A Scrap Life

On this episode of The Trade - A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Chad to kick off January 2026 by analyzing the current state of the scrap metal industry and reflecting on the "muddle along" performance of 2025,. The duo discusses market trends for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, exploring how macro factors like AI, oil price volatility, and steel demand may shape what they hope will become the "year of the commodity". Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of The Trade - A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Mike Anderson, VP of Materials Trading at Schupan & Sons, to analyze the aluminum market. The episode covers how recent tariffs have dramatically increased the Midwest Premium, leading to historically wide scrap spreads and an influx of supply. They stress that sorting and quality are crucial for scrap traders to maximize value by providing material that can substitute for expensive prime aluminum. The conversation concludes by discussing market uncertainties and the impact of monitoring geopolitical risks. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of The Trade - A Scrap Life, the guys analyze why iron prices fluctuate, covering the current slow scrap flow and steel mill inventory tactics, while debating a bullish outlook for 2026 fueled by infrastructure projects and anticipated demand for ferrous and non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminum. They also discuss how winter weather slows scrap flow and why steel mills intentionally manage inventory to boost cash conversion, leading to discussions on capacity utilization and import trends. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Gaby Olson of Redwood Materials, focusing on the scrap metal industry. The conversation details Gabby's extensive career path, from her start in cosmetics and banking to her experiences buying and trading scrap, and eventually pivoting to the innovative field of EV and lithium-ion battery recycling. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Ian Laffey of Zato North America to discuss the strategic necessity of specialized equipment like dual shaft shredders for bridging processing gaps, navigating market volatility, and finding a profitable niche for growth. Produced by Recycled Media.

The fourth annual Scrap Expo in Louisville, KY concluded on September 17th, 2025. "Maximize Growth, Control Costs and Capitalize on Opportunities", was a session on September 17th that featured Brett Ekart, CEO of United Metals Recycling, as moderator, along with panelists Brian Ferguson, CFO of United Metals, Blake Dorsett, president of ShearWorx, and Aldo Jordan, president of The Metals Agency. They discussed strategies for maximizing growth and controlling costs in the metal recycling sector, emphasized the strategic use of third-party services for operational flexibility, specialized processing, and expanded market access. Key strategies also highlighted the importance of leveraging technology (like AI...

On this episode of The Trade - A Scrap Life, Brett and Chad analyze the "odd" and "sideways" ferrous scrap market in September, noting mill cancellation notices and fluctuating prices, while also discussing macroeconomic factors like interest rates. The guys offer strategic advice for small scrap yard owners, emphasizing strong cash flow management, timely investments, and pursuing growth opportunities during challenging markets. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Chris Dethmers and his son Austin from Louisburg Recycling. They discuss running their family-owned scrap metal business, highlighting the importance of customer service, effective cash flow management, and strategic growth within the industry, as well as the value of mentorship and a strong work ethic.

Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Jim Keefe from Recycling Today to discuss Scrap Expo 2025. This year marks the fourth annual Scrap Expo, which is scheduled for September 16 and 17 in Louisville, Kentucky. Produced by Recycled Media.

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.

On this episode of A Scrap Life - The Trade, Nick and Brett are joined by Aldo Jordan, who drove from California to discuss the recent volatility in the copper trade. They delve into the dynamics of copper prices, the impact of tariffs, and how small and medium-sized businesses can strategically navigate and grow within the challenging scrap metal industry.

Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Nick, Brett and Chad delve into the current state of the scrap metal industry, dissecting pressing issues. The discussion covers macroeconomic trends, including the impact of high interest rates on demand and the disconnect between a strong stock market fueled by AI expectations and a struggling industrial sector. It also explores the volatility of raw material markets, highlighting how tariffs and global economic conditions affect prices for steel, copper, and aluminum, alongside the outlook for steel and scrap sectors amidst these challenges. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Nick, Brett and Aldo discuss critical shifts happening in the copper market for scrap recyclers and dealers. The main focus is a significant transition: the industry is moving away from the traditional Comex pricing index to the London Metal Exchange (LME) for copper. This change is occurring because Comex increasingly does not reflect physical trading, with most of its contracts traded by financial institutions rather than physical traders. In contrast, the LME more accurately represents actual physical copper trade globally. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this post-July 4th episode of A Scrap Life, Nick, Brett and Chad analyze the market impact of the "Big Beautiful Bill" on business infrastructure, taxes, and the future of ferrous scrap. The guys discuss the relationship between interest rates and inflation, how tariffs affect domestic manufacturing, and the generally bullish outlook for steel and asset values. Discover insights into ferrous and non-ferrous market trends, including aluminum's recent price increase due to lack of supply and why investing now might be the smartest move.

Produced by Recycled Media.

In this episode of A Scrap Life: Q&A, Brett and Nick are recording for the first time in our brand new podcast studio. They talk about how they've been growing the business beyond just scrap, getting into things like pipe and storage facilities. The guys also share a story about a rim-to-rim hike through the Grand Canyon that seriously pushed their limits, and how doing hard things like that builds confidence for life and business. Tune in to hear how big goals happen one step at a time, and all the little efforts really do add up. Produced by...

On this episode of "The Trade," Brett and Chad discuss the current state of the scrap metal market. They dive into a fragmented and soft market influenced by broader economic factors and trade conditions. The conversation touches on conditions in the steel and copper markets, noting challenges and potential bright spots. They also explore the impact of tariffs and market uncertainty on the industry. Despite the difficulties, the hosts discuss strategies for navigating a down market and finding opportunities to improve efficiency and solve problems. Tune in to get insights into the May trade and whether the market might be...

Brett and Nick discuss building a business by solving big problems, sharing the story of their tire recycling venture. He also explores the challenges of growth and the critical need for finding and training the right people ("peanut butter") to support expansion. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of "The Trade," Brett and Chad discuss the current state of the scrap metal market. They dive into a fragmented and soft market influenced by broader economic factors and trade conditions. The conversation touches on conditions in the steel and copper markets, noting challenges and potential bright spots. They also explore the impact of tariffs and market uncertainty on the industry. Despite the difficulties, the hosts discuss strategies for navigating a down market and finding opportunities to improve efficiency and solve problems. Tune in to get insights into the May trade and whether the market might be...

On this week’s Monday Q&A, Nick and Brett discuss different brands of equipment and which ones to choose to be the most efficient. Produced by Recycled Media.

In this second episode of "The Trade," Brett dives deep into the copper market with special guest Aldo Jordan. They break down the current wild volatility and record-high copper spreads. Aldo explains how the COMEX index is increasingly influenced by financial markets rather than just supply and demand from consumers. They discuss the importance of liquidity, quality, and relationships for small to medium-sized scrap businesses navigating this challenging market. Aldo also shares advice on how to approach buying and selling in the current climate and touches on China's changing role in copper consumption.

For help and more insights...

On this week’s Monday Q&A, we’re diving into the topic of employees. We discuss hiring the right employees, highlighting key ones and the appropriate time to do it, and how to work with ones within the family. Produced by Recycled Media.

In this special episode of the Scrap Life Podcast, Chad Ellerbrook sits down with Brett Ekart and Nick Snyder to dive into their early days in the scrap industry. From funny moments to tough lessons, they share the stories that shaped their journey and built the foundation for their success. Tune in for an honest, entertaining look at what it takes to grow in the world of scrap. Produced by Recycled Media.

It's Monday and Nick and Brett are back with a new segment: Monday Q&A! On this episode the guys answer questions about navigating challenges in times of growth, achieving your goals, and the power of movement. If you have any questions you'd like the guys to answer, send them in to us or just leave them in the comments wherever you see this. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this inaugural episode of "The Trade," a commodities round up focused podcast, the guys discuss the tariffs announced today, the power of persevering through difficult and unprecedented times, and why communication is key. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to talk about how to navigate market downtrends, understanding the new tariffs, and what the future looks like. Produced by Recycled Media.

In this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett sits down with Cole Berube and Coleman Neill from United Catalyst Corporation (UCC) to talk about the power of family as a support system, why educating and maintaining a strong brand standard matters, and how taking care of employees creates a deeper sense of commitment to the company. It’s all about leadership, culture, and building something that lasts. Don’t miss it! 🎙️♻️ Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss the country's reactions to the new tariffs, copper prices and preparing for some down markets. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss the metals markets in the new year as well as the changing political environment. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss the metals markets, the optimism seen domestically and the truth about New Year's resolutions. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Colin Douthit of Premier Scrap Services to talk efficiency in business, outsourcing to increase productivity, and the struggles faced with growth. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to give insights into what to expect with either a Trump or Harris presidency, how domestic mills are doing, and what demand is looking like. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to give insights into the ever changing metals markets and discuss the upcoming election. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to give insights into the ever changing metals markets. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Phil Matteson who shares his journey and career in the metals industry. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss how the markets are looking for the rest of the season while everything seems to be slowing down and what to expect in an election year. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Brandi Harleaux, who has been in the metals industry her entire life. They discuss entrepreneurship, the importance of quality customer service and building a lasting legacy. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss how the markets are looking for the rest of the season, demand is soft. Tune in to see where the numbers lie. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Aldo Jordan, longtime friend and former business partner, they discussed the importance of believing in yourself as an entrepreneur, the benefit of giving everyone an equal platform to share their success and how his business servicing end consumers helps small to mid sized yards. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Bruce Bacon and Salvatore Lacorte of SAS Forks to discuss what it's like to walk into a business and try to sell a product, how important the relationship building aspect of the metals industry is, and how word of mouth and networking can make or break your business. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss how the markets are looking going into summer. Produced by Recycled Media.

01:46 Dow Jones Industrial Average
08:50 Consumer Confidence
11:15 Dry Powder
13:50 Crude Oil WTI Futures
16:08 Steel Lead Times
21:04 Inflation Data
23:40 US Midwest Domestic HRC
24:30 US Steel Imports
26:30 Copper
29:30 HMS 1&2 (80:20) US - origin CFR Turkey Consumer
32:30 Crude Steel Production

On this special episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Nick to discuss and reflect on the things he's learned from hosting A Scrap Life. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by a family of scrappers, John, Matt and Michael Rongey of Louisiana Scrap Metal to discuss equipment, workflow and growth. They also discuss how to find and keep good employees, and the trials and tribulations of growing a family owned business. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Don Sackett of SciAps to discuss the importance of scaling customer service as your business grows, innovative measurement techniques, and the push for emerging global markets in the industry. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss how the markets are looking in May. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined once again by Alex and Todd from Sahd Metal Recycling, or as they're more widely known, the hosts of Dumpster Talk. The guys talk about how their own podcast has significantly increased their exposure in the industry, and about how important it is to show people outside of the metals industry how much positive change is taking place on a daily basis. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Seth Alter and Adam Rubin from Tungco's sister company, 74 Alloys, to discuss how 74 Alloys was started and why, their own starts in the industry, and the importance of doing whatever it takes to stay ahead of the competition. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this special live edition of A Scrap Life: Generational Courage, Brett is joined on the ISRI 2024 main stage by his dad Rod Ekart and longtime business partner/friend Jay Robinovitz to have an in depth conversation about family businesses. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett sits down with guest host Jennifer Betts and founder of Greenway Steel Randy Charles to dive deep into the topic of sustainability. They go over the different benefits of sustainability including business efficiency, marketability, and doing the right thing. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Jennifer Betts, CEO of Recycled Media, to promote ISRI, which takes place April 15th - 18h in Las Vegas. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss how the markets are looking in April. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett sits down with Any and Mark of K&L to discuss their business. They talk about the company’s origins, the different approaches to running a private vs publicly owned business, and their motivation to keep growing. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls vs Bears to discuss how the markets are looking in March. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Blake Dorsett and John Wright of ShearWorx. They go into detail on how they were introduced to the scrap industry, what sets them apart from potential competition, and why preparation is essential in making their business model work. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Nick Macan of Algoma Steel. Nick tells his story of how he got into the metals industry, the difference between EAFs and BOFs and the history behind Algoma. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life: Generational Courage, Brett is joined by Nidhi Turakhia of Allied Alloys. Nidhi tells the story of how her family got into the recycling business, discusses the movement of bringing attention to it, and explains why the people in the industry are its biggest draw. Produced by Recycled Media.

