Life Of A Female Tradie
Life Of A Female Tradie
Podcast Description
Showcasing females in construction, from being on the tools to being in the corporate world. Female decorators, plasterers, plumbers, carpenters, brickies, electricians, kitchen fitters, builders, trade counter managers, CEOs and many roles in between, all filled by a female within the industry. Time to hear their story and have a good chat.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes such as the experiences of women in various trades, mental health issues, work-life balance, and community support. Episodes include discussions on the transition from decorating to health coaching by Sharon Norton-Marshall, the art of stonemasonry with Rosie, and the challenges of being a self-employed decorator with Joanne Hay. Key areas of focus include emotional support, dietary health impacts on tradespeople, and the dynamics of working in family businesses.

Real stories. Real tools. Real women.
Welcome to Life Of A Female Tradie — the podcast that gives voice to the women breaking ground in the trades. We share the honest, gritty, and inspiring journeys of female tradies thriving in a male-dominated industry.
Each episode features real conversations with women in construction and the skilled trades, tackling topics like apprenticeships, jobsite culture, career progression, mental health, physical demands, tools of the trade, and what it really takes to build a future in the field.
Whether you’re already on the tools, just getting started, or curious about what it’s like to be a woman in the trades — this podcast is your crew. We’re building each other up and breaking barriers with every episode.
What does it take to reinvent your career and step into the trades later in life?
Laura Bartlett shares how she transitioned from a long career in event management to building a successful business as a handywoman. In this episode, she talks about the realities of becoming self-employed in the skilled trades, the lessons she learned starting over, and how she uses social media marketing to grow her business and attract customers.
Laura also discusses the importance of health and resilience when working in physically demanding trade roles, as well as the mindset required to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her story highlights the empowerment that comes with learning practical skills, taking control of your career, and proving that it’s never too late to change direction.
This episode is packed with insights for women in trades, aspiring handywomen, and anyone considering self-employment. Laura also shares practical advice on building confidence, managing work-life balance, and the power of community support among tradespeople.
Key Takeaways
- Laura transitioned from a 27-year career in event management to becoming a handywoman.
- She found her passion for DIY and home improvement through personal projects.
- Networking and community support have been crucial in her journey.
- Social media is an effective tool for marketing her services.
- Health and wellness are important considerations in the trades.
- Laura emphasizes the importance of having the right insurance and business setup.
- She enjoys upcycling and helping clients see the potential in old furniture.
- The satisfaction of completing a job is a significant motivator for her.
- Laura encourages others to pursue their dreams, regardless of age.
- She aims to inspire young girls to enter the trades.
Follow me:
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast
Follow Guest:
Instagram: she.iy_sos
Facebook: SHE-IY SOS
LinkdIn: Laura Bartlett
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties
02:46 Background and Career Transition
05:45 Starting as a Handywoman
08:32 Types of Work and Skills Development
11:45 Challenges of Self-Employment
14:40 Health and Wellness in Trades
18:29 Social Media and Marketing Strategies
23:39 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights
44:45 Thank you's
Thank you for listening!
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Thanks Again!

Disclaimer
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