Building Your Story

Diane Depardon D'Agostino

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Welcome to Building Your Story, the podcast that shares the stories of successful women in the construction industry.

Sep 3

Episode 23 - Cali-Anna Elliott

Send us Fan Mail Cali-Anna Elliott on Starting in HVAC, Challenging Trade Stereotypes, and Finding Confidence Through Apprenticeship Over the course of a year and three conversations, Cali-Anna Elliott shares her journey from having never picked up a tool to becoming a confident HVAC apprentice. From choosing the trades almost by accident, to navigating trade school, working independently in the field, and discovering the "why" behind the work, this episode offers an honest look at what it's really like to start a career in the skilled trades today. We discuss the realities of apprenticeship, the importance of mentorship and support networks, and why being smart and working in the trades are not mutually exclusive. Cali-Anna also reflects on overcoming self-doubt, learning from mistakes, and the mindset that continues to drive her growth: "Why not?" Key Topics: Choosing the trades with no previous experienceBuilding confidence through mistakes, mentorship, and hands-on learningTrade school and learning the "why" behind HVAC systemsChallenging stereotypes about intelligence and skilled trades careersWomen in trades, support networks, and finding communitySetting goals, continuous learning, and personal growthLooking back on how far she's come and where she's headed next
Jul 29

Episode 22 - Sarah Cipkar

Send us Fan Mail Making Space for Change: The Journey of Sarah Sipkar and Resomate Discover how Sarah Cipkar transitioned from community activism and urban planning to founding Resomate, a pioneering company focused on backyard homes and modular construction solutions that address housing shortages. Her story highlights the power of hands-on experimentation, innovative use of technology, and the importance of community-focused solutions in modern urban development. In this episode, we discussed: Sarah's unconventional path from childhood community leader to CEO of ResimateThe inception of backyard ADUs during COVID and their potential to reshape housing in CanadaNavigating the construction industry without a traditional backgroundHow policy, technology, and community needs intersect in Sarah’s workThe role of women in construction and leadership and fostering diversity in startupsPractical advice on networking, mentorship, and leveraging creativity in a fast-paced industryTimestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Sarah Cipkar and her mission to simplify backyard housing 02:17 - From childhood leadership to community politics and early passions 09:22 - The story of building her backyard ADU during COVID 12:10 - Transitioning from personal project to a tech-driven solution with Resimate 13:22 - Lessons learned about construction and industry perceptions 16:11 - Core business: modular, offsite backyard homes in Canada 23:23 - Sarah’s relationship with the construction industry and her evolving role 35:53 - Strategies for effective networking and support for women in industry 40:37 - Reflecting on achievements and the importance of autonomy in her journey 46:14 - Advice for young women considering careers in construction This episode explores innovative approaches to urban housing, emphasizing community impact, diversity, and entrepreneurship within the construction and urban planning sectors.
Jun 17

Episode 21 - Cara Grant

Send us Fan Mail From Ballet Barre to Construction Site: Cara Grand's Journey Cara Grand’s journey from ballerina to construction leader is a masterclass in resilience and purpose. Discover how her passion for learning fueled a career shift from dance to managing billion-dollar projects. Cara shares insights on leadership, balancing motherhood, and breaking barriers in male-dominated fields. Her story is a testament to the power of curiosity and perseverance in crafting a fulfilling career. Perfect for those seeking inspiration to transform passion into impactful careers. Key Topics: Transition from ballet to constructionOvercoming challenges and embracing new opportunitiesBalancing career and motherhoodLessons in leadership and authenticityTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 05:41 - Challenges in ballet 10:11 - Career shift to construction 19:06 - Leadership journey 31:42 - Work-life balance insights 43:46 - Advice for young women
May 14

Episode 20 - Nancy Weinman

Send us Fan Mail From Shyness to Leadership: Nancy Weinman's Journey in Architecture Join Nancy Weinman as she shares her inspiring journey from a shy child to a leading architect and construction manager. Discover her experiences in a male-dominated industry and her dedication to mentoring future women leaders. Key topics: Early influences and dreams in art and architectureOvercoming challenges as a woman in architectureCareer evolution from federal work to founding her own firmBuilding client relationships and managing luxury home projectsMentorship and empowering women in constructionPersonal philosophies on creativity and self-careTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Nancy's journey 02:00 - Early career challenges and inspirations 10:00 - Transition to construction management 18:00 - Founding her own firm 25:00 - Mentorship and industry changes 35:00 - Advice for young women in architecture Resources & Links: Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)Nancy Weinman's LinkedInConnect with Nancy Weinman: LinkedInTwitter
Feb 12

Episode 19 - Laura Korte

Send us Fan Mail An Unplanned Path to Construction Leadership In this episode, Laura Korte, Vice President of Construction at VR Mechanical, shares her unique career journey. Starting with aspirations of becoming a doctor, Laura's path changed drastically after taking a temporary job in construction. Discover how her background in health sciences unexpectedly led to a passion for construction and project management. Laura discusses her early career challenges, the importance of asking questions, the role of mentorship, and the dynamics of being a woman in a male-dominated industry. She also touches on the significance of work-life balance, leadership principles, and the value of meaningful projects. As Laura reflects on her achievements and future goals, she provides invaluable advice for young professionals considering a career in construction. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 04:23 First Experience in Construction 10:20 Career Growth and Opportunities 23:49 Supporting the Site Team 26:33 Creating a Supportive Work Culture 28:13 Navigating Career and Motherhood 33:12 Current Role and Responsibilities 45:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Jan 8

