Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE - Use code SL5 for 5% off! Code applies to purchases under $1,000 and first time buyers.
What if quitting your corporate job to swing a hammer could make you MORE money? Christina, @christina_nomadak, ditched her sales career to become a union carpenter—and now runs her own successful construction business. In this episode, she's breaking down the REAL path from paycheck-to-paycheck to building wealth in the trades, including the cash flow mistakes that almost tanked her business and why unions are the secret weapon nobody talks about.
Check out Christina's company Home Nomadak Builds
What You'll Learn:
What's the biggest AI enhancing trade business using instant video? Check out the tool that improves estimates and customer satisfaction LiveSwitch
www.liveswitch.com
Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE - Use code SL5 for 5% off! Code applies to purchases under $1,000 and first time buyers.
March 2023 marked a turning point for Sparky Life Podcast. In this reflective episode, Lia revisits her conversation with Dustin Stelzer , creator of Electrician U who was a guest on the Sparky Life Podcast show Women In the Trades: Is It Even An Issue, and examines how much has evolved in just two years—both personally and industry-wide. This episode explores why this generation demands better work environments, and what it really takes to retain women in the trades. From proving yourself to building legacy—this is the evolution we need.
Key Topics Covered:
Timestamps:
CHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE @sparkylifeoflia
Welcome to The Sparky Life Podcast, where we celebrate careers in skilled trades with your host, Lia Lamela.
This episode is brought to you by SupplyHouse.com, your trusted source for reliable inventory, friendly customer service, and fast shipping from coast to coast. Check out supplyhouse.com/tm today and explore their Trade Masters program, offering free shipping and order discounts.
In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Eduardo Felix Diaz, a Senior Controls Tech at Johnson Controls, with over two decades of experience. Eduardo is known for his sense of humor and ability to spark debate, which was evident when he reacted to one of Lia’s reels. With his extensive background in HVAC controls, Eduardo shares insights about the complexity and specialization of his field, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of working in service roles.
Quotes:
Follow Lia Lamela:
Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE - Use code SL5 for 5% off! Code applies to purchases under $1,000 and first time buyers.
If you're tired of dead-end jobs, paycheck-to-paycheck living, or wondering how to escape poverty without going into massive student debt - this episode is for you.
In this episode hear about:
Poverty Problem Nobody Talks About
Concetta Gets Electrocuted Into Her Career
The Union Advantage - 3 Pensions and Full Benefits
Why Women Belong in Construction
Your escape route from dead-end jobs. Brought to you by SupplyHouse.com - Real inventory. Real humans. Real solutions for trade professionals.
If you would like to hear Concetta's full story you can listen to: Why Skilled Trades Are The Best Careers for Women In 2024?
Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE - Use code SL5 for 5% off! Code applies to purchases under $1,000 and first time buyers.
What if the difference between earning $100K or $500K in the trades had nothing to do with your tools, speed, or skill? In this episode of The Sparky Life, Lia talks with Patricia Oholeguy, a bookkeeping expert who helps contractors and tradespeople turn financial chaos into clarity.
Find Patricia here - www.claritycompassllc.com
From QuickBooks headaches to cashflow mistakes, Patricia reveals how mastering your money is the real secret weapon in growing a sustainable business. Whether you’re an electrician, plumber, HVAC tech, or GC, this episode shows you how to stop winging it and start winning with your numbers.
We talk about:
• Why trades pros avoid bookkeeping (and pay for it later)
• The hidden habits of six-figure and seven-figure contractors
• How to fix your financial foundation without becoming an accountant
• When to delegate and hire a bookkeeper
• The mindset shift from “I hate numbers” to “I run my numbers”
If you want to stop leaving money on the table, this conversation could change your entire career.
⸻
🎧 Listen now to learn how to build a smarter, stronger trade business — and finally take control of your money.
💪 Sponsored by:
SupplyHouse.com — Get 5% off your next order with promo code SL5.
Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE - Use code SL5 for 5% off! Code applies to purchases under $1,000 and first time buyers.
This episode of Tool Time with Lia, I breakdown two essential tools for electricians: the Milwaukee Knockout Tool and the Milwaukee Rotary Hammer. We go over the features, usage, and benefits of each tool, emphasizing the importance of proper technique and safety. I share personal anecdotes and insights on how these tools can enhance efficiency and craftsmanship on the job site, ultimately helping electricians make informed decisions about their tool investments.
Takeaways These two are the tool tools. The Milwaukee Knockout Tool is essential for electricians and the Rotary Hammer is versatile for different tasks. Choosing the right tool can save you money.
Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE — Use code SL5 for 5% off!
When disaster strikes, everyone sees the firefighters and first responders—but what about the invisible guardians who prevent tragedy in the first place?
This episode shines a spotlight on fire alarm electricians: the unsung heroes who make sure alarms sound, exits light up, and lives are protected 24/7. Every school, hospital, and office tower depends on their work—even if nobody realizes it.
What You’ll Discover:
Ready to Trade Up Your Life?
If you want a career where your work matters—and pays—this episode is your blueprint. Discover how to join the ranks of these invisible heroes and finally escape the dead-end job grind.
Action Steps:
Welcome back to The Sparky Life! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of solar energy in residential sectors with our special guest, Chessa Trimble. Is solar a scam? Is it truly beneficial for the environment? Join us as we explore the pros and cons of solar panel installation and discuss whether it's a viable career path in the electrical industry.
Chessa shares her insights on the current state of solar technology, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the challenges homeowners face when considering solar panels. We also touch on the impact of solar farms and the importance of understanding the true costs and benefits of solar energy.
Whether you're a homeowner contemplating solar panels or an electrician curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable information. We encourage you to do your research and consider all factors before making a decision.
Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful discussions! If you want to hear from solar experts or have questions about solar energy, let us know in the comments below!
Quotes:
1 - "They've sold it under this label of like, green, of course has to be the word because that sounds appealing."
2 - "Just because something's an investment doesn't mean it's a good investment."
Timestamps:
Resources Mentioned:
✅ Follow Chessa:
💥 Chessa Trimble - @romex_queen
✅ Follow Lia Lamela:
💥 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lia-lamela-820a33155
💥 Website: https://sparkylifesolutionsllc.com
💥 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparkylifeoflia/
💥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesparkylifepodcast
💥 YouTube: @sparkylifeoflia
Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey through the trades. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us in our next episode. 😊😇
Create the sparks in your life!
In this episode of the Sparky Life Podcast, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of the skilled trades industry. With a significant labor deficit and a shift in how we identify and nurture talent, it's crucial to rethink our approach to recruitment and leadership development.
Join us as we discuss:
Whether you're an employer looking to build the right crew or a skilled tradesperson seeking to advance your career, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice.
Don't forget to check out our free ebook on building the right crew at Sparky Life Solutions LLC and learn more about our sponsor, SupplyHouse.com, for all your electrical needs!
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe for more content that sparks inspiration in your life!
Timestamps:
00:01:38 - The Right Crew for You
00:02:54 - Labor Deficit in Skilled Trades
00:04:54 - Thank You to Our Sponsor
00:05:05 - Job Openings vs. Skilled Workers
00:06:36 - Perceptions of Skilled Trades
00:08:12 - The Power Shift to Workers
00:09:38 - High Turnover Rates in Construction
00:11:04 - The Cost of Turnover
00:12:18 - Demanding Fair Compensation
00:13:40 - Recruitment Challenges
00:14:18 - Attracting and Retaining Talent
00:15:22 - Changing Perspectives on Skilled Trades
00:16:51 - The Value of Skilled Trades
00:18:40 - Advantages of Hard Skills
00:20:22 - Entry-Level Wages and Rapid Advancement
00:22:30 - The Importance of Investing in Employees
00:24:50 - Misconceptions About Pay in Skilled Trades
00:26:05 - Recruitment Strategies for Employers
00:27:30 - Training Green Employees
00:29:00 - Creating a Skilled Workforce
00:30:57 - Competing for Talent
00:32:14 - The Right People vs. The Best People
00:33:28 - Staying Competitive with Wages
00:34:49 - Feedback from Current and Former Employees
00:36:20 - Job Fairs and Recruitment Events
00:37:03 - Using Podcasts for Recruitment
00:38:20 - Quality of Practice Over Time
00:39:32 - Attracting Passionate Workers
00:41:06 - Building a Supportive Company Culture
00:43:16 - Understanding Workforce Values
00:44:53 - Flexibility in the Workplace
00:47:09 - Conclusion and Call to Action
Quotes:
1 - "The tables have turned. Now is the time. You want to demand salary raises? Do it."
