In Episode 648 of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into the evolving landscape of education and its impact on entrepreneurship and the workforce. Shannon shares a conversation with a colleague who helps businesses start trade schools—not just for profit, but to solve hiring challenges. These businesses leverage trade schools to train workers in-house, tap into government retraining grants, and recruit top-performing students directly into their companies. It’s a strategic move that creates a powerful competitive advantage and highlights how alternative education models are disrupting the traditional four-year college path.
The hosts discuss the diminishing ROI of expensive college degrees and spotlight faster, more affordable ways to gain credentials, like six-month accredited programs targeted at working adults, veterans, and healthcare professionals. Dave shares personal stories, including how his son bypassed degree barriers by proving himself through an internship, and how he himself built businesses without finishing college. They agree the system is undergoing a fundamental shift, driven not by institutions but by market needs and entrepreneurial innovation.
They close by critiquing the entrenched education establishment, especially in states like California, where union influence and bloated administration hinder meaningful reform. Despite institutional resistance, Dave and Shannon remain optimistic about the role of trade schools, micro-schools, and AI-powered learning in reshaping the future of education—and opening doors for entrepreneurs to lead the way.

00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #648 for Wednesday, May 14th, 2025

May 14th: Root Canal Appreciation Day


00:02:24 Trade School as a recruiting tool.
00:07:37 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
00:09:14 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
00:10:45 Backdooring College Degree Requirements

Excelsior College (online)
High School Juniors working in the trades


00:21:35 Business Brain 648 Outtro

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