Overcoming Stereotypes and Finding Support in Trades
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Join Cassie Pound and Heather Bargender-Wavra in this compelling episode of Power Women of the Trades as they sit down with Erica Leonor from Good Leap. Erica shares her fascinating journey from being a mother and a passionate collector of Lord of the Rings swords to stepping into the trade industry through cultural studies and travels. Her unique career path highlights how diverse experiences shape women's roles in traditionally male-dominated industries such as HVACR. This episode shines a light on the amazing support Erica received from Good Leap, which played a crucial role during her time battling stage 3 breast cancer. Heather also opens up about her positive experiences with Good Leap, touching on the company's compassionate culture and their continued support even after her treatment, a rarity she notes from interactions with other cancer patients.

Cassie recounts here appreciation for companies like Good Leap, emphasizing serving people over profit and highlighting the impact of workplace culture on employee well-being. They discuss broader workplace culture issues, sharing an anonymous story of a woman feeling undervalued in a male-dominated workspace. With heartfelt conversations, the importance of context and face-to-face interactions to avoid misunderstandings and promote respectful dialogue is stressed. Erica Leonor shares valuable insights on educating customers rather than pushing sales, focusing on the need for solution-based approaches that educate clients about HVAC, plumbing, and electrical options. As the conversation unfolds, listeners will discover the empowering stories and personal achievements of women thriving in trades, along with practical steps to nurture diversity and inclusion.

Throughout the discussion, the episode covers societal changes, including the influence of smartphones and social media on comfort zones, especially for younger generations post-COVID-19. Heather recounts her experiences traveling and working in different countries, shining a light on stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing the hustle to achieve travel goals. The episode celebrates women balancing life challenges, work-life integration, and the importance of support networks during tough times. Highlighting her brown belt journey, creating gratitude journals, and motivational discussions around unlocking potential, Erica's story is one that inspires, educates, and engages. Expect to walk away from this episode with a deeper understanding of the power women possess in reshaping the trades and the significance of supportive workplace environments.

Time Stamps: 0:00 - Introduction to the episode. 0:45 - Erica Leonor joins the conversation. 1:30 - Heather and Good Leap's supportive culture. 3:00 - Discussion on workplace culture issues. 3:45 - The impact of face-to-face interactions vs. online. 5:10 - Erica's career path and cultural experiences. 6:25 - Innovative approaches to customer education. 8:00 - Societal changes and technology's influence on younger generations. 9:15 - Good Leap's continuing innovations and support. 10:30 - The importance of community and support systems. 12:45 - Highlights from Heather's board roles and the significance of diversity. 14:20 - Practical steps for promoting diversity and inclusion. 16:00 - Erica's personal achievements and motivational insights.

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- WorkWithYourHandzhttps://www.workwithyourhandz.com)

- Relentless Digitalhttps://www.relentless-digital.com)

- Kee Hart Marketinghttps://keehartmarketing.com)

- Forrest Perry Marketinghttps://perrymarketing.com)

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This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast )