Tiling Connect is a podcast designed to share relevant technical information to enhance the quality of tiling in Australia, New Zealand and worldwide. My mission is to assist tilers, builders, tile or tool shops and consumers by connecting them with the best industry knowledge to achieve excellent quality and profitable tile projects. I will discuss tile installation methods, tools, equipment, and materials selection, how to achieve quality outcomes for your business, and everything related ...
…
continue reading
Whether you're a plumber, electrician, builder, motor mechanic, landscaper, tiler, glazier, painter, carpenter, concretor or any of the myriad of trades and contractors that keep the world running, this podcast has been produced with you in mind. Your hosts, Warrick 'Waz' Bidwell and Nicole 'Nic' Cox, were both born into tradie families and have first hand experience of the gut busting, money stress and pressures that trade businesses can place on their owners and their families! Nic and Waz ...
…
continue reading
In this Podcast we are talkin all things tile. If you're in the tile industry, work with people who are, or would like to learn more about it...this podcast is for you!!! We've got great conversations with interior designers talking about the latest tile trends and inspirations, to chats with other tile contractors, industry leaders, discussions about what's hot in new installation products, and my personal passion ...tile education for the next generation! We are currently a monthly podcast ...
…
continue reading

1
#55 Tiling Solo: The Bribie Island Hustle
1:02:40
1:02:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:40Send us a text Welcome back to Tiling Connect, the show where we explore the world of tiling, business, and the people making an impact in the industry! From early starts to late finishes, one tile at a time – today we sit down with a man who’s built his life and business from the ground up, quite literally. Ryan O’Leary, a sole trader and proud lo…
…
continue reading

1
TIB683 She says, He says - There's a faction too much friction
18:05
18:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:05Nic and Waz sadly see too many couples who are disconnected, join them as they explore how this happens and share their tips on finding your way back TWL038 re-run See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox
…
continue reading

1
#54 Leadership, Business Evolution & Focus
1:01:42
1:01:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:42Send us a text Welcome back to Tiling Connect, the show where we explore the world of tiling, business, and the people making an impact in the industry! My guest today is a true titan of business—a leader who’s shaped industries, built powerhouse teams and continues to inspire the next generation of business trailblazers. He’s been at the helm as a…
…
continue reading

1
TIB682 She says, He says - Can a job title really do all that?
20:33
20:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:33Nic and Waz talk through how a job title can help your parnter begin to understand how much you do within your tradie wife role. TWL036 re-run See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox
…
continue reading

1
#53 Behind the Trowel: Insights from a Tiling Pro
51:42
51:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:42Send us a text Welcome back to Tiling Connect, the show where we explore the world of tiling, business, and the people making an impact in the industry! Today, we're diving into the world of tiling mastery with Josh from West Tiling in Brisbane! If you've ever tried tiling yourself, you know it's an art form. It takes precision, patience, and a who…
…
continue reading

1
TIB681 Real Tradie Stories with Dan Boscolo from Timeless Staircases
38:23
38:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:23Running a niche trade business comes with its own set of challenges, and Dan Boscolo from Timeless Staircases knows this firsthand. From starting as an apprentice to leading his own stair-building business, Dan shares how he grew his business while staying true to his craft. He also shares how support from the TIB community helped him tackle cash f…
…
continue reading

1
#52 Grit and Grout: The Journey of a Professional Tiler
59:12
59:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:12Send us a text Welcome back to Tiling Connect, the show where we explore the world of tiling, business, and the people making an impact in the industry! Today, we’re heading to Goulburn to chat with Michael from MTM Tiling, a tiling powerhouse with years of hands-on experience, an eye for detail sharper than a diamond blade, and a passion for quali…
…
continue reading

1
TIB680 Unlocking the Art of Great Leadership and Handling Difficult Conversations
32:32
32:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:32Leadership can be tricky for trade business owners trying to guide their teams. Nic chats with Dani Ferrier, founder of Lead Like a Legend, about how to tackle leadership and tough conversations in the workplace. With years of experience in hospitality and wilderness guiding across 8 countries, Dani brings a fresh take on communication and leadersh…
…
continue reading

