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Welcome to Sparky Life, where we chat with the builders of our civilisation! In this episode, Lia Lamela welcomes James Hatfield, the Chief Revenue Officer of Live Switch, a total disruptor in the trades tech space. James Hatfield, a "blue-collar baddie", shares his journey from running painting and power washing companies to revolutionising how skilled trades operate with innovative tech tools. It's a real conversation with someone who gets the real world of construction, and it's not what you think!

This isn't your typical tech talk; James brings a relatable, down-to-earth perspective that you'll appreciate. He gets the frustrations of the trades because he’s lived it! From his early days knocking on doors to building a multi-billion dollar tech company, James shares what it means to create opportunities for those of us who work with our hands. It's packed with insights, laughs, and actionable advice you can use, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out. We also discuss everything from the importance of human connection in a digital world to the value of community college and the importance of building your personal board of directors!

Timestamps:

0:00 Intro
0:42 Introducing James Hatfield and Live Switch
2:10 The Story Behind Live Switch
4:15 How Live Switch Works in the Field
7:55 Internet and Connectivity Challenges
10:00 The Problem with Software Engineers
12:50 The inspiration behind the 911 tech
14:40 How Live Switch is helping the trades
17:00 The meaning behind the name 'Live Switch'
18:00 Why James Created Live Switch
19:50 Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Skilled Trades
24:00 The Importance of Human Customer Service
32:40 The disconnect between sales and technicians
37:50 Using QR codes
40:40 How to get past resistance to tech
46:00 Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the trades
49:00 Networking Tips
51:50 Advice for Introverts
54:50 James’ Personal Story
59:00 College or Not College
69:00 Closing remarks

Interesting Quotes:

"Why are you driving to bid right now like a cave person?"
"It's better to serve than to be served."


Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by SupplyHouse.com - your go-to for all things electrical. Check them out at www.supplyhouse.com/t-m for a huge inventory of top brands and real customer service.

Guest: James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer of Live Switch, bringing innovative tech solutions to the skilled trades.

Host: Lia Lamela

Key Topics: Live video technology, skilled trades, construction, virtual estimates, customer service, entrepreneurship, networking, community college, overcoming challenges.

Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes of Sparky Life, where we discuss all things construction and career-oriented! Let us know in the comments if you tried James’ LinkedIn challenge!

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Thanks to our sponsor www.supplyhouse.com/t-m - the best place to pick up your construction supplies.

In this eye-opening episode of The Sparky Life, Lia sits down with Andrea Janzen, founder and CEO of Ambition Theory, to discuss a groundbreaking revelation: mentorship may not be the key to career success as we’ve always believed.

Join Lia and Andrea as they dive deep into the nuances of mentorship, particularly how it affects men and women differently in the workplace. Discover the concept of sponsorship versus mentorship, and learn why women often find themselves needing to prove their worth repeatedly in male-dominated industries like construction.

Andrea shares compelling research that highlights the unconscious biases at play and offers actionable insights for women looking to navigate their careers more effectively. If you’ve ever felt overlooked or undervalued in your professional journey, this episode is a must-listen!

Find out more about Andrea here:

Ambition Theory: www.ambitiontheory.com

Ambition Theory Women In Construction Podcast:
www.ambitiontheory.com/the-ambition-theory-podcast/

NAWIC Leadership Academy x Ambition Theory:
www.nawicleadershipacademy.org/

00:00:00 - Introduction to the Episode
00:01:31 - Defining Mentorship
00:02:45 - Personal Experiences with Mentorship
00:03:44 - The Gender Gap in Mentorship
00:06:00 - The Challenge of Implementation
00:08:28 - Sponsorship vs. Mentorship
00:12:15 - The Importance of Sponsorship
00:16:05 - Networking and Building Relationships
00:20:03 - Prove It Again Bias
00:21:10 - The Burden of Reproving
00:24:17 - Transactional vs. Transformational Leadership
00:30:28 - The Disconnect in Leadership Skills
00:32:06 - The Role of Transformational Leadership
00:39:18 - Cultural Fit and Leadership
00:40:30 - The Value of Women in Leadership
00:44:08 - Taking Action for Change

Tune in for an enlightening conversation that challenges traditional beliefs about mentorship and empowers you to take charge of your career path!

