This is the Sparky Life with Lia Lamela. Thank you for joining me every Thursday for remarkable stories and points of view from journeyman and woman who 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. I share with you my electrical journey, experiences and insight through engaging banter with those I have met along the way. If you are interested in trade tales, an industry frought with excitement and risk subscribe and be notified every Thursday when trade tales continue. We build the world we want to live in. Let’s band together to create the sparks in our lives!
https://the-sparky-life-podcast.mailchimpsites.com/
Gesamtlänge aller Episoden: 1 day 16 hours 48 minutes
episode 72: Waste Water World
In this engaging episode host Lia Lamela sits down with Val and Emily, seasoned wastewater treatment plant operators and returning Sparky Life guests. They discuss the intricacies of wastewater management and highlighting the importance of flushing protocols. These women value their trade, emphasizing their contributions to safety, community, and morale in the workplace...
episode 71: What is a Positive Powerhouse Leader in Electrical with Rudy Right Wire Electric
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...
episode 70: A Single Mother's Electrifying Journey - Andrea O'Connel
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...
episode 69: A New Future for Skilled Trades Education
In this episode, Lia Lamela speaks with Will Betances, a master electrician and founder of Energize Us, about his initiative to transform skilled trades education. Energize Us ia an accredited Not for Profit 501(c)(3) Education Center Trade Pre-Apprenticeship program, training the next generation. A revolution is underway, spearheaded by Energize Us Edu Inc. This visionary institution, Energize Us Edu Inc...
episode 68: Is College Over Rated & Skilled Trades Under Valued?
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...
episode 67: A 12 Year-Old's Unconventional Path
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...
episode 66: Is Electrical Engineering An Art?
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. She emphasizes the importance of representation in STEM, the challenges women face in the field...
episode 65: Follow Up: Heart-Wrenching Events at the Local 26
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...
episode 64: Be Apart of History: A WWII Memorial for Women on the Home Front with Raya Kenney
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...
episode 63: Two Students Stabbed at Local 26 Electrical Training Center: Bullying & Mental Health in the skilled trades
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...