After a non-stop run since starting recording in November 2024, I’m taking a short pause to reset and make the podcast more sustainable long-term.

This isn’t goodbye — just a step back to ensure the show can last long term.

I’ll be back in May with more incredible women and powerful conversations.

If you want to share your story on the show, get in touch with me via one of the below links and let have a chat!

Follow me:

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast

Email: loaftpodcast@gmail.com

Did you enjoy this episode?

Support the show

Thank you for listening!

If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!

Thanks Again!

Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

Emma shares how she went from leaving school to becoming a self-employed decorator, and what it really takes to build a career in the trades as a woman.

We talk about the value of hands-on experience, learning through mistakes, and how social media marketing helps tradespeople win work and grow their business. Emma also opens up about the realities of self-employment, from managing time to staying motivated.

If you're interested in women in trades, becoming a decorator, or starting a trade business, this episode is packed with practical insight and honest advice.

Key Takeaways

• Emma’s journey from school to becoming a self-employed decorator
• Why hands-on learning and making mistakes are essential in the trades
• How social media marketing helps tradespeople win more work
• The realities and challenges of running a self-employed trade business
• Emma’s advice for women starting a career in the trades

Follow me:

Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_

Tiktok: @loaftpodcast

Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie

Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast

Follow Guest:

Instagram: EmmasPainting1

TikTok: Emmaspainting1

Chapters

00:00 Emma's Journey into Trade

05:37 Exploring the World of Decorating

07:24 The Challenges of Self-Employment

14:38 Van Troubles and Support Systems

16:53 The Van Chronicles: Trials and Triumphs

22:43 Navigating the Trade: Advertising Strategies

23:36 Women in Trades: Overcoming Challenges

27:52 Building a Customer Base: The Importance of Booking Ahead

32:54 Finding Balance: The Need for Breaks

37:24 Social Media: Building Community and Connections

41:07 Embracing Vulnerability in Content Creation

44:07 The Excitement of Transformation Projects

45:39 Choosing the Right Jobs for Fulfillment

48:27 The Importance of Preparation in Craftsmanship

52:04 Navigating Customer Interactions and Responsibilities

55:16 Quickfire Questions: Fun Insights and Preferences

59:53 Thank you’s

Did you enjoy this episode?

Support the show

Thank you for listening!

If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!

Thanks Again!

Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

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

Did you enjoy this episode?

Support the show

Thank you for listening!

If you are enjoying the show and wish to show some support for it's growth, please head over to my Ko-fi page below and buy me a virtual coffee! Oat milk please!

Thanks Again!

Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie