Devils Advocate: Trades Edition

Lisa McGrath and Jill McMaster discuss Jill's journey in restoration, emphasizing networking and mentorship for women in the field. They explore job security and challenges in restoration, with Lisa sharing her insights from construction and condo development. The conversation highlights women's roles in restoration, focusing on client interactions and safety training. They address managing projec...

Lisa McGrath chats with Kyle Bailey about his marketing strategies in local home services. They explore residential vs. commercial marketing, predatory pricing, and the importance of reputation. Kyle shares travel stories, tackles online trolls, and offers insights into the trades and finance industries. They discuss women's challenges in trades, AI's impact, and using Google Maps for business. To...

Lisa McGrath kicks off the episode with reflections on the New Year and introduces the sponsor, TradeMaster Tools. She delves into the vital topic of mental health within the trades, examining the personal challenges workers face. The conversation shifts to the critical issue of work-life balance and the concerning suicide rates in the industry. Lisa also explores parenting, highlighting generatio...

Lisa McGrath opens the episode with reflections on Christmas and shares insights into her cultural background. She discusses the significance of holiday bonuses and employee recognition, highlighting corporate inefficiencies and suggesting practical Christmas gifts. The conversation shifts to children's mental health, discipline, and the impact of holiday experiences on mental well-being. Lisa emp...

Lisa McGrath and Elizabeth Lecerf delve into safety in the trades, focusing on management's role and business impacts of safety compliance. They liken safety roles to bookkeeping and digital shifts, stressing worker engagement and changing safety language to address industry stigmas. The discussion covers gender biases, empowerment, and women's roles in trades, both on-site and in offices. They ex...

Join Lisa McGrath as she chats with Tyler Leonard about his journey to project management in exterior restoration. They delve into the importance of transparency, collaboration, and building trust in construction. Key topics include safety, contractor scrutiny, and skepticism towards online reviews and pop-up companies. Tyler also shares insights on handling challenging homeowners and material cho...

Lisa McGrath delves into the intricacies of editing philosophies and the concept of narcissism. She explores the subtlety of dog whistling and the dynamics of narcissistic abuse, providing insights into these complex issues. The discussion shifts to entrepreneurship and co-parenting, offering practical advice for those navigating these realms. Lisa emphasizes the importance of fostering honesty in...

Lisa McGrath is joined by Adam Windsor, who shares his background in the trades and recounts a near-fatal accident that reshaped his life. The discussion highlights financial education gaps within the trades and explores how injuries can lead to an identity shift. They delve into the search for purpose after a trades career, examining financial pitfalls and insurance issues, including junk insuran...

Lisa McGrath and Cory Bilyk explore addiction in the trades, discussing recovery stories, government regulations, and workplace safety. They address overwork, burnout, and generational work ethics, emphasizing mental health. The conversation covers motivating younger generations, parenting's impact, and cultural misunderstandings. They discuss postpartum mental health, business ethics, and vendor...

Lisa McGrath shares her recent vacation experiences, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. She reflects on weather challenges, homesickness, and observations of resort guests, highlighting personal growth and self-love. Lisa recounts snorkeling adventures and birthday plans, discussing the perks of all-inclusive resorts and exploring Playa del Carmen. She stresses the i...

In this episode, Lisa McGrath introduces Phil Gikes, who shares his journey from the printing industry to a successful coaching career. They discuss Phil's passion for consulting, client achievements, and the challenges of an oversaturated coaching industry. The conversation highlights the role of ethical sales practices, setting personal success goals, and client success stories across various in...

Lisa McGrath opens the episode by addressing the critical topic of mental health within the trades industry, sharing personal challenges such as divorce, custody battles, and battling cancer. She emphasizes the importance of support systems and the profound impact family can have on one's mental well-being. The episode also highlights upcoming guests and stories, reinforcing the need for ongoing m...

Lisa McGrath welcomes guest Mike Martens to delve into the role of the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) and industry associations in Alberta. They explore the ICBA's mandate, labor relations, and the evolving roles of construction "owners." Discussion extends to project management, diversity, and labor shortages, highlighting the impact of regulatory frameworks on producti...

Lisa McGrath delves into the intersection of gossip and LGBTQ issues within the trades, exploring how they influence workplace dynamics. She examines the balance between job skills and personal life, and the role of workplace relationships alongside HR policies. The episode also addresses the impact of office gossip, tackling sexism, and the importance of supporting diversity in trades. Lisa wraps...

Lisa McGrath discusses innovations in HVAC design, the significance of open dialogue in trades, and the role of mental health and neurodiversity in the trades industry.

Lisa McGrath and Alex Fota delve into the importance of mentorship in the trade industry, exploring how guidance can shape careers and foster growth. The episode wraps up with closing thoughts on nurturing future talent.