The Career Confessions

Empowering Women in Business: The Woman Behind Women Hiring Women In this episode of The Career Confessions, we sit down with Samantha, founder of Women Hiring Women, a growing platform dedicated to connecting people with women-owned businesses and creating stronger support systems for female entrepreneurs. Samantha shares the story behind building a community-driven network designed to help women...

From Dirt to Business: How a 21-Year-Old Built an Excavation Company from ScratchIn this episode of The Career Confessions, we sit down with a 21-year-old excavation business owner who turned early hands-on experience into a thriving company. Starting young in the trades isn’t easy, but he shares how he built his business from the ground up, took risks, and learned lessons most people don’t encoun...

Building a Career in Construction: Insights from Brittany, Superintendent in Florida In this episode of The Career Confessions , Brittany shares her journey from field engineer to superintendent, giving an inside look at what it really takes to lead on a construction jobsite. She opens up about navigating a male-dominated industry, earning respect in leadership, and managing the fast-paced demands...

In this episode of The Career Confessions , Dawn sits down with Tanner Ross, a UA Local 565 Pipefitter, to break down what it’s really like to build a career in the union trades. From getting started to long-term growth, Tanner shares firsthand insight into the opportunities, challenges, and evolving culture of today’s construction industry. Whether you’re exploring a skilled trade or just curious...

In this episode we unlock the hidden power of your posture to boost your energy, reduce pain, and dramatically improve your mental clarity—without expensive treatments or endless adjustments. This episode unveils simple, science-backed strategies to rewire your nervous system and reclaim control over your body’s health. Dr. Brett Hill, a highly experienced chiropractor and posture expert, shares i...

In this conversation, Forrest Miller, a pump operator at Ralph’s Concrete Pumping, Inc., shares his journey into the concrete pumping industry—from transitioning out of a union carpentry career to navigating the demands of life on the pump. He breaks down the challenges and rewards of the job, including long and unpredictable hours, the critical importance of safety, and the strong financial benef...

In this conversation, Dustin Crosby reflects on his experiences in the blue-collar world, highlighting the importance of advocating for skilled trades and addressing the mental health challenges workers often face. He speaks about the pride and dignity found in hands-on labor and the need for greater recognition and respect for blue-collar professions. The discussion also explores how military ser...

Part 2 of a 2 Part Series Jorge shares his journey from apprentice to journeyman. International Union of operating engineers Local 12 — a story about hard work, perseverance, and the power of versatility. From his father’s advice to join the union, to logging 6,000 apprenticeship hours, Jorge opens up about the realities of life on the job site and the growing shortage of skilled talent. He also d...

Part 1 of a 2 Part Series Jorge shares his journey from apprentice to journeyman. International Union of operating engineers Local 12 — a story about hard work, perseverance, and the power of versatility. From his father’s advice to join the union, to logging 6,000 apprenticeship hours, Jorge opens up about the realities of life on the job site and the growing shortage of skilled talent. He also d...

In this episode of The Career Confessions , Dawn talks with Dayne, a grain bin technician , about the often-overlooked science and skill behind building and maintaining massive grain storage structures. The conversation dives deep into the engineering side of construction — exploring how metal sheets, material weight, and design choices all come together to ensure safety, durability, and precision...

In this episode Faith Domino shares her journey to becoming a Laborer Journeyman and breaking barriers as a woman in the trades. She opens up about overcoming fear, finding confidence, and the family-like bonds on the job site. Faith talks about work-life balance, union pride, and her dream to start her own company—proving that women belong and thrive in the construction industry. Tik Tok: https:/...

In this episode of The Career Confessions , Dawn sits down with Sean Allen, a fourth-generation union bricklayer, President of Local 21 and Partner of Union Proud Warrior , about the evolution of blue-collar careers. They dive into apprenticeships, trade schools, union benefits, and the booming opportunities in construction. If you’re curious about skilled trades, career paths without crushing deb...

In this episode of The Career Confessions, Dawn sits down with Brooke Severt , a Tower Technician who shares her inspiring journey into the world of tower climbing. Brooke opens up about the challenges and rewards of working in this demanding yet fulfilling field, highlighting what makes tower work both physically and mentally unique. She discusses the gender dynamics within the industry, the grow...

In this episode, LaTrelle Chase shares her inspiring journey from a successful career in cosmetology to shaping the next generation as a public school educator in career and technical education. She discusses how Massachusetts’ unique vocational system connects students with real-world experiences through co-op programs and industry partnerships. LaTrelle highlights the vital role of advisory boar...

In this conversation, Dana opens up about life as a glazier —a skilled trade that’s so much more than just installing windows. From massive job sites to years of hands-on experience, he breaks down what the work really involves—and the pride that comes with building a blue-collar career. 👷‍♂️💪 We also dive into Dana’s personal journey—life lessons, struggles, and what it’s like being a single da...

In this conversation, Dana opens up about his transition from healthcare to a thriving career in glazing. He underscores the value of union work, apprenticeship training, and the pride that comes with building a life in the trades. Dana reflects on safety practices for working at heights, the financial rewards of skilled labor, and the positive ripple effect tradespeople have on their communities....

In this conversation, Renee Glendenning shares her unique journey from mechanical engineering to founding her own QC University, Renee Glendenning’s path through the construction industry is anything but ordinary. In this episode, she opens up about her transition into quality control, the pressing need for skilled labor, and why mentorship and hands-on training are essential to the future of the...

In this conversation, Nicholas Snider shares his journey from an aspiring mechanic to an electronics technician in the high-stakes world of the oil industry. He opens up about the challenges he’s faced, the skills he’s gained, and the pride he takes in his work. Nicholas sheds light on the often-misunderstood field of industrial instrumentation and stresses the growing demand for skilled tradespeo...

In this conversation, Alex Wakeland shares his journey from aspiring college student to becoming a successful Journey Lineman and General Foreman. He discusses the challenges and rewards of his career, the importance of technology in the trades, and the innovative JNCTN program aimed at streamlining data management for workers. Alex emphasizes the significance of financial literacy and offers advi...