Life Of A Female Tradie

Melissa Hall, a Liverpool-based painting and decorating professional, shares her journey of building a successful career in a male-crowded industry. From overcoming early challenges to finding freedom through self-employment, she reflects on the resilience and mindset shifts that transformed both her work and personal life.
The conversation explores Melissa’s diverse background, the realities of working as a woman in the trades, and the importance of building genuine, long-term relationships with clients. She also speaks openly about mental health, shining a light on PMDD awareness and the role of gratitude, community support, and healthier lifestyle choices in maintaining balance and wellbeing. 
With a strong focus on empowerment, entrepreneurship, and the value of following your passion, Melissa’s story offers inspiration for women considering careers in trades, creatives seeking independence, and anyone looking to make meaningful life changes.
Her future aspirations reflect a powerful message of confidence, self-belief, and the impact of showing up authentically in both work and life. 
Key Takeaways
Melissa has a diverse background in male-dominated fields.
She emphasizes the importance of pushing barriers for women in trades.
Her business, Painting With Purpose, reflects her desire to help others.
She believes in the power of gratitude and positive mindset.
Building relationships with clients is a key aspect of her work.
Melissa advocates for mental health awareness, particularly PMDD.
Health and wellness practices are important to her lifestyle.
Education and continuous learning are vital for her future aspirations.
Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast
Follow Guest: 
Instagram: Painting_with_purpose_by_mel
Facebook: Painting With Purpose By Mel
TikTok: Paintingwithpurposebymel

Chapters
00:00 Breaking Barriers: Melissa's Journey in a Male-crowded Field
02:43 Finding Purpose: The Birth of 'Painting With Purpose'
05:22 Building Connections: The Importance of Client Relationships
07:59 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Embracing Self-Employment
10:34 Navigating Mental Health: ADHD and PMDD
13:29 Manifesting Dreams: Melissa's Academic Pursuits
15:43 Health and Wellness: Supplements and Lifestyle Choices
27:54 The Power of Reading and Learning
29:41 Women in Trades: Breaking Barriers
32:03 Social Media: Support and Trolls
34:37 Unexpected Wins and Gratitude
37:32 Collaboration and Community in Trades
40:12 Networking and Support at Trade Shows
43:30 Quickfire Questions: Personal Preferences
45:46 Future Aspirations and Recommendations
50:11 Thank you's
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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

I sit down with Ria Kirby, a professional decorator with over 23 years of experience, to talk honestly about life as a female tradie and business owner of The Female Touch.
Ria shares her journey through multiple jobs, including being a zookeeper, before finding her calling in painting and decorating and building her own successful business. 
She opens up about the realities of running a business, from the importance of clear communication and transparency with quotes to managing client expectations.
We explore what keeps decorating exciting after two decades in the trade, including learning new techniques, materials, and products, and why no two jobs are ever the same. 
Ria also speaks openly about the physical demands of the job, womens health and how we should support women in the trades especially during the menstrual cycles we face. 
From balancing family life with running a business, and how she navigates work-life balance, we cover it all!
This episode offers real insight into the challenges, rewards, and resilience required to thrive as a female tradie.
Key Takeaways
It's important to be transparent with clients to build trust.
There's a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into being self-employed.
Continuous learning is key in this ever-evolving industry.
Don't be scared; there's so much support available out there.
You can pick and choose what aspects of the trade you want to focus on.
The community in the trades is supportive, not competitive.
Using quality materials leads to lasting finishes.
It's all about managing client expectations and delivering high standards. 
Women are so supportive.
It's important to check in on each other.
Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast
Follow Guest:
Instagram: @the_female.touch
Facebook: The Female Touch
TikTok: @thefemaletouch

Chapters
00:00 Ria's Journey into Decorating
02:03 Managing Client Expectations and Estimates
04:45 Work-Life Balance and Family Time
07:26 Physical Challenges in the Trade
10:15 The Realities of Self-Employment
13:03 Encouraging Women in the Trades
15:35 Courses and Skill Development
18:36 Spraying Techniques and Safety
22:58 Proud Transformations in Work
25:14 The Importance of Quality in Painting
28:57 Understanding Client Expectations
32:52 Adapting to New Products and Techniques
35:44 Navigating Social Media Challenges
38:07 Building Community in the Trade
42:04 Supporting Women in Trades
46:05 Navigating the Challenges of Womanhood in Trades
48:39 The Importance of Female Support in the Trades
49:27 Maintaining Authenticity in Brand Partnerships
51:22 Qu
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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

What does it really take to leave the corporate world and build a successful construction business? 
In this episode, Melissa Potente shares her journey into commercial and residential construction, revealing the challenges, wins, and lessons learned along the way.
We explore the realities of the construction and property investment industry, the importance of mentorship, and why Melissa is passionate about encouraging more women to enter construction. She also discusses her coaching work, upcoming projects, and how she uses social media to grow and promote her businesses.
This episode is packed with insight for anyone interested in property, entrepreneurship, career change, and women in business.
🎧 Listen now for practical advice and real-world experience from the ground up.

