Weekly Update #30: 2026 Is The Year of The Disruptor

On this Weekly Update of Trades Talk, Justin White kicks off 2026 with part one of a powerful new series: The Disruptor’s Advantage. After reflecting on the wild ride of 2025, Justin sets the tone for the year ahead by exploring what it truly means to be a disruptor in the trades. From AI to electrification to mindset, he lays out why this moment is built for bold thinkers ready to challenge the status quo.

He makes a strong case that trades are not just alive and well. they’re thriving. With tech leaders spotlighting skilled labor and facilities requiring landscape design by law, landscapers and builders are positioned to win. Justin draws from Harvard’s Innovator’s Dilemma and his own experience going all-electric to show how innovation, not price, is now the dealbreaker. The episode previews major 2026 bets from K&D and invites listeners to a year of transformation.

• The trades are positioned for massive growth in 2026 and beyond

• AI may threaten office jobs first, but hands-on trades remain essential

• Being different and innovative beats being just better or cheaper

• K&D’s move to all-electric maintenance is already paying off

• Disruptors make bold bets, measure, learn, and evolve

This is the first of a three-part series on the disruptor mindset, with live events and exclusive workshops already on the calendar. Get ready for a year of change and choose to lead it.