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring content!

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Welcome to this episode of The Sparky Life! Join host Lia Lamela as she catches up with her good buddy, Stephen Richardson, a recent reality TV star from Love is Blind and a dedicated electrician.

In this engaging conversation, Stephen shares his journey in the skilled trades, discussing the challenges he faced during his apprenticeship and how he ultimately found his passion for electrical work. They dive deep into the often-overlooked aspects of the trades, including the importance of mental health and the need for supportive work environments.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Stephen Richardson
Welcome back and introduction of Stephen Richardson, a recent reality TV star from Love is Blind and a fellow electrician.

00:02:10 - Stephen's Journey in the Electrical Trade
Discussion about Stephen's experiences as an electrician, including his work with big terminations and data centers.

00:03:45 - Physical Demands of the Trade
Exploration of the physical challenges in the electrical field and how Stephen manages them.

00:06:22 - The Nature of Data Centers
Explanation of what data centers are and the importance of redundant power systems.

00:08:30 - Different Perspectives on the Skilled Trades
Comparison of Stephen's and Leah's experiences in the trades, highlighting the impact of leadership and environment.

00:12:13 - Burnout and Job Satisfaction
Discussion on the feelings of burnout and dissatisfaction in the apprenticeship phase.

00:16:02 - Mental Health in the Trades
The importance of mental health awareness in the construction industry and its impact on workers.

00:27:00 - Hitting Rock Bottom
Stephen shares his experience of hitting rock bottom and the turning point in his career.

00:30:10 - Supportive Leadership
The role of supportive leadership in Stephen's career and how it helped him regain his motivation.

00:36:07 - Finding a Positive Work Environment
The significance of a positive work environment and camaraderie among workers in the trades.

00:42:03 - Empowerment and Options in the Trades
Encouragement for workers to seek out supportive companies and not feel trapped in negative environments.

00:49:09 - Conclusion and Reflection
Wrap-up of the conversation, reflecting on Stephen's growth and evolution in his career.

Key Highlights:

Stephen's transition from wrestling with his career choice to embracing the joys of being an electrician.

Insights into working in data centers and the critical role electricians play in maintaining our digital infrastructure.

The impact of toxic work environments and the importance of good leadership in the trades.

Tips on how to create a positive work culture and support mental health in the construction industry.

Whether you're an aspiring electrician, a seasoned pro, or just curious about the skilled trades, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes every Thursday!

Sponsored by: www.supplyhouse.com - Your go-to source for top brands and real customer service in the electrical industry.

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Check out www.supplyhouse.com for all your electrical needs! 💡⚡️

In this episode, host Lia Lamela dives deep into the fascinating world of batteries and DC electricity. Have you ever felt that frustration when your device runs out of battery? Join Lia as she breaks down how batteries work, how they are made, and the science behind storing energy.

Discover the components of a typical 1.5V alkaline battery, the role of electrons, and the common misconceptions surrounding electricity. Lia also shares a unique analogy that helps explain the electric field and how it drives the movement of electrons in a circuit.

Whether you're a seasoned electrician or just curious about how the devices we rely on every day function, this episode is packed with valuable insights and knowledge.

Don't forget to subscribe and share the podcast to support the Sparky Life community!

00:00:00 - Introduction to Battery Frustrations
00:01:47 - Welcome to Sparky Life
00:02:31 - Understanding Battery Basics
00:03:34 - Battery Construction and Components
00:05:11 - What is a Short Circuit?
00:06:04 - Misconceptions About Electron Flow
00:07:31 - The Role of Electric Fields
00:10:04 - Analogy of the Electric Field
00:12:27 - Conclusion: The Importance of Batteries
00:13:10 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Tune in every Thursday for more electrifying content! ⚡

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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

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!

Connect with Chad: @redcollar_retro

Support our sponsor:

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. 😊😇

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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. 😊😇

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Welcome to this exciting episode of The Sparky Life! Join host Lia Lamela as she dives into 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

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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!

Support the show