2 - "You can offer them both immediate wage without debt, hard skills training and advancement within a reasonable timeframe."
✅ Follow Lia Lamela:
💥 Website: https://sparkylifesolutionsllc.com
💥 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparkylifeoflia/
💥 YouTube: @sparkylifeoflia
Create the sparks in your life!
Welcome to this week's episode of The Sparky Life! Join your host, Lia Lamela, as she dives into a controversial topic in the construction industry: the stigmas surrounding construction workers and their behavior on job sites.
In this episode, Leah discusses a shocking story about a homeowner who discovered that the construction crew was urinating inside her new house. She explores the implications of this behavior, the challenges of maintaining professionalism in the industry, and the importance of setting higher standards for construction practices.
Lia also shares her personal experiences on construction sites, the struggles of finding proper restroom facilities, and the need for better accommodations for all workers.
Topics Covered:
The stigma attached to blue-collar work
A homeowner's shocking discovery during a house build
The importance of proper restroom facilities on construction sites
How to raise standards in the construction industry
Personal anecdotes and community reactions
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Welcome to the Sparky Life
00:00:21 Common Theme in Construction
00:00:43 Am I the Asshole Construction Episode
00:01:25 Am I the Asshole if I Complain About the Construction Crew
00:02:19 Story Introduction
00:02:40 Inspection Report
00:03:54 Project Manager's Reaction
00:04:37 Stigmas in Construction
00:05:51 Annoyance and Disgust
00:06:13 Port-a-John Availability
00:06:56 Project Manager's Attitude
00:07:29 Husband's Perspective
00:08:00 W-I-B-T-A
00:08:53 Edit One
00:09:16 Edit Two
00:10:20 Sponsor Break
00:10:32 Unacceptable Behavior
00:12:06 Comments on the Situation
00:13:45 Project Manager's Acceptance of Standards
00:14:45 Importance of Craftsmanship
00:15:27 Homeowner's Rights
00:16:55 Accountability in the Industry
00:17:37 Raising Standards
00:18:31 Labeling Effect
00:20:40 Conclusion
Quotes:
"Our very expensive forever house now kind of feels like a 4,000 square foot litter box." - 00:07:17
"If you put a positive label on them, men will step up to the challenge." - 00:20:18
Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that spark conversations about the builders of our civilization!
Sponsor: A special thanks to our sponsor, SupplyHouse.com, for providing top-notch customer service and a vast inventory of construction supplies. Check them out for your next project!
www.supplyhouse.com/t-m
Tune in every Thursday for more insights and stories from the world of construction!
Welcome to this exciting episode. Join the world of motorsports with Crew Chief Eric, the owner of Grand Touring Motorsports and the Motoring Podcast Network.
In this episode, Lia and Eric discuss the fascinating intersections between motorsports and skilled trades, exploring how both fields require teamwork, specialized skills, and a passion for building and repairing. Eric shares his personal journey from growing up in a car-loving family to becoming a race car mechanic and coach, highlighting the many career opportunities within the motorsport industry.
Discover the importance of community in both motorsports and construction, and how collaboration can lead to success. Lia and Eric also touch on the challenges women face in male-dominated spaces, the significance of mentorship, and the need for more diversity in racing.
Whether you're a gear-head or just curious about the mechanics behind racing, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and a whole lot of passion for the craft. Tune in to learn how you can become more confident in your driving skills and appreciate the intricate world of motorsports!
