Contractor Spotlight
Interview with Dan Wheeler from River City Fence in Illinois
Dan Wheeler has worked at his family's fence business for as long as he can remember. Using this knowledge gained on the job and through life, he decided to give back to the industry by starting a podcast. On his podcast, he talks about best practices in the industry and interviews contractors & vendors across the country.
We caught up with Dan recently to learn more about his podcast journey.
Master Halco: What made you decide that you wanted to get into podcasting?
Dan Wheeler: I got into podcasting because I saw a huge gap in the fence industry when it came to social media and building our trade like others have. Landscapers, electricians, plumbers, and carpenters have grown so much through social media by posting their work, tips, and tricks. A young person can get a degree in a trade by watching YouTube videos or following a contractor in their specific trade. They’re elevating their game, now it’s our turn!
MH: What is your vision for the podcast long-term?
Dan: Long term I definitely would like the podcast to be a go-to resource for fencers, and future fencers. A how-to resource from install techniques to general knowledge of the fence trade to pricing and company culture. Paul Jamison of the Green Industry Podcast says it best, “I want our ceiling to be the new guy's floor.”
MH: How has it been balancing this new endeavor with still being a full-time fence contractor?
Dan: Balancing the podcast and installing fence six days a week is definitely a struggle. But I love a good challenge and I love podcasting. I’ll take it any day. Talking to like-minded guys across the country is awesome and well worth it. I take something away from every podcast and feel privileged to talk to some of the most elite guys in the trade. Talking and learning from guys like Matt from JC Fence, for example, makes the process all worth it.
Find The Fence Industry Podcast on your favorite podcast app: