S17 E7: Smells Like Money Podcast: Plumbers Helping Plumbers

Key Discussion Points:

• The Evolution of a Plumber: Josh began his career under his father’s mentorship, learning the value of perfectionism and service before expanding into the trenchless technology sector.
• Plumbers Helping Plumbers: Inline Renewal Solutions was built to provide the “field-tested” support Josh lacked when he started, offering a “one-stop shop” for materials, repairs, and training.
• Beyond Technical Skills: Success in the industry requires more than just mechanical ability; Josh emphasizes the importance of business acumen, sales training, and effective communication.
• Infrastructure on “Borrowed Time”: With aging cast iron, clay, and Orangeburg pipes failing across the country, trenchless rehabilitation is a critical and growing demand.
• Community Over Competition: Josh views his peers not as rivals, but as part of a collective ecosystem where sharing resources and institutional knowledge keeps the industry strong.
• Safety Through Technology: Utilizing advanced equipment like communication headsets is highlighted as a vital safety measure on noisy high-pressure jetting jobs.

Services Offered by Inline Renewal Solutions

Josh has consolidated several critical needs under one roof to support local and national plumbing shops:

• Technical & Business Training: Classes covering everything from trenchless lining to project planning and sales.
• Equipment Support: Sales, rentals, and repairs for sewer cameras, robotic cutters, and prep tools.
• Material Distribution: Stocking materials locally to help nearby contractors avoid expensive shipping costs.
• Field Tech Support: On-site assistance to help crews navigate complex or high-stakes repairs.

Connect with Josh Shelton:

Owner, Shelton Plumbing and Inline Renewal Solutions

Email: josh@in-linerenewalsolutions.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-shelton-8599821b1/

Website: https://in-linetrenchlessshop.com/

Conclusion

The episode highlights the evolution of a traditional plumbing background into a comprehensive support system for the modern trenchless industry. By prioritizing service over competition, this “plumbers helping plumbers” model creates a collaborative environment where contractors can access specialized field training, equipment repairs, and technical support. This centralized resource hub helps smaller shops avoid costly mistakes, reduce shipping expenses, and navigate the complexities of rehabilitating aging underground infrastructure. Ultimately, shifting the industry mindset from rivalry to partnership ensures that experts can share institutional knowledge and keep the infrastructure sector strong and profitable.

Until next time—keep growing, and keep it flowing. 💧

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