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring content from The Sparky Life!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
00:01:06 - Meet Crew Chief Eric
00:02:12 - The Origins of Grand Touring Motorsports (GTM)
00:04:24 - Building a Community in Motorsports
00:06:34 - Correlations Between Motorsports and Construction
00:10:03 - Stereotypes in Mechanics and Construction
00:12:26 - The Importance of Skills Over Certifications
00:14:03 - The Adrenaline of Racing
00:18:04 - Understanding the Racing Experience
00:20:46 - Learning to Drive: A Different Perspective
00:24:28 - Women in Racing: Breaking Stereotypes
00:30:04 - The Role of Teamwork in Motorsports
00:32:13 - Danica Patrick and the Female Perspective in Racing
00:38:32 - The Need for More Women in Motorsports
00:41:10 - Driving by Feel vs. Data
00:44:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Quotes:
"If you can swing a hammer, you can turn a wrench." - 00:13:3
"You guys are, it's a gross generalization, more sensitive; you feel more than the guys do." - 00:43:00
Links:
Check out Grand Touring Motorsports: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/
Check out Motoring Podcast Network: https://motoringpodcast.net/
Follow Eric on social media: @grantouringmotorsports
Support our sponsor, SupplyHouse: www.supplyhouse.com/t-m
#Motorsports #SkilledTrades #WomenInRacing #TheSparkyLife #Podcast #Construction #Teamwork #CareerOpportunities
Welcome back to another episode of The Sparky Life! Join your host, Lia Lamela, as she shares three hilarious and eye-opening trade tales from the world of construction.
In this episode, Lia dives into the challenges faced by blue-collar workers, including a shocking story about a port-a-potty nightmare, a frustrating encounter with a clueless boss, and a plumbing disaster that takes an unexpected turn.
Whether you're a seasoned tradesperson or just curious about the construction industry, these stories will resonate with anyone who's ever faced the ups and downs of working in the field.
Don't forget to check out our sponsor, SupplyHouse.com, for all your electrical needs with real customer service from real people!
If you enjoy the episode, please like, subscribe, and share your own trade tales with us. Let's keep the conversation going and create the sparks in your life!
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:11 - Sponsor Message: SupplyHouse.com
00:54 - Trade Tale 1: Port-a-Potty Woes
03:37 - Trade Tale 2: The Big Boss Blunder
10:52 - Trade Tale 3: Jim's Plumbing Fiasco
21:48 - Conclusion
Quotes:
"I packed up my stuff and left. He didn't say another word to me." - 00:11:02
"What are you gonna do? He sneaks out the window on the roof, shimmies down somehow, and drives away?" - 00:20:28
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes!
Follow us on social media:
💥 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lia-lamela-820a33155
💥 Website: https://sparkylifesolutionsllc.com
💥 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparkylifeoflia/
💥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesparkylifepodcast
💥 YouTube: @sparkylifeoflia
We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us in our next episode. 😊😇
Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE — Use code SL5 for 5% off!
Ever wake up and wonder, “Is this really all there is?” You’re grinding, you’re exhausted, and yet it feels like everyone else is racing ahead while you’re stuck in place. Here’s the truth: you’re not lazy, you’re just misaligned—and it’s time to break free.
In this episode of The Sparky Life Podcast, Lia gets brutally honest about what it really feels like to hit rock bottom, why feeling stuck is actually a signal (not a curse), and the exact mindset shifts that can turn your career around. You’ll hear Lia’s own story of escaping dead-end jobs, the mistakes that nearly broke her, and how she built a life and career she’s proud of—without a fancy degree or “following her passion.”
If you’re ready for zero-BS advice, real talk about skilled trades, and a blueprint for getting unstuck, this is your episode.
Welcome back to The Sparky Life! In this electrifying episode, host Lia Lamela sits down with fire protection guru Chad Tester. With a background that spans various aspects of fire safety, Chad shares his journey from commercial fishing to becoming a fire protection expert.
Join us as we dive into:
Chad's unique path into the skilled trades and how he discovered his passion for fire protection.
The importance of hands-on experience in the trades and how it shapes your career.
The value of interpersonal skills in the construction industry and how to effectively communicate with clients.
Insights on the challenges faced in the industry, including the stigma surrounding skilled trades.
The significance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in elevating the fire protection community.
Chad also opens up about his personal journey, discussing the impact of overcoming addiction and finding purpose in his work. This episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on the skilled trades.