Key Takeaways
Melissa transitioned from a corporate job to the family construction business.
She modernized the family business and expanded into residential projects.
The construction industry has seen a shift towards more female representation.
Melissa emphasizes the importance of mentorship in property investment.
She enjoys helping others achieve their investment goals through coaching.
The residential division focuses on high-end clients and complete turnkey solutions.
Social media plays a crucial role in showcasing her businesses.
Melissa believes in the importance of education for success in property investment.
She advocates for more women to consider careers in construction.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast
Follow Guest: 
Instagram: @MJPHomes
LinkdIn: Melissa Potente
www.inndecs.com - Commercial Property
www.mjphomes.co.uk - Property Investment Help
www.meliora-renovations.co.uk - Residential Property 

Chapters
00:00 Background and Career Path
02:42 Transition to Family Business
05:24 Building a Workforce and Team Dynamics
08:01 Challenges of Running a Business
10:55 Experiences as a Female in Construction
13:37 Coaching and Mentorship in Property Investment
16:16 The Importance of Property for Self-Employed Tradespeople
18:11 Investing in Property: A Win-Win Strategy
21:09 The Renovation Journey: Challenges and Triumphs
23:15 The Role of Social Media in Business Promotion
25:02 Personalized Mentorship in Property Investment
27:04 Exciting Projects on the Horizon
28:51 Encouraging Women in Construction and Property
31:39 Breaking Barriers: Accessing Property Investment
34:24 Balancing Multiple Ventures: A Side Hustle Approach
34:59 Quick Fire Questions: Insights and Preference
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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

What does it take to become an award-winning stonemason working on one of Britain’s most historic landmarks? Well tune in and you might find out! 
I speak with Rachael Wragg, a stonemason at Lincoln Cathedral and winner of the On The Tools Craftsperson of the Year Award 2025. 
Rachael shares how she entered stonemasonry later in life at 29, reflecting on the growing number of people retraining and joining the skilled trades as adults. She gives a behind-the-scenes look at working on heritage restoration projects, where craftsmanship, conservation regulations, and community expectations all play a vital role. 
The conversation also explores the physical realities of a career in manual trades, highlighting the importance of physical health, longevity, and the need for more open discussions around women’s health in construction. 
Rachael also speaks about the value of community and support among tradespeople, and her role as a Stabilo ambassador, championing quality tools and precision in craftsmanship. 
An inspiring episode for anyone interested in heritage crafts, stonemasonry, women in construction, apprenticeships, and career change stories. 
 
Key Takeaways 
Rachael Wragg is a stonemason at Lincoln Cathedral. 
She won the On The Tools Award for Craftsperson of the Year 2025. 
Her journey into stonemasonry began later in life, at age 29. 
The demographic of apprentices is shifting, with more older individuals entering the field. 
Working at Lincoln Cathedral offers a unique blend of history and craftsmanship. 
Restoration work involves navigating complex regulations and community sentiments. 
Physical health is crucial for sustaining a career in a physically demanding trade. 
Open discussions about women's health are important in the workplace. 
Rachael emphasizes the importance of community and support among tradespeople. 
Her ambassadorship with Stabilo reflects her commitment to quality tools and craftsmanship 
Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 
Follow Guest: 
Instagram: @thegingermason
TikTok: @thegingermason

Chapters 
00:00 Introduction and Background 
01:56 Journey to Stonemasonry 
05:23 The Shift in Apprenticeship Demographics 
07:42 Working at Lincoln Cathedral 
10:37 Challenges of Restoration Work 
15:30 Experiences as a Female in the Industry 
17:32 Maintaining Physical Health in a Demanding Trade 
22:19 Supplements and Health Routines 
27:26 Open Conversations About Women's Health 
30:57 Ambassadorship with Stabilo 
37:29 Upcoming Projects at Lincoln Cathedral 
40:47 Quickfire Questions and Closing Thoughts 

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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie

In this episode Laura is back with Joanne Hay to look back on the past year in decorating, exploring the biggest color trends, evolving styles, and the challenges faced within the trade. They share honest reflections on what worked, what changed, and what the year taught them as professionals in the decorating industry. 
The conversation also turns personal, as Jo opens up about coping with loss during Christmas, the emotional impact of the holiday season, and why self-care and mental wellbeing are especially important at this time of year. Laura and Jo discuss practical ways to support yourself and others through the festive period. 
To keep things light and festive, the episode wraps up with a fun Christmas-themed “This or That” game, adding warmth, laughter, and holiday cheer to the discussion. 
Perfect for anyone interested in interior design trends, life in the decorating trade, and navigating the holiday season with honesty and heart. 
 Key Takeaways 
Jo discusses the popularity of earthy tones in paint choices. 
The importance of self-care during the holiday season. 
Jo shares her experience with challenges in the trade, including issues with prep work. 
The conversation highlights the significance of being kind to oneself during difficult times. 
Laura and Jo reflect on the common areas of homes that have been decorated this year. 
Jo mentions the trend of color drenching and its popularity in larger spaces. 
The duo discusses the shift towards durable matte finishes in painting. 
Jo shares her thoughts on the impact of loss during the Christmas season. 
The importance of focusing on what one can control is highlighted. 
Laura and Jo engage in a fun Christmas-themed segment to lighten the mood. 
 Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 
Follow Guest:
Instagram: @joannehay_decorating 
Facebook: Joanne Hay Decorating 
Youtube:@JoanneHayDecorating 
TikTok: @joannehaydecorating 

Chapters
00:00 Recapping Color Trends of 2025 
02:27 The Popularity of Earthy Tones 
05:08 Durable Finishes vs. Matte Finishes 
07:46 Color Drenching and Woodwork Finishes 
10:10 Common Issues Faced in Decorating 
12:56 Conclusion and Reflections on the Year 
13:27 Injury and Recovery: A Personal Journey 
19:19 Coping with Loss During the Holidays 
24:17 Christmas themed this or that 
29:09 Thank you and Merry Christmas 
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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie