Episodes

6d ago

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talks about what 2025 has been like for many in the trade. Gary Burton joins the show to give his thoughts and a bit of an overview on what he thinks is in demand and where he's seen demand drop off in the market. Heather Isherwood returns after sharing her breast cancer story about six months ago. Heather gives an update on her recovery, talks about getting into spraying and shares the plan for next year when she needs another surgery to aide in her treatment. Joel and Todd also wrap up the year for them and share some final thoughts on the trade and life in 2025.

Dec 9

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel look into the argument as to whether too many methods, tips about working with materials and skills are being shared with the public on social media. John Kerry joins the discussion to explain why he thinks so many online are giving way too much away and how this creates a tougher market for Decorators to operate in effectively. Joanna Hay, well known on social media for sharing tips and tricks joins and explains her point of view on the topic.

Dec 2

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel talk about other trades 'doing the painting as well' when the client asks. Danny Madden, General Builder & Roofer talks about when he will and won't do the decorating himself and whether he could come close to matching the standards of a pro. Kevin Tingley AKA THe Paint Warrior gives his perspective and talks about what he's witnessed from builders and other trades having a go. Plasterer & DIY Crew Member, Chris Frediani talks about when he's asked from the perspective of a finishing trade and what happens when non trade based volunteers 'have a go' on DIY SOS.

Nov 25

Joel and Todd react to a news story and survey that placed Decorators LAST (8th overall) as the most unfit trade in construction. Retired Olympian turned Decorator, Dan Jervis joins the discussion to share his thoughts and Nathan Carter also joins the discussion due to his reputation for looking after his physique.

Nov 18

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel look into why so many are saying they're considering giving up the trade and finding a new career path. Dan Rolfe joins the show to talk about his discontent working in the trade, giving it up and taking a break and his return to Decorating. Jon Graham gives his take on why so many might be struggling to keep working in the trade currently and whether he's ever considered quitting.

Nov 11

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel set up some scenarios they've faced and discuss ways in which they've solved them.

Nov 4

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Sian Francis, Who talks about the incredible success and rapid growth of her business. Sian talks about her start in Painting & Decorating, How she approached setting up a business, taking on commerical jobs, apprentices, quoting, paints, social media, DIY SOS and so much more!

Oct 28

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk to Decorators about how to predict your timeline and plot out a timeline accurately on jobs. Joel and Todd talk about the trial and error, what you communicate to clients, how to handle overrun and also ask guests about their tips and advice for getting this right. Guests: Jason Savage & Sean Kelly.

Oct 21

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Decorators to talk about their worst mistakes and how they solved them. Joel and Todd also share their own and what they've done to avoid them happening again. Guests: Ryan Painter & Ashley Woodcock.

Oct 14

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall talk to Decorators about their working habits and practices. This means everything from prep work and taking time for quotes/estimates to bringing lunch and how clean the back of the van is! Guests include: Sian Francis & Wesley Knight.

Oct 7

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk ask decorators to share some of the bizarre stories they have from working in domestic properties over the years. Guests include: Jen Gardner AKA Jen The Decorator, Joanna Ramirez AKA Decor By Jo & Bryan Dennett from LF Dennett & Son.

Sep 30

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk to fellow Decorator, Joe Hunt, about the challenges he had trying to become qualified, finding training options that worked for him and the struggle to find someone to take him on. Joel and Todd talk about why it's such a tough leap for a small business owner to take someone on and there's advice for anyone looking to stand out.

Sep 23

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel look into a range of options for vehicles best suited to the trade. Carl Brookes from Trade Vans UK talks about the vehicle types and makes that he feels are best for Decorators and gives his ultimate top three to look into. Chris Ordinaire talks about his approach to having a van for his work on the brushes and fellow Fix Radio Presenter, Todd Glister talks about buying versus leasing and which option he feels is best for tradespeople.

Sep 16

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss the things they would never do in the trade and also invite two Decorators to join them and share their own exmaples. Guests include: Peter Clark & Andy Hamilton (AR Decor)

Sep 9

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel recap their experiences and involvement at Fix Fest last week and also catch up with well known Plasterer, Leigh Griffiths AKA The Tape Slayer. Tape Slayer has recently been diagnosed with Silicosis and talks about how it happened, the wake up call it's been and why you need to take this very seriously if you're sanding and exposed to potentially harmful dust particles.

Sep 2

Heather Isherwood, a Canadian Decorator based in Reading, Berkshire talks about her experiences finding a career and running a business in Painting & Decorating and the story of how she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Heather talks about the moment she found out, the treatment that followed, some of the hardest aspects of treatment after beating breat cancer and what effect it's all had on her business and work on the tools. Heather also talks about favourite paints, tools and approach to managing customers as well as some notable projects.

Aug 26

Joel and TVJ discuss some of their favourite and least preferred colours to work with. They also talk about colour names and play some voice notes from friends of the show about their best/worst colours and colour names.

Aug 19

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall talk about inner strength and weakness and how both play a part in the nature of working in and running a business in the Decorating industry. Todd Von Joel, as a big boxing fan, invites Commonwealth Gold Medalist Lewis Williams to join the discussion and explain how he manages moments of weakness and builds up his mental and physical strength for each bout - not a million miles from how you might have to when running your own projects!

Aug 12

Join Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall as they look back on their early days on the tools. They share the pivotal mistakes, family influences, and formative experiences that defined their careers and shaped who they are today.

Aug 5

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Scottish Decorator from the Highlands, Craig Murphy AKA The Kilted Painter. Craig talks about his experiences filming for Channel 5 TV 'Faking It', where he swapped his paint brushes for make up brushes. Craig talks about learning the skills, the pressure involved, what it was like to shoot a TV show and also the story behind the famous white kilt.

Jul 29

Justine Horne from Justine Lisa Designs & Decorates joins Joel and Todd to tell the story behind a 40m2 mural created for The Royal British Legion Care Home in Broadstairs. Justine describes the work that went into the design process, the collaboration with the scaffolders, her method, paints and products... as well as the reaction from the residents and staff.

Jul 22

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about how far they would go to get even with a customer that messed them about when it comes to payment. They ask fellow decorators, Sean Kelly & Ashley Woodcock to join them and talk about their experiences. Sean shares a shocking story about a customer that knew they didn't have the money to pay him... but still had the work done... Ashley shares an occasion where he actually got revenge on a non-paying customer!

Jul 15

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about what the public are willing to pay for a professional decorators services. They react to a recent viral post that questioned a quote from a decorator, talk with top class Decorator, Chris Ordinaire about his experiences with customers questioning money and also listen to some audio of the public being asked what they're willing to pay for work.

Jul 8

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall talk about their experiences working through the summer, working in the extreme heat, stories from working through previous summers and give a bit of an update on exteriors and ongoing work.

Jul 1

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Terry from 'A Touch of Colour' who talks openly about his upbringing, stuggles with addiction, crime, ADHD and prison. Terry talks about how after a second stint of prison he finally turned his life around and found amazing success in the decorating trade. Terry also talks about taking on commercial and domestic work, managing a large team, networking and the recent quality of paints.

Jun 24

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about occasions on jobs where they've had little wins and also the times where you need to know when to cut your losses. Joel and Todd both share their own examples and also invite Jon Graham AKA J G Decorator on social media to join them and add to the discussion with some of his own thoughts and examples

Jun 17

Andy Hamilton from AR Decor & Lily Moore join Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel to talk about their experiences together as master and apprentice. Andy talks about how he got Lily started on site, Lily talks about how she got into the trade, they both share their experiences together and talk about how Lily has gone out on her own with great success in these very early stages

Jun 10

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined in the studio by Ryan Painter from Rocket Decorating Services Ltd. Ryan talks about how he got into the trade from working in television. Ryan discusses how his business grew after setting up during lockdown, his notable high end and restoration projects. Ryan also talks about tools, materials and more!

Jun 3

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about decorating hack or 'MacGyvers' they've invented and come across while working on projects. They also invite experienced Decorator, Bryan Dennett to join them and share some of his examples and James Wildish from XOX Coatings Ltd. returns to share some spraying hacks and 'MacGyvers'

May 27

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel invite a range of professional decorators to join them and discuss their experiences with regards to price rises and dips in quality with finishes. Guests include: John Kerry, Jason Savage & Alex Woodward

May 20

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall feature two mural artists who are creating some incredible work on social media. Mr. Murals talks about his work for Jason Derulo, his NHS fundraising and touches on some surprising insights into how the design process works for him. The Spray Saint talks about some of his notable projects, how he became a mural artist and touches on some of his favourite paints

May 13

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about how their first half of the year has been professionally and how they're getting on with all of the goals and plans they discussed on the show at the beginning of the year. They also talk about how they'll approach the rest of the year and work that they'll update you with in the coming weeks

May 6

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall are joined by Wesley Knight (@wkpd1986 on Instagram) to discuss his approach to some incredible work on exteriors and resoration projects. Joel and Todd quiz Wesley about his prep work, approach to restoration work, notable projects, how he uses paints and finishes like a chemist and bringing modern tech into traditional methods

Apr 30

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall talk to VAT Man Andrew Jones and find out about why and at what point you need to go VAT regestered. They also look into implementing an AI assistant in the quoting phase with Tradestack CEO, Sarel Van Baalan

Apr 22

James Wildish from XOX Coatings joins Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel to discuss his career in the trade. James talks about how he got his start as a ‘chancer’ and quickly became the director of a successful business, employing nearly 20 decorators. James tells the shocking story of how getting knocked for six figures on a commercial job changed his life and led him into the world of spraying. James talks about his work as a UPVC spraying trainer for Dulux and where he thinks the future of the trade is heading

Apr 15

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel invite Carpenter, John Argyle & Plumbing and Heating Engineer, John Cruickshank, to join them and discuss their approach to pricing and quoting for work. They cover dayrate for their trade, how they deal with extras, emergencies, added time on a job and how they factor in their value and experience

Apr 8

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel invite decorators to join them and discuss myths and misconceptions from the trade. Peter Clark talks about misconceptions apprentices and students have when they join the trade as well as touching on myths believed by established Decs. Adam Bell, Decorator and creator of Dapps Workwear talks about misconceptions Decorators have about the value of what they can offer clients and what their standing and value is within the construction industry as a whole

Apr 1

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel invite Callum Bonner, from Pristine Decor Ltd and Bryan Dennett from LF Dennettt & Son, to join them and discuss pricing, quotes and writing up job specs. Callum covers doing this from a commercial perspective with a Quantity Surveyor and Bryan talks about the digital system he has in place to make this an easier aspect of his business to manage. Joel and Todd also cover their approach, AI and more

Mar 25

Joel and Todd have talked a lot over the years about the good and bad aspects of working for friends and family. On this episode, they share some never before heard stories, both good and bad, with regards to working for friends and family. Joel and Todd also share their three rules to follow if you're gonna be working for people you know

Mar 18

Ashley Woodcock joins Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel and shares his incredible life story on and off the tools. Ashley talks about his amateur boxing experiences, unlicensed boxing, sparring with greats, the highs and lows he's faced along the way, the charity work he's been involved in, decorating on TV and more!

Mar 11

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel invite decorators to join them with problems they need to solve, or have been challenged by on past jobs. Alex Woodward, shares some recent challenges he's had and asks for some advice and experienced Decorator, Chris Ordinaire talks about being recently caught out

Mar 4

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk to fellow decorators about their experiences hanging wallpaper, the demand for this in the market currently, how to charge appropriately and the pros and cons of offering it to customers. Guests include: Jason Savage (Novitas Decorators) & James Reeve (Royal Spa Decoration Ltd.)

Feb 25

Todd Von Joel & Joel Bardall discuss how they go about indentifying red flags early on and throughout the job with regards to customer communication. Joel and Todd give some examples from past experiences and discuss the terms and conditions they've put in place as a result

Feb 18

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined again by Colin Bidwell from Paint Shack to do a deep dive on paints and products. Colin talks about the new tools and paints on the market, What is happening with regards to cost and availability, innovative products, trends and the future

Feb 11

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Colin Bidwell (Paint Shack) to discuss his experiences in the trade. Colin talks about how he got into the trade, spraying, thoughts on the trade and more

Feb 4

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel get some practical advice for managing your money from two members of the trade that have found sensible ways to handle their finances. Guests include: Jon Graham & John Kerry

Jan 28

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss all the different ways you can approach various aspects of the trade

Jan 21

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Jamie Bourne from Abode Academy to discuss all the training, technology and possibilities to earn good money with a spray set up in 2025

Jan 14

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about their plans for the year ahead, the changes they plan to make and changes you may consider making this year professionally and personally

Jan 7

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel pick up where they left off last year and this time look at the good, bad and ugly side of marketing and advertising your business. They invite marketing expert, Jon Mears to join them and give his accessment of what are the good, bad and ugly sides of marketing and habits Decorators have with regards to this

Dec 10, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss the good, bad and the ugly aspects of how domestic decorators work and the habits of their clients

Dec 3, 2024

Joel Bardall talks about the recent mural he created in a long time customer's house. Joel and Todd talk to a decorator that specialises in wallpaper murals and also talk to Paint Tech about the skills involved & what it's like to train in. Guests include: Gary Marsh & Pete Wilkinson from Paint Tech

Nov 26, 2024

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel look at the recent 'Project 7000 - The Lost City' campaign from On The Tools, which saw street signs pop up in ten cities around the UK to raise awareness around mental health in the construction industry. Joel and Todd play a clip from On The Tools CEO Lee Wilcox on the Clive Holland Show and discuss the lack of awareness the general public have with regards to mental health in construction. They also invite The Paint Warrior Kevin Tingley to join them and discuss mental health in the trade and invite Russell Payne (The Talking Tradesman Podcast) to discuss what he's found from talking to other tradespeople about their mental health experiences

Nov 19, 2024

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel invite top quality & award winning Decorators to join them and give some advice for newer members of the trade when it comes to avoiding common mistakes made. Guests Include: Gary Burton, Nick Sammut & Charles Wright from Trades4Care

Nov 12, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss some controversial takes and opinions about Painting & Decorating and the role of the professional Decorator

Nov 5, 2024

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel pick up on last week's topic and discuss how you can extract more profit from a job with less spent on products, while also achieving a good end result. The Paint Viking, Ben Ruffett joins to discuss his methods for decorating on a budget and Joel and Todd give some tips and insight into how they do the same

Oct 29, 2024

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall address the cost of living crisis and whether it's giving Decorators no other option but to raise their quoted costs... or whether it means clients will have less budget and might need prices to remain the same. Guests include: Jo from 'Decor by Jo' & 'The Paint Viking' (Ben Ruffett)

Oct 22, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by three members of the trade to discuss what they've found recently with regards to material cost, quality & some of the new and different products they've tried out. Guests include: Jon Graham, Wayne De Wet & Jen Gardner

Oct 15, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel look at the ways in which you can be a busy fool in the trade and how to avoid it. Being a busy fool can mean you have no work life balance, work weekends without wanting to, saying yes too much and not feeling on top of things. Chris Ordinaire, top Decorator and friend of the show joins to discuss as well