Brett and Chad are back for another Bulls VS Bears, tune in to see how the markets are doing! Produced by Recycled Media.

Sydney and Kip speak on their nearly 3 decade career in the tire recycling industry. They get into their story, why politics are so important to tire recycling, and discuss the importance of being stubborn to survive as a tire recycler. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life: Generational Courage, Brett is joined by John Sacco to discuss his upbringing in the industry, his family and what drives him to succeed, and the work he's put into Repurposed: season one, and the exciting things coming with season two. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Jason Glei, vice president of marketing for ISRI to discuss marketing and the metals industry. Produced by Recycled Media.

It's the first Bulls vs Bears of 2024 and Chad is back with the latest news regarding metals markets and to share some insights for the coming year. Produced by Recycled Media.

On the first episode of A Scrap Life Presents: Generational Courage, a new series focusing on the grit and determination needed to persevere in a family business, Brett is joined by Cliff Nance of Tungco, Inc. to talk about staying humble, his drive to succeed, and how to get along with others. Produced by Recycled Media.

It's the last Bulls vs Bears for 2023 and Chad is back with the latest news regarding metals markets. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by cousins Jay and Jeff from Ruby Recycling to discuss their journey into the industry, the origins of their name, and the drive for success needed to compete in a large market like Detroit. Produced by Recycled Media.

It's another month and Brett is back with the bear himself, Chad Ellerbrock, to share some statistics and insights on what the market is doing and why it is. Tune in to find out how geopolitical events, the UAW strike and the strength of the dollar are affecting pricing. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Matt Fries of Millbridge Metals to talk about his story coming up in the metals recycling industry. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this special episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Stephen and Todd from DLA Disposition Services to discuss what they actually do and the interesting world of military scrap. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is a guest on the "Born Scrappy" podcast hosted by Stuart Kagen, to discuss the importance of marketing, having a good team dynamic and the entrepreneurial spirit. Produced by Recycled Media.

It's another Bulls vs Bears and Brett and Chad are back to discuss the markets. Tune in to find out how geopolitical events, the UAW strike and the strength of the dollar are affecting pricing. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this special episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Stephen and Todd from DLA Disposition Services to discuss what they actually do and the interesting world of military scrap. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this special episode of A Scrap Life, Brett gives a speech at Scrap Expo on growing your business and the value of good people, time and consistency. Brett is joined by Jake Bronstein who shares his journey as well. Tune in to catch this inspirational speech. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life Brett is joined by Mario Jurcic from Secure Recycling and they talk more than just scrap. Tune in to hear about Mario's start and experiences in the industry. Produced by Recycled Media.

