In this episode Nick and Tyler interview Kyle Harnish, exploring his transformative journey from a struggling tradesman to a successful construction entrepreneur and workwear innovator, diving deep into topics of mental health, business risk, personal growth, and his mission to revolutionize professional attire for tradespeople. The conversation weaves through Kyle's personal struggles with anxiety and depression, his partnership with his therapist wife, and his passionate development of Harnish Workwear, which aims to elevate the image and functionality of trade professional clothing.

Partners:

Andersen Windows

Buildertrend

Velux

VIdeo Version

https://youtu.be/tx5Q9s2FaQQ

Show Notes

• Kyle Harnish's Journey and Business Philosophy (0:00)
• The Importance of Optics in the Industry (2:29)
• Kyle's Marriage to a Therapist (4:48)
• The Launch of Harnish Workwear (9:29)
• Feedback and Adaptation in Product Development (9:43)
• The Impact of Professionalism on the Trades (10:01)
• The Future of Harnish Workwear and Industry Trends (10:15)
• Final Thoughts and Reflections (10:29)
• Challenges in Workwear for Tradespeople (10:44)
• Personal Investment and Branding (10:59)
• Expanding Market Opportunities (11:10)
• Challenges and Failure in Business (1:21:17)
• Mental Health and Personal Growth (1:21:29)
• Community Support and Future Plans (1:24:37)
• Balancing Work and Personal Life (1:27:16)
• Final Thoughts and Future Goals (1:35:10)

The Modern Craftsman:

linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast

Find Our Hosts:

Nick Schiffer

Tyler Grace

Podcast Produced By:

Motif Media

In this episode, Tyler talks about the importance of perspective and resilience, using Kim Mulkey's post-game interview as a catalyst for discussing how we often focus on failures instead of appreciating the effort and growth. He shares personal stories about racing while sick, attending JLC, and emphasizes the value of putting oneself out there, learning from challenges, and not reducing complex journeys to simple win-or-lose metrics.

Show notes:

Tyler Grace's Introduction and Apology (0:00)
Tyler's Race Experience (3:03)
JLC Experience and Apology (7:22)
Kim Mulkey's Post-Game Interview (8:43)
Reflection on Criticism and Perspective (11:09)
The Importance of Preparation and Effort (12:36)
Building and Supporting Each Other (21:25)
Conclusion and Future Plans (27:28)

Video version:

https://youtu.be/FT3YxOEKKrA

The Modern Craftsman:

linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast

Find Our Hosts:

Tyler Grace

Podcast Produced By:

Motif Media

In this episode, we sit down with Ellie Knips, a marketing professional with over a decade of experience in the building materials industry. From backing trailers into docks during internships to leading national campaigns at Andersen Windows, Ellie’s journey is one of grit, curiosity, and fearless growth.

She shares how she transitioned from Cambria’s interior-focused marketing to Andersen’s content-driven role—despite having no formal background in social media. We dive into how she built trust with builders, navigated big career leaps, and learned to embrace uncertainty and “figure it out” moments.

We also talk about the importance of authentic storytelling, building strong brand partnerships, and why betting on yourself is often the smartest move you can make.

Whether you’re in construction, marketing, or just trying to level up your career, this episode is packed with real talk, insight, and inspiration.

Episode Outline:

Ellie Kanips' Career Journey and Role at Anderson Windows (0:00)

Ellie's Transition from Cambria to Anderson (5:42)

Leadership and Learning from Challenges (11:51)

Storytelling and Audience Connection in Marketing (23:51)

Building Strong Partnerships with Vendors (33:13)

Challenges and Growth in New Roles (43:57)

Final Thoughts and Reflections (46:47)

Watch this episode on Youtube:

https://youtu.be/T706l2dJumw

Partners:

Andersen Windows

Buildertrend

Velux

The Modern Craftsman:

linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast

Find Our Hosts:

Nick Schiffer

Tyler Grace

Podcast Produced By:

Motif Media