What does it actually take to build a successful trades business in America today?

In this episode of the American Operator Podcast, JC sits down with Ashley and Warren Stroud — founders of Plumbing Outfitters — to talk about leadership, family, culture, entrepreneurship, and why the future of America may depend on rebuilding pride in the skilled trades.

This isn’t just a conversation about plumbing. It’s about:

• Building a business that lasts

• Creating a culture people want to be part of

• Training the next generation of skilled workers

• Leading a family business without losing your family

• And why locally owned businesses still matter

Ashley and Warren share the real story behind Plumbing Outfitters — from nursing and ranch work… to starting with a single truck… to building one of the most respected plumbing companies in Texas.

They break down:

• Why they hire for character over experience

• How they use social media as a recruiting tool

• Why most business owners struggle with leadership and communication

• How AI is pushing young people back toward the trades

• The importance of self-development for entrepreneurs

• What scaling a business really feels like behind the scenes

• And how building a company together strengthened their marriage and family

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode:

• You don’t build a great company by finding perfect people.

• You build it by developing people.

• This is one of the most honest and insightful conversations we’ve had about small business ownership, leadership, culture, and the future of skilled trades in America.