Welcome to another episode of the Cutting Edge Install Podcast — brought to you by Omni Cubed, where innovation meets installation and everything in between.

In this episode, host Merv Campbell sits down with Russ Payne, tradesman, business leader, and host of The Talking Tradesmen podcast. What starts as a light-hearted Irish-meets-English conversation quickly turns into a deep, honest discussion about the realities of life in the trades — from workforce shortages and social media myths to mental health, leadership, and building cultures where people actually feel supported.

Russ shares his journey through the trades, why he felt called to start a podcast giving tradespeople a voice, and what he’s learned from years of wearing multiple hats as a craftsman, advocate, and mentor. Together, Merv and Russ unpack what’s really driving young people away from hands-on careers, why the trades are more valuable than ever, and how leaders can create workplaces that value people as much as production.

You’ll also hear them dive into:

• Why the skilled trades gap is becoming a serious global problem
  • The damage social media myths do to young people choosing careers
  • Why craftsmanship is an unseen art — and why that matters
  • How honest conversations can save careers, businesses, and lives
  • What strong company culture actually looks like in practice
  • Encouraging the next generation without sugarcoating the work
  • Faith, family, rest, and learning when to “go dark” outside of work

This episode is thoughtful, real, and refreshingly human — packed with perspective for installers, shop owners, foremen, and anyone who believes the trades deserve more respect, visibility, and care.

Learn more about Omni Cubed: https://omnicubed.com/

Learn more about the Talking Tradesman: https://www.thetalkingtradesman.co.uk/