Life Of A Female Tradie

Laura Faux
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Real stories. Real tools. Real women.Welcome to Life Of A Female Tradie — the podcast that gives voice to the women breaking ground in the trades. We share the honest, gritty, and inspiring journeys of female tradies thriving in a male-dominated industry.Each episode features real conversations with women in construction and the skilled trades, tackling topics like apprenticeships, jobsite culture, career progression, mental health, physical demands, tools of the trade, and what it really takes to build a future in the field.Whether you’re already on the tools, just getting started, or curious about what it’s like to be a woman in the trades — this podcast is your crew. We’re building each other up and breaking barriers with every episode. 

  1. MAR 24

    A Quick Pause (But Not Goodbye)

    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: loaftpodcast@gmail.com 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!   Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    2 min

  2. MAR 17

    Becoming a Self-Employed Decorator | Emma Varley's Journey as 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 decoratorWhy hands-on learning and making mistakes are essential in the tradesHow social media marketing helps tradespeople win more workThe realities and challenges of running a self-employed trade businessEmma’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  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! Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    1 hr

  3. MAR 10

    Becoming a Handywoman | Laura Bartlett on Career Change, Self-Employment & Women in the Trades

    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? 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!   Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    45 min

  4. MAR 3

    The Reality of Being a Female Mechanic | Louise Baker, Founder of Womanic

    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 tradeWomen in automotive careers and skilled tradesOvercoming barriers in male-dominated industriesBuilding Womanic and empowering women through educationMental health and physical wellbeing for tradeswomenEntrepreneurship in the automotive industryFollow 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? 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!   Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    33 min

  5. FEB 24

    Professional Arborist Holly Carroll on Women in Arboriculture, Tree Surgery & Outdoor Careers

    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 tradesTree climbing safetyBrand ambassador journeyFollow 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  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!   Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    1h 1m

  6. FEB 17

    Building a Career in Architecture & Interior Design From Colombia to the UK | Helga Heins

    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? 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!   Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    45 min

  7. FEB 10

    Inside the Wickes Apprenticeship Programme: Skills Training, Mental Health & Life in the Trades

    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:  installationapprenticeships@wickes.co.uk  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  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!   Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    27 min

  8. FEB 3

    From Studying Nursing to Electrical Apprentice: Sophie Magee on Apprenticeships & Renewable Energy

    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!   Thanks Again! Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

    24 min
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About

Real stories. Real tools. Real women.Welcome to Life Of A Female Tradie — the podcast that gives voice to the women breaking ground in the trades. We share the honest, gritty, and inspiring journeys of female tradies thriving in a male-dominated industry.Each episode features real conversations with women in construction and the skilled trades, tackling topics like apprenticeships, jobsite culture, career progression, mental health, physical demands, tools of the trade, and what it really takes to build a future in the field.Whether you’re already on the tools, just getting started, or curious about what it’s like to be a woman in the trades — this podcast is your crew. We’re building each other up and breaking barriers with every episode. 

Information

  • Creator
    Laura Faux
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Life Of A Female Tradie
  • Show Website
    Life Of A Female Tradie

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