00:00:00 - Introduction to Chad Tester and Fire Protection
00:01:14 - Chad's Journey into Fire Protection
00:02:36 - Starting in the Trades: From Fishing to Fire
00:05:16 - Finding Your Path in Skilled Trades
00:07:27 - The Value of Vocational Training
00:10:07 - Challenges and Growth in Fire Protection
00:11:31 - Continuous Learning and Licensing
00:13:11 - Understanding the Importance of Fire Protection
00:14:15 - Service Calls: Real-World Experiences
00:18:16 - Training and Knowledge Sharing in the Industry
00:20:59 - The Importance of Soft Skills in Construction
00:22:04 - Breaking Stereotypes in the Trades
00:24:04 - The Impact of Social Media on Networking
00:26:04 - Job Security and Opportunities in Fire Protection
00:30:34 - Addressing Challenges in the Industry
00:32:08 - The Power of Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
00:36:00 - Personal Growth and Finding Purpose
00:38:26 - Catalysts for Change: Personal Stories
00:42:58 - Encouragement for Those Struggling
00:45:45 - Conclusion and Resources for Further Contact
Quotes:
"I could never expect an 18-year-old kid to know what they want to do with the rest of their life and then to ask to put them into all this debt." - 00:06:31
"You have to do it for yourself. You have to wake up and go, you know what? I want to change, and I want to be a better person." - 00:38:20
Check out SupplyHouse.com for all your electrical and fire protection needs!
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes!
Follow us on social media:
💥 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lia-lamela-820a33155
💥 Website: https://sparkylifesolutionsllc.com
💥 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparkylifeoflia/
💥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesparkylifepodcast
💥 YouTube: @sparkylifeoflia
We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us in our next episode. 😊😇
This podcast episode features a discussion between Lia Lamela and Coach Ike, a construction industry veteran, focusing on the challenges and nuances of working in construction, particularly the relationship between tradespeople and superintendents.
The conversation highlights how important it is to understand the pressures and perspectives of everyone on a job site. Coach Ike shares his experiences and insights on leadership, communication, and how to navigate difficult situations and people.
00:00:00 - Introduction to Coach Ike and the Podcast
Welcome back to the Sparky Life with Leah LaMela and guest Coach Ike, discussing superintendents in construction.
00:01:04 - Sponsor Message: SupplyHouse
A quick word from the sponsor, SupplyHouse.com, highlighting their services and inventory.
00:01:41 - Coach Ike's Experience in Construction
Lia introduces Coach Ike and his extensive experience in the construction industry.
00:02:38 - Learning from Mistakes
Discussion on the importance of learning from failures and sharing personal experiences.
00:03:39 - Coach Ike's Early Blunder
Coach Ike shares a story from his early days as a superintendent and a mistake he made.
00:05:42 - Understanding Superintendents
Lia reflects on her experiences with superintendents and the common misconceptions about them.
00:06:54 - Frustrations on the Job Site
Lia shares her frustrations with a subcontractor during a fire alarm installation project.
00:09:34 - Identifying Poor Leadership
Lia asks Coach Ike how to identify ineffective superintendents and their leadership styles.
00:10:58 - The Coffee Bean Analogy
Coach Ike discusses the importance of maintaining a positive attitude despite challenges.
00:12:56 - Navigating Relationships with Superintendents
Advice on building rapport with superintendents and understanding their perspectives.
00:17:02 - The Role of Superintendents
Leah shares insights from a YouTube video about the responsibilities and challenges faced by superintendents.
00:19:21 - Handling Ethical Dilemmas
Discussion on how to respond to unethical requests from superintendents or higher-ups.
00:24:11 - Maintaining Integrity in the Industry
Coach Ike emphasizes the importance of integrity and reputation in construction.
00:28:04 - Opportunities in the Construction Industry
Leah talks about the abundance of job opportunities in the construction field.
00:30:18 - Effective Communication Strategies
Coach Ike shares tips on how to communicate effectively with superintendents and team members.
00:32:17 - Asking the Right Questions
Advice on how to ask questions that elicit valuable information from superintendents.
00:40:16 - Dealing with "Yesing"
Strategies for handling situations where team members agree without taking action.
Join Lia Lamela on The Sparky Life as she interviews Jack Teetor, the creator of the documentary, Blind Logic: The Ralph Teetor Story. This captivating film tells the inspiring story of Ralph Teetor, a man whose life intertwined with the birth of the American automobile age and the industrial revolution.
Discover the extraordinary journey of Ralph Teetor, who despite losing his sight at the age of five, became a leader in the automotive industry. His parents raised him to believe he was not handicapped, which allowed him to develop his other senses and pursue his passions for mechanics and engineering.
