Explore every episode of the podcast Building Your Story
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 17 - Dianne Finnigan | 16 oct. 2025 | 00:36:20 | |
Empowering Women in Skilled Trades: Diane Finnegan's Journey | |||
| Episode 16 - Pat Duggan | 01 oct. 2025 | 00:40:00 | |
Breaking Barriers: Pat's Journey in Construction and Leadership In this episode, Pat, shares her inspiring journey from Southeast London to becoming the VP of Major Projects for Bird in Vancouver. Starting with a childhood dream of becoming a policewoman, she pivoted to the construction industry, building a successful 35-year career spanning multiple countries. Pat discusses her early challenges, including her entry into the workforce, and navigating a male-dominated industry. She highlights her career's milestones and later her move to Canada to lead major P3 healthcare projects. Pat also emphasizes the importance of being genuine, working hard, and the value of teamwork. She reflects on her role as executive sponsor of the Women@Bird ERG and shares her aspirations to reach the C-suite level to continue making a positive impact in the industry. 00:00 Meet Patricia: Childhood Dreams and Early Career 05:33 First Steps in Construction 07:03 Career Milestones and Growth 18:14 International Career Moves 26:14 Role at Bird Construction 30:56 Advice for Women in Leadership 32:24 Importance of ERGs 36:16 Reflecting on a 35-Year Career 37:31 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts | |||
| Episode 15 - Renae Sams | 16 juil. 2025 | 00:49:06 | |
Renae Sams: Building a Path for Women in Construction In this episode, Diane interviews Renae Sams, founder and executive director of Build-Her.org, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women in construction. Renee shares her journey from dreaming of working for NASA to becoming a leader in the construction industry. She details the challenges she faced, including overcoming imposter syndrome and navigating a career without an initial exposure to construction from site administrator to senior project manager on missions critical projects. Renee discusses the importance of visible female role models and her motivation to help other women feel they belong in the industry. She also talks about her book, which includes writing prompts to encourage reflection and growth, and her efforts to create a supportive community through her nonprofit. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:11 Childhood Dreams and Early Influences 03:38 Journey into the Construction Industry 06:02 First Steps in Construction 08:20 Challenges and Growth in the Industry 13:29 Founding Build-Her.org 18:20 The Importance of Representation 38:28 Advice and Future Aspirations 43:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Notes: Norman, Don. The Design of Everyday Things. Revised and expanded ed., Basic Books, 2013. The Arbinger Institute. Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box. 3rd ed., Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2018. build-her.org Build-Her. (2024, April 10). Build-Her Be Heard: Creating space for women in construction with Renae Sams. | |||
| Episode 14 - Jessica Luczycki | 03 juil. 2025 | 00:49:47 | |
Jessica Luczycki: Redefining Construction Administration Through Part3 In this episode, we meet Luczycki, Co-Founder and Chief Customer Officer at Part3. Jessica shares her journey from aspiring teacher to tech entrepreneur in the architectural and construction industry. She discusses her educational background, initial career at EllisDon, and transition into architectural contract administration. Jessica reveals how frustrations in her job led to founding Part3, a software solution designed to streamline construction administration. Alongside her husband and co-founder, she navigated startup challenges, balancing parenthood and raising funds to build a solution now widely embraced by the industry. She emphasizes the importance of diversity, transparency, and customer-centric innovation in driving Part3's success. Additionally, Jessica touches on the future of AI in construction, and how it can become a tool for time consuming tasks. Tune in to hear her insights and inspiring story of perseverance and innovation. 00:00 Early Aspirations and Career Beginnings 06:31 Switch to Contract Administration 11:17 Founding Part3 21:04 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Parenthood 23:15 Team Growth and Belief in the Mission 25:15 Challenges in Construction Administration 27:17 Recognition and Networking 38:37 AI in Construction and Future Plans 43:19 Advice for Women in Construction 45:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| Episode 13 - Chelsea Fenton | 18 juin 2025 | 00:48:38 | |
Chelsea Fenton: Pioneering Women in Construction In this episode, Chelsea Fenton (@thatunionlaborer), a 32-year-old union laborer from Western Massachusetts, shares her inspiring journey from aspiring to be a firefighter to excelling in the construction industry. Chelsea discusses the challenges she overcame, including being denied entry into the apprenticeship program twice before finally being accepted. She explains how her father’s support and the invaluable mentorship from seasoned colleagues helped her succeed. Chelsea also talks about her significant role in cofounding Western Mass Tradeswomen to support and connect women in the construction trades. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of persistence, finding mentors, and maintaining work-life balance. Chelsea is actively involved in outreach and education to attract more women to the trades, underscoring her dedication to the future of the industry.