Episode 18 - Nour Hachem

Send us Fan Mail Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in Male-Dominated Fields with Nour Hachem In this episode, Diane interviews Nour Hachem, President and Founder of the national not-for-profit 'Build A Dream'. Nour talks about her background and childhood and moving from Lebanon to Canada. She shares her journey from aspiring to be a human rights lawyer to discovering her passion for the not-for-profit sector, leading her to establish Build A Dream. Nour discusses the challenges and successes in promoting women's engagement in male-dominated sectors such as skilled trades, STEM, and leadership roles. She also emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments for women and the collective effort required to foster a more equitable society. Highlighting powerful personal and professional anecdotes, Nour illustrates the transformative impact of economic independence and the importance of empowering both women and men to break traditional molds and embrace their full potential. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 03:52 University Challenges and Career Shift 05:43 Founding Build A Dream 10:32 Mission and Impact of Build A Dream 25:08 Challenges and Solutions in Male-Dominated Fields 36:20 Success Stories and Future Goals 47:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
10/16/2025

Episode 17 - Dianne Finnigan

Send us Fan Mail Empowering Women in Skilled Trades: Diane Finnegan's Journey In this episode, Diane Finnegan, CEO of The Dirty Seahorse, shares her inspiring journey from being a retail sales manager to founding a company that makes women's workwear for skilled trades. Diane describes how her daughter's challenges in finding suitable workwear sparked the idea, leading her to create a business focused on durable, functional, and comfortable workwear for women. Diane discusses overcoming obstacles like imposter syndrome, learning essential skills from sewing to fabric sourcing, and the importance of community and feedback from women in trades. The company aims not only to produce quality workwear but also to support and advocate for women in trades, highlighting issues like suitable daycare and employer hiring practices. Diane expresses her commitment to changing the industry for the better and her plans for future growth, including a potential storefront. 00:00 Meet Diane Finnegan: CEO of The Dirty Seahorse 03:22 The Birth of The Dirty Seahorse 07:33 Building the Business and Overcoming Doubts 10:26 Community Feedback and Product Development 19:32 Supporting Women in Trades 22:06 Challenges in the Trades 26:11 Social Media and Outreach 27:12 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated 31:13 Final Thoughts and Future Goals
10/01/2025

Episode 16 - Pat Duggan

Send us Fan Mail Breaking Barriers: Pat's Journey in Construction and Leadership In this episode, Pat, shares her inspiring journey from Southeast London to becoming the VP of Major Projects for Bird in Vancouver. Starting with a childhood dream of becoming a policewoman, she pivoted to the construction industry, building a successful 35-year career spanning multiple countries. Pat discusses her early challenges, including her entry into the workforce, and navigating a male-dominated industry. She highlights her career's milestones and later her move to Canada to lead major P3 healthcare projects. Pat also emphasizes the importance of being genuine, working hard, and the value of teamwork. She reflects on her role as executive sponsor of the Women@Bird ERG and shares her aspirations to reach the C-suite level to continue making a positive impact in the industry. 00:00 Meet Patricia: Childhood Dreams and Early Career 05:33 First Steps in Construction 07:03 Career Milestones and Growth 18:14 International Career Moves 26:14 Role at Bird Construction 30:56 Advice for Women in Leadership 32:24 Importance of ERGs 36:16 Reflecting on a 35-Year Career 37:31 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts

Trailer

Episode 0 - Who am I ?

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the debut episode of Building Your Story podcast, hosted by Diane. Diane introduces herself, sharing her background as a project manager in the construction industry, her journey from Paris to the far north of Canada, and her work across various settings over the last nine years. She reflects on the challenges and opportunities she has faced as a woman in construction and unveils the mission of the podcast: to spotlight the inspiring stories of women in the industry—from engineers and CEOs to site superintendents and project managers. Join Diane as she embarks on this journey to celebrate the strength, resilience, and authenticity of women in construction, and invites the audience to contribute and participate in future episodes. 00:00 Welcome to Building Your Story Podcast 01:55 Meet Your Host: Diane's Journey 03:05 Challenges and Triumphs in Construction 03:59 The Mission of Building Your Story 05:17 Join the Conversation

5

out of 5

4 Ratings

Excellent.

11/23/2024

Ivanabhip

Excellent first interview with a impressive engineer. Lots of insightful advice for anyone starting out in our industry. Keep up the good work.

Welcome to Building Your Story, the podcast that shares the stories of successful women in the construction industry.

Creator

Diane Depardon D'Agostino
Years Active

2024 - 2026
Episodes

25
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© 2026 Building Your Story
Show Website

Building Your Story