Sparky Life

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/

Eine durchschnittliche Folge dieses Podcasts dauert 32m. Bisher sind 75 Folge(n) erschienen. Dieser Podcast erscheint wöchentlich.

Gesamtlänge aller Episoden: 1 day 16 hours 48 minutes

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episode 58: What is Junk-A-Haulics?


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...


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 February 1, 2024  25m
 
 

episode 59: Are Women Really Supporting One Another In the Skilled Trades?


We are revving up the conversation, in this episode of the Sparky Life podcast, host Lia Lamela and guest Bogi Lateiner discuss the underrepresentation of women in skilled trades and the challenges they face in industries like automotive mechanics. They explore why women may hesitate to support each other, citing a lack of female mentors and visibility. The conversation covers the impact of social media, the need for diversity, and the importance of certifications for credibility...


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 February 8, 2024  37m
 
 

episode 60: Ladies in Leadership Focus on Construction Industry Issues: Live Panel


I am so excited to share a new project I created with two lovely ladies Live Panel coming every third Wednesday of the month. Live Panel is a new modern platform where leaders in the skilled trades discuss compelling issues facing the construction industry...


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 February 15, 2024  38m
 
 

episode 61: New Sparky Life Trailer: In Honor of Our One Year Anniversary


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...


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 January 26, 2024  1m
 
 

episode 61: Who Are the Mentors For The Next Generation?


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...


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 February 22, 2024  42m
 
 

episode 62: Build a Successful Career in Building Automation


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...


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 February 29, 2024  34m
 
 

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...


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 March 7, 2024  41m
 
 

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...


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 March 14, 2024  30m
 
 

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...


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 March 21, 2024  31m
 
 

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...


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 March 28, 2024  30m
 
 
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