00:00 Introduction and Early Life 02:04 Career Aspirations and Challenges 11:41 Union Involvement and Growth 18:54 Forming Western Mass Tradeswomen 27:00 Challenges Women Face in Construction 29:02 Retention Challenges and Mentorship 30:39 Becoming a Foreman 35:56 Social Media Influence 42:12 Family and Personal Life 44:09 Future Aspirations and Advice https://www.wmtradeswomen.org/ | |||
| Episode 12 - Mercedes Byers | 04 juin 2025 | 00:52:01 | |
The Journey of Mercedes Byers: From environmental science to co-founding a thriving sustainability consulting business. In this episode, Mercedes Byers shares her inspiring journey from her early dreams of becoming an actor to establishing herself in the sustainability consulting field. She talks about her childhood, academic pursuits, and how a serendipitous environmental science class at the University of Toronto pivoted her career from medicine to environmental science. Mercedes recounts the early challenges and milestones during the founding of Pratus Group, her partnership, and their eventual merger with Quasar Consulting Group. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive and respectful work culture, providing opportunities for younger employees, and balancing professional responsibilities with personal life as a mother of three. Tune in to hear her insights on leadership, overcoming industry challenges, and what drives her continued passion for sustainability in construction. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:17 Early Life and Childhood Dreams 03:50 Academic Journey and Career Beginnings 05:03 Transition to Environmental Science 07:21 First Steps in the Construction Industry 11:03 Founding Pratus Group 31:06 Fostering a Positive Work Culture 35:16 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family 39:19 The Quasar Partnership 44:03 Reflecting on Achievements and Future Goals | |||
| Episode 11 - Dee Durant | 21 mai 2025 | 00:51:26 | |
Dee Durant: From Electrical Apprentice to Trade Advocate - A Journey Through Challenges and Triumphs In this episode, Dee Durant, a 24-year-old electrical apprentice from southern Ontario, shares her inspiring journey from childhood aspirations of becoming a meteorologist to finding her calling in the electrical trade. Despite facing challenges like severe anxiety and ADHD, Dee sheds light on how she navigated her academic struggles, supported by her loving family and mentors. She discusses her experiences on the job, the realities of being a woman in the trades, and the importance of mental health. Dee also highlights her active role in promoting skilled trades through social media and public speaking, aiming to break stereotypes and encourage diversity. Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of supportive mentors, and the importance of pursuing one's passion. 00:00 Meet De Durant: Background and Early Life 03:10 Discovering a Passion for Trades 08:41 Overcoming Educational Barriers 15:23 First Steps in the Electrical Trade 19:09 Current Role and Responsibilities 22:00 Social Media and Promoting Trades 26:15 Building Confidence Through Construction 30:52 Mental Health in the Construction Industry 42:21 The Importance of Mentorship 46:17 Future Goals and Advice for Women in Construction Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about mental health challenges, including suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please consider reaching out to a mental health professional or contacting a support line (988). You are not alone. | |||
| Episode 10 - Amy Marks | 07 mai 2025 | 00:43:45 | |
Beyond the Nickname: Amy Marks' Journey of hard work, perseverance and kindness. In this episode, Diane welcomes Amy Marks, Senior Vice President of Innovation at Compass Data Centers, often known as the 'Queen of Prefab.' Amy shares her journey from a turbulent upbringing in a construction family business to becoming a leading figure in the construction and prefabrication industries. She details her academic background, early career challenges, and eventual rise to prominence after taking bold steps in prefabrication. Amy also touches on her passion for women's rugby and its impact on her career, her work at Compass Data Centers, and the importance of kindness, hard work, and saying 'yes' to opportunities. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:18 Early Dreams and Upbringing 03:04 Path to the Construction Industry 09:06 Becoming the Queen of Prefab 15:55 Influence and Recognition 23:12 The Importance of Thought Leadership 24:15 Broadening Horizons Beyond Prefabrication 26:28 Current Role and Career Reflections 29:56 The Power of Saying Yes and Hard Work 32:34 Rugby and Its Impact on Career 39:16 Future Aspirations and Advice for Women in Construction | |||
