Building Success in the Electrical Contracting Business: Insights from Rudy @Right_Wire_Electric As the host of the Sparky Life podcast, I've had the privilege of speaking with some of the most knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the skilled trades. In this episode, I sit down with Rudy , better known as @Right_Wire_Electric, to delve into his 25-year journey in the electrical contracting business and his unique leadership style. Connect with us: @sparkylifeoflia Connect with our gues...
May 02, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 71
In this episode , Lia Lamela welcomed electrician Andrea O'Connell, who shared her empowering story of transitioning from a struggling single mother to a passionate tradeswoman. Andrea recounted her serendipitous entry into the construction industry, where she discovered a fulfilling career path. She candidly discussed the challenges of balancing motherhood with her apprenticeship and the importance of finding supportive employers. Andrea's determination to succeed in a male-dominated field and ...
Apr 25, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 70
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela interviews Ryan, an 18-year-old entrepreneur and HVAC apprentice. They discuss the urgent need for tradespeople and the opportunities within the HVAC industry. Ryan shares his proactive approach to learning and his plans to obtain multiple trade licenses. They discuss the academic system and encourage exploring various fields, including skilled trades, to find one's passion. Ryan emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and offe...
Apr 11, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 68
Viola Vargas, is 12 years old and already a trailblazer. She started her journey with the trades when she was a toddler and growing up she always loved working with tools with her dad. Viola started with cutting wires, but today she helps her dad with HVAC projects. Not only is she skilled in HVAC but she is an athlete as well, taekwondo, soccer, and track and field. Viola hopes to continue in HVAC as she gets older. She is a proud member of the non for profit Women Pioneers In Unity since Augus...
Apr 04, 2024•26 min•Season 2Ep. 67
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, Lia speaks with electrical engineer Ayesha Wilson about her career and advocacy for STEM outreach. Ayesha shares her inspiration from astronaut Kalpana Chawla and her path to circuit design. Ayesha's dedication to teaching and mentorship shines through as she discusses breaking down academic gatekeeping and the value of collaboration between different skill sets in engineering. Ayesha is an Electrical Engineer committed to climate-focused technology so...
Mar 28, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 66
In our latest episode on March 7, 2024, Two Students Stabbed at Local 26 Electrical Training Center: Bullying and Mental Health in the skilled trades we discussed the tragic events which occurred on Feb 13th 2024 in Manassa, VA. In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast we follow up on the heart-wrenching events that have shaken our community at Local 26. I sat down with a courageous member of our team, who, for their safety, remains anonymous, to discuss the recent tragedies that have left us ...
Mar 21, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 65
In this Sparky Life episode Raya Kenney discusses her 11-year journey building a Memorial for Women On The Home Front during World War II, emphasizing visibility and recognition for their contributions. She details the project's design, fundraising needs, and educational goals. Raya highlights the importance of mentorship, community, and advocating for gender equity in skilled trades. The conversation addresses overcoming challenges, imposter syndrome, and the significance of self-worth. Raya in...
Mar 14, 2024•30 min•Season 2Ep. 64
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, Lia Lamela and guests Dr. Talia Jackson and Douglas Jensen from the We're Not Fine podcast discuss a stabbing incident at the local 26 JATC in Manassas, Virginia. They talk about the serious issues of bullying and mental health within the construction industry, reflecting on the culture that may contribute to such tragedies. The conversation underscores the need for a more inclusive and supportive workplace in the skilled trades. Lia's personal connect...
Mar 07, 2024•42 min•Season 2Ep. 63
In this podcast episode, Chris Guyatt, a building automation expert, and Lia Lamela, talk about the lucrative and evolving field of building automation. Chris outlines the business potential, emphasizing the importance of branding, marketing, and understanding electrical controls. He also shares a step-by-step learning path for newcomers, stressing the significance of hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in electrical schematics. The electrical industry is changing. Chris explains lear...
Feb 29, 2024•34 min•Season 2Ep. 62
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela talks with Cate, a second-year apprentice carpenter from British Columbia, about the challenges and experiences of women in the skilled trades. Cate discusses her transition from administrative work to carpentry, and the importance of self-confidence. They address the balance between strength and softness. Cate discloses how after leaving school, she had to learn a lot about the real world of construction. Her goal is to achieve the red...
Feb 22, 2024•43 min•Season 2Ep. 61
Live Panel is a new modern platform where leaders in the skilled trades discuss compelling issues facing the construction industry. Live Panel shares remarkable stories and points of view of how journeyman and woman build the things that make our lives work! These lessons learned are not only valuable for those engaged in the skilled trades but frankly for all of us whether we use tools literally or figuratively in our daily lives. Your hosts on Live Panel Sparky, Lia Lamela host of Sparky Life ...
