Building Your Story

Welcome to Building Your Story, the podcast that shares the stories of successful women in the construction industry.

Building Your Story is a business podcast hosted by Diane Depardon D'Agostino, with 25 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Diane Depardon D'Agostino hosts Building Your Story, a business show with 25 episodes published.

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  Episode #23

  Episode 23 - Cali-Anna Elliott

  Sep 2, 202657 minS1

  Send us Fan Mail Cali-Anna Elliott on Starting in HVAC, Challenging Trade Stereotypes, and Finding Confidence Through Apprenticeship Over the course of a year and three conversations, Cali-Anna Elliott shares her journey from having never picked up a tool to becoming a confident HVAC apprentice. From choosing the trades almost by accident, to navigating trade school, working independently in the field, and discovering the "why" behind the work, this episode offers an honest look at what it's really like to start a career in the skilled trades today. We discuss the realities of apprenticeship, the importance of mentorship and support networks, and why being smart and working in the trades are not mutually exclusive. Cali-Anna also reflects on overcoming self-doubt, learning from mistakes, and the mindset that continues to drive her growth: "Why not?" Key Topics: Choosing the trades with no previous experience Building confidence through mistakes, mentorship, and hands-on learning Trade school and learning the "why" behind HVAC systems Challenging stereotypes about intelligence and skilled trades careers Women in trades, support networks, and finding community Setting goals, continuous learning, and personal growth Looking back on how far she's come and where she's headed next

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  Episode #22

  Episode 22 - Sarah Cipkar

  Jul 28, 202648 minS1

  Send us Fan Mail Making Space for Change: The Journey of Sarah Sipkar and Resomate Discover how Sarah Cipkar transitioned from community activism and urban planning to founding Resomate, a pioneering company focused on backyard homes and modular construction solutions that address housing shortages. Her story highlights the power of hands-on experimentation, innovative use of technology, and the importance of community-focused solutions in modern urban development. In this episode, we discussed: Sarah's unconventional path from childhood community leader to CEO of Resimate The inception of backyard ADUs during COVID and their potential to reshape housing in Canada Navigating the construction industry without a traditional background How policy, technology, and community needs intersect in Sarah’s work The role of women in construction and leadership and fostering diversity in startups Practical advice on networking, mentorship, and leveraging creativity in a fast-paced industry Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Sarah Cipkar and her mission to simplify backyard housing 02:17 - From childhood leadership to community politics and early passions 09:22 - The story of building her backyard ADU during COVID 12:10 - Transitioning from personal project to a tech-driven solution with Resimate 13:22 - Lessons learned about construction and industry perceptions 16:11 - Core business: modular, offsite backyard homes in Canada 23:23 - Sarah’s relationship with the construction industry and her evolving role 35:53 - Strategies for effective networking and support for women in industry 40:37 - Reflecting on achievements and the importance of autonomy in her journey 46:14 - Advice for young women considering careers in construction This episode explores innovative approaches to urban housing, emphasizing community impact, diversity, and entrepreneurship within the construction and urban planning sectors.

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  Episode #21

  Episode 21 - Cara Grant

  Jun 16, 202643 minS1

  Send us Fan Mail From Ballet Barre to Construction Site: Cara Grand's Journey Cara Grand’s journey from ballerina to construction leader is a masterclass in resilience and purpose. Discover how her passion for learning fueled a career shift from dance to managing billion-dollar projects. Cara shares insights on leadership, balancing motherhood, and breaking barriers in male-dominated fields. Her story is a testament to the power of curiosity and perseverance in crafting a fulfilling career. Perfect for those seeking inspiration to transform passion into impactful careers. Key Topics: Transition from ballet to construction Overcoming challenges and embracing new opportunities Balancing career and motherhood Lessons in leadership and authenticity Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 05:41 - Challenges in ballet 10:11 - Career shift to construction 19:06 - Leadership journey 31:42 - Work-life balance insights 43:46 - Advice for young women

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  Episode #20

  Episode 20 - Nancy Weinman

  May 13, 202646 minS1

  <p>Send us Fan Mail</p><p>From Shyness to Leadership: Nancy Weinman's Journey in Architecture</p><p>Join Nancy Weinman as she shares her inspiring journey from a shy child to a leading architect and construction manager. Discover her experiences in a male-dominated industry and her dedication to mentoring future women leaders.</p><p>Key topics:</p>Early influences and dreams in art and architectureOvercoming challenges as a woman in architectureCareer evolution from federal work to founding her own firmBuilding client relationships and managing luxury home projectsMentorship and empowering women in constructionPersonal philosophies on creativity and self-care<p>Timestamps:<...

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  Episode #19

  Episode 19 - Laura Korte

  Feb 11, 202648 minS1

  <p>Send us Fan Mail</p><p> An Unplanned Path to Construction Leadership </p><p>In this episode, Laura Korte, Vice President of Construction at VR Mechanical, shares her unique career journey. Starting with aspirations of becoming a doctor, Laura's path changed drastically after taking a temporary job in construction. Discover how her background in health sciences unexpectedly led to a passion for construction and project management. Laura discusses her early career challenges, the importance of asking questions, the role of mentorship, and the dynamics of being a woman in a male-dominated industry. She also touches on the significance of wo...

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