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 54: What Are The Secrets In The Switch Yards?
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...
episode 53: How To Rewire Your Future?
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...
episode 52: Revolutionizing Women's Workwear
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...
episode 51: Making Money In The Skilled Trades
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...
episode 50: What Are The Wildest Worksite Stories?
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...
episode 49: Big Things Can Come in Small Packages
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...
episode 48: Can Career Exploration Lead to Unexpected Opportunities?
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...
episode 47: Does Rosie the Riveter Legacy Live On?
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...
episode 46: Discovering the Good Enough Job: with author Simone Stolzoff
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...
episode 45: Changing the Narrative About Therapy In Skilled Trades
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...