Feb 15, 2024•39 min•Season 2Ep. 60
Did you know that 1 in 5 women prefer to work with men over other women? We dove deep into this curious statistic and explored the challenges of women supporting women in spaces where we're still breaking ground. Our guest Bogi is a committed automotive industry advocate, dealer-trained BMW and ASE master certified technician, and a fierce proponent for inspiring women to pursue opportunities within the automotive and skilled trade industries. Her desire to do more for promoting, empowering and ...
Feb 08, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 59
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks to Jeff Naeem, the owner of a New Jersey-based junk removal company. Jeff shares his journey from working in financial services to starting his own business in the skilled trades. He discusses the challenges of obtaining a license in New Jersey, the day-to-day operations of his company, and the importance of treating employees well to ensure high-quality service. He also shares unique and wild situations he's encountered, particu...
Feb 01, 2024•25 min•Season 2Ep. 58
This is Sparky Life's One Year Anniversary! I just want to thank all the listeners. I am so grateful to you; Sparky Life would never be able to serve the skilled trades community on the level it has if it wasn't for you. You have helped Sparky Life introduce the skilled trades to people who had no idea all the opportunities available to them within these career paths. You have helped create a safe space for women in the skilled trades. You have helped debunk myths and stereotypes in the skilled ...
Jan 26, 2024•1 min•Season 2Ep. 61
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela interviews Shana Francesca, a life designer and CEO of Concinnate LLC, about her unique background making her an expert on transformative leadership. We discuss the impact of toxic leadership in the construction industry, with Shana advocating for intentional and ethical leadership practices. The construction industry, stands at a crossroads between outdated, toxic leadership practices and a future of ethical, intentional leadership. Sh...
Jan 25, 2024•28 min•Season 1Ep. 57
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with Bettina, founder of Women in FIFO, about her experiences in the mining industry. They discuss the challenges women face, such as sexual harassment and underrepresentation, and the financial benefits of FIFO roles. Bettina shares her journey in the industry and how she achieved financial stability as a single mother. The conversation highlights the importance of support networks, mentorship, and maintaining femininity in the ...
Jan 18, 2024•28 min•Season 1Ep. 56
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...
Jan 11, 2024•35 min
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...
Jan 04, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 55
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, prope...
Dec 28, 2023•56 min•Season 1Ep. 54
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 debunki...
Dec 21, 2023•56 min•Season 1Ep. 53
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 ...
Dec 14, 2023•38 min•Season 1Ep. 52
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. Conne...
Dec 07, 2023•36 min•Season 1Ep. 51
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 ap...
Nov 30, 2023•48 min•Season 1Ep. 50
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 positi...
Nov 23, 2023•25 min•Season 1Ep. 49
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 ...
Nov 16, 2023•33 min•Season 1Ep. 48
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 ...
Nov 09, 2023•34 min•Season 1Ep. 47
In this episode of the Sparky Live podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with author Simone Stolzoff about his book "The Good Enough Job." They discuss the concept of finding meaning outside of work and the observations Simone has made about blue collar and white collar workers. Simone shares his perspective on work, emphasizing that it shouldn't be the sole measure of self-worth. He explores the idea of a "good enough job" and contrasts it with a dream job, highlighting the importance of recognizing ...
Nov 02, 2023•32 min•Season 1Ep. 46
In this podcast episode of the Sparky Life, host Lia Lamela discusses the importance of mental health in the construction industry. Joined by guests Dr. Talia Jackson and Douglas Jensen, they explore the benefits of therapy and challenge the stigma surrounding it. They emphasize that therapy is not just for those in crisis but can support personal growth and well-being. We also discuss the misrepresentation of skilled trades and the need for empowerment and validation within the industry. They e...
Oct 26, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 45
In this podcast episode, Lia Lamela speaks with Coach Ike, a successful general contractor and founder of Prime to Rise. They discuss Coach Ike's background in the construction industry and his passion for serving others. Coach Ike shares his experience in the skilled trades, emphasizing the value of trade-specific education and the financial opportunities available. They debunk misconceptions about the construction industry, highlighting the potential for growth and advancement. They also discu...
Oct 19, 2023•51 min•Season 1Ep. 44
In this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela speaks with Alexis Armstrong, a geologist and host of the Smoko Podcast. Alexis shares her experiences working on a deep-sea drilling vessel and her passion for representing women in STEM and skilled trades. They discuss the barriers and biases faced by women in these fields, the origin of the name "Smoko" for Alexis' podcast, and the differences in gender representation and support between Canada, Australia, and the United States. Alex...
Oct 12, 2023•42 min•Season 1Ep. 43