1
#51 The Power of Remedial Massage and Movement
59:34
59:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:34Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Roxana Nae, a highly skilled remedial massage therapist and movement specialist, to explore the powerful connection between movement, recovery, and overall well-being. Roxana, the driving force behind Move Better with Roxy, is passionate about helping individuals achieve optimal physical performance …
…
continue reading

1
TIB679 She Says, He Says - What's this all about?
10:46
10:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:46We're introducing a new weekly episode where Nic will be joined by Waz to discuss the difference of opinions we all have in relationships! TWL032 re-run See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox
…
continue reading

1
TIB678 Throwback - TIB587 TradeMutt: What Loud Shirts Have to Do with Mental Health for Tradies
39:48
39:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:48In just on 5 years a couple of chippy mates, Ed Ross and Dan Allen, have built a small empire in the workwear space. Perhaps more impressively, they've also set up and run their own mental health organisation that delivers free counselling and support to blue collar workers around the country. With more than $700,000 of free counselling services ro…
…
continue reading

1
TIB677 Throwback - TIB265 Real Tradie Guys - Starting a Business with Ben Hulsbosch from MOA Heavy Diesel
45:34
45:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:34This instalment of Real Tradie Guys is a cracker. Not only is our guest a Kiwi, a heavy diesel fitter, a West Australian and a TiB Tradiepreneur... he's also a competitive wood chopper! Ben started his business recently like so many other tradies, after deciding he wanted the freedom, flexibility and financial rewards of being self employed. Ben ha…
…
continue reading

1
TIB676 Throwback - TIB185 Real Tradie Wives with Amii Jones from Touchwood Tree Services
55:42
55:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:42Amii Jones epitomises many 'tradie wives'. She's incredibly humble about her role in her family and business and tends to understate how much she contributes to the smooth running of both. We had a fantastic chat to one of our rock star Drawing Board members about how she's managed to 'feel the fear and do it anyway', influence her husband to make …
…
continue reading

1
#50 Mind Over Matter: Building Mental Strength with Fitness
48:17
48:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:17Send us a text In this episode, we interview James Harrington, a local hero known for his unwavering dedication to uplifting the Frankston community. James shares his journey from personal struggles to become a pillar of strength for others, emphasising the importance of physical fitness, training, and discipline. Tune in to hear his inspiring stor…
…
continue reading

1
TIB675 Throwback - TIB034 How to Market Your Trade Business with Allan Dib from The One Page Marketing Plan
49:17
49:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:17Mar-kuh-ting... that's how Waz sounds it out anyway. While marketing is done to DEATH on just about every podcast known to man, Waz and Nic find a bloke who's got it down to just one page! Although he wrote a whole book on the subject, Allan Dib reckons the best marketing plan fits on a page. We think that's a good way to keep it simple and get it …
…
continue reading

1
TIB674 Throwback - FIF#13 Giving and Receiving Feedback
36:36
36:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:36Feedback is just information...right? Sometimes it's just not that easy. Waz and Nic give each other some feedback and discuss whether and when it's ok to give feedback to others. Oh, and how to (maybe) accept it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox
…
continue reading
As the year rushes toward its end, Waz & Nic chat about the power of timing and how it plays a key role in business and life. With the holiday season fast approaching, they share insights into why waiting for the “perfect moment” often leaves you further behind. Whether it’s team morale, client relationships, or your own wellbeing, they explore how…
…
continue reading

1
TIB672 The When, How and Why of Hiring An Apprentice with Jeff Cooke from Apprenticeship Support
23:01
23:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:01If you’ve ever thought about bringing an apprentice on board but felt a bit lost in the process, you're not alone. Jeff Cooke from Apprenticeship Support Australia is here to clear up the confusion and myths around hiring apprentices. He breaks down the process, addressing common concerns like the initial learning curve, wages, and legalities, and …
…
continue reading

1
TIB671 Mortgage Solutions for Tradies - How to Beat Bank Obstacles with Ryan Gair
38:14
38:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:14Looking to buy a home but feeling blocked by strict bank requirements? Ryan Gair, founder of Rate Money, shares how his team helps self-employed tradies overcome the obstacles banks often set. Ryan reveals why traditional banks’ rigid loan requirements can be tough for people with variable incomes and explains how Rate Money’s tailoured lending sol…
…
continue reading

