On the final episode of 2024, host Lisa Laronde revisits some of her favourite conversations from the inaugural year of The Powerhouse Project Podcast, celebrating bold moves, big wins, and the unstoppable drive of women change-makers.

As we wrap up an incredible year, today’s episode is packed with highlights, expert advice, and practical takeaways as you step into the new year.

A recurring theme on the podcast has been how women navigate the delicate balance of work, personal, and social lives, especially after having children. Robyn Patk, VP P&G Canada Sales, brought a fresh and empowering perspective on how you can truly have it all.

Ironworker and Spokesperson Jamie McMillian and Lisa discuss human rights complaints from women in construction related to harassment or discrimination. Jamie offers her valuable insights on the persistent issue of harassment within the industry.

We can't forget about our incredible male allies who are making a real difference in the construction industry. Adam Gaiser, Vice-President, Mark’s Commercial has been using his influence to help pave the way for a more inclusive future in construction.

11-time National Champion and Two-Time Canadian Olympic boxer Mandy Bujold shared her inspiring story of one of the most important fights she ever waged in the battle for gender equality in sports.

Meg Mathes, Skilled Trades Leader bravely shared her story of transitioning while working in the construction industry, sharing our hope to see more transgender women represented in the construction industry.

Tanya LaBuick, Labuick, and Co., gave us a crash course in authenticity and being unapologetically yourself. Sometimes, we all need that reminder to let go of what others think and stay true to who we are.

Lisa shares her gratitude to this year's incredible guests and listeners with a powerful message to women in any industry:

I encourage you to continue blazing your own trails, shattering glass ceilings, and banding together to uplift one another, both in and outside of our fields.

Happy holidays, thank you so much for being a part of this journey!

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Host Lisa LaRonde speaks with Sabrina Fiorellino, a remarkable entrepreneur who launched her first company at eighteen and has since made significant strides in both the construction and healthcare industries. Sabrina shares her journey from law to entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced during the pandemic, and her innovative solutions for disaster relief. The conversation also delves into the importance of women in leadership, mentorship, and resilience in overcoming obstacles. Sabrina emphasizes the need for a supportive community and the value of sharing stories to inspire future generations of women leaders.

More About Sabrina:

Sabrina is the CEO and Co-Founder of Fero International Inc. A serial entrepreneur and international bestselling author, Sabrina launched Fero in 2020 after completing the sale of a large private road-building company she founded in 2017 and following 10 years as counsel at two large firms on Toronto’s Bay Street. 

In her current business, Sabrina has directed her attention to finding ground-breaking solutions for healthcare, education, housing and other markets through modularization in order to address today’s critical space shortages by building off-site faster and more efficiently. At Fero, Sabrina has brought together a highly experienced team of modular construction professionals, leading the company from a startup, through organic growth and acquisition, to operating the largest modular manufacturing plant in Canada.

Connect with Sabrina on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-fiorellino-50b37816/

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction to Sabrina Fiorellino

(06:37) Innovative Healthcare Solutions

(14:25) Resilience and Overcoming Challenges

(20:26) Sharing Stories of Setbacks

(27:15) Future of Women in Leadership

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In this episode of The Powerhouse Project, host Lisa Laronde speaks with Lauren Fahey, the Executive Director at NexGen in Australia, where she leads initiatives to inspire, educate and empower the next generation in the construction industry. With a strong commitment to gender equality and diversity, Lauren is dedicated to driving change and creating opportunities for young women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Before joining NexGen, Lauren served as the General Manager for a peak body for Women in Construction in Australia, where she played a pivotal role in advancing the participation and leadership of women in the industry. Her extensive experience and passion for inclusion are shaping the future of construction, making it more inclusive and accessible for all.

They discuss the ongoing gender inequalities in apprenticeships, the barriers faced by migrant workers, and the importance of education in changing industry norms. Lauren shares insights on the gender pay gap, the challenges of retaining women in construction, and the need for allies and sponsorship to support women in their careers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of breaking down gender stereotypes from a young age and the role of parents and teachers in shaping perceptions of construction careers. Lauren advocates for a collective effort to create a more inclusive and equitable industry for all.

Connect with Lauren Fahey:

https://nex-gen.au/our-team/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-f-a95031aa/

NexGen LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/nexgenau

NexGen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nexgen.au/

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction to Lauren Fahey and Her Mission

(02:01) The Gender Inequality in Apprenticeships

(04:28) Addressing Barriers for Migrant Workers

(07:25) The Role of Education in Changing Industry Norms

(10:28) Understanding Gender Pay Gap in Construction

(12:21) Challenges of Retaining Women in Construction

(14:05) Encouraging Young Women to Enter the Industry

(17:20) Changing Perceptions of Construction Careers

(20:24) The Importance of Allies and Sponsorship

(22:10) Bystander Intervention in Workplace Harassment

(25:19) Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Youth

(28:55) The Role of Parents and Teachers in Shaping Careers

(31:01) The Need for Male Allies and Supportive Networks

(34:27) Advice for Future Generations and Closing Thoughts

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In this episode of The Powerhouse Project, host Lisa Laronde speaks with Tanya LaBuick, a certified project manager and business coach, about her journey in project management, sports, and entrepreneurship. Tanya shares her philosophy on overcoming outside opinions, the importance of trusting oneself, and the challenges women face in leadership roles. They discuss women's representation in business and the complexities of privilege and equality in the workplace. They also explore the complexities of privilege, oppression, and the evolution of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), reflecting on the importance of diverse perspectives in leadership. Tanya shares her insights on how women can recognize their worth and advocate for themselves in a male-dominated environment, especially in salary negotiations.

More About Tanya LaBuick:

Tanya hails from Brandon, Manitoba, Canada; a small town located in the prairie region. She spent summers at the lake and travelling by train to the west coast, and winters in the snow – shovelling, tobogganing, skating and watching her mother play broomball. Her life has always been about diversity.

Tanya is the Principal Consultant and Owner of LaBuick & Co., a boutique firm that provides projects, companies, and people Olympic level expertise with a team of individuals who like to work hard, like their work, and like each other.

She has over 20 years’ experience in strategy development, project management, and program implementation. Tanya is a globally certified project manager, trained leadership facilitator, and certified business coach. Her career history is peppered with high-profile clients for large-scale MEGA events, including five Olympic & Paralympic Games, several Super Bowls, two FIFA Women’s World Cups, and a substantial list of national, regional and local projects. She is also a regular columnist for her local paper and writes a biweekly blog on life, leadership, and the Canadian way.

In 2018, Tanya became an equity partner in both CW2 Construction and Design Ltd., and Guardian Fencing Ltd where she fulfills the role of Chief Operating Officer. At heart, Tanya is a project manager. She understands people and systems and thrives in a fast-paced demanding environment. Tanya is trained in leadership, executive facilitation, change management, and negotiation. She has immense respect for sport, business, and people. Tanya believes in passion and performance, kindness, and loyalty. She also believes her pup Cash, cats Molii and Lenii, peanut butter M&M’s, and purple pens are the keys to happiness.

Find out more information about Tanya and her work:

https://labuick.co/

https://cw2construction.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/CW2Construction

https://guardianfencing.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/GuardianFENCE

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-labuick/

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Tanya LaBuick

(02:15) Overcoming Opinions

(05:02) Career Beginnings: From Project Management to Sports

(08:55) Starting a Business: The Journey of Lebuick and Co.

(10:34) Navigating Risks and Trusting Yourself

(15:04) Women in Leadership: Challenges and Opportunities

(20:25) Privilege and Equality in Business

(21:02) Understanding Privilege and Oppression

(23:49) The Evolution of DEI in Business

(26:53) The Importance of Diverse Perspectives

(29:59) Negotiating Salaries and Recognizing Worth

(32:57) Advice for the Next Generation

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In this episode, host Lisa Laronde sits down with Minister Filomena Tassi, head of the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, for an insightful conversation.

They explore Minister Tassi’s journey before politics, the challenges women face in leadership, and actionable ways to attract more women to positions of power. The discussion dives into the importance of gender equity and inclusive workplaces, stressing the need for supportive policies and structures to empower women.