It's that time of the month again and Brett and Chad are here to discuss what September could bring, including tons of outages and how the UAW strike is affecting the markets. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett sits down with Chad Ellerbrock and Jennifer Betts to discuss the latest in steel mill consolidation. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Chad is back with a market recap and to share some charts and statistics and the guys make predictions for scrap markets in August. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett has Jim Keefe, publisher of Recycling Today, on the show to discuss the upcoming Scrap Expo 2023, how they plan to build off last year's show and the value it provides for small to medium yards. Scrap Expo will take place in Louisville, Kentucky, September 12th-13th. For more information visit Recyling Today's dedicated page: https://www.scrapexpo.net

Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Chad is back with a market recap and to share some charts and statistics and the guys make predictions for scrap markets in July. Tune in to hear why China's steel mills are running at such high capacity, why nickel is getting crushed, and more. Produced by Recycled Media.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Matt Venuto of CRC Scrap Metal Recycling to talk about the terminology of scrap vs recycling, the value of customer service and networking in the industry.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Chad is back with a market recap and to share some charts and statistics and the guys make predictions for scrap markets in June.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett's a special guest on the podcast Dirty Scrap, hosted by Julio Quintero.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett's down in Nashville for ISRI's spring meeting. In this podcast he sits down with David Palvere to discuss his start in the industry and the evolution of Genesis Attachments.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Chad is back with a market recap and to share some charts and statistics and the guys make predictions for scrap in May.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett's down in Nashville for ISRI's spring meeting. In this podcast he sits down with Mikey Foon of Admiral Metals to talk about his experience working in a family business, his passion for getting the younger generations involved in the industry and what it's like to operate in a market such as Detroit.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett's down in Nashville for ISRI's spring meeting. In this podcast he sits down with Matan Rosenberg of Northern Ohio Scrap Service to discuss his upbringing in the industry, working with family and alternative paths to success that don't necessarily include college.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett chats with Bob Emery of Metals Recycling Magazine about his start in the industry and how Metals Recycling Magazine came to be in the first place.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett sits down with Keny Daniele of Prestige Scrap & Metal to discuss his start in the industry and what sets him apart from competitors.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Chad is back to share some charts and statistics and the guys make predictions for scrap in April.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Chad is back to share some charts and statistics and the guys make predictions for the coming month.

When you find smart people, you keep asking them to come back and spread their knowledge. Matt Watson is one of those guys and he drops in again to discuss current PGM markets along with green movement and what it really is going to take to get everything to electrified.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Dennis Laviage of C&D Metals to talk about the industry, how his company came to be, and influencer marketing.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Nick and Brett answer a few of the questions sent in by viewers. If you have a question you want the guys to answer send it to (208) 487-4311

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett and Chad share their predictions for February scrap metal pricing.

It's week 3 of the playoffs and Nick and Brett are back for Football Friday, tune into see their picks for this round! Use our pick sheet to follow along: https://umrecycling.com/instagram-landing/ Also in this episode, the guys answer some questions sent in by viewers. If you have any industry related questions send them to (208) 487-4311

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett and Chad share their predictions for 2023 and even some for 2024 regarding the markets and factors that impact them.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Tom Parker of All American Tire Recyclers to discuss tire recycling and how his business was born.

On the last episode of Bulls vs. Bears for 2022, Brett and Chad discuss what's driving pricing globally and domestically as well as what to expect in 2023.

On the November edition of Bulls vs Bears, Brett and Chad sit down to discuss what's driving pricing nationally and globally, what current events could contribute to it and what to expect in November.

On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett sits down to talk with John Gross from The Copper Journal about historical copper pricing and the different bull and bear market cycles.

On the October edition of Bulls vs Bears, Brett and Chad sit down to discuss what's driving pricing globally.

Brett is at Scrap Expo in Louisville, KY doing live podcasts from the booth with people working in the industry every single day. On this episode he sits down with Isaiah Budesheim, Alex Vazquez and Todd Kauffman of Sahd Metals Recycling to talk about the younger generation of recyclers and what they look forward to as the industry advances.

Brett is at Scrap Expo in Louisville, KY doing live podcasts from the booth with people working in the industry every single day. On this episode he sits down with Sean Davidson from Davis Index to talk about innovation in the industry and what he and Davidson are both looking forward to in their respective ventures.