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/