Episode Details

In this episode of Jimmy Talks Construction, James Starbuck sits down with Steph Apostolides (Melbourne Chippy Chick) — carpenter, content creator, and founder of Trady Lady Hire.

Steph shares her journey from working with her dad on-site to becoming one of the most recognised female tradies in Australia. The conversation dives into the realities of working in construction, the challenges women face on-site, and why initiatives like Trady Lady Hire are reshaping the industry.

They also break down:

• The truth about trade school vs real on-site experience
• Why most “qualified” operators aren’t actually skilled
• The rise of female tradies in Australia
• Workplace culture, equality, and what actually needs to change
• Hiring issues in construction (and why honesty matters)
• The fuel crisis and its impact on contractors
• Building a business and brand in the construction industry

Steph also explains how Trady Lady Hire connects homeowners with qualified female tradies - solving a major gap in the market.

If you’re in construction, thinking about getting into the trades, or running a business in the industry — this episode is packed with real, unfiltered insights.

Be sure to leave a 5 star review!

Connect with Stef:

🌐 Website: www.tradieladyhire.com.au www.tradieladyclub.au

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbournechippychick/ https://www.instagram.com/tradie.lady.club/ https://www.instagram.com/tradieladyhire/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melbournechippychick/

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melbournechippychick

Connect with Jimmy:

🌐 Website: https://starbuckgroup.com.au

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JimmyTalksConstruction

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starbuckexcavation

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/starbuckexcavation

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-starbuck-13336546/