In this episode of Shake Hands, Take Names, host AJ sits down with Lee Weir, a Red Seal trades professional, entrepreneur, and founder of Crossroads in Pugwash, Nova Scotia. Lee shares how a lifelong passion for motorcycles evolved into a multi-division business spanning power sports and manufactured housing, now employing around 92 people. He talks candidly about the realities of starting and scaling a trades-based business, the severe shortage of skilled workers, and why passion and willingness to learn matter more than formal credentials. Lee also explains his views on direct-entry trades vs. formal schooling, the red tape around Red Seal certification, and how mentorship, networking, and simple door-knocking still open real opportunities in rural Nova Scotia. Throughout the conversation, he returns to a core philosophy written on his shop wall: “No obstacles, only opportunities.”

In this episode of Shake Hands, Take Names, AJ sits down with brothers Sam and Jim Cripps of Cripps and Sons Woodworking to talk about how passion, perseverance, and relationships turned a small rural cabinet shop into an innovation‑driven business. They share the family origins of the company, their long road to becoming Red Seal cabinet makers without a clear apprenticeship path, and how they balance the art and science of modern cabinetry—from steam‑bent oak archways to robots on the shop floor. Along the way, they dig into the realities of skilled trades for a 17‑year‑old just starting out, the power of community and networking in rural Nova Scotia, and why trust, respect, and genuine curiosity matter more than chasing dollars.

AJ sits down with Will and Chase, the teenage co-founders of Live Laugh Lawn, to talk about how they turned a summer mowing idea in rural Pictou County into a 300+ client landscaping business and their first $10K month. They share how the name came to life, how they used door-to-door outreach, word of mouth, and personalized service to compete with bigger players, and how hiring friends from their baseball network helped them grow. The conversation dives into overcoming skepticism as young entrepreneurs, tackling the stigma around Gen Z work ethic, and the crucial role of mentors, family, and local supporters like Ignite and realtor partners. Will and Chase also reflect on speaking at an event, learning the financial and operational side of business, and building confidence through “reps” in uncomfortable situations. Their message to other young people: start now, use your network, be willing to fail and learn, and let each connection move your story forward.