# Welcome to Scrap Life Podcast
## Introduction
Welcome to Scrap Life, a podcast solely focused on the hustlers, grinders, operators, and business owners who live and breathe the scrap metal industry every day. Here is your host, Brett Ehart.
## Chad Eller’s Introduction
Hey everybody, this is a special episode of the Scrap Life podcast. I’m Chad Eller. I’ve traded scrap throughout the country over the last couple of years, and I’ve got a good chance to understand more about Nick Snyder, the pro, the man, the myth, the legend, and Brett, the CEO and one of the founders of several different businesses off United Metals. Today, I want to take some time to share the story of their journey.
## Beginning the Journey
Every time I talk to these guys, I hear another funny story. Their journey, especially at the beginning, is too epic not to hear. We have funny stories, some that would make anyone in the scrap industry cry, and maybe even some horror stories. Hopefully, we can get into more of those as some of these episodes go on. I always say, don’t think you’re going to get off easy, Chad. You’re going to get hit with questions too.
## Brett’s Early Days
So, Brett, tell me about those days when you got out of college and entered the yard where your parents were running the business. Your mom’s in the office, and your dad’s kind of an operational sales guru. What did the first year look like for you at United Metals?
### Brett’s Entry into the Business World
The biggest thing for me was realizing the need to earn respect. I didn’t have a set of keys that first day but was there waiting for someone to show up with the keys to open the gates. My dad stressed the importance of being the one that pops the gates in the morning, meaning beating everyone else to work.
## Early Days at United Metals
Day one of my introduction was amidst a demo bid to start demolishing a Simplot Plant in Hermiston, Oregon. At that point, we were a 20-person company, a far cry from a huge outfit. Learning how a demo job worked from start to finish, how to run operations, hire people, and process materials, all while being hands-on, was trial by fire but invaluable.
## Family Business and Growth
At the beginning, my dad and I had some differences about how to grow the business. But we both wanted the growth, albeit with different ideas on achieving it. It’s been a journey of figuring out each aspect of the company, from buying scrap with Greg Brown to diving into different roles. The aim was always the same: expansion and improvement.
## Nick’s Journey to United Metals
Nick discusses his path, from working at Radio Shack slinging cell phones to getting laid off from a stable job, leading him to the world of scrap with United Metals. He emphasizes the importance of asking questions, learning from mentors, and the arduous yet rewarding climb within the company.
## The Grind and Core Competencies
The conversation shifts to embracing the grind, the significance of hustle, and continuing to push even when outcomes are uncertain. An intriguing dialogue around risk-taking and the backbone it provides to long-term successes ensues, highlighting Brett’s entrepreneurial ventures despite the financial hurdles his family faced.
## Advice for the Younger Selves
Reflection on past decisions, learning from mentors, and the value of taking risks foster a deep discussion. There’s immense benefit in surrounding oneself with individuals who inspire growth and provide valuable perspectives on navigating the scrap industry.
## Closing Thoughts
As we close, the emphasis on connectivity, building a network, and investing in oneself through continuous learning and relationships forms the crux of developing a successful career in scrap—proving once again the integral role of experience, grit, and perseverance.
### Conclusion
For more insights and updates, visit [boardroom.scraplife.com](http://boardroom.scraplife.com) to check out our newsletter and keep abreast of the latest market information and industry-related content. Thanks for tuning in! Stay well, and let’s embrace the excitement of this journey.