Together, they unpack the significance of gender balance across industries and the role it plays in driving economic growth. Minister Tassi shares her thoughts on removing barriers, fostering equal opportunities, and building environments where women thrive. The episode also highlights the value of collaboration and advocacy to create meaningful change and accelerate women’s progress in leadership and beyond.

Tune in for a powerful conversation on the future of inclusivity, empowerment, and economic impact.

More about Minister Tassi:

Parliament for the riding of Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas in 2015. She has previously served as Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Minister of Labour, and Minister of Seniors.

Minister Tassi practiced law for six years before leaving to raise her family. She later became a high school chaplain for the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board. As chaplaincy leader, she helped establish the D.R.E.A.M.S. (Dominican Republic Education and Medical Support) program, which has enabled thousands of students to live and work with the materially poor in the Dominican Republic. Minister Tassi, her husband, and two children live in the Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas riding.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Welcoming Minister Filomena Tassi

(01:11) Minister Tassi's Background and Career Transitions

(02:21) From Lawyer to School Chaplain to Politics

(03:56) Challenges Faced by Women in Politics

(06:53) Creating Positive and Collaborative Politics

(08:09) Attracting and Elevating Women in Politics

(13:06) The Importance of Gender Equity in the Workforce

(15:15) Creating Inclusive Environments for Women in Leadership

(19:18) Overcoming Challenges and Asking for Support

(20:42) The Importance of Gender Balance and Women's Participation

(22:37) Creating Supportive Environments and Equal Opportunities

(24:18) Addressing Barriers to Women's Participation

(27:03) Empowering Women through Programs and Initiatives

(29:45) Collaboration and Advocacy for Women in Male-Dominated Industries

https://thepowerhouse-project.com/

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This week, host Lisa Laronde interviews Julie Cafley, a leader in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). They discuss the importance of inclusive leadership in advancing gender equity, emphasizing the need for both men and women to be involved in the conversation to effect meaningful change. They highlight the value of allies in the fight for gender equality and share their personal experiences on advocating for gender equity and inclusivity in leadership roles. Julie emphasizes the need for organizations to create inclusive systems and policies, support women as their careers grow, and promote empathic leadership. She also reflects on Catalyst Canada's research on women on the front line and the barriers they face. Julie believes that ongoing discussions and pragmatic DEI efforts are crucial for creating positive change.

More about Dr. Julie Cafley:

Dr. Julie Cafley is the Executive Director of Catalyst Canada, an organization that drives inclusive workplaces. She is a creative, strategic leader and an accomplished academic with expertise in equity and inclusion, public policy and higher-education leadership.

In 2023, she was chosen as a member of the Canadian delegation to the United Nations for the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67). She is a frequent writer and speaker on higher education, leadership and gender equity.

Julie holds a PhD in education leadership from the University of Ottawa with sought-after expertise in university presidential mandates. Her thesis focused on higher education leadership and governance through the lens of unfinished terms of Canadian university presidents.

Julie is an active community builder and a collaborative change maker. Whether it is serving coffee and muffins to the region’s unhoused people, serving on the board of Parkinson Canada, mentoring young policy wonks, or supporting her alma mater on its Campaign Cabinet and Dean’s advisory council, giving back is integral to who she is and a part of her every day.

Julie is a committed advocate for women and leadership, a constant ally for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples and an indefatigable champion for diversity initiatives.

Connect with Julie:

X: @Jcafley

Instagram: @Jcafley and @Catalystinc

Linked In: Julie Cafley, PhD | LinkedIn, Catalyst Inc.: My Company | LinkedIn

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Host Lisa Laronde interviews Shelley Gray, the CEO of SkilledTradesBC about her journey in leadership as a woman in the trades. They dive into the significance of representation, the unique challenges women face in male-dominated fields, and effective strategies to attract and retain women in skilled trades.

Shelley and Lisa discuss the crucial need for supportive policies and environments that foster inclusivity, emphasizing the roles of allyship and mentorship. They highlight how authenticity and empowerment in leadership can transform industries, stressing the importance of visibility and celebration of women's achievements. 