1
TIB670 PRE-CHRISTMAS PART II - How To Make Christmas Merry Again!
15:09
15:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:09As the holiday season approaches, trade business owners face the challenge of avoiding the dreaded Christmas hangover. In part 2 of this Pre-Christmas series, Waz & Nic shares how to keep your marketing game strong amid the pre-Christmas rush. Discover the importance of staying connected with clients through emails and social media while others may…
…
continue reading

1
TIB669 PRE-CHRISTMAS PART I - Are You About To Be Blindsided By Christmas?
18:31
18:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:31Christmas is around the corner, and with it comes the typical chaos that can catch trade business owners off guard. In this first part of the Pre-Christmas series, Waz & Nic share some practical tips to help you prepare for the rush and avoid common pitfalls, like cash flow gaps that hit hard in the new year. From handling last-minute jobs to creat…
…
continue reading

1
TIB668 How to Shield Your Trade Business from Legal Nightmares with Alex Solo
38:22
38:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:22Ever faced issues because you didn’t have a written agreement with your clients? Alex Solo from Sprintlaw shares practical tips on securing your business structure, locking in key contracts, and protecting your brand name from the start. He talks about how clear, written contracts can save you from headaches down the line—whether it's dealing with …
…
continue reading

1
TIB667 Real Tradie Stories - Rhys & Renee from Functional Air Conditioning QLD
40:56
40:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:56How do you balance growing a trade business with family life and long-term goals? Rhys and Renee from Functional Air Conditioning QLD share their story of building a successful business while juggling the demands of parenting and personal aspirations. They talk about the importance of getting the right advice early, avoiding bad habits, and how hir…
…
continue reading

1
#49 Meet the tradie reconstructing lives
1:03:11
1:03:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:11Send us a text In this episode, we are grateful to speak with Aaron WD Huey, Coach to the Tradies. Aaron started his career in building at a young age, acquiring all the essential skills to become a fully qualified carpenter. He progressed to a leadership role and faced numerous challenges inherent in the construction industry. Observing the impact…
…
continue reading

1
TIB666 You Cannot Grow Too Fast Or Too Big. Change Our Minds
16:46
16:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:46Can a business really grow too fast or too big? Waz and Nic take on the question of whether it’s possible to expand too fast or get too big for your own good. They challenge the common fears around growth, pointing out that the real issue usually lies in shaky systems and lack of preparation. They also share why it's important to set clear boundari…
…
continue reading

1
TIB665 Do You Need More Systems and Structure to Have a Successful Trade Business?
14:46
14:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:46Running a trade business can feel chaotic, but it’s not always about needing more systems—it’s about improving the ones you’ve already got. Waz and Nic are breaking down how refining your existing processes can lead to more efficiency and less stress. From sales and operations to managing clients, they are sharing practical tips for streamlining yo…
…
continue reading

1
#48 Achieving Tiling Excellence through the WorldSkills Program
51:15
51:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:15Send us a text In this episode, we are grateful to have spoken with Trevor Schwenke, CEO of WorldSkills Australia, Liam Cochrane of Construction Training Fund (WorldSkills Australia Volunteer) and Jacob Dixon, National Australian Champion for Tiling. WorldSkills has enabled young people to showcase their trade skills and talents since 1981. Their s…
…
continue reading

1
TIB664 Going Hard On Soft Skills And Being A True Leader with Leah Mether
55:44
55:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:44When it comes to hiring, focusing on leadership and soft skills can make a real difference in building well-rounded and effective teams. Do you agree? Leah Mether, a Communication & Soft Skills Specialist, joins Waz & Nic to chat about communication, leadership, and the importance of soft skills in today's workplace. Leah shares her insights on cou…
…
continue reading

1
TIB663 The 3 Most Common Questions We Get Asked by Trade Business Owners
27:21
27:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:21Ever find yourself puzzled by why your profit doesn’t match your bank balance? Or wonder why there never seem to be enough hours in the day? Waz & Nic are answering the top three questions trade business owners ask the most. Plus they clear up the difference between profit and cash flow, share practical tips on managing your time, and discuss the c…
…
continue reading

