After a non-stop run since starting recording in November 2024, I’m taking a short pause to reset and make the podcast more sustainable long-term. 

This isn’t goodbye — just a step back to ensure the show can last long term. 

I’ll be back in May with more incredible women and powerful conversations. 

If you want to share your story on the show, get in touch with me via one of the below links and let have a chat! 

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast

Email: [email protected]

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

Emma shares how she went from leaving school to becoming a self-employed decorator, and what it really takes to build a career in the trades as a woman. 

We talk about the value of hands-on experience, learning through mistakes, and how social media marketing helps tradespeople win work and grow their business. Emma also opens up about the realities of self-employment, from managing time to staying motivated. 

If you're interested in women in trades, becoming a decorator, or starting a trade business, this episode is packed with practical insight and honest advice. 

Key Takeaways

• Emma’s journey from school to becoming a self-employed decorator
• Why hands-on learning and making mistakes are essential in the trades
• How social media marketing helps tradespeople win more work
• The realities and challenges of running a self-employed trade business
• Emma’s advice for women starting a career in the trades 

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 

Follow Guest:

Instagram: EmmasPainting1 

TikTok: Emmaspainting1

Chapters 

00:00 Emma's Journey into Trade 

05:37 Exploring the World of Decorating 

07:24 The Challenges of Self-Employment 

14:38 Van Troubles and Support Systems 

16:53 The Van Chronicles: Trials and Triumphs 

22:43 Navigating the Trade: Advertising Strategies 

23:36 Women in Trades: Overcoming Challenges 

27:52 Building a Customer Base: The Importance of Booking Ahead 

32:54 Finding Balance: The Need for Breaks 

37:24 Social Media: Building Community and Connections 

41:07 Embracing Vulnerability in Content Creation 

44:07 The Excitement of Transformation Projects 

45:39 Choosing the Right Jobs for Fulfillment 

48:27 The Importance of Preparation in Craftsmanship 

52:04 Navigating Customer Interactions and Responsibilities 

55:16 Quickfire Questions: Fun Insights and Preferences 

59:53 Thank you’s 

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

What does it take to reinvent your career and step into the trades later in life? 

Laura Bartlett shares how she transitioned from a long career in event management to building a successful business as a handywoman. In this episode, she talks about the realities of becoming self-employed in the skilled trades, the lessons she learned starting over, and how she uses social media marketing to grow her business and attract customers. 

Laura also discusses the importance of health and resilience when working in physically demanding trade roles, as well as the mindset required to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her story highlights the empowerment that comes with learning practical skills, taking control of your career, and proving that it’s never too late to change direction. 

This episode is packed with insights for women in trades, aspiring handywomen, and anyone considering self-employment. Laura also shares practical advice on building confidence, managing work-life balance, and the power of community support among tradespeople. 

Key Takeaways 

• Laura transitioned from a 27-year career in event management to becoming a handywoman. 
• She found her passion for DIY and home improvement through personal projects. 
• Networking and community support have been crucial in her journey. 
• Social media is an effective tool for marketing her services. 
• Health and wellness are important considerations in the trades. 
• Laura emphasizes the importance of having the right insurance and business setup. 
• She enjoys upcycling and helping clients see the potential in old furniture. 
• The satisfaction of completing a job is a significant motivator for her. 
• Laura encourages others to pursue their dreams, regardless of age. 
• She aims to inspire young girls to enter the trades. 

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 

Follow Guest:

Instagram: she.iy_sos

Facebook: SHE-IY SOS

LinkdIn: Laura Bartlett

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties 

02:46 Background and Career Transition 

05:45 Starting as a Handywoman 

08:32 Types of Work and Skills Development 

11:45 Challenges of Self-Employment 

14:40 Health and Wellness in Trades 

18:29 Social Media and Marketing Strategies 

23:39 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights 

44:45 Thank you's

Did you enjoy this episode?

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

In this powerful and inspiring episode, I sit down with Mechanic Louise Baker, founder of Womanic, to explore her journey from passionate car enthusiast to successful female mechanic and business owner in the automotive industry. 

Louise shares what it really takes to break into the male-dominated motor trade, the challenges women face in automotive careers, and how she built Womanic to empower more women to pursue skilled trades. From navigating industry stereotypes to creating inclusive education and community spaces, her story offers practical insight for anyone considering a career in mechanics, entrepreneurship, or vocational trades. 

We also dive into the realities of running a business while working in a physically demanding trade. Louise opens up about balancing mental health, menopause, physical wellbeing, and entrepreneurship, offering honest advice for women in trades who want long-term success without burnout. 

