I gave up 80k a year as well. Was sitting at a desk for 50 hours a week with an hour one way drive. I'm now doing home repairs, decks and fences. Wish I would've done the change sooner!
They described two different things. Stan called it "managing a hospital", but he said "nurse manager". That's not the same thing, at all. Also, having a nurse manager fill in unpaid for an RN shift is illegal. Well, against union regs, anyway. Wouldn't happen much in a bigger place run by unions.
I don’t think he was managing a hospital. He was managing nursing staff in a specific department. A hospital administrator is going to make deep into 6 figures, depending on the size of the hospital.
Whether hospital administrator or nursing manager, one has to be willing to spend their entire life at the hospital and tethered to the hospital via hospital-issued Iphone when "off." Essentially, you're never really off. I ran a hospital department for many years and the hospital increasingly melded work and off time into work time. As I grew older, I increasingly sensed my own mortality and what a dead end, at any salary, spending one's life at work is. Many physicians and hospital lawyers I came to know and worked with were miserable in spite of making good money. Many of the professions and jobs we're taught to covet when we are young are nothing but life-sucking, stress-filled, prisons. Being able to afford a couple expensive power vacations each year is not worth the six-figure salaries, in my opinion. You'll probably have to have your company-issued Iphone with you on your power vacation, as well. One has to decide if the time spent getting ready for work, driving to work, the 10 - 12 hours at work, driving home from work and being on call while at home and on the weekends is worth any salary. Many of these jobs also require one to "drop by" the work location on weekends, overnight, etc., to "check on things,." and you're also expected to be involved in community events during evening and weekend hours in order to promote your employer. One might just as well have their mail sent to their work location. No thanks!
Perhaps the best advice I've seen in your videos. Reputation built on top-quality work, solid work ethics and fair pricing. I'm happy to spend top dollar when the workmanship and work ethic is second to none. Respecting ourselves first shows and we lead others to respect us in return. The win-win system is a fantastic way to build ourselves and simultaneously build up others.
I go to work ever day, LOVING my job. Homeschooled with no college, raising and providing for a large family "mine" all on blue collar craftsmanship! Hard work and self motivation can get you anywhere.
@@hermetix7231 Georgia, non union. When I got out of the Marine Corps in 2003 I was a commercial electrician in California, non-union. I do not have favorable opinions on unions.
Good vid, I'm carpenter in Australia and most of my jobs are Charge Out (time + material) It's always encouraging hearing that other people are doing the same. Cheers and Good job :)
My son finished his medical degree at Barts here in London,UK and just could not stand medicine,left to run a scrap yard.The others all left white collar route and started doing jobs that others sneer at where they earn more money and have a life.
Stanley, thank you for the inspirational videos - you are bringing the message, and I want to just say I am extremely grateful for all your uploaded videos. More please!
My Dad was a self employed trades man in carpentry, plumbing and electrical. He was strictly time and material and never in his life run out of work. Mom was a stay at home mom to 3 boys of which one was a special needs boy. He provided all we needed everyday. We were also small family farmers. I am now in my 70's and retired, first from the USAF and then I spent 21 years as an industrial electrician for the same company making a good hourly wage plus overtime as needed. I knew my job and did excellent work. I was the primary go to guy when something broke or to install new equipment. I worked with no engineers, no blue prints only a list of what equipment needed to be installed and its electrical requirements. I ordered, received and installed. I have no college in it, no trade school other than my Dad to age 19. I am comfortable in my retirement.
I started doing Electrical work and man I dont know if I want to stick with it, i came in with a mindset that i will love the trade just Like some other guys here claimed so.... I sometimes watch Carpentry videos and think that looks cool i want to learn that but i dont know if ill want to stick with that either
Being successful isn't based solely on income for myself. I'm very blue collar. If I make 20.00 an hour, I live a lifestyle as is I'm making 14.00 an hour. Refuse to by new vehicles and materialistic items that won't help me make money. Hard work, self discipline, and living within your means has been the key for me. I'm 41 yrs old, and have everything I need to enjoy life. That big fancy house and vehicles won't bring me long term happiness. But 20 acres of land that I can cash rent to a farmer that in return pays for my taxes and family vacations brings me plenty of joy. And something that can be handed down to family that holds value.
I was teaching at the best Highschool, which prepared kids for the real world. They had a wood shop, auto shop, welding shop, electronic classes, drafting classes and computer construction with function classes. When these kids graduated they had good paying jobs and many earned more than I did, their first year, with no debt. They also had something the College bound kids did not, and that was a stable carrier. and sense of self worth with accomplishment.. Sadly, here in the U.S,. many High Schools had phased out Blue Collar carrier classes that offer opportunity with a J.O.B .and not a P.H.D...i always considered America was built on Blue Collar workers, and Industrial workers.. i am retired now but worked many Blue Collar jobs, when I was younger and during the summers.
I have been a contractor with my own business for 18 yrs. now and I have experienced all of what you guys have been talking about. It's makes me feel a little better knowing I'm not the only one that has ended up working for "peanuts" on some jobs like you mentioned. You are correct when you say it is demoralizing and terrible for moral on the job and off for that matter. I have done more "time and materials" jobs this year than I have ever done and I love it. Stanley thank you for this video Man, it really gives me a new outlook on my business. I ran a $16 add in a free paper for 6 months when I first started and that is all the advertisement I have done. My advertisement is all word of mouth from my clients, it's the kind of advertisement you can't buy. Keep up the great vids Stanley.
Great advice. Living in New Mexico with a giant immigrant population, there’s always some hack job that can do it cheaper. Not a lot of people here understand that good work isn’t cheap and cheap work isn’t good
Good video. I was just laid off from a $63k job as a QC lab tech. I am looking to go into this same handyman type self employment, I already have several jobs lined up by word of mouth. I want to do some schooling first as I can get it paid for, but God willing, this will work for me. Thanks again for information videos.
White collar turned blue welding. Just landed a good step up job doing tunnel boring machines by going direct and selling myself, much better than what I was told was "possible" by a middleman company. Desk jobs are great for those who wanna live for the desk.
As a high school teacher, I see the big push to get as many kids as possible to go to college, and many never use their majors, or drop out. Undergrad is a booming business. It’s for some, for sure. Thank you for making this vid Stan. Sorely needed to boost people (including me) to learn and specialize in a trade of high interest. Passion, love for learning, strong work ethic, and reputation is what it’s about!
First step is to understand what quality is before you can do a quality job. Everyone has there own perception of what quality based on their level of experience. Do the best job you can every time and figure out how to do it better the next time, continuous improvement is so important!
I've been an Electrician for over 30 years. When I was non-Union, I had jobs at every level from helper to Field Superintendent, Project Manager; even General Manager. I had many times along the way where I'd hire in just looking to work or maybe be just a Foreman, and apparently my abilities threatened the guy I worked under. Next thing you know, I was DTR (down the road) electric. They'd have me fixing other peoples work, doing the tricky things or the exposed work, stayed very productive, didn't break any rules, was careful not to undermine authority or knowledge, never was late or called in and still same crap - spineless job-scared guy above me. Happens in blue collar too.
