The Trades Over College: A Blueprint for Real-World Success | Episode 429

The Trades Over College: A Blueprint for Real-World Success | Episode 429

In Episode 429 of the Survival Punk Podcast, we’re talking about something personal, practical, and way overdue — why the trades are the smart move for the next generation. College isn’t just overpriced — it’s overrated. If you want real skills, real income, and the ability to thrive no matter what the economy throws at you, the trades are the path. And if I could go back, I’d walk that path from day one.

Why the College Path is Broken

College used to be the golden ticket. Now it’s a debt trap. Most graduates walk out with a piece of paper and tens of thousands of dollars in student loans — but no real job prospects, no hands-on skills, and no direction. Meanwhile, plumbers, electricians, welders, mechanics, and carpenters are in insane demand, making solid money, working on real things, and staying employed when office jobs vanish.

In a collapse scenario — or just a rough economy — who’s more valuable? The guy with a marketing degree and a resume, or the one who can fix your wiring, build a shelter, or keep a diesel engine running? This isn’t about ideology — it’s about survival and security.

How I Wish I Had Started

I’ll be real — I wish I’d gone straight into a trade after high school. Not only would I have skipped the wasted time and money, I’d have a stronger skill set, more independence, and probably my own business by now. Instead, like a lot of people, I was pushed toward the “smart” route — and looking back, it wasn’t smart at all.

Trades don’t just build income — they build confidence. You learn how to solve problems, fix things, and see the result of your work at the end of the day. That’s something most office jobs will never give you.

No School? No Problem — Just Start

You don’t need to enroll in a $20,000 trade program. The best way to get into the trades is the same way people have been doing it for generations: start as a helper. Show up. Be early. Work hard. Shut up and listen. That’s it.

Find someone in your area — a plumber, HVAC tech, handyman, mechanic, roofer — and offer to help. Sweep floors. Carry tools. Clean up jobsites. If you’re reliable, you’ll start learning fast. And from there, you move up. Experience becomes your education. And the money follows.

Want to double down? Watch YouTube tutorials. Read tool manuals. Practice on your own gear. You don’t need a diploma to prove your value — your work speaks for itself.

Final Thought: Teach Your Kids to Build, Not Borrow

The trades aren’t just jobs — they’re life skills. They make your kids more self-reliant, more capable, and less dependent on a broken system. College isn’t the enemy, but blind trust in it is. Show your kids there’s another way — one that builds hands, mind, and future all at once.

Listen to Episode 429 and start building a future that actually works.

Links

DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit, 2 Batteries and Charger Included (DCD771C2)

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