1
TIB662 The Secret to Winning Business Awards Twice in a Row with Ben Hulsbosch
25:19
25:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:19For this special episode, Waz and Nic chat with Ben Hulsbosch, aka "Bin Chicken," who’s won the "Top of the Trade - Sole Trader" award two years in a row at the Tradies in Business Excellence Awards. Ben shares his journey from heavy diesel contractor to award-winning business owner, offering practical tips on crafting standout award submissions. T…
…
continue reading

1
#47 Discovering the Best Tile & Trade Showroom Experience in NZ
1:04:43
1:04:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:43Send us a text We are grateful to speak with Dave Moore and Tony Meshouris from The Tile Depot in New Zealand in this episode. The Tile Depot was established in 1995 and has since grown into one of the largest importers and retailers of quality tiles in New Zealand. Their growth and success have stemmed from offering a wide selection of importer-pr…
…
continue reading

1
TIB661 What Happens To Your Business When You Die with Vanessa Emilio from Legal123
34:00
34:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:00Many business owners shy away from planning for the future and protecting their assets—like figuring out what happens to your business when you pass away. Vanessa Emilio from Legal123 brings her law and finance expertise to guide us through the essentials of will preparation, the importance of updating your will after major life events, and the key…
…
continue reading

1
TIB660 An Honest Talk About Parenting and Mindsets
30:36
30:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:36Waz & Nic share personal stories on parenting and personal growth, from breaking away from negative family patterns to reflecting on the joys and challenges of being later-life parents. They discuss the power of a positive mindset, the importance of venting emotions, and the balance between caring for others and financial sustainability. They also …
…
continue reading

1
TIB659 Dr Gina Cleo Talking Breaking Bad Habits, Changing Your Brain And Getting What You Want
50:50
50:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:50Waz & Nic sit down with Dr. Gina Cleo, a habit change expert who’s here to challenge everything you thought you knew about breaking bad habits and creating lasting change. Dr. Cleo emphasises that making consistent, small changes is more effective than an all-or-nothing approach. They also touch on the significance of authenticity and vulnerability…
…
continue reading

1
TIB658 It's National Tradie Health Month - What's The Real Issue With Tradies' Health?
26:40
26:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:40Feeling the weight of the tradie life? August is National Tradie Health Month so we’re cutting through the noise and getting real about the challenges tradies face. Waz & Nic talk about the daily stress, isolation, and overwhelming workload that many tradies endure—because simply knowing there’s a problem isn’t enough.. We need practical solutions,…
…
continue reading

1
#46 Edwin Hoekman: A young tiler striving for knowledge
48:52
48:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:52Send us a text We are lucky and grateful to speak with Edwin Hoekman from Hoekmantegelwerken in this episode. In the heart of Holland, a young tiler named Edwin is on a relentless quest for mastery. Passionate about his craft, Edwin is committed to becoming the best in the industry. He dedicates long hours to honing his skills, understanding that t…
…
continue reading

1
TIB657 Why You Can't Take Holidays In A Trade Business
23:54
23:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:54Ever tried taking a holiday only to have work crises follow you? Many trade business owners experience this. From the struggles of phones that never stop ringing to team mishaps when the boss is away, the list could go on and on.. You might also believe that only you can manage your trade business, but empowering your team can lead to amazing resul…
…
continue reading

1
TIB656 Maggie Dent Explores Men's Journeys from Boyhood to Manhood
1:00:52
1:00:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:52Waz and Nic sit down with the incredible Maggie Dent to explore the challenges men face in today's world. Maggie, passionate about helping boys transition into adulthood, clears up misconceptions about trade careers and advocates for recognising the value men bring to fields like education and tech. She discusses the different stages of growing up,…
…
continue reading

1
#45 Paul Sakoua: How a Tiler Became His Own Boss
46:26
46:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:26Send us a text In this episode, we are lucky and grateful to speak with Paul Sakoua from Island Tiling in Tasmania. Meet Paul, a professional tiler who turned his passion for craftsmanship into a thriving business. With years of experience laying intricate patterns and perfecting every grout line, Paul decided to take the leap and become his own bo…
…
continue reading

1
TIB655 What Do Tall Poppies and Business Awards Have To Do With Making Money?
23:53
23:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:53Let's explore the cultural phenomenon of "tall poppy syndrome"— where highly successful people often get criticised, and see how it affects tradies thinking about entering business awards. Waz & Nic talk about how these awards can do more than just give you a nice plaque; they're a surprising but powerful way to boost motivation, get marketing bene…
…
continue reading