| Episode 9 - Ashleigh Kaliszuk | 23 avr. 2025 | 00:38:11 | |
Ashley Kalizuk: From Crane Operator to Advocate for Women in Construction In this episode, Ashley Kalizuk shares her journey from a crane operator to a photographer and an instructor in the construction industry. Reflecting on her career's challenges and triumphs, Ashley discusses her early days working in construction, the unexpected path to her Red Seal endorsement, and her transition into full-time photography and instructing at NAIT. She underscores the importance of representation and advocacy for women in the industry, offering advice for young women entering the field. Ashley's story is a testament to resilience, versatility, and the pursuit of passion, culminating in her recognition as a top professional under 40 in her field. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:08 Early Career Aspirations and First Job 04:35 Navigating the Construction Industry 06:13 Challenges and Lessons Learned 06:49 Writing and Advocacy for Women in Construction 13:17 Transition to Photography and Business 19:09 Becoming an Instructor and Teaching Experience 33:49 Future Goals and Advice for Women in Construction 37:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| Episode 8 - Annik Forristal | 26 mars 2025 | 00:49:15 | |
Annik Forristal's Journey from Engineering to Legal Expertise in Construction In this episode, Diane welcomes Annik Forristal, a Toronto-based lawyer specializing in municipal and construction law. Annik shares her inspiring journey, from her early fascination with engineering during a 'Take Your Kid to Work Day' experience, to her career in the law industry. She discusses her experiences working with various industries during her co-op and her eventual gravitation towards the legal aspects of engineering projects. Annik provides insightful perspectives on the importance of mentorship, the role of legal professionals in construction projects, the challenges and rewards of bridging engineering and law, and the need for effective communication and problem-solving in the industry. Her passion for the industry and commitment to fostering supportive networks for women in construction and law shines through in this engaging conversation. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:30 Early Life and Career Aspirations 02:52 Transition from Engineering to Law 04:59 Navigating Law School and Early Career 08:29 Specializing in Construction Law 13:18 Day-to-Day as a Construction Lawyer 14:39 Challenges and Belonging in the Industry 25:49 Recognitions and Future Aspirations 29:53 Networking and Mentorship 40:10 Final Thoughts and Advice | |||
| Episode 7 - Lindsay Chester | 12 mars 2025 | 00:43:15 | |
Empowering the Next Generation: Lindsay Chester's Advocacy for Young Women in Skilled Trades In this episode, Lindsay Chester, the Young Women's Initiatives Program Manager at Skills Ontario, shares her journey and mission to promote skilled trades as viable career options for young women. Starting as a dream to become a teacher, Lindsay shifted her career path and found her way to Skills Ontario.. Lindsay discusses various programs and events like the Young Women's Conference, International Day of the Girl, and industry-specific days that aim to provide hands-on experiences and exposure to the construction industry and skilled trades. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out to girls as early as grades seven and eight and the role of social media in enhancing awareness. Despite the challenges of working with industries and schools, Lindsay remains passionate about creating inclusive opportunities for girls and women in trades. The episode highlights the significant impact of these initiatives in changing perceptions and encouraging young women to consider careers in skilled trades. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:15 Lindsay's Background and Early Career 04:01 Journey to Skills Ontario 06:13 Introduction to Skills Ontario and Its Programs 08:03 Young Women's Initiatives and Events 19:26 Challenges and Industry Collaboration 22:50 Reaching Young Girls Early 37:07 Resources and Support Networks 41:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| Bonus - Women In Construction Week | 03 mars 2025 | 00:17:05 | |
In this special episode for Women in Construction Week (March 2-8 2025), we highlight some of the inspiring stories shared by women on this podcast. Hosted by Diane, this episode brings together past guests including Leslie, Gelare, Mi, Morgan, Sabrina, and Lisa to share their unique journeys, experiences, and challenges in the construction field. They share their journeys into the construction industry, from childhood dreams that didn’t involve construction to overcoming challenges in a male-dominated field. Each guest reflects on the struggles they faced early on, from learning on the job to breaking stereotypes. They highlight the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and community in their growth. This empowering episode is a celebration of women’s achievements in construction and a reminder that the industry holds endless opportunities for those willing to work hard. | |||
| Episode 6 - Lisa Laronde | 19 févr. 2025 | 00:46:57 | |
Trailblazing Women in Construction: A Candid Conversation with Lisa Laronde In this insightful discussion, Diane interviews Lisa Laronde, Chief Transformation Officer for Ramudden Global, who shares her journey from finance to leading a major construction company. Lisa recounts her transition into the construction industry, the obstacles she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, and how she overcame workplace challenges. She opens up about building a supportive community, and the importance of networking and representation. Lisa also emphasizes the value of involving Gen Z in the workforce and advocates for diverse leadership and equity in the construction industry. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 01:45 Lisa's Background and Career Journey 05:42 Transition to Construction Industry 08:10 Facing Gender Bias in Leadership 28:52 Challenges Faced by Women in Construction 30:28 The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion 39:41 Balancing Leadership and Advocacy 41:11 Future Aspirations and Advice | |||
| Episode 5 - Sabrina Walti | 05 févr. 2025 | 00:40:33 | |
Pioneering in Construction: From Rugby Fields to Infrastructure Projects with Sabrina In this episode, Diane interviews Sabrina, a civil engineer from Zurich, Switzerland. Sabrina, who works in consulting and project management for infrastructure projects, shares her journey from growing up in an architect family to becoming a significant figure in the construction industry. She discusses her educational path, influenced by her love for sports, and the challenges and opportunities she faced in a male-dominated field. Sabrina highlights the importance of inclusivity in public spaces and her goal to create better environments for communities. She also reflects on how motherhood and her passion for rugby have shaped her leadership style and career. Sabrina advocates for using one's voice, creating long-term trust in teams, and fostering a supportive work environment. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 02:06 Background and Career Beginnings 03:55 Education 07:51 First Years in the Construction Industry 11:52 Balancing Career and Motherhood 17:09 The Role of Sports in Life and Career 22:34 Leadership and Team Dynamics 34:41 Empowerment and Advice for Women 37:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| Episode 4 - Morgan Bosch | 22 janv. 2025 | 00:45:08 | |
Breaking Barriers: Morgan Bosch's Journey as a Crane Operator In this episode, Morgan Bosch, a 28-year-old mobile crane operator from Edmonton, Canada, joins the podcast to share her inspiring journey. Starting in the industry at 18, Morgan transitioned from aspiring to be a teacher to thriving in a blue-collar role. She recalls the pivotal role her father played in introducing her to the field and discusses the initial challenges she faced, including overcoming stereotypes and building physical strength. Morgan also opens up about her advocacy for mental health, the importance of mentorship, and her active role in encouraging more women to join the construction industry. She touches upon her significant social media presence and her efforts in creating the YEG Blue Collar Women group, providing a support network for women in the trades. The episode is filled with heartfelt stories, impactful advice, and Morgan's unwavering enthusiasm for her career and advocacy work. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 01:51 Morgan's Background and Career Beginnings 04:14 First Steps into the Construction Industry 06:04 Early Experiences on the Job 09:50 Challenges and Overcoming Stereotypes 15:19 Inspiring the Next Generation 18:31 The Power of Social Media 23:01 Founding YEG Blue Collar Women 29:18 Career Reflections and Future Aspirations 36:30 Mental Health Advocacy in Construction 39:15 Mentorship and Support Systems 42:02 Final Thoughts | |||
| Episode 3 - Gelare Danaie | 17 déc. 2024 | 00:39:32 | |
From Childhood Dreams to Architectural Mastery: An Interview with Gelare Danaie In this episode, Diane interviews Gelare Danaie, a Toronto-based architect originally from Iran. Gelare shares her fascinating journey from childhood dreams of changing environments to becoming a successful architect. She discusses her early inspiration, her diverse professional experiences across multiple countries, and her passion for designing human-centered spaces. Gelare also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of starting her own company, DEXD, along with the importance of authenticity, dreaming big, and maintaining a balanced perspective in her career. She offers valuable advice for aspiring architects, emphasizing the significance of enjoying one's work and pursuing it with passion. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:33 Childhood Dreams and Early Inspirations 05:03 Pursuing Architecture and Early Career 07:17 Balancing Dreams and Reality in Architecture 09:29 Starting a Business and Overcoming Challenges 14:24 Networking and Industry Insights 20:31 Future Aspirations | |||
| Episode 2 - Mi Kim | 04 déc. 2024 | 00:46:16 | |
Empowering Diversity: Mi Kim's Journey in the Construction Industry In this episode, Mi Kim shares her unique journey from being a third culture kid to a successful consultant in the construction industry. Born in Korea, raised in Honduras, and educated in Canada, Kim talks about the challenges and triumphs of navigating these diverse backgrounds. She discusses her career path from dreaming of becoming an astronaut to becoming an independent contractor, the mentors who influenced her, and her passion for diversity and inclusion. Kim also highlights the significance of her nomination in the 'Top 40 Under 40' by the Construction News Site and offers valuable advice for young women considering a career in construction. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:59 Childhood Dreams and Career Path 04:44 Entering the Construction Industry 09:29 Experiences Working Up North 15:44 Embracing Identity and Mentorship 22:59 Personal Growth and Mentorship 27:10 Career Journey at Kiewit 30:03 Pursuing an MBA 34:06 Top 40 Under 40 Recognition 38:35 Advocacy for Diversity and Inclusion | |||
| Episode 1 - Leslie Merrithew | 20 nov. 2024 | 00:46:02 | |
From Arctic Beginnings to Global Projects: Leslie's Story 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 03:01 Early Aspirations and Career Beginnings 06:12 University Journey and First Job 08:49 Landing the Iqaluit Airport Project 11:40 Opportunities and Challenges in the North 20:29 Leading a Diverse Team 32:47 Embracing New Places and Building Communities 35:37 Effective Networking 39:57 Advice for Young Professionals in Construction | |||
| Episode 0 - Who am I ? | 12 nov. 2024 | 00:06:21 | |
Welcome to the debut episode of Building Your Story podcast, hosted by Diane. Diane introduces herself, sharing her background as a project manager in the construction industry, her journey from Paris to the far north of Canada, and her work across various settings over the last nine years. She reflects on the challenges and opportunities she has faced as a woman in construction and unveils the mission of the podcast: to spotlight the inspiring stories of women in the industry—from engineers and CEOs to site superintendents and project managers. Join Diane as she embarks on this journey to celebrate the strength, resilience, and authenticity of women in construction, and invites the audience to contribute and participate in future episodes. 00:00 Welcome to Building Your Story Podcast 01:55 Meet Your Host: Diane's Journey 03:05 Challenges and Triumphs in Construction 03:59 The Mission of Building Your Story 05:17 Join the Conversation | |||