Mike Rowe discusses his new partnership with PureTalk to bring military vets to the skilled trades

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The inimitable Mike Rowe joined us to talk about his passion for promoting skilled trades, highlighting the significant increase in open positions from 2.3 million in 2009 to 7.6 million today. We chatted about his new partnership with PureTalk, a wireless company, to support veterans transitioning into trades.

All that and a whole lot more!

Mike Rowe's Passion for Promoting Trades

Rowe discusses the increase in open positions in skilled trades from 2.3 million in 2009 to 7.6 million today, emphasizing the need for jobs that don't require a four-year degree.

He shares the establishment of his foundation in 2008, which has awarded $12 million in work ethic scholarships to promote trades.

Challenges and Opportunities in Skilled Trades

Rowe talks about his meetings with governors and Cabinet members to address the skills gap and the need for reinvigorating manufacturing.
Jim Vinoski shares his own experience in manufacturing and the need to promote trades, comparing it to the decline in manufacturing jobs over three generations.

Rowe mentions his offer to President Obama in 2009 to help with the highway infrastructure act and the challenges of attracting a generation not interested in manual labor.

He discusses the double whammy of demographic pressure and societal expectations, exacerbated by the removal of shop class from high schools.

New Partnership with PureTalk

Rowe explains how the partnership started with PureTalk advertising on his podcast and their shared values in supporting American-made products.
He describes his visit to PureTalk's campus in Georgia and their commitment to customer service done in the U.S.

Rowe highlights PureTalk's support for America's Warrior Partnership and their introduction to Medal of Honor recipient Clint Romesha.
Veterans and Skilled Trades

Rowe emphasizes the suitability of veterans for skilled trades due to their soft skills and teachability.

He discusses the need for a reverse boot camp to help veterans transition back into civilian life.

Authenticity and Marketing in Skilled Trades

Rowe and Vinoski discuss the importance of authenticity in marketing and advertising, particularly in promoting skilled trades.

Rowe shares his approach of using satisfied customers and happy employees in his campaigns, rather than traditional storyboards and focus groups.

Personal Anecdotes and Respect for Trades

Jim Vinoski shares his admiration for Mike Rowe's career journey, including his Eagle Scout status, opera singing, and QVC days.

Rowe humorously recounts his experiences, including wrestling Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street and his multiple firings from QVC.

They discuss the respect Rowe has earned from tradespeople and veterans, highlighting the importance of promoting the value of skilled jobs.
Rowe emphasizes the need for societal buy-in to reinvigorate trades, not just for Gen Z but also for their parents.

The Importance of Local Manufacturing

Rowe and Vinoski discuss the significance of local manufacturing and the pride in American-made products.

Rowe shares examples of companies like American Giant and Montana Knife Company, which emphasize the quality and story behind their products.

They discuss the challenges of promoting jobs that are often dismissed as unworthy, highlighting the importance of showcasing the entire supply chain.

Rucking and Veteran Support

Jim Vinoski and Mike Rowe discuss their experiences with rucking, a form of hiking with a heavy backpack, as a way to understand the physical demands of military service.

They discuss the importance of supporting veterans through progra