Oct 8, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by guests who have had bad things happen to them to discuss their experiences and how they handled the adversity they faced. Guests include: Costa & Sam from Costa Decoration Ltd. & Robin Lush

Oct 1, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss the end of the exterior season as they finish up their final exterior jobs for 2024. They talk about how it's all gone this year, what the rest of the year has in store and invite guests to discuss their experiences as well. Guests include: James Houseman & Bryan Dennett

Sep 24, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss the professional pressure they feel, not only to upscale their business and continue to expand but also to manage ongoing jobs, balance home life with professional life

Sep 17, 2024

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel are joined by Damp Expert, Ross Charters so that they can get some advice and further understanding with regards to tackling damp issues. Ross has created an app that can really help with damp issues and also gives some interesting context around which products may or may not be suitable for tackling the wide range of damp that an affect a property. You can find out more here: https://www.colemanator.co.uk/

Sep 10, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by three well respected Decorators to discuss how they approach taking holiday and time off. Everything is discussed from how many holidays a year, how you handle enquiries and ongoing jobs to working a four day week and how taking time off changes over the years. Guests include: Jo from Decor By Jo, Callum Bonner from Pristine Decor & Dulux Select Decorator Sean Kelly

Sep 3, 2024

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall are joined by three members of the trade so that they can share their strange interactions with customers as well as some of the weird questions, requests and behaviour from customers. Guests: Jason Savage, Mark Nash & Chippie The Decorator

Aug 27, 2024

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall share some stories from their time in the trade over the years

Aug 20, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel catch up with guests that joined them a year ago on the show. Marc Silver from Murwalls returns to talk about all of the high profile projects they've been doing and grounbreaking ideas they're implementing on projects. Nathan Carter, the decorator that had his van stolen returns to talk about the impact of this awful crime, one year on...

Aug 13, 2024

Nettie Taylor (Eliza Tay Lady Decorator & Interior Designer) joins Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel to discuss her work with her team of apprentices. Nettie is up to her 12th apprentice and currently has Jasmine, Abby & Szaffi working with her on projects. Nettie talks about the benefits of having her team with her, how she keeps them invested in the work and Joel and Todd also talk with Jasmine and Abby about their experiences in the trade so far

Aug 6, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Decorators to discuss their approach to prepping surfaces, the products, tools used and also some of the unexpected things found during prep stages. Guests: The Paint Warrior, Kevin Tingley & Nick Torrano-Harling

Jul 30, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about all the challenges life can throw at you, from moving house to illness, having kids and more

Jul 23, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel have Chris Ordinaire guest co-hosting to discuss the rules of the trade to stand by, leave behind, those that are up for debate and also rules they would like to see implemented. They invite two award winning decorators to join them and discuss and share their rules of the trade

Jul 16, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by one of their favourite regular guests, Chris Ordinaire to discuss at length his career and experiences in Decorating. Chris talks about his first boss and how he got started on his own, The type of jobs he takes on, How the trade has changed over the decades he's worked in it and also gives some thoughts and advice on how to approach certain challenges and aspects of working for yourself in the trade

Jul 9, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel invite three well known decorators and friends of the show (Nick Sammut, Chris Ordinaire & Jen Gardner) to join them and talk about why they love the trade and their work within it

Jul 2, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss life on and off the brushes, as we pass the halfway point of 2024. Plus: Nick Sammut joins the show to talk about a worthwhile initiative that you can get involved in!

Jun 25, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel have invited Steven Hoare from 109 Carpentry to join them and discuss the issues he's had with some decorators and their quality of work and what he's done as a result of this issue. Steven also discusses the differences of his experience in trade and construction, compared to that of a decorator and also talks about some his decorating experiences

Jun 18, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel invite James Ray to join them and discuss being men and how their experiences in the trade relate back to masculinity, male role models and their experiences as fathers and sons. James has co-authored the book, Responsibility: Becoming The Authentic Man with award winning plumber Myles Dhillon and also runs XCC (Xtreme Charecter Challenge) a self-described MOT for men. James discusses all of this, the role of men in society, in family and friendship groups and much more

Jun 11, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk to two members of the trade about what they're experiencing with regards to paint price rises this year. Some paints have gone up by 8% or more and continue to rise. They ask Sean Kelly and Des Cass, why they think this is happening, what they've done about these increased costs and whether this is unprecidented in the trade, based on their years of experience running businesses

Jun 4, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel go down to Parliament Square to see tradespeople come together for Trades United - a van rally to protest against the sale of stolen tools and tool theft generally. They capture some of the blaring horns, talk to some of the trades that attended and also talk to Shaoib Awan, who organised Trades United, which saw around 300 vans turn up from across the country

May 28, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about troubleshooting aspects of the trade as a Decorator. Everything from dealing with clients, working with materials, the evolving nature of an ongoing job with add ons or delays and various other aspects of the day to day work

May 21, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel take another look at the approach to exterior work in the UK. Ian Howie, a Scottish heritage decorator talks about the challenges of decorator huge castles and historic buildings, as well as the challenges the Scottish weather brings. Jason Savage talks about his approach to exterior work and Joel debates weather he will continue taking on exterior work, having adopted a lighter exterior workload last summer

May 14, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk to three Decorators who are getting their exterior jobs started and ask them about their approach, why they do exteriors, how they avoid getting caught out by the job and weather and advice for anyone new to taking on exterior work and unsure on the differences between exterior and interior work. Guests: Gary Burton, Adam Bell and Bryan Dennett

May 7, 2024

Joel Bardall and Tpdd Von Joel talk to two of the best decorators on social media when it comes to wood restoration and timber resin repairs. The guys chat about methods, tools, resins and more

Apr 30, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about how they approach removing harmful dust and particles that come from sanding. They're joined by guests who give some insight on how to approach this with regards to both sanding and spraying

Apr 23, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Robert Pammen and Matt Livingstone in the studio to talk about the documentary Wet Paint . Matt's short film follows Robert as he restores London's iconic red telephone boxes. Robert talks about his work, materials and a lifetime of experiences on the brushes.

Apr 16, 2024

Alex Woodward from Indie band Black Honey, Joins Joel and Todd to discuss how his journey as a professional decorator is progressing and James Housman, a decorator whose five minute job turned into emegency surgery returns to talk about the latest with his health and how that's impacted his work on the brushes

Apr 9, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel follow up last week's episode by talking to two decorators who focus on more commercial, larger domestic and site based work to find out what winds them up and why

Apr 2, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by two decorators to discuss some domestic decorating pet peeves. It's no surprise that 99% of them relate to customers...

Mar 26, 2024

Todd Von Joel and Joel Bardall are joined by Errol McKellar MBE to talk about prostate cancer. Errol tells his incredible story and the journey he's been on with prostate cancer awareness. Errol sets the record straight on exactly what is involved with prostate cancer testing, who is most at risk, why you should have a conversation about it with people you're concerned about or if you're concerned about your own health as well as what the signs are that something might be wrong

Mar 19, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by two very well known paint brands in the UK to give some advice on how to sustainably clean out your brushes and rollers. They also give guidance on what to do with surpluss tins of paint and let us know the massive efforts to make the paint industry more sustainable. There's also a chat with Colin Bidwell about a new approach to cleaning out brushes and rollers that's coming to the UK from Belgium and the Netherlands

Mar 12, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Craig Phillips, the winner of the first ever Big Brother and tradesperson. Craig talks about his time on the tools, decorating, sustainability within the paint industry, Big Brother, Leigh Francis and more!

Mar 5, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about how they go about cleaning their brushes and rollers. The Paint Warrior, Kevin Tingley also joins the show to give some insight into his methods and some of the products he uses. Joel and Todd also ponder the environmental impact of certain cleaning methods and what the industry as a whole might do about it

Feb 27, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined Natasha Collinson from Belle Decorating joins the boys to talk about her approach to offering both interior design and decorating services. Natasha talks about why she decided to offer both, how you could bring elements of interior design into your business and Joel and Todd also talk about how people can see the same colour differently from one another

Feb 20, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Barbara Ramani, TV-personality and interior designer who offers guidance on handling customers who do not know what colours they want on their walls and ceilings

Feb 13, 2024

Martin Taylor from Taylor's Quality Painting joins Joel and Todd at Fix Radio HQ to discuss his 8 years of experience spraying and long career in the trade before that. Martin achieved a gloss finish with his spray set up that was incredible and discusses it on this episode

Feb 6, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk to three decorators about the side hustles they do away from the brushes. They ask them why they do these, what the challenges of juggling both decorating and their other passion are and also get some advice for anyone wanting to do the same thing

Jan 30, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about all the ways the role of a professional decorator will test you. From knowledge to the physical nature of the trade and also how it'll test your patience and concentration

Jan 23, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about what challenges decorators face when passing costs onto the customers and have guests join them to share some money saving tips and hacks

Jan 16, 2024

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel explain their final five steps to setting up a decorating business with marketing expert for decorators, Jon Mears and limited company owner James Reeve

Jan 9, 2024

Joel Bardall has come up with ten essential steps to setting up a decorating business which also feature some tips and insight for existing business owners. Joel and Todd talk over the first few steps and are joined by successful business owner, Callum Bonner from Pristine Decor Ltd. To find out how he approached setting up his business

Dec 19, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are back with part two of last week's topic all about prep work. Kevin Tingley AKA The Paint Warrior comes on the show to discuss his approach to different stages of prep and Joel and Todd give some advice on how to approach prep

Dec 12, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about the importance of prep and their approach to prep work. Gary Burton from GRB Interiors also makes his debut on the show to discuss the work he does and the prep needed for some very impressive work he completes in historic properties

Dec 5, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel ask three decorators to join them and share what the worst... colour matching, customers, DIY attempts at decorating and experiences they've had on the tools

Nov 28, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel bring you more from their big day out at the National Painting & Decorating Show in Coventry thanks to Osmo. They meet some familiar faces like Liam Gent and Nick Sammut who are showcasing the Festool Exo Suit, They run into the Bald Builders, some friends of the show and also talk to exhibitors like Abode Academy about getting decorators into spraying as well as the PDA.

Nov 21, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are broadcasting from the floor of the National Painting & Decorating Show in Coventry in partnership with Osmo. They chat to attendees, meet the fans, tour around the exhibitors and meet some familiar faces too

Nov 14, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel ask three decorators to join them to discuss whether they go for quotes or estimates and their thought process behind it. Gareth Roberts from Anglesey is the first guest, followed by seasoned decorator Chris Ordinaire and last but not least award winning decorator, James Reeve also joins the discussion

Nov 7, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Financial Advisor, Martin Hibbert, so that they can talk everything from debts to savings. They also have a major announcement about something coming up later this month...

Oct 31, 2023

There's nothing scarier than dealing with your tax and managing your finances, so on this episode of the show Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by Accountant, Mark Smallman and Ben Livings from HMRC, to give you some advice. As it's Hallowe'en, Joel and Todd also talk about some decorating horror stories!

Oct 24, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel discuss complacency and how it can creep into many aspects of your professional life after decades of experience in the trade

Oct 17, 2023

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel catch up with Benjamin Ruffett, a decorator that joined us to talk about his van break in and tool theft experience a year ago. Last year, Ben said that he would have to shut down his business and go and work for a firm as a result of what happened, so we've invited him back onto the show to find out how the following 12 months unfolded for him. Nathan Carter, a Decorator from Leyland, Lancashire shares his recent van theft experience and talks about the reprecussions of this for his business

Oct 10, 2023

Mural artist Eloisa Henderson-Figueroa joins Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel in the studio to discuss how bright colours and shapes can transform just about any space (even horrid toilets)

Oct 3, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk to Marc Silver & Dave Nash from Murwalls about the work they've done for football clubs and celebrities

Sep 26, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel ask if it's okay to do certain business practices as a painter & decorator. From working out of a car rather than a van to covering in one coat and much more.

Sep 19, 2023

Joel and Todd talk about keeping fit and ask decorators what kind of exercise they do away from the trade. Todd talks about how boxing has helped him physically and mentally, Dulux Select Decorator Sean Kelly talks about cycling, Decorator & Plasterer Peter Whiter talks about the gym and gives some tips around stretching and Jen Gardner also joins us to talk about the injuries that are causing her issues on the tools

Sep 12, 2023

Alex Woodward, the drummer from Indie band Black Honey returns to talk more about his experiences decorating, the famous people he's met and shows he's played with the band and some of the paints he's used so far. Alex also talks about his musical influences and ask Joel and Todd some questions about the trade

Sep 5, 2023

Alex Woodward is the drummer from UK based Indie Rock band Black Honey and got in touch with the show after getting into decorating. Joel and Todd ask Alex about his decorating experiences so far, the success he's had with Black Honey and what lockdown was like as a touring musician

Aug 29, 2023

Joel and Todd look into why paints and products have increased in price while the quality in certain paints has also dropped. Bryan Dennett joins us to share his experience as a decorator and Neil Ogilvie, Painting & Decorating Association CEO joins us to explain what exactly is causing these issues and whether we can do anything about it

Aug 22, 2023

With a new adademic year just around the corner and a whole new set of first year decorating students joining colleges across the UK, Joel and Todd reflect on their route into the trade and how their careers progressed into adulthood

Aug 15, 2023

Joel and Todd talk to John Bugden about his decorating content and journey on social media. John gives some advice for anyone stuck on followers that wants to get to that next level

Aug 8, 2023

Joel and Todd are joined by Adam Bell to talk about how to get an idea for a product off the ground and into reality. Adam noticed that his workwear wasn't suitable for working as a decorator so decided to create some suitable alternatives. Adam talks about how to create a product and get it manufactuered and how he's done this while also working as a decorator. Joel and Todd also talk about the weather and what it's meant for decorators and their work this summer

Aug 1, 2023

We've asked the public - Is Decorating boring? Would you like to be a decorator? What is more boring than watching paint dry? Joel and Todd go through the reponses we've received from the public and other trades

Jul 25, 2023

James Housman, A decorator from Cornwall was finishing a five minute job when something happened that would trigger emergency surgery and two weeks off of work. Joel and Todd ask him how this happened and James walks them through his experience and how you can avoid the same thing happening to you

Jul 18, 2023

Joel and Todd have picked out some of their favourite texts from customers that have been shared online by other decorators. They access each one and talk about where the customer is going wrong as well as what they would do in each situation

Jul 11, 2023

Joel and Todd are joined by Ian Howie, a heritage/restoration decorator from Scotland to talk about his most memorable job as someone that works in castles and listed buildings. Jason Savage from Novitas Decorating also shares his most memorable job and talks about the steps needed to complete it

Jul 4, 2023

Joel and Todd talk about whether a four day week could work for them and the trade as a whole as well as how they approach taking time off as sole traders

Jun 27, 2023

Regular listeners will know that Todd Von Joel has recently been told he's got high cholesterol... but what are you supposed to do about it? and how much time do tradespeople have to prep their meals? Karen Harrison, a nutritionist, joins us to give some tips on how tradespeople can eat heathier and what to do to combat high cholesterol

Jun 20, 2023

Joel and Todd talk about what the past few weeks have been like as we head into summer with heat waves and thunderstorms already hitting worksites across the UK. Gareth Roberts from North Wales joins us to explain why he never takes on exterior work in his part of the country and Dulux Select Decorator Sean Kelly talks about what it's been like working on exteriors so far this summer. Joel and Todd also talk about their own experiences working on exteriors, give some tips on how to avoid working in sunlight and dealing with the impact the weather can have on your finish

Jun 13, 2023

Joel and Todd talk about how technology has already changed the trade and also how it might change the way you work as a decorator going forward. Jon Mears talks about using AI to create content for your website and social media, Joel talks about his hopes for AI taking over the invoicing process and Joel and Todd touch on exo suits and robots

Jun 6, 2023

Joel and Todd are joined by Chris Ordinaire, Jen the Decorator and Mark Nash to discuss the rules they follow when decorating and whether there are some rules just not open for debate when it comes to decorating in a professional manner. Chris talks from his perspective as a traditional decorator with 40 years experience, Jen talks about prep and running a business and Mark Nash talks about the rules he needs to follow to achieve a high end hand painted finish for kitchens and furniture

May 30, 2023

Joel and Todd Von Joel wrap up the second part of their shows covering some common questions asked online by decorators. On this part they cover logistics, customer requests, the morality of markups on materials and more

May 23, 2023

Joel and Todd go through some common questions asked online and to themselves from decorators about a range of topics from fillers, dust sheets and paints to booking in work, the environment and longevity on the brushes

May 16, 2023

Joel and Todd talk about all the pressures that come with being a Decorator and Tradesperson. Everything from worrying about your physical health, battling mental health, worrying about money and keeping money to one side and more

May 9, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel about how you can offer customers value for money. Many customers think this means doing the cheapest job possible but Joel and Todd discuss how you can explain the value of the materials and the quality of the finish, how to explain false economies and making sure your customer values your opinion

May 2, 2023

Joel and Todd are joined by two decorators who have extensive experience teaching the trade to talk about what they believe is the difference between an okay decorator and a top class one. They also talk to Callum, who has not long left college and now takes on apprentices to find out what colleges instill in students and what he looks for in an apprentice

Apr 25, 2023

Bryan Dennett, a third generation decorator with more than 40 years experience in the trade talks about how to be selective with your work and picking jobs that are right for you and your business

Apr 18, 2023

Working for friends and family as a professional decorator can be tricky. Do they understand how much prep and money goes into each job? How much work are you prepared to do for free or 'mates rates'? Can you get away with charging full price and what if they're not happy with the finish? Joel and TVJ discuss all of this and also call up friend of the show Jo, from Decor by Jo in Bristol to get her thoughts on this

Apr 11, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined one more time by James Reeve to talk in more detail about his experiences running a limited company. James talks about employees and finding good decorators to bring into the business. He also touches on memorable jobs, clients, spraying and more

Apr 4, 2023

James Reeve who runs a limited company, Royal Spa Decoration, joins Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel to share his mental health journey after a workplace accident caused him to come off the tools for a period of time. James talks about becoming an ambassador for mental health charity Mind in Coventry & Warwickshire. James also talks about getting started in decorating and setting up a limited company instead of operating as a sole trader

Mar 28, 2023

Gareth Roberts from Top Coat Decorating in Wales joins us again to talk about mental health and raising awareness of mental health. Joel, Todd and Gareth talk about why men don't have honest discussions with one another and Joel shares a story from the end of last year around the topic too

Mar 21, 2023

Gareth Roberts, a decorator based in Holyhead, North Wales joins Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel in-studio to talk about how he got started in the trade, his career so far, paints and tools and also touches on his social media profile and the content he posts and covers on Instagram

Mar 14, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about how their professional life can impact their personal one. Being sole traders and bread winners can be stressful and it's often a struggle to balance the two. They talk about their experiences trying to find a work life balance, as well as communication and roles at home

Mar 7, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by a few decs to give their cringey customer interaction stories and situations. Jen the Decorator tells us about some strange ways customers think they're helping on the job, Nick the Decorator shares a bizarre find behind a fridge at a customer's house where the customer would never talk to him directly and Joel shares some stories of the most awkward customers he's ever had to work for

Feb 28, 2023

Kevin Tingley AKA The Paint Warrior returns to discuss how he got into the trade, A life changing incident that happened to him three years ago and going into a prison to meet the prisoners completing an NVQ in Decorating

Feb 21, 2023

Kevin Tingley AKA Paint Warrior has 1.2 million followers on social media and has more than three quarters of a million followers on TikTok alone. Kevin talks about his journey to success on social media, some of the notable jobs he's completed and has on the horizon as well as all of the amazing things he's been able to do in the trade thanks to his rise on social media and tidy work on-site

Feb 14, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel debate whether in the current climate it's best to stick to what you know and currently do compared to expanding your offerings and dabbling in other techniques. Anthony Carr from Mixed Emulsions returns to give his thoughts and also discusses how he sees the trade going in the next 10,15, 20 years

Feb 7, 2023

Joel and Todd are joined by Anthony Carr from Mixed Emulsions to share his passion for bringing young people into painting and decorating. Anthony is setting up some workshops for kids struggling at school after having a difficult time himself at school before he got into decorating. As its National Apprenticeship Week the boys also ask Anthony for his honest experiences with the apprenticeship programme here in the UK

Jan 31, 2023

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about implementing health and safety in a domestic setting as a decorator. They cover interior and exterior basics and then Nick Sammut returns to talk about H&S from a spraying perspective

Jan 24, 2023

Joel and Todd have a look at whether it's becoming a must to bring spraying into your business. They talk to Nick Sammut, from Rushmoor Painting & Decorating about how he's made spraying a huge part of his business and where to start with set ups. Steve Dickson from SD Painting & Decorating talks about how to pick up skills, training courses and gives his thoughts on set ups

Jan 17, 2023

Joel and Todd talk about how to handle snagging and call-backs. They discuss documenting the work site before you start working, walking customers around the finished job and what kind of guarantees you offer for the finish. Neil Ogilvie, the CEO of the PDA returns to give some advice and explain how the PDA can support their members with these issues

Jan 10, 2023

Joel and Todd discuss good business practices to get into for the coming year. Neil Ogilvie, the CEO of the Painting & Decorating Association joins the boys to give some advice and a few predictions on what will be popular for clients and how the surrounding world could affect the trade

Dec 6, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined once more by Jennifer Gardner, a decorator from North Herts to take a look back at what 2022 has been like for Decorators across the UK. They discuss favourite paints, tools and products, highlights of the year and much more

Nov 29, 2022

Jennifer Gardner, a decorator from North Herts, known as Jen The Decorator joins Joel and Todd in-studio to discuss her experience over the almost ten years she's been in the trade. Jen talks about embracing spraying, prep work, setting herself apart from the competition and some funny and not so funny customer interactions

Nov 22, 2022

These are for anyone at college, in an apprenticeship, re-training or thinking about joining the trade. For those of you already on the brushes there are some anecdotes and tips for you as well

Nov 15, 2022

Joel and Todd say everything they've wanted to say to tradespeople on-site over the years. They talk about ways you can work around other trades and best ways to communicate with them as well

Nov 8, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about the impact the trade has on the environment. The boys look at what the industry has committed to do to reach the 2050 net zero target, What incentives could work to make decorators more eco-friendly and they talk through some of the options already on the market

Nov 1, 2022

Halloween 2022 has come and gone so the boys talk about some horrifying on-site accidents, ghoulish customers and frightening paints and products

