S1:E14 - The Day Everything Changed: Will Taufa’s Near-Death Story

Bold Moves Podcast

🎙️ Episode Summary

Join Mat on the Bold News Podcast as he converses with Will and Kevin from Paloma Plumbing. They share their bold journeys into the plumbing industry, discuss pivotal moments that changed their lives, and explore the importance of embracing challenges for personal and professional growth.

Career Journey
Will Taufa, owner-operator of Paloma Plumbing, reflects on the crucial moment that inspired him to start his own plumbing business. Following the birth of his daughter, Will confronted the stark reality of returning to work merely 48 hours after giving birth, which motivated him to pursue a better work-life balance. He shares his early experiences in the plumbing field, characterized by lengthy hours that hindered family time. This realization became the basis for his aspiration to create a more adaptable career for himself.

Life-Altering Experience
A transformative incident occurred when Will faced electrocution while working in an attic. This harrowing experience, in which he narrowly escaped death, highlighted the critical importance of safety in his profession. The intervention of his sister and colleague was instrumental in saving him. This event altered his definition of success, leading him to prioritize relationships and personal health over financial rewards. He stresses the necessity for safety measures in the plumbing industry, as many workers may not recognize the potential hazards.

Industry Insights
The plumbing industry is currently facing a notable shortage of skilled labor, presenting a prime opportunity for younger individuals to enter the profession. Will emphasizes that the demand for plumbers will only rise as seasoned professionals retire. He encourages anyone contemplating a plumbing career to seek guidance, explore educational resources, and understand the possibilities within the trade.

Building Relationships and Community
Throughout the discussion, Will underscores the importance of relationships in business. He promotes the idea of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their position, and acknowledges the significance of helping others achieve success. His journey illustrates a more profound understanding of success, where personal relationships and a dedication to service take precedence over financial accomplishments. He wraps up by inspiring listeners to take courageous steps and begin their journey towards their aspirations without delay.

Behind the Story:

Will’s journey into plumbing was marked by a transformative event that highlighted the fragility of life. After experiencing an electric shock while working, he gained a renewed appreciation for family and the relationships that support his business. This moment became a catalyst for change, prompting him to embrace bolder decisions.

• “Money comes and goes, but the people around you are what matter most.” – Will Talfa
• “When you focus on helping others, you’ll see results quicker than trying to get results.” – Kevin

In This Episode:

00:00 Meet the Guests
01:11 The Bold Move
03:49 The Struggles of Overworking
06:31 The Path to Independence
09:00 Income Potential in Plumbing
11:01 The Stability of Trades
13:00 Changing Perceptions of Trades
18:20 Breaking Points and New Beginnings
20:03 The Reward of Helping Others
25:30 Marketing and Building a Business
29:07 Redefining Success
29:50 A Life-Changing Incident
34:30 Lessons from Adversity
37:01 The Power of Gut Feelings
39:10 Building a Stronger Future
41:02 Advice to the Younger Generation
42:44 Future Aspirations
45:22 Inspiration and Resources
49:06 Final Thoughts and Connections

Chapters

1. Meet the Guests (00:00:00)

2. The Bold Move (00:01:45)

3. The Struggles of Overworking (00:04:23)

4. The Path to Independence (00:07:05)

5. Income Potential in Plumbing (00:09:34)

6. The Stability of Trades (00:11:35)

7. Changing Perceptions of Trades (00:13:34)

8. Breaking Points and New Beginnings (00:18:54)

9. The Reward of Helping Others (00:20:37)

10. Marketing and Building a Business (00:26:04)

11. Redefining Success (00:29:41)

12. A Life-Changing Incident (00:30:24)

13. Lessons from Adversity (00:35:04)

14. The Power of Gut Feelings (00:37:35)

15. Building a Stronger Future (00:39:44)

16. Advice to the Younger Generation (00:41:36)

17. Future Aspirations (00:43:18)

18. Inspiration and Resources (00:45:56)

19. Final Thoughts and Connections (00:49:40)