Process 36:36 Productivity Hacks and Recommendations 36:49 Annual Planning and Goal Setting 39:30 Connecting and Collaborating 40:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Link to Chris’ book ‘It’s Go Time’ https://www.amazon.com/Its-Go-Time-Insights-Strategies-Home-Service/dp/0578753359 (https://www.amazon.com/Its-Go-Time-Insights-Strategies-Home-Service/dp/0578753359) ----- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
18 Jul 2024
112: Unlocking Success & Angi's Enterprise Strategies for Home Service Businesses with Rachel Zepernick
In this fun and insightful episode of Untapped with UpSmith, Wyatt and Alex welcome Rachel Zepernick, VP/GM of Enterprise Strategy & Operations at Angi. They discuss Angi's significant role in connecting homeowners with service professionals and the unique challenges and opportunities within their home services marketplace, which saw 22 million service requests last year. Rachel shares her journey from childhood through her early work experiences and career trajectory in the home services industry. Key topics include the critical labor shortage in the trades, the importance of destigmatizing trade careers, Angi's initiatives like scholarships and platform partnerships, and practical strategies for professionals to manage demand and optimize their businesses. Rachel also highlights the underrepresentation of women in the trades and the need to bridge this gap. The episode is rich with insights into how technology and strategic initiatives can address industry challenges and support growth. 00:00 Introduction to Angi and Its Unique Demand 00:54 Meet Rachel Zepernick: VP/GM, Enterprise Strategy & Operations at Angi 03:42 Early Work Experiences and Entrepreneurial Spirit 04:46 Transition to Consulting and Joining Angi 06:30 Understanding Angi's Enterprise Segment 08:20 Addressing the Labor Shortage in the Trades 11:24 Angi's Initiatives to Combat Labor Shortage 13:24 The Stigma Around Trades and Its Impact 17:10 Challenges in Lead Generation and Closing Rates 21:16 The Power of Word-of-Mouth Referrals 21:57 Challenges in Tracking Referral Impact 22:30 Sophisticated Marketing Strategies 24:37 Seasonal Business Challenges 27:32 Addressing the Skilled Worker Shortage 29:31 Women in the Trades 31:52 Automation in the Trades 33:48 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Recommendations 39:50 Conclusion and Contact Information More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
25 Jun 2024
111: Investing in the Future: Stephan Feilhauer on Infrastructure and Energy Transition
We’re diving into the future in this episode of Untapped with UpSmith! Hosts Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens welcome Stephan Feilhauer, Partner at Antin Infrastructure Partners, known for his expertise in infrastructure investing. Stephan discusses his unique background, from growing up transatlantically to his career advancements, and how these experiences shaped his focus on the future of electrification and societal shifts. He shares insights on the critical role of workforce development in infrastructure projects and the challenges and opportunities within the energy transition landscape. The conversation delves into the importance of skilled labor, the impacts of automation, and the role of policy in addressing labor shortages. Stephan also highlights investment strategies for climate tech and infrastructure growth, emphasizing the need for both early-stage innovation and substantial growth capital. The episode offers a comprehensive look at the interplay between workforce development, technology, and sustainable infrastructure investments. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:51 Early Life and Career Journey 02:45 Living in New York and Community 04:27 Macro Trends in Infrastructure and Mobility 07:50 Workforce Challenges in Infrastructure Projects 13:40 Comparing U.S. and German Workforce Systems 22:19 Investment Opportunities in Climate Tech 27:12 Investment Opportunities in Energy Transition 27:29 Evaluating Companies: Metrics and Team Dynamics 29:16 Challenges with Unit Economics 31:31 Leveraging Software for Workforce Efficiency 33:20 Automation and Specialization in Industry 37:12 The Role of AI in Enhancing Productivity 40:10 Optimism in Climate Tech 43:50 Lightning Round: Book and Podcast Recommendations 47:07 Productivity Tools and Hacks 49:43 Closing Thoughts and Call for Startups ----- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
7 Jun 2024
110: Jessica Peltz-Zatulove on Gen Z Workers and AI in the Skilled Trades
In this episode of Untapped with UpSmith, hosts Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens welcome Jessica Peltz-Zatulove, founding partner of Hannah Grey VC. The discussion delves into the skilled worker shortage, the impact of technology and AI on the trades, and the evolving characteristics of the Gen Z workforce– including how to best attract and empower Gen Z skilled workers. Jessica touches on her work with female founders and women in venture capital, offering insights into the opportunities in the field. Jessica also shares her personal journey from Minnesota to New York, including an entertaining story from her childhood about her early passion for business. Tune in to learn more about the work that Hannah Grey VC is doing and Jessica’s vision for the future! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:03 Jessica's Background and Early Life 04:27 Journey to New York and Early Career 11:03 Founding Hannah Grey VC 15:02 The Skilled Worker Shortage 18:45 Gen Z in the Workforce 24:43 Early Stages and Company Focus 25:05 Leveraging Technology for Employee Experience 26:45 AI Applications in Business 30:58 Empowering Female Founders 34:58 Rapid Fire Questions Jessica's references: How GenZ is Becoming the Toolbelt Generation https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/gen-z-trades-jobs-plumbing-welding-a76b5e43 (https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/gen-z-trades-jobs-plumbing-welding-a76b5e43) Understanding GenZ in the Workforce: Key Characteristics and Challenges https://www.springhealth.com/blog/characteristics-gen-z-in-the-workplace (https://www.springhealth.com/blog/characteristics-gen-z-in-the-workplace) The New Challenge of Engaging Younger Workers https://www.gallup.com/workplace/610856/new-challenge-engaging-younger-workers.aspx (https://www.gallup.com/workplace/610856/new-challenge-engaging-younger-workers.aspx) A Time We Never Knew (Anemoia) https://www.afterbabel.com/p/a-time-we-never-knew (https://www.afterbabel.com/p/a-time-we-never-knew) StrictlyVC Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strictlyvc-download/id1498270180 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strictlyvc-download/id1498270180) More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
23 May 2024
109: Hometown Values, Big City Vision: Mayor Mattie Parker on Growth and Governance
In this engaging episode of 'Untapped with UpSmith', Mayor Mattie Parker shares her journey to becoming the mayor of Fort Worth– highlighting her humble beginnings in Hico, Texas, and her progression into public service and law. Raised in a small town with deep family roots, she reflects on the values instilled by her eclectic parents and the resilience cultivated through personal challenges, such as her father's struggle with alcoholism. Mayor Parker's path to public service began with an impactful college internship, leading to significant roles, including working alongside Mayor Betsy Price and eventually stepping into her own as mayor. She discusses the evolution of Fort Worth, emphasizing community pride, economic growth, and the importance of education and skilled trades in fostering a thriving workforce. Mayor Parker also touches on work-life balance for parents and strategies for attracting a skilled workforce amidst a changing economic landscape. Additionally, personal anecdotes and recommendations for impactful reading resonate throughout the conversation, underlining the importance of resilience, empathy, and community in leadership. 00:00 A Warm Welcome and Personal Journey Begins 00:49 Childhood Memories: Life in Hico, Texas 03:57 Formative Experiences: High School and Family Challenges 07:03 The Path to Public Service: From College to Capitol 10:24 Navigating Career and Family: Law School and Beyond 15:54 Vision for Fort Worth: Growth, Community, and Opportunity 20:45 Addressing Workforce Readiness in North Texas 21:39 Rethinking Education and Workforce Development 22:52 The Role of Industry in Shaping Education 23:47 Fort Worth's Collaborative Approach to Workforce Training 29:09 Addressing Workforce Gaps and Childcare as a Workforce Issue 31:00 Innovative Solutions for Family-Friendly Workplaces 31:55 Adapting to the Needs of a New Generation in the Workforce 33:19 The Importance of Recognition and Positive Feedback in the Workplace 34:19 Leveraging Personal Experiences to Drive Policy Change 37:11 Inspiration and Reading Recommendations 41:24 Reflecting on Education, Mastery, and Persistence ----- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
9 May 2024
108: Transforming Communication in Home Improvement: Rilla's Journey from Struggle to Success
This exciting episode of 'Untapped with UpSmith' features an interview with Sebastian Jimenez, CEO of Rilla, who shares his company’s mission to revolutionize communication in the home improvement industry through AI. Discussing the company's early challenges in the retail sector and the impact of COVID-19 on their business model, Sebastian highlights the strategic pivot to the more lucrative field of home improvement, focusing on 'virtual ride-alongs'. He shares insights on the importance of learning from failure, the significance of rapid testing, and maintaining a customer-centric approach to achieve product-market fit. Sebastian's unique journey from an aspiring stand-up comedian to a tech entrepreneur demonstrates how non-traditional paths can equip individuals with essential business skills. He also delves into Rilla's eight operating principles that echo the reinforcement learner algorithm in AI, designed to enhance fast learning and innovation within the company. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of company culture, trust in product adoption, and the transformative impact of Rilla's technology on technicians and homeowners alike. 00:00 The Art of Customer Focus and Reinforcement Learning 00:22 Welcome to Untapped: Introducing Sebastian Jimenez and Rilla 00:56 The Mission of Transforming Communication 07:11 Sebastian's Journey: From Stand-Up Comedy to Tech Entrepreneur 16:57 Embracing Failure: The Core of Rilla's Culture 31:13 Unconventional Paths and Infinite Learning: Rilla's Operating Principles 37:25 Embracing Failure: A Key to Growth 37:33 The Power of Teamwork and Division of Labor 38:16 CEO's Focus: Building Teams and Shaping Vision 38:55 Cultivating a Culture of Continuous Improvement 39:52 Feedback and Learning: The Heart of Team Growth 43:17 Capital Efficiency: Balancing Innovation and Resources 51:58 The Journey of Rilla: From Concept to Market Fit 01:02:08 The Impact of Rilla: Changing Lives in Home Services 01:09:47 Insights on Personal Growth and Business Success ----- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
25 Apr 2024
107: A Skills-Focused Workforce with J.W. Carpenter of Prosper
This episode of ‘Untapped with UpSmith’ features J.W. Carpenter, a leader in economic empowerment and education reform. J.W. joins hosts Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens to discuss the importance of accessible quality jobs, the need for inclusive economic growth, and much more. J.W., who hails from the nonprofit Prosper (based in Birmingham), shares insights on education reform, the value of meaningful employment opportunities, and the role of holistic community involvement in achieving economic empowerment. The conversation delves into J.W.’s experiences with Teach for America, the evolution of adult learning, and innovative job training programs. Additionally, J.W. covers Prosper's mission to foster an inclusive economy in the Southeast by aligning job creation, preparation, and access strategies. The conversation highlights the importance of flexible education pathways, the benefits of paid apprenticeships, and leveraging technology to bridge skills gaps. It also accentuates the potential of Birmingham as a burgeoning hub for inclusive growth and innovation, inviting listeners to contribute to building a vibrant, equitable community. 00:00 Debunking College Myths and Championing Diverse Job Opportunities 00:53 Introducing J.W. Carpenter: A Leader in Education Reform 01:13 J.W. Carpenter's Impact and the Power of Feedback 02:33 Reflecting on Teach for America Experiences and Leadership Lessons 03:22 Evolving Views on Adult Learning and Education's Future 07:35 Prosper's Mission for an Inclusive Economy in Birmingham 10:18 Challenges and Successes in Workforce Development 12:06 Innovative Training Programs and the Future of Work 17:11 Navigating Funding and Bureaucracy in Workforce Programs 19:46 Aligning Training with Employer Needs and Employee Aspirations 20:34 Advice for Employers: Engaging with Workforce Development 21:59 The Power of Storytelling in Promoting Trades 26:05 Empowering Through Skills-Based Hiring and Technology 28:00 Showcasing Birmingham: A City of Growth and Opportunity 34:26 Personal Insights and Lightning Round Q&A ----- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
12 Apr 2024
106: SkillUp Coalition's Steve Lee on Combating Intergenerational Poverty & the Skilled Labor Crisis
This engaging episode of Untapped with UpSmith features Steve Lee, CEO of the SkillUp Coalition, who discusses the challenges and solutions to intergenerational poverty and the skilled labor crisis in the United States. Steve shares his personal journey from growing up inspired by his father's ethos of hard work and success, to his professional quest to create meaningful, dignified work for people across the nation. The conversation delves into SkillUp's innovative approach to aiding low-wage, non-degree workers through a curated career navigation platform that offers training programs, job opportunities, and a unique support system. Steve, alongside hosts Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens, also explores the broader socio-economic trends impacting workers and employers alike, highlighting the importance of readiness, willingness, and the ability of workers to adapt and succeed in new job markets while underscoring the need for employers to take calculated risks in hiring. Insights from successful partnerships with companies like Amazon and Verizon are shared, alongside personal reflections on finding joy, taking risks, and the impact of making a difference in others' lives. Visit www.upsmith.com to learn more and connect with our team! 00:00 The Stark Reality of Intergenerational Poverty 00:36 Introducing Steve Lee: A Champion for Change 01:22 Steve Lee's Personal Journey and Mission 03:26 SkillUp Coalition: Empowering Through Education and Employment 06:22 Challenges and Successes in the Fight Against Poverty 10:37 Navigating the Complexities of the Labor Market 15:20 Innovative Solutions and Partnerships for Employment 19:59 The Importance of Skills and Education in Career Advancement 22:58 Exploring the Digital Transformation and Workforce Readiness 23:20 Macro Trends: Broadband Expansion and Electrification Transition 24:09 The Importance of Willingness in the Workforce 26:08 Personal Stories of Impact and Intergenerational Change 28:28 Influential Books and Songs: Shaping Perspectives 31:58 Advice for the Future: Reflections and Recommendations 36:11 Embracing Productivity and Personal Growth 39:17 Morning Routines and Finding Joy in Simplicity ----- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
29 Mar 2024
105: Untapped Innovations: Ryan Streeter on Workforce Development & Economic Opportunities
In this episode of 'Untapped with UpSmith', hosts Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens welcome Ryan Streeter, a seasoned expert in public policy and political philosophy, to discuss the skilled worker shortage and innovative workforce development. Ryan is currently the Executive Director for Research, Civitas Institute, at The University of Texas at Austin and is the former Director of Domestic Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute. He shares insights from his diverse career, spanning think tanks, public service, and academia, focusing on urban policy issues, upward mobility, and non-economic drivers of economic success. The conversation further delves into the importance of designing training programs aligned with current labor market demands and the potential reforms in workforce development policy. Through real-world examples and a lively discussion, the episode emphasizes entrepreneurially driven local solutions, the role of employers in shaping training opportunities, and how to effectively work with government agencies for systemic change. Additionally, Ryan reflects on the optimistic outlook of working-class individuals and the cultural disconnection they feel, rather than just economic frustration– highlighting the complexity of addressing workforce development issues in a dynamically changing economy. Visit www.upsmith.com to learn more and connect with our team! 00:00 Debunking Economic Frustration Myths Among the Working Class 01:08 Exploring the Skilled Worker Shortage with Ryan Streeter 01:30 Ryan Streeter's Journey: From Suburban Childhood to Urban Policy Expert 04:18 The Love for Cities and the Urban Experience 07:32 Innovations and Challenges in Workforce Development 15:32 Bright Spots in Workforce Development Across the U.S. 20:42 Policy Recommendations and Employer Engagement in Workforce Development 22:49 Leveraging Local Leadership and Employer Consortia for Workforce Solutions 30:09 Embracing Unique City Identities and Economic Development 31:06 The Power of Regional Strategies in Economic Growth 32:06 The Role of Good Leadership and Community Hope 34:38 Navigating the Challenges of Urban Development and Construction 35:17 Understanding the Working Class Perspective in America 43:35 The Importance of Local Government and Community Engagement 49:19 Personal Reflections and Advice for the Future --- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
14 Mar 2024
104: Entrepreneurship through Acquisition: Niklas James’ Blueprint for Business Growth
In this episode of 'Untapped with UpSmith', hosts Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens engage in a comprehensive discussion with Niklas James, Founder of Siddis Group, and the Executive Chairman of Service Star in Texas, a company making significant strides in the home services industry. Niklas shares his journey from growing up in Norway, moving to the States for his MBA at Harvard, to diving into the world of acquiring and expanding small businesses in the home services sector. He delves into the challenges and opportunities in addressing the skilled worker shortage, leveraging organic growth, and enhancing customer service. Niklas also touches upon the importance of creating value through people management and the necessity of training to boost operational metrics. Insightful anecdotes, strategies for improving workforce productivity amid labor shortages, and recommendations for personal and professional development are discussed. Tune in for a deep dive into the realities of the home services industry and entrepreneurship! 00:00 Welcome to Untapped: Meeting Niklas James 01:35 Niklas' Journey: From Norway to Home Services Entrepreneur 02:59 The Impact of Market Changes on Service Star 03:45 Boosting Workforce Productivity: A Key to Success 04:58 Niklas' Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Business Ventures 06:20 Acquiring and Growing Small Businesses: Niklas' Strategy 09:16 Building Trust and Partnerships in Business 12:37 The Importance of People Management in Business Success 14:37 Book Recommendations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 24:02 Learning from Others: The Power of Networking and Sharing Best Practices 36:13 Implementing Change and Technology in the Workplace 39:03 Final Thoughts and Advice for Young Entrepreneurs ---- More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. Visit upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more today! The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
19 Feb 2024
103: Building the Future of Skilled Trades: A Conversation with Sander Daniels, Founder of Thumbtack & Groombuggy
Episode 103: Building the Future of Skilled Trades: A Conversation with Sander Daniels, Founder of Thumbtack & Groombuggy Tune in as Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens host Sander Daniels, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Thumbtack and Groombuggy. Daniels discusses the significant opportunity for individuals to venture into the skilled trades and home service industries. He believes that more people should consider starting local businesses and emphasizes the rewards that come from a community focus and creating job opportunities. Daniels shares insights on managing a dynamic workforce and the motivation behind starting Groombuggy, a mobile dog grooming business. He concludes with a call for individuals with experience in the home service sector to connect, share knowledge and collaborate on improving the industry. Visit www.upsmith.com to get in touch and learn more! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:16 Sander Daniels' Journey to Entrepreneurship 02:04 The Birth and Growth of Thumbtack 02:48 The Challenges and Triumphs of Starting a Tech Company 06:22 The Vision and Success of Thumbtack 07:54 The Impact of Thumbtack on Service Professionals 15:29 The Journey to Groombuggy 17:59 The Challenges and Opportunities in the Pet Market 18:32 The User Experience and Growth of Groombuggy 19:53 The Importance of Digital Marketing in Business 22:39 The Potential in Blue Collar Trades 31:43 The Importance of Rewarding and Recognizing Employees 38:35 Conclusion and Call to Action More about the show: UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Join us on Untapped with UpSmith!
12 Feb 2024
102: Bridging the Skilled Trades Gap with Katherine Boyle, General Partner Andreessen Horowitz
Untapped with UpSmith: Bridging the Skilled Trades Gap with Katherine Boyle, General Partner Andreessen Horowitz In this episode of 'Untapped with UpSmith,' hosts Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens welcome Katherine Boyle, general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. They discuss the crucial role of skilled trades in industries such as aerospace, defense, and construction, and the challenges that arise from the shortage of skilled labor. Katherine shares her journey from journalism to investing and emphasizes the importance of mentorship, purpose-driven work and organization cultures. The group discusses the lack of hands-on, practical education and offers solutions like improved mentorship, adapting values-based work cultures, and automation-adjacent labor. Katherine explains the importance of 'American Seriousness' which she describes as having a strong sense of duty and commitment towards one's work. They highlight the worryingly high risks consequently affecting national security and argue for a cultural shift to make manufacturing 'cool' again. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome to Untapped with UpSmith 01:13 Guest Introduction: Katherine Boyle, Andreessen Horowitz 01:46 Katherine's Journey: From Gainesville to Silicon Valley 05:11 The Importance of Family and Mentorship 09:01 The Role of Work Culture and Mentorship in Career Development 15:43 The Concept of American Seriousness 18:24 The Challenges in the Current Education System 22:46 The Importance of Skilled Trades 23:27 The Risks of Skilled Labor Shortages 23:52 The Impact on National Security and Everyday Life 24:33 The Challenge of Training and Mentorship 25:06 The Future of Defense Industrial Base 25:31 The Role of Automation in Manufacturing 26:57 The Importance of a Distributed Base 27:23 The Crisis of Labor Shortage 28:15 The Role of Technology and Cultural Shift 28:28 The Impact of Elon Musk and SpaceX 30:45 The Power of Storytelling in Business 31:56 The Importance of Company Values 38:55 The Role of Purpose in Productivity 41:33 The Importance of Women in Trades 42:55 Conclusion
8 Feb 2024
101: Introducing Untapped with UpSmith
Welcome to Untapped with UpSmith, hosted by Wyatt Smith and Alex Hudgens! UpSmith is on a mission to address skilled worker shortages by building technology to help trades companies win and skilled workers thrive. The Untapped with UpSmith podcast helps business owners focus on answering critical questions for the people they serve, solving problems to expand workforce productivity and grow their businesses. On Untapped, you’re getting real talk and real help– we’re bringing you industry experts and inviting guests to share perspectives on what they're building– we’ll even workshop their business challenges in real time. Expect practical advice, inspiring ideas, and even some fun– we promise. Ideas build the future… and the future is bright. Thanks for tuning in! Get in touch and learn more about UpSmith at www.upsmith.com. More about the hosts: Wyatt Smith is founder and CEO of UpSmith, a technology company on a mission to combat America’s skilled worker crisis. Before UpSmith, Wyatt led business development for Uber Elevate, Uber’s aerial ridesharing business unit. At Uber, Wyatt led a team responsible for 25+ commercial partnerships across the air mobility value chain, generating more than $5B in private sector investment. Prior to Uber, Wyatt served as a consultant at McKinsey. He began his career as a corps member with Teach for America, receiving the 2013 Sue Lehmann Award as a national teacher of the year. Wyatt holds an MBA with Distinction from Harvard Business School and a BS from Vanderbilt University. Wyatt grew up on a family-owned cattle ranch in rural Alabama. He and his family live in Dallas. Alex Hudgens is a highly-recognized speaker and Emmy-nominated journalist, known best for her work on NBC’s Access Hollywood. From red carpets on international television to national conventions, expos, and college campuses, Alex has worked with companies like AT&T, Chase, QVC, COMPLEX, The James Beard Foundation, and more. Starting her own consulting practice, Alex has developed the brands of several venture-backed startups and serves as Communications & Content Lead at UpSmith. Alex’s dad, grandpas, and uncles are all tradesmen– storytelling about skilled workers is close to her heart. Alex and her family live in NYC.
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