In this episode of Talking Tradesman, host Russ engages with Lily, a young apprentice painter and decorator, as she shares her journey from a challenging childhood to finding purpose in her career.

Find Lily here -

https://www.instagram.com/paintingwithlily?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Lily discusses the difficulties of moving to a new area, the impact of family dynamics, and the struggles she faced during lockdown. A pivotal moment in her life was the loss of a close friend, which prompted her to reevaluate her choices and ultimately led her to pursue a career in decorating.

Throughout the conversation, Lily reflects on the importance of resilience, making tough decisions, and the desire to create a better future for herself and her potential family. In this conversation, Russ and Lily discuss the evolution of dating apps, the unique challenges and opportunities in the trade industry, particularly for women, and Lily's journey as a decorator. They explore the importance of customer satisfaction, the apprenticeship process, and the business side of running a decorating business.

Additionally, they touch on leveraging social media for career growth and the significance of inspiring the next generation of tradespeople. In this conversation, Russ and Lily discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating social media, personal growth, and the importance of community in the construction industry. They delve into the significance of physical health for tradespeople, aspirations for entrepreneurship, and the mental health challenges faced within the industry. The discussion also highlights financial struggles and the impact of social media on personal and professional lives, emphasizing the need for support and understanding in the trade community.