1
TIB654 How NOT To Invest In Real Estate with Matthew Rosie
33:41
33:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:41Dreaming of getting rich quick through real estate? Matthew from Rosie & Rosie chats with Waz & Nic about revealing the truths and challenges behind property investment and the pitfalls that many first-time investors stumble into. Matthew also touches on the nitty-gritty of finding suitable properties—using client briefs, real estate alerts, and le…
…
continue reading

1
TIB653 How To Argue With Your Spouse with Nic and Waz
18:02
18:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:02Are arguments with your spouse turning into war zones? Join Nic and Waz as they share insights on handling disagreements effectively while ditching the "winning" mentality. Learn how to truly listen, understand your partner's perspective, and find common ground, even when you don't see eye-to-eye. Because in healthy relationships, it's not about wi…
…
continue reading

1
TIB652 We Got Trolled! How To Deal With Social Media Trolls in Your Trade Business
17:44
17:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:44Today is all about one of the most annoying aspects of putting yourself out there: trolls. Yeah, those not-so-cute, not-so-fuzzy internet pests who live for bashing your posts. Have you or your business ever been trolled on social media? How did you deal with them without losing your sanity or your business reputation? Join Waz & Nic as they chat a…
…
continue reading

1
TIB651 What NOT To Do With ChatGPT with Donna McGeorge
30:20
30:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:20Have you tried using ChatGPT in your business? Join Waz & Nic as they chat with Donna McGeorge—who penned a book on this ever-evolving technology—as she talks about why it's important to be mindful of cybersecurity when using AI, similar to how we protect our personal and financial info. She clears up some common misconceptions about AI and shares …
…
continue reading

1
TIB650 Real Tradie Stories - Connor Gordon on The Move From Trade Business Owner to @carpenterinantarctica
31:02
31:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:02What would it be like to trade the warm, bustling city life for the frozen, isolated beauty of Antarctica? Connor Gordon, a tradie business owner, made just that switch. Leaving his carpentry business in Canberra, he ventured to the icy expanse of Antarctica. Connor shares why he made such a bold move and recounts his surreal first moments in this …
…
continue reading

1
#44 David Cullen: Completely transforming benchtops in record time!
46:28
46:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:28Send us a text In this episode, we are grateful to speak with David Cullen, CEO of Caesrsrtone Australia. Join us as we explore the story behind the leading stone benchtop provider in the domestic market and the incredible challenges they faced due to the rapid implementation of bans on the use of crystalline silica. Caesarstone® is a global leader…
…
continue reading

1
TIB649 How Do You Know When To Hire Your First (or Next) Staff Member?
20:48
20:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:48Have you ever thought about the opportunities you might have missed by not hiring sooner? In this episode, Waz and Nic tackle the big question of when to hire staff—breaking down the common fears and excuses that hold trade business owners back. From understanding the financial clarity to reaping the benefits of adding a team member, they cover it …
…
continue reading

1
TIB648 Leadership, Mindset, and Purpose with Trevor Farmer
47:24
47:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:24Known for his genuine motivational approach, Trevor Farmer from Topcatz explores the essence of leadership and finding a higher purpose at work. Drawing from his own experiences overcoming challenges, he emphasises the importance of keeping sight of your goals and the role of mindset in overcoming fear. Join Waz & Nic as they touch on Trevor's pers…
…
continue reading

1
#43 How Australia's Top Tile Retailer is Redesigning the Future
46:12
46:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:12Send us a text In this episode, we are honoured to have a guest join us from Australia’s largest tile retailer, Beaumont Tiles. They opened their first premises in Adelaide during the 1960s and have been specialising in tiles, bathroom ware, hard flooring, tools, and accessories ever since. What started as one showroom in Grote Street, Adelaide, is…
…
continue reading

1
TIB647 Overcoming The Fear Of Raising Your Rates
19:31
19:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:31One of the scariest thing to do is making change in your trade business—specially raising your rates... “What if I lose clients? What if no one pays?” There's these ideas that money changes people, and having more money makes you an a**hole or those sorts of ideas. But the truth is: clients who value quality are willing to pay for it. Join Waz & Ni…
…
continue reading