Whether you're interested in becoming a mechanic, starting a trade business, supporting women in automotive, or building confidence in a male-dominated industry, this episode delivers actionable advice, real-world experience, and motivation to take the leap. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Louise Baker’s journey into the motor trade
• Women in automotive careers and skilled trades
• Overcoming barriers in male-dominated industries
• Building Womanic and empowering women through education
• Mental health and physical wellbeing for tradeswomen
• Entrepreneurship in the automotive industry

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 

Follow Guest: 

Instagram: Womanic_louise

TikTok: Womaniclou

Facebook: Womanic Ltd

Website: www.womanic.co.uk

Chapters 

00:00 Journey into the Motor Trade 

03:46 Challenges and Resilience 

07:39 Building a Business from Passion 

11:11 Empowering Women in the Trade 

14:56 Health, Well-being, and Work-Life Balance 

17:27 Understanding Personal Challenges and Growth 

19:36 The Importance of Community Support 

21:44 Navigating Daily Challenges in the Trade 

24:20 Customer Dynamics in the Automotive Trade 

25:41 Service Frequency and Maintenance Tips 

27:06 Future Plans and Community Engagement 

28:53 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights 

33:07 Thank you’s 

Did you enjoy this episode?

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If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!  

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

Professional arborist Holly Carroll shares her inspiring journey from working in a garden centre to building a successful career in arboriculture and tree surgery. Now a respected arborist and brand ambassador, Holly opens up about working in a male-dominated industry, representing women in arboriculture, and the realities of life in professional tree work.

In this episode, she shares practical tree work safety insights, lessons learned on the job, and advice for anyone considering a career in outdoor trades. Her passion for arboriculture, climbing, and the outdoors is infectious, in a good way!

Plus, hear the heartwarming story of Atlas — the puppy she and her partner rescued from the Atlas Mountains — and how adventure continues to shape both her life and career.

Key  topics:

• Women in trades
• Tree climbing safety
• Brand ambassador journey

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast

Follow Guest: 

Instagram: @Hollywood_trees 

Facebook: Hollywood Trees

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Holly Carroll, the Arborist

04:45 The Apprenticeship Experience

10:38 Safety and Close Calls in Tree Work

16:02 Customer Interactions and Experiences

20:55 The Thrill of Rigging

26:13 Dietary Choices and Their Impact

31:10 Becoming a Brand Ambassador

39:39 Finding Atlas: A Heartwarming Story

46:25 Exciting Opportunities at the Harrogate Flower Show

53:07 Exploring Alternative Trades and Future Guests

01:00:14 – Thank you’s

01:00:23 Follow Like Share

Resources:

Stein Workwear 

Harrogate Flower Show 

DART - Disaster Arborist Response Team 

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! 

If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!  

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

What does it really take to move countries, rebuild your career, and succeed in architecture and interior design? 

Architect and interior designer Helga Hines shares her journey from Colombia to the UK, offering insight into international architecture, cultural differences in design, and working in the UK construction industry. She discusses adapting to a new professional landscape, navigating architectural practice across borders, and how language, communication, and cultural identity influence the design process.

Helga also explores what it means to be a woman in construction, tackling visibility, and resilience in a male-crowded industry. We dive into interior design trends, architectural inspiration, client relationships, and the impact of thoughtful spaces on everyday life.

If you’re interested in architecture, interior design, women in construction, or building a global design career, this episode delivers insight, strategy, and inspiration.

Key Takeaways

• Helga transitioned from Colombia to the UK to pursue her architectural career. 
• Cultural differences in architecture include the treatment of listed buildings and building regulations. 
• Helga faced challenges adapting to UK architecture and language nuances. 
• She has developed a thick skin to navigate gender dynamics in construction. 
• Continuous learning is essential in the ever-evolving field of design. 
• Helga finds joy in creating spaces that positively impact people's lives. 
• She admires architects like Oscar Niemeyer for their innovative designs. 
• Social media is a powerful tool for showcasing design work and connecting with clients. 

 Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 

Follow Guest: 

LinkdIn: Helga Heins

Instagram: @insightstudio3d

Website: www.insightstudio3d.com

Chapters 

00:00 Helga's Background and Journey in Architecture 

01:58 Cultural Differences in Architecture 

04:25 Transition to Self-Employment and Insight Studio 

06:49 Challenges Faced as a Female Architect 

09:34 Language Barriers and Communication in the Industry 

12:09 Attributes for Success in Architecture 

14:33 The Impact of Design on Lives 

17:17 Favourite Architectural Inspirations 

22:26 Architectural Inspirations and Influences 

25:05 Balancing Health and Fitness in a Sedentary Job 

28:03 Harnessing Social Media for Creative Expression 

32:12 Upcoming Projects and Networking Opportunities 

35:20 Quickfire Questions: Personal Preferences and Insights 

Did you enjoy this episode?

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

Going into National Apprenticeship Week I explore how Wickes, a UK nationwide retailer focused on trade environments, is investing in the future of skilled trades through its apprenticeship programme. Launched in 2019, the programme has already supported multiple cohorts and is designed to give apprentices real-world experience, with 80% of the 18-month apprenticeship spent on-site gaining hands-on skills. 

My guest, Jasmin Benford, the Service Delivery Manager for the Apprenticeship Team, shares her unique journey from interior design and nursing to then landing with Wickes. Offering insight into career change and the creativity involved in trade work. She discusses the structure of the apprenticeship, including practical assessments, coursework, and the value of learning directly from experienced installers across the business. 

The conversation also highlights Wickes’ strong focus on mental health support for apprentices and its commitment to encouraging more women into trade careers. 

This episode is ideal for anyone interested in apprenticeships, trade careers, skills training, or career transitions, offering an honest look at modern apprenticeships and the future of the trade industry. 

Key Takeaways 

• Wickes is a Uk Nationwide retail business focused on trade environments. 
• The Wickes apprenticeship program was launched in 2019 and has seen multiple cohorts. 
• Mental health support is a key focus for apprentices at Wickes. 
• The apprenticeship lasts 18 months, with 80% on-site training. 
• Wickes aims to recruit more female apprentices in the trade. 
• Apprentices receive hands-on training from experienced installers. 
• Supplier relationships are crucial for providing up-to-date training. 
• The program includes a mix of practical assessments and coursework. 

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 

Follow Guest: 

Instagram: @lifeatwickes

Email:  [email protected] 

You will reach Jasmin or one of the Apprenticeship Team Leaders via this email for any course enquiries.

Website:  www.wickescareers.co.uk 

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Wickes and Apprenticeships 

03:51 Jasmin's Background and Role at Wickes 

08:10 Wickes Apprenticeship Program Overview 

12:45 Support and Resources for Apprentices 

17:03 Future Goals and Recruitment at Wickes 

21:13 Quickfire Questions and Closing Thoughts 

25:57 Follow, Like, Review - Thank You 

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If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!  

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

Sophie Magee shares her powerful career transition from studying nursing at university to becoming an electrical apprentice. Sophie opens up about why she left healthcare, what drew her to the trades, and her passion for renewable energy, including her long-term goal of working on wind turbines. 

This conversation dives into the realities of being a woman in the electrical trade, the importance of developing strong practical skills, and the challenges women in trades still face in male-crowded industries. Sophie discusses how mentorship, community support, and representation play a vital role in helping female tradies succeed and feel confident on site. 

Sophie also offers honest advice for aspiring female tradespeople, covering apprenticeships, career changes, and how building a social media presence can help women in construction connect, share experiences, and grow their careers.

This episode is ideal for women of all ages considering a trade career, electrical apprentices, career changers, and anyone interested in renewable energy, clean energy jobs, and women in the trades. 

Key Takeaways 

• Sophie transitioned from studying nursing to electrical apprenticeship. 
• She found her passion in practical, hands-on work. 
• Renewable energy systems are a focus in her current role. 
• Sophie aspires to work on wind turbines in the future. 
• She believes in the potential of an all-female trades team. 
• Women in trades face unique challenges but can succeed. 
• Mentorship and community support are crucial for growth. 
• Sophie encourages others to pursue their passions fearlessly. 
• Building a social media presence can enhance career opportunities. 
• Sophie enjoys the design aspect of electrical work. 

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 

Follow Guest: 

Instagram: magee_electrical

Chapters 

00:00 Sophie Magee: Background and Journey 

01:45 Discovering a Passion for Electrics 

02:36 Working in Renewables 

03:28 Future Goals and Aspirations 

05:11 Experiences as a Female Apprentice 

07:40 Challenges in the Trade 

09:21 Overcoming Adversity in the Workplace 

11:41 Finding a Supportive Work Environment 

11:55 Advice for Young Women in Trades 

13:07 The Role of Social Media in Building Community 

15:41 Future Aspirations and Challenges 

17:06 Quick-Fire Questions and Personal Insights 

24:00 Thank you's 

Did you enjoy this episode?

Support the show

Thank you for listening! 

If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!  

