Sparky Life

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In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela chats with Kelly McNamara, a soon to be red seal carpenter, about her career transition into carpentry and her experiences as a woman in the trades. She emphasizes the importance of finding a company that values workers and the economic need for new talent in the trades. Kelly also reflects on the societal perceptions of trades and her personal growth, highlighting compassion as a key tool for success.

👷‍♀️ More Than Just a Pretty Face! We dive deep into the representation of women in trades on social media. Kelly's perspective on the focus on aesthetics versus skill is thought-provoking and raises important questions about the messages we're sending to young girls.

Connect with our guest Kelly Mac Link: https://www.instagram.com/macs.edge/
Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
 National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected]
website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, Lia Lamela speaks with Kimmy the Sparks,  an electrician who shares her journey in the male-dominated electrical industry. Despite facing discouragement and gender discrimination, the electrician rose from an administrative role to become a qualified professional.

She discusses the versatility of her job, the importance of female camaraderie, and her experiences with gender bias. The discussion  highlights the empowerment of women in trades and the power of a positive mindset.

Connect with our guest Kimmy the Sparks Links: https://www.instagram.com/kimmythesparks/
https://www.youtube.com/@kimmythesparks?app=desktop

Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected]
website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with Trish Conville, a seasoned professional from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. They discuss the importance of safety, cleanliness, and proper accommodations in the construction industry, with a focus on the electrical trade.

Trish shares insights from her work in power distribution and the advancements in technology that have improved efficiency. They also discuss the need for better safety measures, proper hygiene practices, and the value of community in the industry. Trish shares her journey into the electrical field, the challenges she faced, and the importance of authenticity and resilience.

Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected]
website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela and fellow electrician Chessa Trimble discuss the challenges and rewards of being in the skilled trades industry. Chessa shares her journey from apartment maintenance to becoming an electrician, the decision to go non-union, and the importance of perseverance and innovation in the face of adversity. They also discuss the unique strengths women bring to the electrical field, the need for more representation, and the importance of debunking misconceptions about skilled trades. Chessa emphasizes the importance of resilience and seeking help when needed.

This episode is packed with empowering stories, practical advice, and a healthy dose of reality.

Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected] 

website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with Laura Stevenson, a red seal electrician and founder of Salty Mountain, a women's workwear brand. They discuss their experiences in the electrical trade, the differences in licensing between Canada and the US, and the pros and cons of union and non-union apprenticeships.

Laura shares her journey of starting Salty Mountain, from winning a $25,000 grant to creating prototypes of high-rise pants and overalls. She emphasizes her mission to empower women in the construction industry with workwear that combines comfort, style, and functionality.

I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode on the Sparky Life podcast, where I had the pleasure of hosting Laura Stevenson.  Laura's mission to revolutionize women's workwear by combining functionality and style is truly inspiring.


Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected]
website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela and guest Jennifer Rogers Markwell, a wealth advisor, discuss the importance of financial education for skilled tradespeople. They address the lack of financial knowledge among tradespeople and the potential pitfalls of this, such as making poor financial decisions. Jennifer emphasizes that financial advising is accessible to everyone, regardless of income, and promotes the services offered by her firm, Platinum Wealth Management. 

Connect with our guest Jennifer's Links:
https://www.instagram.com/platinumtalkswealth/?ref=10&hl=en
https://www.platinumwealth.net/our-mission
Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected] 

website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with  master electrician Roberto Reyes. They discuss Roberto's career, his social media presence, and his journey into the trades. Roberto shares his experiences with learning challenges, the importance of mentorship, and his personal struggle with addiction. He also recounts some of his wildest worksite mishaps and gives advice to those interested in the electrical field.

Roberto was fortunate to have a great mentor during his apprenticeship. He's now paying it forward by sharing his knowledge and connecting with other electricians in the community.

Connect with our guest Roberto's Link: https://www.instagram.com/ma_master_sparky/
Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected] 

website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with Rachel Samala about her journey into the HVAC industry. Rachel shares her initial struggles with employment, her transition into HVAC, and her decision to start her own business. She emphasizes the importance of humility in her success. 

After facing challenges in finding the right company, Rachel decided to become self-employed and start her own business. She now enjoys the freedom of being her own boss and creating a positive work environment. Rachel's journey underscores the importance of resilience and the potential of skilled trades.

Connect with our guest Rachel Samala Links:  calimech.com  missminisplit.com
Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected]
website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with Becky Sagen, a former entertainment industry professional turned custom furniture builder and coach.

They discuss their shared experiences in career exploration, with Becky detailing her journey from theatre to teaching, to starting her own custom furniture business. Becky shares her unique approach to coaching clients on DIY projects, including a story about designing a cassette tape table. The conversation also covers the importance of physical fitness in manual labor, the value of having multiple careers, and the role of community in achieving success.

If you're intrigued by these topics, I invite you to listen to the full episode. You can also reach out to Becky on Instagram at @sagenworks or visit her website, Sagen Works, to see examples of her work.

Connect with our guest Becky: https://www.instagram.com/sagenworks/
Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/
"We recognize a good education doesn’t always require a four-year degree.”

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected]
website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Sparky Live podcast, host Lia Lamela interviews Mae Krier, one of the original Rosie the Riveters. Mae shares her experiences working at Boeing during World War II, her advocacy work, and her efforts to honor women on the home front. She discusses the importance of respect, the role of women in society, and the need for equal pay.

Mae's journey from being a riveter at Boeing during World War II to receiving the Congressional Gold Medal is nothing short of inspiring. She's a living testament to the power of resilience and determination, and her stories from the Great Depression to the present day are a must-listen.

I hope Mae's story sparks your curiosity and inspires you as much as it did mine!

Connect with our guest Mae Krier: https://www.instagram.com/rosiemaepa/
Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia

Sparky Life Supports: Raya Kenney's Foundation Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Be a part of history!
National Memorial to the Women Who Worked on the Home Front Foundation

Here's Raya and a little about her memorial
Congress approves Women Who Worked on the Home Front Memorial

Here's the link to donate.
https://marnie-kenney-sfg2.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=63d1d506217f9e44111ecfea

Apply for Skilled Trades the Mike Rowe Scholarship:
https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/

We support financial advancement for the skilled trades community.  You can reach out to Jennifer Markwell at Platinum Wealth email [email protected]
website www.PlatinumWealth.net

Music by https://www.purple-planet.com

Support the show