In high school the guidance counselors stressed going to college. My father was a union tradesman provided us with a very comfortable living. During the summer vacations he got us summer jobs with the contractor he worked for. So I learned to work with my hands. Fast forward I graduate high school, worked construction got my union book. I got laid off then went to school I got my degree worked white collar for about 15yrs. I enjoyed what I did, but I was a slave. I left the industry and went back into the trades and loving it.
It's a great video guys. I respect the hard work too. I do have a suggestion though... own real estate. More people generate wealth and PASSIVE income with RE. I am military retired and I own 12 homes. My wife and I don't work except to maintain our own homes. Most of our work is just communication between tenants and I do repairs about twice a week.
These testimonials are always so motivational and I can completely relate. I was an electrician while going to college and then no more "getting my hands dirty". I am now starting a land clearing business 30 years later. The one thing these videos never discuss is health insurance. My Kaiser health plan, MetLife dental and EyeMed vision would cost me $2K/mo if my current employer weren't paying 90% of it for me. When working for yourself, you have to provide for your family's healthcare and that's a significant cost.I'm not saying don't work for yourself, just know before going in that buying top-tier healthcare is pricey. Peace from NorCal.
Stanley, great video! Wish I would of seen this when it first came out. I too worked "white collar" for 22 years. During that time I was always also flipping houses (BEFORE IT WAS COINED "FLIPPING") . The day came when I couldn't take the travel OR the politics. That was 2016 since then I started and have been running a successful remodeling business.
Undervaluing your work and not setting your prices at a scalable amount is easily avoidable, number one figure out what the going rate is for the task. if you have little experience start your pricing at the low part of the average and scale up to the top end as competency levels increase. I underbid jobs for years, it seems like it is a pandemic amongst entrepreneurs. The ray of sunshine is after you hit rock bottom, you realize you can't do that anymore, in a way that is ingrained in your soul. you stop making that mistake. You then evaluate how much you are really worth and how much your guys are worth and you hold your standard and you wonder how you could be so silly for so long. Or you just give up. Or you just close up the business and you don't learn the lesson. Thanks for all your great videos Stan, you the man.
Knowledge is power and a good reputation is very very true. I live on Waiheke island in Auckland and we're killing it out here. Driveways, retaining walls, clearing sections and mowing lawns.
@@DJslushy92 Never lived there, just visited a couple of times, but they have been getting a LOT of press lately :-) Lived a lot of places, but currently a Westie ;-)
Damn man I just ran across a video for a job I’m starting next week and have been watching three hours now… you give a lot of good tips man new subscriber from me!
Thanks for the vids!! I've dabbled over the years doing renovations with/for friends, helped flip a couple houses, etc. I've got a few friends now that play/work in real estate and want me to help them more 'officially'. After just a few weeks working with them we are looking at Lic/Bonding/Insurance etc for my LLC. I've worked 25+ years in IT but I like building and fixing REAL things, and the IT field has gone south in terms of income and professional quality and I can't stand it, so maybe this is a new career happening? (My first love/run through college was for Architectural and Mechanical Engineering.....we were still drafting on paper at that time.) These videos are a big help, the more detail the better, as I dust off my old lessons and update with newer concepts. Keep 'em coming!!
Hearing him talk about the $3/hr job reminds me of when I managed restaurants. I was salary, and many weeks, my "hourly" pay was lower than some of my employees. I'm so glad I got out of that rat race, and started my own lawncare business.
good advice. i've been doing electrical t+m for the 19 years after highschool. high quality trades work t+m is a great way to build a reputation and have a chill lifestyle
This is all true... I come from the trades and worked my way to project manager on the the ships. Long hours and many fires to put out daily, but the pay was decent. I taken a step back as a government employee as a warehouse man.. I have a side hustle as a metal fabricator, which I make good money when I get gigs. Not consistent enough to quit day job yet..... Your video is on point, keep them coming....
Been doing this same thing started 3 years ago at 22 with seamless gutters but was electrictian prior for 3 years. Been self employed me and my girlfriend for several years and able to make 75$ hr for both of us on handy jobs plus more in seamless gutter field. But love what we do basically work 9 months and travel 3 months of the year driving across the 🇺🇸. Been watching ur videos for about a year now in you keep putting out great content..👍👍
Yo, I just came across your video and I am so glad I did. This is a terrific idea and a high quality video imparting important, relevant information I intend to use so I want to thank you sir!! Please make more similar videos.🤙🏽
One of the best parts of this is the story he told about how he did a job and only made $3.00 an hour but his guys still made $15.00. It’s something you see with Stan is pretty much every episode. No matter what happens you take care of your guys, that’s awesome to see.
This is almost my same story but I was managing a high-line auto shop in a downtown city dealership. I started doing small repairs and landscaping for people around town. Big companies don't want to take small jobs, they see it as a waste of time. I come in and make some cash for a morning or afternoon of work and still have time to do work at home. ALL my business is through word of mouth from happy clients. Such a better life.
I'm very glad it worked out for this guy...I'm a Nurse and am very very lucky to make great $ and love what i do.....for my kids i tell them do whatever u love and usually you can make a good living with that....Blue collar is awesome until you get old....lol.....white collar allows you to work longer and not as hard...both have advantages and drawbacks.....i am still in awe whenever any contractor comes to my home to do a job.....the instant gratification of completing a project must feel so so good...,much admiration for anybody with these type of skills...unfortunately for me....I'm all thumbs and feel pride when i hang a picture frame straight...love your videos
I have a carpenter here in Australia that works that exact way and he is awesome. He isn’t the cheapest but he is a perfectionist like me and goes above and beyond what he needs to, to make the job better every time. I’ll be using him for life now on anything I need.
The issue I found with other contractors using this method is, you can’t get enough done in a day and the customer cuts your pay at the end of the week. I personally have never tried it, but I know people who have.
I've undervalued myself in the past as well. Once I stopped doing that things changed quickly. Charge what you think the job is worth to you (or negotiate for a better salary at work) and don't apologize for it.
A good reputation is where it's at, I can name my prices (most of the time) based on the customer being completely warmed up from my previous customer who recommended me . . I will say this I'm also in a really great market outside of Charlotte NC . . When I go on road trips and drive through the rural areas I wonder how well contractors do away from masses of potential customers... it seems like you'd have to be well versed on bigger equipment outside of the city not enough easy smaller jobs to get your beak wet on first ...
I’m self employed in construction I’m very very busy and I miss my freedom. Problem is almost the same as the “once you go management” argument. My problem is I couldn’t go back to just working as a journeyman for a construction company because I love being the boss. I just need to figure out how to get my freedom back. Once you get bigger you’re no longer free because my customers become the boss. If they need my machines I jump to get them what they need. I’m working right now on a Sunday playing catch up on billing. Ugh it’s almost like doing homework!! I hate homework.
Been doing this for years, it works!!!! I'm at 80$ , but I do electrical, plumbing, trim, sheetrock, a/c, framing, just about anything on a house, just gotta be able to sell the hourly wage
As someone who started out in food and plumbing but am now in the white collar world - I can tell you blue collar people seem happier. Blue collar people better support each other. White collar is dog eat dog. I'll be back to blue collar before my working life is over because I enjoyed it more.
Thank you! I needed this. I did exceptionally well last year even just "bidding" than I ever did working for anyone else. Your videos have inspired me very much!
I love the concept, but what about health insurance? That is one thing that makes people hesitant in leaving their jobs for self employment. Again, I love the concept of self employment, just a question that I don't see anyone talking about.
