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Trade Secrets (powered by metabo HPT)

Trade Secrets (powered by metabo HPT)

Written by: METABO HPT
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About this listen

Welcome to the Trade Secrets podcast, powered by Metabo HPT.

This show is all about real-world lessons, smart strategies, and proven hacks used by successful tradespeople who’ve been in the trenches. If you're just starting your own trades business—or thinking about it—this podcast is another tool for your toolbox. Only this one doesn’t go in the truck...it goes in your head.

And it makes perfect sense that Metabo HPT, a trusted name in pro-grade tools, is behind it.


About Metabo HPT: Metabo HPT is the professional-grade power tool brand built for those who build America. Formerly known as Hitachi Power Tools, the brand combines over 70 years of engineering expertise with relentless innovation. From framing to finish, their award-winning lineup—nailers, saws, drills, and more—is built for durability, precision, and jobsite performance.

About the Host: John Palumbo is the founder of BigHeads Network, a podcast production company that specializes in creating and producing bold, inspiring shows for corporations (including private and internal ones).

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Episodes
  • Season One Wrap Up

    Season One Wrap Up
    Feb 3 2026

    Thanks for tuning in to Season One!

    We hope this season armed you with ideas, insights and strategies that you can actually apply to your business.

    We'll see you in Season Two.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Episode 14: Private Equity LOVES the Trades. How to Prepare If/When They Come Knocking

    Episode 14: Private Equity LOVES the Trades. How to Prepare If/When They Come Knocking
    Feb 3 2026

    Guest: Frank Heneghan (Heneghan Services)

    Private equity is showing up fast in the trades—but most owners don’t really understand how it works, what buyers are actually looking for, or how deals can unravel late in the process. In this episode, Frank Henigan shares real, firsthand experience after going through a full private equity cycle: 30 buyers, 7 offers, and ultimately walking away from the deal when it no longer made sense.


    You’ll learn:

    • What private equity really looks like in the trades (and why it’s so active right now)
    • How buyers value trades businesses (and why EBITDA matters more than revenue)
    • Why recurring services are gold to PE firms (and why project work often gets discounted)
    • What a broker actually does (and why you don’t want to go it alone)
    • What the due-diligence and “data room” process is really like behind the scenes
    • Common tactics buyers use to chip away at valuation late in the process
    • How to prepare your business years in advance if you want maximum leverage
    • When it’s smart to say no (and why walking away can be the right move)


    Episode links:

    Metabo HPT

    Heneghan Services website

    Heneghan Digital website

    CT Gutter
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    40 mins
  • Episode 13: Support the Next Generation of Tradespeople (and watch what happens!)

    Episode 13: Support the Next Generation of Tradespeople (and watch what happens!)
    Jan 20 2026

    Guest: Kevin Blackburn (Kids Making It)


    What does it really mean to be a champion for the trades? In this episode, Kevin Blackburn, Executive Director of Kids Making It, shares how business owners can play a direct role in inspiring and equipping the next generation of tradespeople. From outreach and mentorship to sponsorship and storytelling, Kevin breaks down why supporting the trades isn’t just good for the community—it’s good for business.


    You'll learn:

    • What it means to be a true “champion for the trades”

    • Why investing in the next generation protects your business and your industry

    • How to get involved - school visits, mentorships, sponsorships, and tool donations

    • Real-world examples of local builders making an impact

    • The long-term business, social, and economic benefits of supporting youth in the trades


    Episode links:

    Metabo HPT

    Kids Making It website

    Kids Making It Instagram

    Kids Making It Facebook

    Kevin’s LinkedIn

    Metabo HPT – Bring Back Shop Class
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    24 mins
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