Oct 25, 2022

Joel and Todd join the rest of Fix Radio as we highlight tool theft and discuss what is a huge issue for the construction industry. Benjamin Ruffett, a decorator that joined the trade to avoid van break-ins (as a mechanic) discusses the impact two van break-ins in the last year have had on his mental health and business

Oct 18, 2022

Joel Bardall thinks he has some solid examples to why domestic decorating is more than just a luxury and how properly explaining the benefits and money saving qualities of certain products can keep you in demand

Oct 11, 2022

Joel and Todd talk about the biggest challenges they face as sole traders and tips they've picked up along the way. This is everything from dealing with tax and finances to competing with limited companies and handling payments from customers

Oct 4, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about paints and finishes they use. Some of the products they use for prep work and brushes and rollers

Sep 27, 2022

Peter Clark, a decorator with more than 40 years experience, who has also taught the trade talks about his work in the commercial market. Peter talks through the type of jobs he takes on, how he tenders for these jobs, what paperwork you'll be expected to provide, the upside of commercial work and the challenges

Sep 20, 2022

Joel and Todd look at an article that features 'ten signs you're overworked' and apply them to their circumstances as sole traders in decorating

Sep 6, 2022

Joel and Todd check in with decorators from across the UK to find out how they've been affected by inflation, the cost of living crisis, whether they're worried about a recession and what they'll do with their prices as a result

Aug 31, 2022

Joel and Todd talk about all the ways you can stand out in the trade. From doing things a little differently on social media to aspirational products and marketing

Aug 23, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about the perfect job and does it need to be exactly that - perfect. Can you meet a clients expectations by cutting some corners with their blessing. If you do what could be some unforeseen consequences, some of the benefits and how should you handle clients that are adamant that you should cut some corners and costs

Aug 16, 2022

Joel and Todd talk about nightmare moments that have happened over the year while working. From the rookie mistakes in the early days to unlucky moments that spring up throughout a long career in the trade

Aug 9, 2022

Joel and Todd are joined by Lee from Honeys Scaffolding to discuss the problems both trades can sometimes face when working together on-site

Aug 2, 2022

Jon Mears returns to discuss branding, positioning yourself as a professional in your area, winning good paying high quality work and the latest news from the paint industry

Jul 26, 2022

Jon Mears, sales and marketing expert for decorators joins Joel and Todd to talk about how to effectively and affordably advertise your business online, how to win work from social media and use social media platforms to attract a certain clientele

Jul 19, 2022

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel discuss the logistics of planning and executing exterior and interior work. What are some basic ground rules and essential elements of planning exterior jobs. What should you do if a customer changes their mind on a colour or haven't properly cleared or cleaned an area on interior work

Jul 12, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about the benefits and challenges of decorating with friends and family. Sean Kelly, a Dulux Select Decorator from Watford talks about his experiences working with his twin brother over the past thirty years and the boys talk about sharing work out amongst fellow decorators in your area

Jul 5, 2022

Joel and Todd talk about whether the general public and average client understands the skill and prep work that goes into the work of a professional decorator. They talk about some common misconceptions about decorators in construction and also blokey stereotypes of tradespeople

Jun 28, 2022

Joel and Todd talk about some of their favourite tools old and new. Joel also brings in his own invention that's revolutionised the way he works in domestic settings

Jun 21, 2022

Joel & Todd talk about continued training in the trade as a decorator. How important or is it important to stay on top of your game & learn new skills? What training is available? If you’re bored in your career as a painter or want to offer alternative services- are there other avenues you can take through training?

Jun 14, 2022

Joel & Todd talk about health and safety. The rules for working around customers in domestic settings, working from a height and preventing eye and skin injuries

Jun 7, 2022

Joel & Todd flip everything on its head and focus on the positive experiences, jobs and aspects of being a decorator

May 31, 2022

As we head into June and the summer of 2022 Joel & Todd talk about exteriors and all of the positives and negatives that come with working outside as a decorator in the UK. Joel & Todd take a look at some of the reaction from decorators online when it comes to working on exteriors and share some memorable moments from working outside over the years

May 24, 2022

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel have an honest chat about mental health. Todd talks at length about his own experiences with mental health, how it affected his personal life and the changes he's made to improve his clinical depression. Joel & Todd also look at some of the main reasons given for why tradespeople suffer from mental health issues and anxiety

May 17, 2022

Joel & Todd talk to the man recently crowned Painter & Decorator of the Year at UK Construction Week - Liam Gent. Liam talks about some notable jobs he's completed since he was last on the show, paints & products as well as the journey to winning the award

May 10, 2022

Joel & Todd talk about their early experiences in the trade. Some early mistakes and gaffes, eccentric customers and co-workers, work outside of decorating and aspects of the trade they choose to avoid

May 3, 2022

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel talk about their experiences setting up their decorating business. Craig Wilkinson, a trades business coach joins Joel & Todd to give some tips & advice to new/existing trade based business owners

Apr 26, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about image and presentation. From the moment you arrive to quote, to involvement in selecting products and finishes and the final presentation of completed work

Apr 19, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel are joined by friend of the show, John Kerry to talk about his recent tool theft incident. Joel and Todd talk about what needs to be done to stop tool theft and how you can protect yourselves as best you can from thieves

Apr 12, 2022

Joel Bardall and Todd Von Joel talk about modern vs. traditional techniques in decorating. They talk about the pros and cons of solvent based vs. water based paints. Brush and roller vs. spraying and combining traditional and modern marketing methods

Apr 5, 2022

Joel Bardall & Todd Von Joel talk about managing physical injuries and issues as a Decorator. Joel talks about his own experiences with knee issues and then later in the show the boys are joined by Wayne Lakin, a functional movement coach and former Commonwealth Judo Champion to get some advice on what Decorators can do to prevent and manage injuries

Mar 29, 2022

Joel Bardall talks quotes with Todd Von Joel and why it's his least favourite aspect of running a decorating business. Joel & Todd talk through some ways to streamline and minimise the loss of time spent quoting

Mar 22, 2022

Joel Bardall is joined in studio by Todd Von Joel on the second anniversary of the first lockdown to take a look at their journey through the pandemic as decorators

Mar 15, 2022

Joel Bardall is joined by Kris Jamroz to talk about Brush Strokes Decorating. Kris has nine other decorators working within the business, offering both domestic and commercial. Kris talks through the challenges of hiring good decorators as well as the learning curve that comes with running such a large business

Mar 8, 2022

Jon Mears joins Joel Bardall to discuss a recent blog he wrote where he applied Porter's 5 forces to the decorating industry to judge whether or not it's doomed and what how attractive decorating is as a career path

Mar 1, 2022

Paul Donnelly joins Joel to discuss his experiences offering training to fellow decorators in spraying. Paul talks about whether he would consider coming off the tools to train full time, working on exteriors and his favourite set ups and paints

Feb 15, 2022

Joel Bardall talks about tools, storage solutions & transport solutions, Dustless sanding set ups, Should you lower standards of workmanship to meet a clients budget?

Feb 8, 2022

Peter Clark and his two current apprentices Philana & Lily join Joel for a chat. Peter talks about the benefits of taking on apprentices, what you can set apprentices on-site, how you can properly communicate with them and why you should consider it. Philana & Lily talk about their experiences on-site so far and how it's helped further inspire them to continue with their education

Feb 1, 2022

Nick Sammut returns to the show to discuss his new spray set up, a recent repair care course he attended. He also discusses his experience winning Fix Radio Decorator of the Year, non paying/delayed paying clients and a promo code from Nick worth checking out

Jan 25, 2022

Liam Cleary joins Joel Bardall to talk about his experiences with clients that have disputed invoices or tried to short him on pay for a completed job. Liam talks about the some of the things he does to protect himself against any issues in the future with clients and how he can spot a tricky client from the outset

Jan 18, 2022

Jef Newsam, who is well known on Decorator's Forum for helping decorators with non paying clients joins Joel to discuss his experiences and give some advice.