I’m right into the same transition in my life. It’s been 14 months since leaving a desk job. I’m finally turning the corner towards profitability. I still need a little luck for winter income, but if I can break even I think next year will be profitable.
Im a journey electrician 40 yrs. A carpenter just as long, then I started home repair and small remodeling and maintenance. I'm a 58 yo badness woman. I agree with this guy, but I charge more per hour. Hourly vs bid u never get hurt. I charge a iding scale the more hours I work I charge less per hour at 6 hrs which is as much as I do $300 hrs. I rarely work over, sometimes I charge piece, such as ceiling fans are a set price. $75 for a replacement. It takes an hour sometimes more If I have to run it from scratch or any circuit it's $150 average. I am in the electricial trade 40 years.
Great video, if you do this type of video again I would like to ask the question “if you had to go to work for someone what job and the minimum salary needed to go back to work for the man?”
Im a flooring installer making, 4500 to 6000$ a month at 28, no weekends, and im only working 6 hour days so I can spend time with my family. I work by the square footage or yardage and material costs plus moving furniture and take up, haul away and all the little profit boosters. Working out of a store as a subcontractor and on my own taking calls when the store is slow, love my job and love my life, There is only one other installer my age in my tri state area of approximately 250 square miles. Learn a trade, do it well, don't get in debt, and love your job and your family.
I'm in my 4th year of self employment. Asphalt seal coating pays the bills. Handyman work, including kitchens/bathrooms and just about everything the average homeowner SHOULD be able to do is all "gravy". I work part time...5-6 hr days, 3-4 days a week. I make enough from May 1st - mid-October to cover the whole year. I take a couple small jobs through the winter, just to keep busy...kinda! Most days, I make as much as I ever did in a whole week, working for anyone else. It's a beautiful thing!
That is a critical element! I did without for many years...the majority of my food was grown myself and/or hunted. I spent 20+ years acquiring skills learned from others. I did side work that I was comfortable/confident with and all that money was set aside. Now, at (almost) 44....all my equipment, tools, trucks, etc are paid for...nice house on 5 acres is paid for. I can step out my back door and send as much lead down-range as I wish....naked even, if I wanted to...and nobody complains! Best part is...I'm still young enough to enjoy the free time!
I do the same thing but I have an hourly rate for myself and a helper and that's the only way I roll except you can always upsell when you're already there on the job like a re- pipe or something and bid it when you know you can do it fast and make out... also if you want to be stress-free hourly is the way to go
@@coltsgood99 what I mean is when you charge less than you should just to get work it’s very hard to get out of that. All the people you get are people that will never pay what it’s worth so it’s a loser situation. The people you get will always want that cheap price and when you don’t they go somewhere else.
This is precisely where im at. 17 years as a police officer and im seriously considering where my loyalties lie. Yourself, Brian @ Brians Lawn Maintenance are making it much more apparent which decision i should make. Great Video.
@@dirtybirdservices1130 If you play the TH-cam card right you'll make way more than any regular job. I've been researching how TH-cam works and it's fascinating what people "could" make. I too plan to start a TH-cam channel but about Automotive stuff. Just like fixing them cars!
I feel like the take on white collar workers is a bit shortsighted based on his bad experience. The biggest factor for a white collar worker's relationship to salary is how much stress can you handle. The same is true for blue collar workers. If you can achieve alleviating stress for your superiors doing a minimal number of hours because you are running "your" business (or portion thereof) smoothly, then more power to you... and more salary to you proportionately. Nowadays more and more white collar jobs approve of flexible hours and remote work so it's easier than ever to do great work and get a good income from being a white collar worker. Great video though it's nice to see someone doing so good for themselves in a blue collar job after all the hurdles.
I have some close friends that are contractors. They've taught me a lot over the years. They are always busy because they know what they're doing, they show up and do the job right the first time and are honest. Where I lived prior to this house if you were a contractor that answered your phone you were half way to making a living. Most didn't return calls or never followed through on what they said they'd do.
It's the absolute truth! I'm in my 4th year of self employment (handyman/trades). I can easily make as much in a short day, as I did in a week working for anyone else. That's not every day of course, but at least 1-2 days each week. Annually, it works out to be about the same as I was making...BUT...I work less than half as much as I used to. I rarely even work an 8 hour day...usually 4-6 hours, and for only about 6 months of the year. I have plenty of time (and the money) to work my property, go fishing, flying, and spending countless hours sitting in the woods waiting on "woods meat" to stroll on in....there aint much that'll beat a bacon wrapped backstrap on a charcoal grill!!!
Just like the man in the video. Did 23 yrs in the medical field and can tell you that YOU are doing the most sensible thing. Worked 16 hrs day and never had a life. Left the office to have the martinis at $18.00 a drink in Beverly Hills (Chaya) and hated the fact that the next day I had to go back to work. Love taking care of people, but hated not having a life. Today I am a bartender, I have plenty of time to surf in the AM and have fun with the Doctors, Lawyers and CPAs at night making crazy money and listening to the same complaints I had as medical person back in the day. Moral of the story, do what makes you happy and CHARGE the white collar dudes what you want if you are the best at what you do. They will appreciate it. BELIEVE me. Go get them Non!!
If you have your own tools try doing small jobs for elderly people in your neighborhood. I am a 66 year old woman and do my own small repair/remodeling of my home because I can't find a handyman that does quality work for what they charge. Or they want full pay and don't finish the job. It will build a client base and word of mouth goes a long way. Hope you become successful.
Nons: Don't hate school; learn all you can. The more math and English you know and use well, the better off you are. I use algebra all the time trying to figure out stuff. I also do math in my head all the time.
I love seeing stories like this. Guys like this are great, folks, you don't have to go to college to earn a great living but you have to learn some skills and work at it.
Watched a second time and can’t emphasize enough to not undervalue your time as advocated in this video! Be confident in your skill level and ability to communicate well. I hate to admit how many amazing customers I have only because I was the only one of three that actually showed up for an initial meeting, but could communicate via email and text. Crazy! I don’t have an hourly rate. I charge by the job and take every factor into account when I give a quote (including distance from home, and how much a pain I perceive the customer to be🤣). Then, I multiply my final estimate by 1.5 for a safety factor and send out the bid. Crazy thing is I don’t really even bid jobs anymore. 99% of my clientele is referral and they don’t even ask the price....just as long as I get it fixed pronto!
So incredibly true that you don't need a college degree! Things have changed but most people's thinking has not. I actually had a teacher in high school tell me I would never amount to anything successful when they learned that I was not going to college. I'm not bragging but the irony that I earn 3-4 times a teacher's salary needs to be stated. There are simply less people that want to work hard so they don't get into trades these days.... Basic supply and demand.
Live in central Illinois. I know of gentlemen how started doing little things for one guy. Was given keys the gentleman’s house when they went on vacation. He worked at corporate headquarters of an insurance company. Other started asking him to their house. Quite job at insurance company and started his own business.
Currently in my 21st year of being a Paramedic and once again completely burned out for exactly the reasons he listed, with exception that I have never made 80k unless I went to work in some s-hole like Afghanistan. I needed to hear a little motivation that there is possibly a life outside of the career I mistakenly made and have worked my entire adult life. Now I just need to figure out how to utilize the tools that I have and gather up some confidence to go out and take the risk.
Yup, I've 20+ years of being a Radiological Technologist and want nothing to do with management. The new manager one year was also a first time manager. He didn't care much for me, because I was his only (perceived) source of competition. That was the dynamic for almost a year. After having a talk with him that I have no interest in his job and would never be in competition for it, out relationship improved. I also went part-time a few years ago and started my own tree removal company, something I learned in my 20s. Since also growing up with a general contractor father, having my own framing contractor business in my 20s, and building 2 homes of my own (doing everything), I toyed around with handyman stuff, but I didn't care for the excessive customer service involved. There is enough of it in the hospital environment. I currently split my work situation between 3 shifts every 2 weeks at the hospital and my tree removal gig. It's a lot less draining.
Sincerely proud of you for figuring out the grind, my dude. White collar ain’t all it’s cracked up to be. Hopefully you can go full-time with your tree service very soon!
I work as a locomotive diesel mechanic for a class 1 railroad in the west coast(was an automotive technician for GM dealers and a couple indy shops, always wrenched since childhood though) making 90k a year. Such a chill job, so I'm always full of energy. I still work out of my garage fixing all types of cars, trucks and that's all cash🤫 lol. Last year, 2020, I grossed 102k in my garage alone doing side jobs. Needless to say, life is good. My lady is going to school to be a psychologist. I'm 34, she's 33 and we're Latinos(Central American background). There's money out there, you just have to go out and work for it, get yourself a skill. Nothing wrong with college, but choose wisely. I have an AS degree for automotive repair/technology and alternative fuels. Just some insight.
Was it difficult to get into that? I’m a diesel tech as well and I’ve always wanted to work on locomotives or anything big. I live in the Midwest and the wages here are abysmal.
Just had a thought Stan have you considered getting in with Mike Row? He is saying alot of the same things and has a great organization called Mike row works. Just a thought.
I think some of the comments above are out of line. Brett is not saying he's Rockefeller, he saying he was in corporate white collar management, and felt he was over worked and under paid. So he became a handyman/repairman and now has more freedom and quality of life. Who knows if he has 2 years booked or not. Maybe it's really 12 months, whatever. Point is, he made the transition to blue collar, feels it was the right decision for him, and now he and Stanley are sharing his story with us. Good for him. I would like a follow-up vid where he recoounts some of the actual conversations he has, particularlly with new clients. Even though he's T&M, I'm assuming he give some type of hours estimate, which is a loose bid in and of itself. For example the towel rack, I thinking he would say, "I see the problem, gotta reinforce the hanger, replace the drywall, tape and paint, figure 3-4 hours." And if he's still there after 6 hours without a good reason, I'm guessing he lets the homeowner shut him down, pay for the 6 hours, and send Brett on his way. BTW the math does support what he's saying. He said he was making $80k as a nurse manager, and now makes "about the same" working 3-4 days per week. First hour is $50, each additional hour is $40. So figure he averages 4 days/week for 50 weeks, not 52 weeks due to personal vacation and holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving when few people want workers at their house. So 50weeks*4days*1st hour at $50 is $10k annual. The remaining time of 50weeks*4 days*7hrs*40 is another $56k, so $66k total. That's only for 32 hours a week, if he adds 4 hours for 36 week, or has more than one service charge each day, there's the extra 50*4*40 = $8,000 for $74k. To all the previous commenters calling BS on the guy, his math adds up. Myself, I think he has a watchable disposition, good voice, seems to enjoy explaining things, so I think Brett should start his own youtube and just set up a camera and give us some before, during, and after narration on his various jobs. Kinda like South Main Auto or Andrew Camarata. Throw in some Hawaii beaches and bikini's and Brett will be at 250k subscribers in no time. Then he'll be able to stop doing handyman work and talk to the camera all day... just like Stan!
I know a guy in my italian hometown who's literally the only able tractor mechanic in the entire region, he gets called from literally everywhere in country where an old tractor is on the edge between capable hands and the scrapyard. As I'm a nurse myself, i know what it feels like to work yourself to the bone for very little in return. I'm interested in every possible handy jobs and love learning new skills but I'm too scared from moving away from a stable income.
I gave up 80k a year as well. Was sitting at a desk for 50 hours a week with an hour one way drive. I'm now doing home repairs, decks and fences. Wish I would've done the change sooner!
w. k3900 sweet. You should make videos of your projects
How did you learn to do home repair, etc? Did you go to trade school?
How old were you when you made the change?
Managed a hospital and only made 80k, decent money but considering managing a hospital that's not nearly enough. I would've quit too.
Tim Fischer Bingo. Way underpaid
They described two different things. Stan called it "managing a hospital", but he said "nurse manager". That's not the same thing, at all. Also, having a nurse manager fill in unpaid for an RN shift is illegal. Well, against union regs, anyway. Wouldn't happen much in a bigger place run by unions.
I don’t think he was managing a hospital. He was managing nursing staff in a specific department. A hospital administrator is going to make deep into 6 figures, depending on the size of the hospital.
Whether hospital administrator or nursing manager, one has to be willing to spend their entire life at the hospital and tethered to the hospital via hospital-issued Iphone when "off." Essentially, you're never really off. I ran a hospital department for many years and the hospital increasingly melded work and off time into work time. As I grew older, I increasingly sensed my own mortality and what a dead end, at any salary, spending one's life at work is. Many physicians and hospital lawyers I came to know and worked with were miserable in spite of making good money. Many of the professions and jobs we're taught to covet when we are young are nothing but life-sucking, stress-filled, prisons. Being able to afford a couple expensive power vacations each year is not worth the six-figure salaries, in my opinion. You'll probably have to have your company-issued Iphone with you on your power vacation, as well. One has to decide if the time spent getting ready for work, driving to work, the 10 - 12 hours at work, driving home from work and being on call while at home and on the weekends is worth any salary. Many of these jobs also require one to "drop by" the work location on weekends, overnight, etc., to "check on things,." and you're also expected to be involved in community events during evening and weekend hours in order to promote your employer. One might just as well have their mail sent to their work location. No thanks!
You always have the best information for the blue collar guys! I’m so glad I found you.
Perhaps the best advice I've seen in your videos. Reputation built on top-quality work, solid work ethics and fair pricing. I'm happy to spend top dollar when the workmanship and work ethic is second to none. Respecting ourselves first shows and we lead others to respect us in return. The win-win system is a fantastic way to build ourselves and simultaneously build up others.
I go to work ever day, LOVING my job. Homeschooled with no college, raising and providing for a large family "mine" all on blue collar craftsmanship! Hard work and self motivation can get you anywhere.
You mind if I ask the state and if union/non-union?
@@hermetix7231 Georgia, non union.
When I got out of the Marine Corps in 2003 I was a commercial electrician in California, non-union. I do not have favorable opinions on unions.
Good vid, I'm carpenter in Australia and most of my jobs are Charge Out (time + material)
It's always encouraging hearing that other people are doing the same.
Cheers and Good job :)
My son finished his medical degree at Barts here in London,UK and just could not stand medicine,left to run a scrap yard.The others all left white collar route and started doing jobs that others sneer at where they earn more money and have a life.
Stanley, thank you for the inspirational videos - you are bringing the message, and I want to just say I am extremely grateful for all your uploaded videos. More please!
Thank you Matthew , I really appreciate the great comments!
# 1 moved to an area that can afford a Handyman and Landscapers.. Where i live 99% fix things themself.. I came from Silicon Valley, there no problem.
My Dad was a self employed trades man in carpentry, plumbing and electrical. He was strictly time and material and never in his life run out of work. Mom was a stay at home mom to 3 boys of which one was a special needs boy. He provided all we needed everyday. We were also small family farmers. I am now in my 70's and retired, first from the USAF and then I spent 21 years as an industrial electrician for the same company making a good hourly wage plus overtime as needed. I knew my job and did excellent work. I was the primary go to guy when something broke or to install new equipment. I worked with no engineers, no blue prints only a list of what equipment needed to be installed and its electrical requirements. I ordered, received and installed. I have no college in it, no trade school other than my Dad to age 19. I am comfortable in my retirement.
John Irwin I’m a 15 year old learning carpentry and once I graduate I plan on starting a business with a friend from school.
I started doing Electrical work and man I dont know if I want to stick with it, i came in with a mindset that i will love the trade just Like some other guys here claimed so.... I sometimes watch Carpentry videos and think that looks cool i want to learn that but i dont know if ill want to stick with that either
hey im thinking of joining the air force and doing electrician work (electrical systems) or any other trade work
@@repothenon2706 Make sure you have legal agreements in place in case things go awry...
Being successful isn't based solely on income for myself. I'm very blue collar. If I make 20.00 an hour, I live a lifestyle as is I'm making 14.00 an hour. Refuse to by new vehicles and materialistic items that won't help me make money. Hard work, self discipline, and living within your means has been the key for me. I'm 41 yrs old, and have everything I need to enjoy life. That big fancy house and vehicles won't bring me long term happiness. But 20 acres of land that I can cash rent to a farmer that in return pays for my taxes and family vacations brings me plenty of joy. And something that can be handed down to family that holds value.
I was teaching at the best Highschool, which prepared kids for the real world. They had a wood shop, auto shop, welding shop, electronic classes, drafting classes and computer construction with function classes. When these kids graduated they had good paying jobs and many earned more than I did, their first year, with no debt. They also had something the College bound kids did not, and that was a stable carrier. and sense of self worth with accomplishment.. Sadly, here in the U.S,. many High Schools had phased out Blue Collar carrier classes that offer opportunity with a J.O.B .and not a P.H.D...i always considered America was built on Blue Collar workers, and Industrial workers.. i am retired now but worked many Blue Collar jobs, when I was younger and during the summers.
I have been a contractor with my own business for 18 yrs. now and I have experienced all of what you guys have been talking about. It's makes me feel a little better knowing I'm not the only one that has ended up working for "peanuts" on some jobs like you mentioned. You are correct when you say it is demoralizing and terrible for moral on the job and off for that matter. I have done more "time and materials" jobs this year than I have ever done and I love it. Stanley thank you for this video Man, it really gives me a new outlook on my business. I ran a $16 add in a free paper for 6 months when I first started and that is all the advertisement I have done. My advertisement is all word of mouth from my clients, it's the kind of advertisement you can't buy. Keep up the great vids Stanley.
Can i ask what your business is ?
@@natasharicklefs4806 I do remodeling and home repairs.
Great advice. Living in New Mexico with a giant immigrant population, there’s always some hack job that can do it cheaper. Not a lot of people here understand that good work isn’t cheap and cheap work isn’t good
You've got to market to the affluent. They don't want illegals running around inside their house.
Good video. I was just laid off from a $63k job as a QC lab tech. I am looking to go into this same handyman type self employment, I already have several jobs lined up by word of mouth. I want to do some schooling first as I can get it paid for, but God willing, this will work for me.
Thanks again for information videos.
White collar turned blue welding. Just landed a good step up job doing tunnel boring machines by going direct and selling myself, much better than what I was told was "possible" by a middleman company. Desk jobs are great for those who wanna live for the desk.
As a high school teacher, I see the big push to get as many kids as possible to go to college, and many never use their majors, or drop out. Undergrad is a booming business. It’s for some, for sure. Thank you for making this vid Stan. Sorely needed to boost people (including me) to learn and specialize in a trade of high interest. Passion, love for learning, strong work ethic, and reputation is what it’s about!
That's right Justin, thank you !!
First step is to understand what quality is before you can do a quality job. Everyone has there own perception of what quality based on their level of experience. Do the best job you can every time and figure out how to do it better the next time, continuous improvement is so important!
Great video! When I tell a customer I’m booked out 3-4 weeks they seem to move on most times.
I've been an Electrician for over 30 years. When I was non-Union, I had jobs at every level from helper to Field Superintendent, Project Manager; even General Manager. I had many times along the way where I'd hire in just looking to work or maybe be just a Foreman, and apparently my abilities threatened the guy I worked under. Next thing you know, I was DTR (down the road) electric. They'd have me fixing other peoples work, doing the tricky things or the exposed work, stayed very productive, didn't break any rules, was careful not to undermine authority or knowledge, never was late or called in and still same crap - spineless job-scared guy above me. Happens in blue collar too.
48 laws of power
I never really understood that, they never actually are truly threatening your job... you train them to take your job so you can move up
In high school the guidance counselors stressed going to college. My father was a union tradesman provided us with a very comfortable living. During the summer vacations he got us summer jobs with the contractor he worked for. So I learned to work with my hands. Fast forward I graduate high school, worked construction got my union book. I got laid off then went to school I got my degree worked white collar for about 15yrs. I enjoyed what I did, but I was a slave. I left the industry and went back into the trades and loving it.
About to quit my job making 30$ hr and going to Japan for an apprenticeship in japanese gardening. F working for corporations
cannabis is illegal in japan stiff punishment other than that japan is very very clean
Congratulations! I hope you do well
@@shotta809 thanks! I hope so too
Just know years 1-3 will be tough and make you want to quit at times. Year 5 you'll start balancing and making good money.
Adam, please do.
It's a great video guys. I respect the hard work too. I do have a suggestion though... own real estate. More people generate wealth and PASSIVE income with RE. I am military retired and I own 12 homes. My wife and I don't work except to maintain our own homes. Most of our work is just communication between tenants and I do repairs about twice a week.
These testimonials are always so motivational and I can completely relate. I was an electrician while going to college and then no more "getting my hands dirty". I am now starting a land clearing business 30 years later. The one thing these videos never discuss is health insurance. My Kaiser health plan, MetLife dental and EyeMed vision would cost me $2K/mo if my current employer weren't paying 90% of it for me. When working for yourself, you have to provide for your family's healthcare and that's a significant cost.I'm not saying don't work for yourself, just know before going in that buying top-tier healthcare is pricey. Peace from NorCal.
Thanks Mr. Stanley keep posting more videos about the skilled trades is so helpful. Thank you
I am glad that the vids are helpful to you, thank you!!
Stanley, great video! Wish I would of seen this when it first came out. I too worked "white collar" for 22 years. During that time I was always also flipping houses (BEFORE IT WAS COINED "FLIPPING") . The day came when I couldn't take the travel OR the politics. That was 2016 since then I started and have been running a successful remodeling business.
Undervaluing your work and not setting your prices at a scalable amount is easily avoidable, number one figure out what the going rate is for the task. if you have little experience start your pricing at the low part of the average and scale up to the top end as competency levels increase. I underbid jobs for years, it seems like it is a pandemic amongst entrepreneurs. The ray of sunshine is after you hit rock bottom, you realize you can't do that anymore, in a way that is ingrained in your soul. you stop making that mistake. You then evaluate how much you are really worth and how much your guys are worth and you hold your standard and you wonder how you could be so silly for so long. Or you just give up. Or you just close up the business and you don't learn the lesson. Thanks for all your great videos Stan, you the man.
Knowledge is power and a good reputation is very very true.
I live on Waiheke island in Auckland and we're killing it out here. Driveways, retaining walls, clearing sections and mowing lawns.
Still got that ****ing Fullers' ferry service, though ;-)
@@gordowg1wg145 haha yes still got Fuller's. Where are you living now old Waiheke friend 😆
@@DJslushy92 Never lived there, just visited a couple of times, but they have been getting a LOT of press lately :-)
Lived a lot of places, but currently a Westie ;-)
@@gordowg1wg145 Sweet as West is best.
Good to see other Kiwis are on here watching.
I love this story. It's hitting very close to home when I do small repairs for almost a weeks pay
Thank you for sharing the wisdom. I have always had the knowledge, I was just not using it properly. You have changed my life
That's awesome Tad, thanks for the comments!
YOU are The Man. You have the KNOW HOW. Believe in yourself and go freaking get what you are worth EVERY DAY!!!!! Blessing my friend!!!!!!!!!
Damn man I just ran across a video for a job I’m starting next week and have been watching three hours now… you give a lot of good tips man new subscriber from me!
Thanks for the vids!!
I've dabbled over the years doing renovations with/for friends, helped flip a couple houses, etc. I've got a few friends now that play/work in real estate and want me to help them more 'officially'. After just a few weeks working with them we are looking at Lic/Bonding/Insurance etc for my LLC. I've worked 25+ years in IT but I like building and fixing REAL things, and the IT field has gone south in terms of income and professional quality and I can't stand it, so maybe this is a new career happening? (My first love/run through college was for Architectural and Mechanical Engineering.....we were still drafting on paper at that time.) These videos are a big help, the more detail the better, as I dust off my old lessons and update with newer concepts. Keep 'em coming!!
I don’t know about your area, but just know that there’s more to getting licensed and bonded than helping out friends doing some house work.
Hearing him talk about the $3/hr job reminds me of when I managed restaurants. I was salary, and many weeks, my "hourly" pay was lower than some of my employees.
I'm so glad I got out of that rat race, and started my own lawncare business.
good advice. i've been doing electrical t+m for the 19 years after highschool. high quality trades work t+m is a great way to build a reputation and have a chill lifestyle
Thanks for watching Emmett!
This is all true... I come from the trades and worked my way to project manager on the the ships. Long hours and many fires to put out daily, but the pay was decent.
I taken a step back as a government employee as a warehouse man..
I have a side hustle as a metal fabricator, which I make good money when I get gigs. Not consistent enough to quit day job yet.....
Your video is on point, keep them coming....
Been doing this same thing started 3 years ago at 22 with seamless gutters but was electrictian prior for 3 years. Been self employed me and my girlfriend for several years and able to make 75$ hr for both of us on handy jobs plus more in seamless gutter field. But love what we do basically work 9 months and travel 3 months of the year driving across the 🇺🇸. Been watching ur videos for about a year now in you keep putting out great content..👍👍
Seamless up in Alaska
Nice 👍
Yo, I just came across your video and I am so glad I did. This is a terrific idea and a high quality video imparting important, relevant information I intend to use so I want to thank you sir!! Please make more similar videos.🤙🏽
Thanks Larry and glad that you are here !
That shop is a super time saver. I'm always shoe horned in to my basement.
One of the best parts of this is the story he told about how he did a job and only made $3.00 an hour but his guys still made $15.00. It’s something you see with Stan is pretty much every episode. No matter what happens you take care of your guys, that’s awesome to see.
That’s part of contracting. An honest contractor holds his bid no matter what and help always gets paid whether you do or not.
This is almost my same story but I was managing a high-line auto shop in a downtown city dealership. I started doing small repairs and landscaping for people around town. Big companies don't want to take small jobs, they see it as a waste of time. I come in and make some cash for a morning or afternoon of work and still have time to do work at home. ALL my business is through word of mouth from happy clients. Such a better life.
Thanks for sharing and for watching Linus!
I'm very glad it worked out for this guy...I'm a Nurse and am very very lucky to make great $ and love what i do.....for my kids i tell them do whatever u love and usually you can make a good living with that....Blue collar is awesome until you get old....lol.....white collar allows you to work longer and not as hard...both have advantages and drawbacks.....i am still in awe whenever any contractor comes to my home to do a job.....the instant gratification of completing a project must feel so so good...,much admiration for anybody with these type of skills...unfortunately for me....I'm all thumbs and feel pride when i hang a picture frame straight...love your videos
Roughing it with interviews in Hawaii :-) Great video!
I have a carpenter here in Australia that works that exact way and he is awesome. He isn’t the cheapest but he is a perfectionist like me and goes above and beyond what he needs to, to make the job better every time. I’ll be using him for life now on anything I need.
That's awesome , glad you found someone who works well for you . Thanks for watching !
This is a good career move and I am telling my sons to take that route of handyman work. You will always have jobs.
Man I like all of your videos. Keep up the good content and informative info.
The issue I found with other contractors using this method is, you can’t get enough done in a day and the customer cuts your pay at the end of the week. I personally have never tried it, but I know people who have.
Good stuff!!!!! Solid words of wisdom! Thank you very much.
I've undervalued myself in the past as well. Once I stopped doing that things changed quickly. Charge what you think the job is worth to you (or negotiate for a better salary at work) and don't apologize for it.
My hubby is trying to get into the handyman business to and leave his long hours white-collar job! Time is precious!
Definitely Pam , best of luck to him !
A good reputation is where it's at, I can name my prices (most of the time) based on the customer being completely warmed up from my previous customer who recommended me . . I will say this I'm also in a really great market outside of Charlotte NC . . When I go on road trips and drive through the rural areas I wonder how well contractors do away from masses of potential customers... it seems like you'd have to be well versed on bigger equipment outside of the city not enough easy smaller jobs to get your beak wet on first ...
I agree... The reputation does the heavy lifting sales wise
I’m self employed in construction I’m very very busy and I miss my freedom. Problem is almost the same as the “once you go management” argument. My problem is I couldn’t go back to just working as a journeyman for a construction company because I love being the boss. I just need to figure out how to get my freedom back. Once you get bigger you’re no longer free because my customers become the boss. If they need my machines I jump to get them what they need. I’m working right now on a Sunday playing catch up on billing. Ugh it’s almost like doing homework!! I hate homework.
Get good at outsourcing! Read 4hour workweek for inspiration!
When my college degree friends find out how much I make as a Union Electrician. The look on their faces.
I am a carpenter I get the same look
Mechanic here. Same thing. People think I am white collar
I just started trucking last year and made $80k. The schooling cost me $5k and only took 2 months. lol at college degrees
Yep, supply vs demand.
@Jack Tapley yeah depending on the area.
Been doing this for years, it works!!!! I'm at 80$ , but I do electrical, plumbing, trim, sheetrock, a/c, framing, just about anything on a house, just gotta be able to sell the hourly wage
As someone who started out in food and plumbing but am now in the white collar world - I can tell you blue collar people seem happier. Blue collar people better support each other. White collar is dog eat dog. I'll be back to blue collar before my working life is over because I enjoyed it more.
Thanks for sharing, gotta do what you love!
Thanks Stanley For This Information and Great Video 😎🤙
Well done vid, skilled trades are the way to go for many. Often a better quality of life along with more job security.
Thank you !
Thank you! I needed this. I did exceptionally well last year even just "bidding" than I ever did working for anyone else. Your videos have inspired me very much!
That's great Anthony, thanks!!
This is the best video I watched. It's how I made my business
I love the concept, but what about health insurance? That is one thing that makes people hesitant in leaving their jobs for self employment.
Again, I love the concept of self employment, just a question that I don't see anyone talking about.
The costs can be similar or more than if your employer helps out. Probably still worth doing the switch. This is why we need medicare for all.
I’m right into the same transition in my life. It’s been 14 months since leaving a desk job. I’m finally turning the corner towards profitability. I still need a little luck for winter income, but if I can break even I think next year will be profitable.
Im a journey electrician 40 yrs. A carpenter just as long, then I started home repair and small remodeling and maintenance. I'm a 58 yo badness woman. I agree with this guy, but I charge more per hour. Hourly vs bid u never get hurt. I charge a iding scale the more hours I work I charge less per hour at 6 hrs which is as much as I do $300 hrs. I rarely work over, sometimes I charge piece, such as ceiling fans are a set price. $75 for a replacement. It takes an hour sometimes more
If I have to run it from scratch or any circuit it's $150 average. I am in the electricial trade 40 years.
Great video, if you do this type of video again I would like to ask the question “if you had to go to work for someone what job and the minimum salary needed to go back to work for the man?”
Im a flooring installer making, 4500 to 6000$ a month at 28, no weekends, and im only working 6 hour days so I can spend time with my family. I work by the square footage or yardage and material costs plus moving furniture and take up, haul away and all the little profit boosters. Working out of a store as a subcontractor and on my own taking calls when the store is slow, love my job and love my life, There is only one other installer my age in my tri state area of approximately 250 square miles. Learn a trade, do it well, don't get in debt, and love your job and your family.
Great video! Very cool! Thank you!
Thanks Jim !
That is a great point of view.
I'm in my 4th year of self employment.
Asphalt seal coating pays the bills. Handyman work, including kitchens/bathrooms and just about everything the average homeowner SHOULD be able to do is all "gravy".
I work part time...5-6 hr days, 3-4 days a week. I make enough from May 1st - mid-October to cover the whole year. I take a couple small jobs through the winter, just to keep busy...kinda!
Most days, I make as much as I ever did in a whole week, working for anyone else.
It's a beautiful thing!
That's awesome man, sounds like you have an excellent ability to live well within your means.
That is a critical element! I did without for many years...the majority of my food was grown myself and/or hunted. I spent 20+ years acquiring skills learned from others. I did side work that I was comfortable/confident with and all that money was set aside. Now, at (almost) 44....all my equipment, tools, trucks, etc are paid for...nice house on 5 acres is paid for. I can step out my back door and send as much lead down-range as I wish....naked even, if I wanted to...and nobody complains! Best part is...I'm still young enough to enjoy the free time!
Lolol!!I've always said I need five acres at least so I can shoot and pee naked out my back door.!!!!! Can't believe you are saying the same thing!!!
HowtoBasic is my goto when I don't know how to do something. Very informative videos.
Thanks !!
Good wisdom on this video, I appreciate it👌
Great video, & great advice!!
Thanks Thomas!
I do the same thing but I have an hourly rate for myself and a helper and that's the only way I roll except you can always upsell when you're already there on the job like a re- pipe or something and bid it when you know you can do it fast and make out... also if you want to be stress-free hourly is the way to go
Don’t devalue yourself you can never get away from being the cheap guy.
Could you elaborate on what you mean exactly?
@@coltsgood99 what I mean is when you charge less than you should just to get work it’s very hard to get out of that. All the people you get are people that will never pay what it’s worth so it’s a loser situation. The people you get will always want that cheap price and when you don’t they go somewhere else.
This is precisely where im at. 17 years as a police officer and im seriously considering where my loyalties lie. Yourself, Brian @ Brians Lawn Maintenance are making it much more apparent which decision i should make. Great Video.
Do both to start with and slowly work your way out of a day job.
Yes sir! That’s what we’re doing right now. We’re also actively working our new you tube channel and documenting our journey.
@@dirtybirdservices1130 If you play the TH-cam card right you'll make way more than any regular job. I've been researching how TH-cam works and it's fascinating what people "could" make. I too plan to start a TH-cam channel but about Automotive stuff. Just like fixing them cars!
Great video! Thank you.
I feel like the take on white collar workers is a bit shortsighted based on his bad experience. The biggest factor for a white collar worker's relationship to salary is how much stress can you handle. The same is true for blue collar workers. If you can achieve alleviating stress for your superiors doing a minimal number of hours because you are running "your" business (or portion thereof) smoothly, then more power to you... and more salary to you proportionately. Nowadays more and more white collar jobs approve of flexible hours and remote work so it's easier than ever to do great work and get a good income from being a white collar worker. Great video though it's nice to see someone doing so good for themselves in a blue collar job after all the hurdles.
I just started trucking in January last year and made $80k my first year. The schooling cost me $5k and only took 2 months. lol at college degrees
Did you start out otr?
@@willrobertson9242 ya but regional not long haul. I’m home every weekend
@@lomparti thanks for the reply...which company did you start out with? ..80k first year is definitely worth it
@@willrobertson9242 I haul bulk loads with an end dump trailer. Find companies in your area that haul bulk or flatbed. That’s where the moneys at.
@@willrobertson9242 where are you located?
Had this happen to me as a diesel tech!! Been doing diesel 23 years
Well said and well done !
Very good advice. I give rough estimates for my part time excavating business but charge by the hour. They pay for what they get.
I have some close friends that are contractors. They've taught me a lot over the years. They are always busy because they know what they're doing, they show up and do the job right the first time and are honest. Where I lived prior to this house if you were a contractor that answered your phone you were half way to making a living. Most didn't return calls or never followed through on what they said they'd do.
I liked it and would like you to make more. Thanks brother.
Stay tuned for more Roy, thank you !
I just realized you have a dragonball z poster in the back ground and now i have decided i love this channel being that you're another fellow nerd.
Thanks for sharing
These videos are great mate
Thank you Philip !
Changed my life when he said having time and freedom is as good as having money
It's the absolute truth!
I'm in my 4th year of self employment (handyman/trades). I can easily make as much in a short day, as I did in a week working for anyone else. That's not every day of course, but at least 1-2 days each week.
Annually, it works out to be about the same as I was making...BUT...I work less than half as much as I used to. I rarely even work an 8 hour day...usually 4-6 hours, and for only about 6 months of the year. I have plenty of time (and the money) to work my property, go fishing, flying, and spending countless hours sitting in the woods waiting on "woods meat" to stroll on in....there aint much that'll beat a bacon wrapped backstrap on a charcoal grill!!!