The discussion touches on the value of diversity and the importance of challenging one another to grow. Shelley shares her experiences and insights on mentorship and the need for more women in boardrooms. She offers practical advice for young leaders, inspiring them to pursue careers in trades.

The episode wraps up with a powerful commitment to continue advocating for women and promoting careers in the skilled trades, making this a must-listen for anyone passionate about diversity and inclusion in the workforce.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(01:49) Breaking Barriers: Women in the Trades

(04:11) Redefining Work-Life Balance

(07:57) Creating a Supportive Environment

(09:49) Changing the Narrative

(12:09) The Impact of Skilled Trades

(15:16) The Power of Allyship and Mentorship

(21:44) Creating Space for Leadership to Look Different

(23:33) The Value of Diversity and Challenging One Another

(26:29) Increasing Women's Representation on Boards

(27:00) Embracing the Messiness and Having It All

Find out more about Shelley Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-gray-a7033231/

Shelley Gray is the Chief Executive Officer of SkilledTradesBC (formerly the Industry Training Authority), a Crown Corporation responsible for managing, supporting, and promoting British Columbia’s trades training and apprenticeship system. As the first woman to hold the position of CEO at SkilledTradesBC, Shelley is highly motivated to work towards creating a more inclusive skilled trades and apprenticeship system that reflects our diverse population.

Shelley’s strategic leadership style is backed by 20+ years of experience driving business results through the implementation of customer-focused strategies for some of Canada’s top public and private sector organizations. Recently, her leadership was recognized by YWCA as a Women of Distinction nominee (2021) and by Business in Vancouver as an influential leader on their inaugural top 500 leaders list (2021).

Shelley sits on industry Boards and Committees, including the Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeships, Vancouver College, and the Vancouver Board of Trade Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council. In addition, she is a volunteer mentor with Minerva BC, an organization that is dedicated to advancing the leadership of women and girls.

She has a Bachelor of Arts in International Business from the University of Alberta, a Leadership Development Certificate from UBC Sauder School of Business, and INSEAD Executive Leadership Certificate in Driving Value through Business Acumen, and recently received her ICD.D.

Shelley is very inspired by the early intervention work of LDS, which allows each student the ability to see and realize their full potential from early on in their life. She knows first hand how important it is for young learners to know their options won’t be limited by their learning strengths and stretches.

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Host Lisa Laronde speaks with Miranda Steele, a strategic communications executive and president of the Ellevate Network Toronto.

Lisa and Miranda discuss the role of strategic communications in shaping business culture and supporting women's leadership development to create authentic connections for women to support each other.

Miranda shares her career journey working with global brands like McDonalds and discusses the challenges women face in leadership roles.

Steele also mentions the benefits of external women's networks like Ellevate in providing a safe space for women to connect and share their stories outside of their company roles. They emphasize the importance of speaking up, setting boundaries, and normalizing conversations about gender equality in the workplace.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Career in Strategic Communications

(02:23) Working with McDonald's and Global Brands

(05:26) Cultural Differences in Business

(10:27) Challenges and Support for Women in Leadership

(20:23) Building Authentic Connections and Communities

(21:06) Challenges in Skilled Trades and Leadership Roles

(22:12) Inclusive Networks and Safe Spaces

(24:33) Speaking Up and Setting Boundaries

(29:59) Finding Your Tribe and Building a Supportive Network

More about Miranda Steele:

As Founder and Chief Strategist at Words of Steele Strategic Consulting, Miranda brings extensive expertise and strategic counsel to organizations worldwide, helping them strengthen their business and solve communication challenges. Her background includes leadership roles with some of the world's largest brands, where she enhanced and safeguarded brand reputation globally.

Before establishing Words of Steele, Miranda led Corporate Relations for McDonald’s Restaurants in Canada and then became Senior Director of International Corporate Relations. In this role, she managed McDonald’s brand reputation across over 80 countries in Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Her prior experience in telecommunications at TELUS and Bell Mobility focused on Channel Communications and Event Marketing & Sponsorship.