Jan 11, 2022

Joel Bardall returns for his first show of 2022. Joel is joined by Peter Whiter (Whiter Interiors) who is a decorator and plasterer. Peter talks about the benefits of offering both trades, his favourite paints, tools from plastering that decorators should consider adding to their arsenal and which trade he prefers

Dec 8, 2021

Joel talks through the year in trade from his experiences, paints, tools and lessons learnt from 2021. Also paints and finishes to try when combating damp and mould through the winter months and a look ahead to 2022

Nov 30, 2021

Joel is joined by Michael Stojsavljević to discuss his experiences working in a crowded market full of other top decorators. How he stands out from the crowd, His experiences at the National Painting & Decorating Show. Also, favourite paints, tools, work he's proud of and how to deal with customers that want to pay by cheque

Nov 23, 2021

John Kerry, Painter & Decorator returns to the show to talk about his recent health scare and how it's transformed the way he approaches every aspect of the trade. John & Joel talk about why decorators are overworked and the traps you can fall into when taking on too much work

Nov 16, 2021

Joel Bardall is joined by Callum Bonner, who won an award at the 2019 World Skills event in Kazan. Callum talks about his experiences setting up his business Pristine Decor at the age of 23, What it was like setting up a business during the pandemic, his experiences as an apprentice and studying the trade at college

Nov 9, 2021

Dan Rolfe talks about how the boom in business throughout 2021 has left him exhausted and frustrated with the day to day of being a decorator. Dan talks about plans he has to remedy this and then later Joel & Dan talk through previous jobs, tools and paints

Nov 2, 2021

Adrian joins Joel to talk about his experiences working on heritage projects, Whether he prefers heritage vs. domestic and commercial and the differences with each of them. Also favourite paint systems, tools and more

Oct 26, 2021

Jonathan Graham returns to discuss VOCs in paint, teaching the trade and working on exteriors

Oct 19, 2021

JG Decorator joins Joel Bardall to discuss his stance on the masking tape debate as well as the responsibility decorators have to environmentally conscious

Oct 12, 2021

Joel talks through the positives and negatives of ceiling paints currently on the market, The time his work van licence plate was cloned, Pressures of social media as a decorator and an embarrassing moment with a client

Oct 6, 2021

Joel Bardall rounds off his discussion with Joanna from Decor By Jo. Joel & Jo discuss tools, paints, funny stories & Joel has the results from a recent social media poll on exteriors

Sep 28, 2021

Joel Bardall is joined by Joanna from Decor By Jo. Jo discusses how she got into the trade, set up her own business, memorable jobs and Joel on how to avoid burnout from work as a decorator

Sep 20, 2021

Ian Howie returns to round off his chat with Joel. Ian talks about how innovations in technology have helped him complete his work on heritage buildings and castles around Scotland & England, How the skills needed as a traditional decorator differs from domestic/commercial and more

Aug 31, 2021

Joel Bardall is joined by Ian Howie to discuss the restoration and traditional painting & decorating he carries out across Scotland. How he got into the family business, tools, paints and memorable jobs completed over the years

Aug 24, 2021

Liam Cleary returns to the show to discuss his experience using online directories, Domestic vs. commercial work, Why decorators don't like hanging wallpaper, Tools, Tricks of the trade and more

Aug 10, 2021

Joel is joined by Liam Cleary from Derby to discuss the covid construction boom and why he thinks good tradespeople will always be in demand, The projects he's most proud of completing throughout his career and some nightmare moments, Oil based vs. water based

Aug 3, 2021

Joel Bardall is joined by himself this week to talk self priming paints and whether they're all they are cracked up to be. Also how he's using YouTube to promote his business and improve traffic to his website. Joel also covers how he handled a callback to a job completed 15 months ago and remembers some funny on-site pranks from his earlier days in the trade

Jul 30, 2021

Nick returns to round off his chat with Joel and discusses social media, favourite paints, tools and also talks spraying and gives a good tip when using water based paints. Joel also talks about the recent weather and some of the skills he would look for in an apprentice

Jul 23, 2021

Joel is joined by Nick Sammut after their appearance together on the Festool live event in June. Nick talks about the difficulties he's had finding good apprentices, his experiences learning his trade and some of his favourite jobs and nightmare moments

Jul 16, 2021

Liam Gent returns to talk social media, working on exteriors, favourite paints, tools and some early advice he was given in his career that's stuck with him

Jul 9, 2021

Liam Gent joins Joel for the first of two chats on the show. Liam shares some hilarious stories of strange and challenging clients, his backstory of how he got into decorating and Joel reflects on joining Clive Holland as a guest on this show one year ago

Jul 2, 2021

Joel Bardall talks about the recent Festool live event, Titanium dioxide and using the natural world to create sustainable innovations in the paint industry

Jun 25, 2021

Kevin Tingley returns to the show to talk about memorable jobs, challenging jobs and some advice for decorators that might want to give TikTok a go

Jun 18, 2021

The Paint Warrior joins Joel Bardall to discuss his journey to half a million followers on TikTok, becoming the boss and his favourite tools, paints and more.

Jun 11, 2021

Joel Bardall talks through ways of promoting your business to potential clients that aren't looking online, Hilarious decorating mishaps on & off-site and there's news on an event with Festool and some tool talk in general.

Jun 4, 2021

Jon Mears returns to round off his conversation with Joel. They discuss using social media and video to help grow awareness of your business online, more about Jon’s books and podcast, a lowdown on industry related news like paint shortages and a bit about Jon’s plans ahead.

May 27, 2021

Jon Mears returns to the show to discuss his new book, new podcast and petition to tackle van tool theft.

May 21, 2021

Michael from iDecorate returns to discuss favourite tools, paints as well as advice on pricing, spraying and social media.

May 14, 2021

Joel Bardall is joined by Micheal from iDecorate for the first in a two part conversation on the show. In this episode, Micheal discusses is path to becoming a sole trader, aspects of decorating he specialises in and recent experience working on exteriors and filming some of his work.

May 7, 2021

Peter Mann returns for another chat with Joel Bardall to discuss, tools & paints, spraying, courses worth checking out on offer from CITB & Joel has the lowdown on Zinsser peel stop & Zinsser gardz

Apr 30, 2021

Joel Bardall covers working on exteriors, when to say no to work too far ahead, strange encounters with wildlife while working, protecting your hearing when using mechanical sanders & how long should quotes to clients be valid for.

Apr 23, 2021

Joel Bardall is joined by Peter Mann from Cardiff to discuss his career in decorating and more.

Apr 16, 2021

Steve & Andy return to the show to discuss the moment they knew spraying was the way forward for them, whether they'll ever get off the tools, some advice on maintaining and cleaning your set up and more.

Apr 11, 2021

Todd Von Joel returns to discuss his decorating in a little more detail. His favourite aspects of the job, some nightmare clients as well as a discussion around mental health and a mockumentary about decorators.

Apr 1, 2021

Joel is joined by Todd Von Joel to discuss his career in decorating as well as acting & voiceover work. They also discuss the effect of the pandemic on the arts industry, paints, tools & an update on Gary from Joel.

Mar 26, 2021

Steve & Andy from Clark Co Sprayers join Joel Bardall to discuss all things Spraying. Find out how their business came about, why they never looked back after picking up a spray gun, what to consider when buying a set up & more.

