Life Of A Female Tradie

In this powerful and inspiring episode, I sit down with Mechanic Louise Baker, founder of Womanic, to explore her journey from passionate car enthusiast to successful female mechanic and business owner in the automotive industry. 
Louise shares what it really takes to break into the male-dominated motor trade, the challenges women face in automotive careers, and how she built Womanic to empower more women to pursue skilled trades. From navigating industry stereotypes to creating inclusive education and community spaces, her story offers practical insight for anyone considering a career in mechanics, entrepreneurship, or vocational trades. 
We also dive into the realities of running a business while working in a physically demanding trade. Louise opens up about balancing mental health, menopause, physical wellbeing, and entrepreneurship, offering honest advice for women in trades who want long-term success without burnout. 
Whether you're interested in becoming a mechanic, starting a trade business, supporting women in automotive, or building confidence in a male-dominated industry, this episode delivers actionable advice, real-world experience, and motivation to take the leap. 
Key Takeaways: 
Louise Baker’s journey into the motor trade
Women in automotive careers and skilled trades
Overcoming barriers in male-dominated industries
Building Womanic and empowering women through education
Mental health and physical wellbeing for tradeswomen
Entrepreneurship in the automotive industry
Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 
Follow Guest: 
Instagram: Womanic_louise
TikTok: Womaniclou
Facebook: Womanic Ltd
Website: www.womanic.co.uk

Chapters 
00:00 Journey into the Motor Trade 
03:46 Challenges and Resilience 
07:39 Building a Business from Passion 
11:11 Empowering Women in the Trade 
14:56 Health, Well-being, and Work-Life Balance 
17:27 Understanding Personal Challenges and Growth 
19:36 The Importance of Community Support 
21:44 Navigating Daily Challenges in the Trade 
24:20 Customer Dynamics in the Automotive Trade 
25:41 Service Frequency and Maintenance Tips 
27:06 Future Plans and Community Engagement 
28:53 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights 
33:07 Thank you’s 
 
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Professional arborist Holly Carroll shares her inspiring journey from working in a garden centre to building a successful career in arboriculture and tree surgery. Now a respected arborist and brand ambassador, Holly opens up about working in a male-dominated industry, representing women in arboriculture, and the realities of life in professional tree work.
In this episode, she shares practical tree work safety insights, lessons learned on the job, and advice for anyone considering a career in outdoor trades. Her passion for arboriculture, climbing, and the outdoors is infectious, in a good way!
Plus, hear the heartwarming story of Atlas — the puppy she and her partner rescued from the Atlas Mountains — and how adventure continues to shape both her life and career.

Key  topics:
Women in trades
Tree climbing safety
Brand ambassador journey
Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast
Follow Guest: 
Instagram: @Hollywood_trees 
Facebook: Hollywood Trees

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Holly Carroll, the Arborist
04:45 The Apprenticeship Experience
10:38 Safety and Close Calls in Tree Work
16:02 Customer Interactions and Experiences
20:55 The Thrill of Rigging
26:13 Dietary Choices and Their Impact
31:10 Becoming a Brand Ambassador
39:39 Finding Atlas: A Heartwarming Story
46:25 Exciting Opportunities at the Harrogate Flower Show
53:07 Exploring Alternative Trades and Future Guests
01:00:14 – Thank you’s
01:00:23 Follow Like Share

Resources:
Stein Workwear 
Harrogate Flower Show 
DART - Disaster Arborist Response Team 

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What does it really take to move countries, rebuild your career, and succeed in architecture and interior design? 
Architect and interior designer Helga Hines shares her journey from Colombia to the UK, offering insight into international architecture, cultural differences in design, and working in the UK construction industry. She discusses adapting to a new professional landscape, navigating architectural practice across borders, and how language, communication, and cultural identity influence the design process.
Helga also explores what it means to be a woman in construction, tackling visibility, and resilience in a male-crowded industry. We dive into interior design trends, architectural inspiration, client relationships, and the impact of thoughtful spaces on everyday life.
If you’re interested in architecture, interior design, women in construction, or building a global design career, this episode delivers insight, strategy, and inspiration.
Key Takeaways
Helga transitioned from Colombia to the UK to pursue her architectural career. 
Cultural differences in architecture include the treatment of listed buildings and building regulations. 
Helga faced challenges adapting to UK architecture and language nuances. 
She has developed a thick skin to navigate gender dynamics in construction. 
Continuous learning is essential in the ever-evolving field of design. 
Helga finds joy in creating spaces that positively impact people's lives. 
She admires architects like Oscar Niemeyer for their innovative designs. 
Social media is a powerful tool for showcasing design work and connecting with clients. 
 Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 
Follow Guest: 
LinkdIn: Helga Heins
Instagram: @insightstudio3d
Website: www.insightstudio3d.com
 
Chapters 
00:00 Helga's Background and Journey in Architecture 
01:58 Cultural Differences in Architecture 
04:25 Transition to Self-Employment and Insight Studio 
06:49 Challenges Faced as a Female Architect 
09:34 Language Barriers and Communication in the Industry 
12:09 Attributes for Success in Architecture 
14:33 The Impact of Design on Lives 
17:17 Favourite Architectural Inspirations 
22:26 Architectural Inspirations and Influences 
25:05 Balancing Health and Fitness in a Sedentary Job 
28:03 Harnessing Social Media for Creative Expression 
32:12 Upcoming Projects and Networking Opportunities 
35:20 Quickfire Questions: Personal Preferences and Insights 
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Going into National Apprenticeship Week I explore how Wickes, a UK nationwide retailer focused on trade environments, is investing in the future of skilled trades through its apprenticeship programme. Launched in 2019, the programme has already supported multiple cohorts and is designed to give apprentices real-world experience, with 80% of the 18-month apprenticeship spent on-site gaining hands-on skills. 
My guest, Jasmin Benford, the Service Delivery Manager for the Apprenticeship Team, shares her unique journey from interior design and nursing to then landing with Wickes. Offering insight into career change and the creativity involved in trade work. She discusses the structure of the apprenticeship, including practical assessments, coursework, and the value of learning directly from experienced installers across the business. 
The conversation also highlights Wickes’ strong focus on mental health support for apprentices and its commitment to encouraging more women into trade careers. 
This episode is ideal for anyone interested in apprenticeships, trade careers, skills training, or career transitions, offering an honest look at modern apprenticeships and the future of the trade industry. 

Key Takeaways 
Wickes is a Uk Nationwide retail business focused on trade environments. 
The Wickes apprenticeship program was launched in 2019 and has seen multiple cohorts. 
Mental health support is a key focus for apprentices at Wickes. 
The apprenticeship lasts 18 months, with 80% on-site training. 
Wickes aims to recruit more female apprentices in the trade. 
Apprentices receive hands-on training from experienced installers. 
Supplier relationships are crucial for providing up-to-date training. 
The program includes a mix of practical assessments and coursework. 
Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 
Follow Guest: 
Instagram: @lifeatwickes
Email:  [email protected] 
You will reach Jasmin or one of the Apprenticeship Team Leaders via this email for any course enquiries.
Website:  www.wickescareers.co.uk 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Wickes and Apprenticeships 
03:51 Jasmin's Background and Role at Wickes 
08:10 Wickes Apprenticeship Program Overview 
12:45 Support and Resources for Apprentices 
17:03 Future Goals and Recruitment at Wickes 
21:13 Quickfire Questions and Closing Thoughts 
25:57 Follow, Like, Review - Thank You 
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Sophie Magee shares her powerful career transition from studying nursing at university to becoming an electrical apprentice. Sophie opens up about why she left healthcare, what drew her to the trades, and her passion for renewable energy, including her long-term goal of working on wind turbines. 
This conversation dives into the realities of being a woman in the electrical trade, the importance of developing strong practical skills, and the challenges women in trades still face in male-crowded industries. Sophie discusses how mentorship, community support, and representation play a vital role in helping female tradies succeed and feel confident on site. 
Sophie also offers honest advice for aspiring female tradespeople, covering apprenticeships, career changes, and how building a social media presence can help women in construction connect, share experiences, and grow their careers.
This episode is ideal for women of all ages considering a trade career, electrical apprentices, career changers, and anyone interested in renewable energy, clean energy jobs, and women in the trades. 
 
Key Takeaways 
Sophie transitioned from studying nursing to electrical apprenticeship. 
She found her passion in practical, hands-on work. 
Renewable energy systems are a focus in her current role. 
Sophie aspires to work on wind turbines in the future. 
She believes in the potential of an all-female trades team. 
Women in trades face unique challenges but can succeed. 
Mentorship and community support are crucial for growth. 
Sophie encourages others to pursue their passions fearlessly. 
Building a social media presence can enhance career opportunities. 
Sophie enjoys the design aspect of electrical work. 
 
Follow me: 
Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_ 
Tiktok: @loaftpodcast 
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie 
Youtube: @lifeofafemaletradiepodcast 
Follow Guest: 
Instagram: magee_electrical

Chapters 
00:00 Sophie Magee: Background and Journey 
01:45 Discovering a Passion for Electrics 
02:36 Working in Renewables 
03:28 Future Goals and Aspirations 
05:11 Experiences as a Female Apprentice 
07:40 Challenges in the Trade 
09:21 Overcoming Adversity in the Workplace 
11:41 Finding a Supportive Work Environment 
11:55 Advice for Young Women in Trades 
13:07 The Role of Social Media in Building Community 
15:41 Future Aspirations and Challenges 
17:06 Quick-Fire Questions and Personal Insights 
24:00 Thank you's 

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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!
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Ko-Fi Life Of A Female Tradie