00:00:00 - Introduction to Ralph Teetor and Blind Logic
00:02:58 - Ralph Teetor: An American Icon
00:04:15 - The Impact of Blindness on Ralph's Life
00:06:10 - Early Engineering Feats
00:08:01 - The Making of the Documentary
00:10:08 - Historical Accuracy and the Growth of the Automobile Industry
00:12:12 - Ralph Teetor's Impact on his Community
00:13:52 - The Rise of Unions and Labor Relations
00:15:56 - Union Strikes and the Mafia's Influence
00:17:40 - Martial Law and Employee Loyalty
00:19:02 - The Value of Good Leadership
00:20:32 - Ralph Teetor's Visionary Thinking
00:21:06 - The Meaning of "Blind Logic"
00:22:01 - Distribution of the Documentary
00:23:59 - Ralph's Legacy and Parallels to the Modern Automobile Industry
This episode offers a sneak peek into an inspiring documentary about an extraordinary man. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of the automobile, leadership, and the power of vision and determination.
For more information visit - www.blindlogicproductions.com
Thanks to our sponsor! - www.supplyhouse.com
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to The Sparky Life for more stories about the builders of our civilization!
Every skilled professional needs the right tools to succeed → Get the right tool for YOU at SUPPLY HOUSE — Use code SL5 for 5% off!
🎧 In this episode:
This week on Sparky Life, we’re breaking barriers — and glass ceilings — with Jennifer Harrison, Vice President of Merchandising at SupplyHouse. Jennifer didn’t apply for her executive role. Her CEO created the position for her after one conversation. In a field where less than 7% of leadership roles are held by women, her story is not just rare — it’s revolutionary.
💥 Inside the episode:
• The moment her leadership potential was spotted — before she saw it in herself
• Why introverts make exceptional leaders in construction
• The power of writing your own “permission slip”
• What it really takes to lead in a male-dominated industry
• How to smash through imposter syndrome
• The “old school” leadership style that’s keeping good people silent — and how to change it
• Why SupplyHouse has one of the most collaborative, modern cultures in construction
• Her advice to the shy, quiet woman who doesn’t see her own potential (yet)
This episode is a masterclass in transformative leadership — and a permission slip for every woman who thinks she has to wait to be chosen. You don’t. You already are.
⸻
⏱ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Welcome to Sparky Life
00:17 – Only 6% of Leadership Roles Are Held by Women
00:26 – How Jennifer’s CEO Created Her VP Role
01:10 – From Introvert to Executive
02:51 – Do Women Wait Too Long to Lead?
06:40 – Writing Yourself a Permission Slip
07:46 – Women Leading Differently: Transformational vs Transactional
10:45 – Leah’s Journey from Shy to Leading Crews
11:37 – Why Presence in a Room Matters
12:09 – Building Culture at SupplyHouse
14:11 – Why Chasing Money Isn’t the Goal
15:17 – If You’re at a Toxic Company: Leave
17:05 – Mistakes, Pivots, and CEO-Level Support
20:00 – Gaining Confidence as a Leader
23:30 – Why Collaboration Is So Rare in Construction
24:11 – Gatekeeping, Fear, and the 2008 Scarcity Mindset
26:22 – How to Build a Team That Speaks Up
29:02 – A Message for Shy Women With Big Potential
31:53 – “Leadership Is a Choice, Not a Title.”
38:39 – Final Words of Empowerment
39:36 – The Sparky Life: Subscribe & Share!
👇 Follow for more blue collar badassery every Thursday!
SPARKY LIFE Podcast on SPOTIFY
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👇 WATCH the episodes on YOUTUBE!
SPARKY LIFE on YOUTUBE
⸻
📲 Stay Connected:
Instagram: @sparkylifeoflia
TikTok: @sparkylifeoflia
⸻
🛠 Huge thanks to our sponsor: SupplyHouse
Get the best tools & supplies → www.supplyhouse.com
Use code SL5 for 5% off!
Welcome to the Sparky Life! We welcome Jonathan Cinelli, a strategic construction broker and licensed electrician with three decades of experience, to discuss how to rebuild the foundation of the construction industry.
In this episode, Jonathan addresses the toxic culture within the construction industry and shares his forward-thinking approach to business, which disrupts traditional toxicity and transactionalism.
00:00:00 - Introduction: The Construction Industry Crisis.
00:02:55 - Introducing Jonathan Cinelli: Rebuilding Construction.
00:03:58 - Jonathan's Background and Leadership Approach.
00:06:57 - Encouraging Understanding & Supporting People.
00:16:58 - Building Trust & Team Dynamics.
00:20:37 - Addressing Flaws: Change Orders & Communication.
00:26:59 - Creative Solutions: Food, Connection, and Culture.
00:33:25 - Changing the Culture: A People-First Approach.
00:39:06 - Qualities of a Great Leader.
00:40:02 - Contact Information and Closing.
Follow Jonathan here - @jonathanacinelli
Thanks to our sponsor SupplyHouse! - Visit www.supplyhouse.com/t-m
🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE 👍, COMMENT 💬, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 for more motivation & success tips!
📲 Follow me on social media for more adventures:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourconstructionnetwork
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesparkylifepodcast
BRUTAL TRUTH ALERT: After 30+ years climbing from carpenter to superintendent to business owner, Barb Allen is dropping BOMBS about why women are still fighting for respect in construction! 💥
This isn't your typical "women in trades" fluff piece - this is RAW, UNFILTERED reality from someone who's been in the trenches and boardrooms. Barb reveals the hidden sabotage tactics, the microaggressions that kill careers, and why even the toughest women are walking away from six-figure opportunities.
🔥 EXPLOSIVE REVELATIONS: ✅ Why being labeled "difficult" is actually a leadership superpower ✅ The sneaky ways bosses undermine female authority (even when they don't realize it) ✅ How to handle the "yes-ing to death" that destroys projects ✅ The REAL cost of losing talented women (spoiler: it's bankrupting companies) ✅ Socratic method secrets that get stubborn crews to listen ✅ Building bulletproof support networks in male-dominated industries
💡 PERFECT FOR: Female tradespeople, construction leaders, anyone tired of workplace BS, and allies who want to create real change.
🎯 GUEST SPOTLIGHT: Barb Allen (@constructionbarb) - Licensed carpenter turned superintendent turned business owner with 3 decades of breaking barriers and building empires!
Connect with Barb: www.constructionbarb.com | @constructionbarbThanks to SupplyHouse: www.supplyhouse.com/t-m for keeping us powered up!
💡Drop a 💪 if you're ready to change the game for women in trades!
📲 Follow me on social media for more adventures:
Instagram: @yourconstructionnetwork
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In this episode of Sparky Life we discuss the critical role of digital presence in the construction industry with tech guru Daniel Leal. We explore the importance of having a professional website, the impact of technology on business efficiency, and the evolving landscape of education in tech careers. Daniel shares his journey from a small town in Texas to becoming a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the need for skilled trades to embrace technology for growth.
The conversation also highlights the significance of aesthetics in online presence and how it influences customer perception. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of website design and communication for businesses, particularly in the construction industry. They emphasize the need for clear messaging, aesthetic appeal, and the use of technology to enhance efficiency. The discussion includes practical tips for improving website design and the benefits of leveraging apps to streamline business operations.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Digital Presence in Construction
03:00 Insights from the Aspire Event
05:56 Embracing Technology in the Construction Industry
08:49 Daniel's Journey in Tech and Entrepreneurship
11:45 The Evolving Role of Education in Tech Careers
15:05 The Human Element in Tech and AI
17:52 Leveraging Technology for Business Growth
21:10 Building Credibility Through Online Presence
23:48 Aesthetic Impact on Business Perception
26:46 Website Tweaks for Success
37:06 The Importance of Clear Communication
49:02 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency
🌟 Meet Our Guest – Daniel Leal! 🌟
Entrepreneur and tech wizard behind Spiderbug AI. Specializes in custom websites, AI chatbots, lead generation tools, and app development to drive your business forward.
📢 Follow Daniel & Stay Inspired:
BARB ALLEN: www.spiderbug.ai
Instagram: danielleal04
💡 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
SupplyHouse – Get the best tools & supplies!: https://www.supplyhouse.com
Keywords
construction, digital presence, technology, entrepreneurship, AI, website design, business growth, education, skilled trades, marketing, website design, construction consulting, business success, clear communication, technology in trades, app development, skilled trades, marketing strategies, branding, user experience