As a consultant, Miranda works directly with clients and through global agency partners to offer corporate communications, business transformation, and global engagement services. Clients and colleagues, both near and far, recognize Miranda’s ability to create community, connect people and ideas, and drive positive change that leaves a lasting legacy.

When she’s not supporting clients, Miranda contributes to online and print publications, including Medium, the Toronto Star, and Chatelaine Magazine. She is a passionate advocate for women’s career development and serves as President of the Toronto Chapter of Ellevate Network. Miranda always makes time for an energizing networking chat!

www.wordsofsteele.com

www.linkedin.com/in/steelemiranda

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Host Lisa Laronde speaks with Melissa Alexander, a floor-covering apprentice, peer worker, mentor, and activist. They explore what inspired her to enter the skilled trades, her experiences and challenges as a floor layer, and her role as a certified peer worker. Melissa also shares her advocacy efforts with organizations like 'Walls to Bridges.'

A significant part of Melissa's story is her commitment to second chances. Having served time herself, Melissa brings a unique perspective to her advocacy for inmates. She passionately believes in the power of rehabilitation and the importance of providing opportunities for former inmates to rebuild their lives. Through her work, she fights against the stigma associated with having a criminal record and highlights the need for systemic changes to support reintegration.

Melissa offers valuable advice for women entering the trades, discusses the urgent need for mental health resources, and underscores the importance of second chances and education while touching on how she balances work and her personal life, advocacy, and mentoring.

Melissa Alexander is a fourth-year apprentice with Local 27, specializing as a floor-covering installer. In addition to her apprenticeship, she is a certified peer worker involved in the Community Healing Project for Stella's Place and St. Stephen's Community House, where she supports youth. Melissa also works at Progress Place, a mental health rehabilitation center for adults.

She has participated in the TCBN Peer Mentor Program, where she successfully completed the program and mentored six mentees. Her role involved not only helping them choose their trade but also supporting them through their struggles and guiding them toward success. Melissa's goal is to continue growing and understanding herself while helping others persevere, no matter what life throws at them.

As an activist for women, Melissa completed her advanced course for floor covering installation on February 18, 2022. This achievement places her in the fifth term of her apprenticeship, with a year and a half remaining to complete her hours and qualify to write her Red Seal exam.

Melissa is also a recipient of the 2023 YWCA Toronto Women of Distinction award for her work with “Walls to Bridges," an educational program that brings incarcerated non-incarcerated students together to study post-secondary courses in jails and prisons across Canada.

Connect with Melissa on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-alexander-2962a8251/

Join the movement at https://thepowerhouse-project.com/

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Host Lisa Laronde speaks with Meg Mathes, a Red Seal refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic and a Senior Manager of Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI). In this role, she nationally supports the people, clients, and Industry with DEI efforts.

Meg shares her incredible journey in the skilled trades industry as a transgender woman. Meg opens up about her experiences in foster care and leaving home at fourteen years old. Meg discovered her innate mechanical skills at Burger King which eventually led her to pursue opportunities in the skilled trades.

Meg discusses the challenges she faces as a transgender individual in the workplace and the importance of being open about her identity. Meg also shares highlights some of her advocacy work and the changes she's witnessed in workplace dynamics. She advocates for gender-affirming policies, gender-neutral facilities, and inclusive workplace language to create a more welcoming environment.

Meg offers heartfelt advice to her younger self and the next generation of skilled trades professionals through embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity in every aspect of our lives.

Topics

About Meg Mathes:

Meg has been in the Skilled Trades for over 27 years and holds credentials as an Alberta Red Seal Journeyperson - Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, Alberta Journeyperson - Gasfitter (A), Alberta Achievement in Business Competencies (Blue Seal), and a Certificate of Professional Management specializing in Strategic Management from the University of Calgary.

Meg has volunteered extensively and given back to her industry in many ways. In 2021 she was inducted into the Alberta Trades Hall of Fame for her 18-year service with the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board. She sits on many boards and committees advancing DEI in the Skilled Trades in Canada.

Connect with Meg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-mathes-9b470a72/

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