Lol that dragon ball z poster is awesome, i used to watch that all the time growing up in the 90s
I’m a 15 year old high school kid learning carpentry and I can’t wait to finish school and start working. I love carpentry and I hate school
Just like the man in the video. Did 23 yrs in the medical field and can tell you that YOU are doing the most sensible thing. Worked 16 hrs day and never had a life. Left the office to have the martinis at $18.00 a drink in Beverly Hills (Chaya) and hated the fact that the next day I had to go back to work. Love taking care of people, but hated not having a life. Today I am a bartender, I have plenty of time to surf in the AM and have fun with the Doctors, Lawyers and CPAs at night making crazy money and listening to the same complaints I had as medical person back in the day. Moral of the story, do what makes you happy and CHARGE the white collar dudes what you want if you are the best at what you do. They will appreciate it. BELIEVE me. Go get them Non!!
If you have your own tools try doing small jobs for elderly people in your neighborhood. I am a 66 year old woman and do my own small repair/remodeling of my home because I can't find a handyman that does quality work for what they charge. Or they want full pay and don't finish the job. It will build a client base and word of mouth goes a long way. Hope you become successful.
Nons: Don't hate school; learn all you can. The more math and English you know and use well, the better off you are. I use algebra all the time trying to figure out stuff. I also do math in my head all the time.
I love seeing stories like this. Guys like this are great, folks, you don't have to go to college to earn a great living but you have to learn some skills and work at it.
Awesome video thank you:)
Watched a second time and can’t emphasize enough to not undervalue your time as advocated in this video! Be confident in your skill level and ability to communicate well. I hate to admit how many amazing customers I have only because I was the only one of three that actually showed up for an initial meeting, but could communicate via email and text. Crazy! I don’t have an hourly rate. I charge by the job and take every factor into account when I give a quote (including distance from home, and how much a pain I perceive the customer to be🤣). Then, I multiply my final estimate by 1.5 for a safety factor and send out the bid. Crazy thing is I don’t really even bid jobs anymore. 99% of my clientele is referral and they don’t even ask the price....just as long as I get it fixed pronto!
It works for him because he does small jobs !! I like his concept
Man, that guy is talented, I wish I had his experience
So incredibly true that you don't need a college degree! Things have changed but most people's thinking has not. I actually had a teacher in high school tell me I would never amount to anything successful when they learned that I was not going to college. I'm not bragging but the irony that I earn 3-4 times a teacher's salary needs to be stated. There are simply less people that want to work hard so they don't get into trades these days.... Basic supply and demand.
Live in central Illinois. I know of gentlemen how started doing little things for one guy. Was given keys the gentleman’s house when they went on vacation. He worked at corporate headquarters of an insurance company. Other started asking him to their house. Quite job at insurance company and started his own business.
Currently in my 21st year of being a Paramedic and once again completely burned out for exactly the reasons he listed, with exception that I have never made 80k unless I went to work in some s-hole like Afghanistan. I needed to hear a little motivation that there is possibly a life outside of the career I mistakenly made and have worked my entire adult life. Now I just need to figure out how to utilize the tools that I have and gather up some confidence to go out and take the risk.
Yup, I've 20+ years of being a Radiological Technologist and want nothing to do with management. The new manager one year was also a first time manager. He didn't care much for me, because I was his only (perceived) source of competition. That was the dynamic for almost a year. After having a talk with him that I have no interest in his job and would never be in competition for it, out relationship improved. I also went part-time a few years ago and started my own tree removal company, something I learned in my 20s. Since also growing up with a general contractor father, having my own framing contractor business in my 20s, and building 2 homes of my own (doing everything), I toyed around with handyman stuff, but I didn't care for the excessive customer service involved. There is enough of it in the hospital environment. I currently split my work situation between 3 shifts every 2 weeks at the hospital and my tree removal gig. It's a lot less draining.
Sincerely proud of you for figuring out the grind, my dude. White collar ain’t all it’s cracked up to be.
Hopefully you can go full-time with your tree service very soon!
I work as a locomotive diesel mechanic for a class 1 railroad in the west coast(was an automotive technician for GM dealers and a couple indy shops, always wrenched since childhood though) making 90k a year. Such a chill job, so I'm always full of energy. I still work out of my garage fixing all types of cars, trucks and that's all cash🤫 lol. Last year, 2020, I grossed 102k in my garage alone doing side jobs. Needless to say, life is good. My lady is going to school to be a psychologist. I'm 34, she's 33 and we're Latinos(Central American background). There's money out there, you just have to go out and work for it, get yourself a skill. Nothing wrong with college, but choose wisely. I have an AS degree for automotive repair/technology and alternative fuels. Just some insight.
Was it difficult to get into that? I’m a diesel tech as well and I’ve always wanted to work on locomotives or anything big. I live in the Midwest and the wages here are abysmal.
been working 80-120 hours per week for 2 years for less than that...very insightful.
guy is living the dream in hawaii man. sweet gig.
Just had a thought Stan have you considered getting in with Mike Row? He is saying alot of the same things and has a great organization called Mike row works. Just a thought.
I think some of the comments above are out of line. Brett is not saying he's Rockefeller, he saying he was in corporate white collar management, and felt he was over worked and under paid. So he became a handyman/repairman and now has more freedom and quality of life.
Who knows if he has 2 years booked or not. Maybe it's really 12 months, whatever. Point is, he made the transition to blue collar, feels it was the right decision for him, and now he and Stanley are sharing his story with us. Good for him. I would like a follow-up vid where he recoounts some of the actual conversations he has, particularlly with new clients. Even though he's T&M, I'm assuming he give some type of hours estimate, which is a loose bid in and of itself. For example the towel rack, I thinking he would say, "I see the problem, gotta reinforce the hanger, replace the drywall, tape and paint, figure 3-4 hours." And if he's still there after 6 hours without a good reason, I'm guessing he lets the homeowner shut him down, pay for the 6 hours, and send Brett on his way.
BTW the math does support what he's saying. He said he was making $80k as a nurse manager, and now makes "about the same" working 3-4 days per week. First hour is $50, each additional hour is $40. So figure he averages 4 days/week for 50 weeks, not 52 weeks due to personal vacation and holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving when few people want workers at their house.
So 50weeks*4days*1st hour at $50 is $10k annual. The remaining time of 50weeks*4 days*7hrs*40 is another $56k, so $66k total. That's only for 32 hours a week, if he adds 4 hours for 36 week, or has more than one service charge each day, there's the extra 50*4*40 = $8,000 for $74k.
To all the previous commenters calling BS on the guy, his math adds up.
Myself, I think he has a watchable disposition, good voice, seems to enjoy explaining things, so I think Brett should start his own youtube and just set up a camera and give us some before, during, and after narration on his various jobs. Kinda like South Main Auto or Andrew Camarata. Throw in some Hawaii beaches and bikini's and Brett will be at 250k subscribers in no time. Then he'll be able to stop doing handyman work and talk to the camera all day... just like Stan!
Andrew Camarata is a pretty cool dude.
I know a guy in my italian hometown who's literally the only able tractor mechanic in the entire region, he gets called from literally everywhere in country where an old tractor is on the edge between capable hands and the scrapyard. As I'm a nurse myself, i know what it feels like to work yourself to the bone for very little in return. I'm interested in every possible handy jobs and love learning new skills but I'm too scared from moving away from a stable income.