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

Melissa Hall, a Liverpool-based painting and decorating professional, shares her journey of building a successful career in a male-crowded industry. From overcoming early challenges to finding freedom through self-employment, she reflects on the resilience and mindset shifts that transformed both her work and personal life.

The conversation explores Melissa’s diverse background, the realities of working as a woman in the trades, and the importance of building genuine, long-term relationships with clients. She also speaks openly about mental health, shining a light on PMDD awareness and the role of gratitude, community support, and healthier lifestyle choices in maintaining balance and wellbeing. 

With a strong focus on empowerment, entrepreneurship, and the value of following your passion, Melissa’s story offers inspiration for women considering careers in trades, creatives seeking independence, and anyone looking to make meaningful life changes.

Her future aspirations reflect a powerful message of confidence, self-belief, and the impact of showing up authentically in both work and life. 

Key Takeaways

• Melissa has a diverse background in male-dominated fields.
• She emphasizes the importance of pushing barriers for women in trades.
• Her business, Painting With Purpose, reflects her desire to help others.
• She believes in the power of gratitude and positive mindset.
• Building relationships with clients is a key aspect of her work.
• Melissa advocates for mental health awareness, particularly PMDD.
• Health and wellness practices are important to her lifestyle.
• Education and continuous learning are vital for her future aspirations.

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast

Follow Guest: 

Instagram: Painting_with_purpose_by_mel

Facebook: Painting With Purpose By Mel

TikTok: Paintingwithpurposebymel

Chapters

00:00 Breaking Barriers: Melissa's Journey in a Male-crowded Field

02:43 Finding Purpose: The Birth of 'Painting With Purpose'

05:22 Building Connections: The Importance of Client Relationships

07:59 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Embracing Self-Employment

10:34 Navigating Mental Health: ADHD and PMDD

13:29 Manifesting Dreams: Melissa's Academic Pursuits

15:43 Health and Wellness: Supplements and Lifestyle Choices

27:54 The Power of Reading and Learning

29:41 Women in Trades: Breaking Barriers

32:03 Social Media: Support and Trolls

34:37 Unexpected Wins and Gratitude

37:32 Collaboration and Community in Trades

40:12 Networking and Support at Trade Shows

43:30 Quickfire Questions: Personal Preferences

45:46 Future Aspirations and Recommendations

50:11 Thank you's

Did you enjoy this episode?

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If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!  

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie 

I sit down with Ria Kirby, a professional decorator with over 23 years of experience, to talk honestly about life as a female tradie and business owner of The Female Touch.

Ria shares her journey through multiple jobs, including being a zookeeper, before finding her calling in painting and decorating and building her own successful business. 

She opens up about the realities of running a business, from the importance of clear communication and transparency with quotes to managing client expectations.

We explore what keeps decorating exciting after two decades in the trade, including learning new techniques, materials, and products, and why no two jobs are ever the same. 

Ria also speaks openly about the physical demands of the job, womens health and how we should support women in the trades especially during the menstrual cycles we face. 

From balancing family life with running a business, and how she navigates work-life balance, we cover it all!

This episode offers real insight into the challenges, rewards, and resilience required to thrive as a female tradie.

Key Takeaways

• It's important to be transparent with clients to build trust.
• There's a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into being self-employed.
• Continuous learning is key in this ever-evolving industry.
• Don't be scared; there's so much support available out there.
• You can pick and choose what aspects of the trade you want to focus on.
• The community in the trades is supportive, not competitive.
• Using quality materials leads to lasting finishes.
• It's all about managing client expectations and delivering high standards. 
• Women are so supportive.
• It's important to check in on each other.

Follow me: 

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast

Follow Guest:

Instagram: @the_female.touch

Facebook: The Female Touch

TikTok: @thefemaletouch

Chapters

00:00 Ria's Journey into Decorating

02:03 Managing Client Expectations and Estimates

04:45 Work-Life Balance and Family Time

07:26 Physical Challenges in the Trade

10:15 The Realities of Self-Employment

13:03 Encouraging Women in the Trades

15:35 Courses and Skill Development

18:36 Spraying Techniques and Safety

22:58 Proud Transformations in Work

25:14 The Importance of Quality in Painting

28:57 Understanding Client Expectations

32:52 Adapting to New Products and Techniques

35:44 Navigating Social Media Challenges

38:07 Building Community in the Trade

42:04 Supporting Women in Trades

46:05 Navigating the Challenges of Womanhood in Trades

48:39 The Importance of Female Support in the Trades

49:27 Maintaining Authenticity in Brand Partnerships

51:2

Did you enjoy this episode?

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If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!  

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie