A Scrap Life: Episode 124 | Levi Morss | Upcycle

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Levi Morse, a professional with a strong background in the scrap metal industry, including the unique experience of shredding a Lamborghini for @MrBeast. They discuss his journey in a family scrap business, its sale, and his current deliberate approach to building his own scrapyard, highlighting lessons learned about work-life balance and family dynamics in the industry. Produced by Recycled Media.

Transcription

**Welcome to “A Scrap Life Podcast”**

**Host:** Brett Eart
**Guest:** Levi Morse

**Introduction:**
Welcome to “A Scrap Life Podcast,” a show solely focused on the hustlers, grinders, operators, and business owners who live and breathe the scrap metal industry every day. Another Scrap Life podcast, number 475. I am excited today because we have a guest all the way from Kansas. Welcome, Levi Morse! Levi, have you figured out a name for the yard you’re building yet?

**Levi Morse:**
Oh yes, my repair company is called Uptime. So, I decided to go with Upcycle for my scrapyard.

**Brett Eart:**
Upcycle, that’s a nice choice! For those who don’t know, I met Levi in Vegas while we were attending a breakfast event. Levi has this incredible story about a Lamborghini that he briefly mentioned when we first met. Care to share the full story, Levi?

**Levi Morse:**
Certainly. This is actually quite a crazy tale. So, I was looking for work after leaving the family business. Out of the blue, I get a call from a guy named Colin who heard from Zato that I could build stuff. They wanted to shred a Lamborghini. I thought it was a prank at first, but after several calls and flight delays due to bad weather, they finally arrived. We discussed different ideas and after some convincing, they sent me the money to get started.

**Brett Eart:**
What happened next?

**Levi Morse:**
Well, it took months of work. But close to the deadline, one of the components didn’t fit, creating a time crunch. We brought in extra help and worked super hard to get everything ready. The project was huge, and it was shot in one day. The actual video of it was about 20 minutes long, but the experience was far from anything I had encountered in the scrap industry.

**Brett Eart:**
That’s a fascinating story! When you first told me about this, it totally blew my mind. So, how did you get into the scrap business originally?

**Levi Morse:**
Around 2010, my dad transitioned into the scrap industry to be closer to family. We started with custom cutting hay, interacting with farmers who had old scrap. Eventually, we moved on to buying a yard. My father expanded the business, buying several yards over the years. Though I was involved in building and maintenance, the family dynamic was crucial in growing the business to where it was.

**Brett Eart:**
It’s impressive how family businesses often have interesting dynamics. How did you decide on setting up your own yard now?

**Levi Morse:**
Post selling the family business, I wanted to venture into my own setup. Financing is one of the major challenges, but having saved and planned deliberately, we’re setting up step by step, slowly and strategically. The aim is to build a solid foundation rather than rushing into things.

**Brett Eart:**
You have a very well-thought-out approach, Levi. Given the cyclical nature of this business, it’s important to move methodically, ensuring balance between rapid growth and maintaining personal life.

**Levi Morse:**
Absolutely, Brett. My family’s experience taught me the importance of being cautious. I want to ensure my business grows while also cherishing time with my family. It’s about finding that balance.

**Brett Eart:**
If anyone wishes to connect or has questions, what’s the best way to reach you?

**Levi Morse:**
Social media is the best way. I’m available on Facebook as Levi Morse, posting regularly about the projects I’m working on.

**Brett Eart:**
Thanks for sharing your story and insights, Levi. It’s been a pleasure having you on!

(Outro music playing)