Mar 19, 2021

Chris Ordinaire returns to the show to discuss nightmare clients, favourite tools & paint systems and Joel helps out a listener that messaged into the show.

Mar 12, 2021

Chris Ordinaire, a decorator with more than 30 years experience, based in Hertfordshire joins Joel to voice his opinions on fellow decs using masking tape. He also discusses the challenges and positives of being the boss and much more.

Mar 5, 2021

Jen The Decorator returns to discuss favourite aspects of decorating, nightmare clients, positives/negatives of social media and much more.

Feb 26, 2021

Seán Kelly returns to the show to discuss his recent van theft nightmare over Christmas. There's also an update on the situation and what Seán has planned for 2021.

Feb 19, 2021

Joel Bardall discusses some of his strange experiences and memorable moments over the years as a decorator. There's also some handy advice and information on an upcoming live event you won't want to miss!

Feb 12, 2021

Joel is joined by Jen The Decorator from Stevenage in Hertfordshire to discuss the positives of being a decorator, favourite tools, paints and more.

Feb 5, 2021

Mike Morley is back to talk tools, paints, a difficult job recently completed and more.

Jan 29, 2021

Joel is joined by Mike Morley a professional Golf Caddy, Podcaster and Decorator for a fascinating chat. Joel also reads through a story about an x-rated decorating mishap on TikTok.

Jan 22, 2021

Jason returns to talk tools, paints, finishes, van break ins and much more with Joel Bardall.

Jan 15, 2021

Jason Savage joins Joel to discuss returning to decorating after working in IT and starting up Novitas Decorators. Joel and Jason run through the pros and cons of taking on other decorators and Jason talks through some of his finest and most challenging jobs.

Jan 8, 2021

A look ahead to 2021 from Joel's perspective as a decorator. How to tackle the challenges with school closures causing domestic work cancellation and potential domestic work postponement due to new tier restrictions, discussing preventing tool/product/van theft. How to work safely with clients in the domestic environment. Also, some paints that should be on your 2021 wish list, goals for Joel as a decorator in the new year and some karaoke!

Dec 11, 2020

Sean Kelly returns to discuss working with his identical twin, gives us a mad story about a nightmare client, talks tools, being a Dulux Select Decorator and more.

Dec 4, 2020

Sean Kelly joins Joel to discuss his Hi Vis Hero award he received from 'On The Tools' and discusses his start in decorating, favourite paints and challenging jobs completed during lockdown.

Nov 27, 2020

John Kerry returns and discusses paints in detail with Joel as well as his proudest jobs, some difficult ones, some of the challenges of running your own decorating business during a pandemic & his time spent as a hockey referee

Nov 20, 2020

John Kerry joins Joel to discuss appearing on Russian TV, how he started in decorating, running his business, favourite products, tools and more.

Nov 13, 2020

Join was joined by Nick the Decorator from NTH Decorating, Simon the Painter from Property Ready and Jon Mears from Andura Coatings to close the Trade Decorator Festival 2020. These are the best bits of the hour long event that was a laugh and really interesting too.

Nov 6, 2020

Joel has everything you need to know as a decorator as we move into a second lockdown in England. Joel discusses the rules for working in a customer's home - gives you updates he's received from merchants and some tips on what you can do if you find your work slowing down.

Oct 29, 2020

Bryan Dennett returns to talk in great depth about paints, finishes, tools and products he and Joel both think are worth trying out.

Oct 23, 2020

Mark Smith from Leek, Staffordshire joins us to discuss his career in decorating, how lockdown has affected his work, favourite products, challenging jobs and more.

Oct 16, 2020

Bryan Dennett a third generation decorator joins Joel for a chat about his experiences in the trade, his favourite aspects of decorating and paints and products.

Oct 12, 2020

Joel answers some quickfire Q&A and shares some of his best stories and experiences from his career as a decorator so far.

Oct 2, 2020

The man from Andura returns to give us a bit of an exclusive, chats emerging trends in the world of P&D and we find out whether Jon Mears dares to do his own decorating.

Sep 24, 2020

Nick Torrano Harling returns for another chat with Joel - discussing some of his favourite products in more detail, some decorating nightmares, the difficult client sixth sense you get sometimes & more

Sep 18, 2020

Dan Ralph discusses his return to decorating, Joel & Dan reminisce about working together and share some horror stories with difficult clients, Discuss spraying and more

Sep 11, 2020

Jon Mears from Andura Coatings joins Joel for a fascinating look behind the scenes at Andura Coatings. Jon gives insight into how Andura managed to soldier on through the issues created by the pandemic and come out of the other side, still able to offer the same top products as always.

Sep 4, 2020

Si from Property Ready joins Joel again to talk decorating trends, how to deal with mad colour matching from customers, toughest and most rewarding jobs and more!

Aug 28, 2020

Nick The Decorator joins Joel to discuss his career spanning 18 years and some of his preferred products and equipment - Nick will be back for another chat with Joel soon.

Aug 21, 2020

Joel Bardall is joined by his first guest, Simon The Painter. Simon is an experienced decorator, business owner, former triathlete and family man with more than 30 years experience in the trade. Simon discusses his professional and personal experiences in 2020, running Property Ready alongside his wife, tools, products and how a meeting at a trade show with Two Fussy Blokes inspired his T-Shirt idea that has helped bring Decorators together across the UK. Simon will return again soon - so watch this space!

Aug 13, 2020

On this episode we meet your new host of The Painting & Decorating Show - Joel Bardall. Joel will talk your through his career, how he started his own business and more!

Aug 7, 2020

Jordan - founder of The Mural Company returns to discuss some of the work he's completed for businesses, the challenges of working on the side of a building, completing murals across the country and more.

Jul 31, 2020

Jordan from The Mural Company joins Clive to discuss how he went from illegal graffiti artist to getting paid to spray the side of people's houses!

Jul 31, 2020

Mark Nash returns to discuss his hand painted shoes, the jobs he's worked on through lockdown, imparts some advice for people looking to swap career paths into decorating and answers some listener questions too.

Jul 17, 2020

Mark Nash, friend of the show, returns after 4 months. Mark discusses what he's been up to during lockdown, latest projects and products that he's found. Mark will also tell you the latest P&D trend he's picked up on and there's plenty more from Mark Nash coming up on the show very soon.

Jul 13, 2020

Joel is an interior/exterior decorator returns to the show to discuss his best/worst jobs of all time, give some advice to a listener wanting to become a full time decorator & discusses his favourite paints!

Jul 3, 2020

Clive is joined in this episode by Joel Bardall - Joel is an interior/exterior decorator and discussed his setting up his own business, favourite bits of kit and answered some listener questions.

Jul 3, 2020

The Geordie Painter returns to discuss the pros and cons of spraying, his best/worst jobs of all time, tooling and much more!

Jun 19, 2020

Jonathan Graham returns to discuss tools, best/worst projects and gives you some great advice on paint conditioners.

Jun 12, 2020

Clive is joined by The Geordie Painter - a spraying enthusiast with many years experience and plenty of personality. Part 2 of The Geordie Painter will follow in the coming weeks!

Jun 5, 2020

Jonathan Graham joins Clive on this episode to discussing getting back to work safely in a Client's home as lockdown is eased and the proper safety precautions to follow.

Jun 2, 2020

In this episode, Clive talks with Peter Clark again going through some of Peter's best jobs, his methods, tips and tricks that can lead you to becoming a top decorator.

May 21, 2020

Peter Clark from Port Erin, Isle of Man joins Clive to discuss getting back to work and his more than 30 years experience in Painting & Decorating