Building Your Story

Episode 20 - Nancy Weinman

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423755/fan_mail/new] From Shyness to Leadership: Nancy Weinman's Journey in Architecture 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. Key topics: * Early influences and dreams in art and architecture * Overcoming challenges as a woman in architecture * Career evolution from federal work to founding her own firm * Building client relationships and managing luxury home projects * Mentorship and empowering women in construction * Personal philosophies on creativity and self-care Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Nancy's journey  02:00 - Early career challenges and inspirations  10:00 - Transition to construction management  18:00 - Founding her own firm  25:00 - Mentorship and industry changes  35:00 - Advice for young women in architecture Resources & Links: * Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) [https://cmaanet.org/] * Nancy Weinman's LinkedIn [https://linkedin.com/in/nancyweinman] Connect with Nancy Weinman: * LinkedIn [https://linkedin.com/in/nancyweinman] * Twitter [https://twitter.com/nancyweinman]

Episode 19 - Laura Korte

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423755/fan_mail/new]  An Unplanned Path to Construction Leadership  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 work-life balance, leadership principles, and the value of meaningful projects. As Laura reflects on her achievements and future goals, she provides invaluable advice for young professionals considering a career in construction. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 04:23 First Experience in Construction 10:20 Career Growth and Opportunities 23:49 Supporting the Site Team 26:33 Creating a Supportive Work Culture 28:13 Navigating Career and Motherhood 33:12 Current Role and Responsibilities 45:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode 18 - Nour Hachem

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423755/fan_mail/new] Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women in Male-Dominated Fields with Nour Hachem In this episode, Diane interviews Nour Hachem, President and Founder of the national not-for-profit 'Build A Dream'. Nour talks about her background and childhood and moving from Lebanon to Canada. She shares her journey from aspiring to be a human rights lawyer to discovering her passion for the not-for-profit sector, leading her to establish Build A Dream. Nour discusses the challenges and successes in promoting women's engagement in male-dominated sectors such as skilled trades, STEM, and leadership roles. She also emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments for women and the collective effort required to foster a more equitable society. Highlighting powerful personal and professional anecdotes, Nour illustrates the transformative impact of economic independence and the importance of empowering both women and men to break traditional molds and embrace their full potential. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 03:52 University Challenges and Career Shift 05:43 Founding Build A Dream 10:32 Mission and Impact of Build A Dream 25:08 Challenges and Solutions in Male-Dominated Fields 36:20 Success Stories and Future Goals 47:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode 17 - Dianne Finnigan

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423755/fan_mail/new] Empowering Women in Skilled Trades: Diane Finnegan's Journey In this episode, Diane Finnegan, CEO of The Dirty Seahorse, shares her inspiring journey from being a retail sales manager to founding a company that makes women's workwear for skilled trades. Diane describes how her daughter's challenges in finding suitable workwear sparked the idea, leading her to create a business focused on durable, functional, and comfortable workwear for women. Diane discusses overcoming obstacles like imposter syndrome, learning essential skills from sewing to fabric sourcing, and the importance of community and feedback from women in trades. The company aims not only to produce quality workwear but also to support and advocate for women in trades, highlighting issues like suitable daycare and employer hiring practices. Diane expresses her commitment to changing the industry for the better and her plans for future growth, including a potential storefront. 00:00  Meet Diane Finnegan: CEO of The Dirty Seahorse 03:22 The Birth of The Dirty Seahorse 07:33 Building the Business and Overcoming Doubts 10:26 Community Feedback and Product Development 19:32 Supporting Women in Trades 22:06 Challenges in the Trades 26:11 Social Media and Outreach 27:12 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated 31:13 Final Thoughts and Future Goals

Episode 16 - Pat Duggan

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2423755/fan_mail/new] Breaking Barriers: Pat's Journey in Construction and Leadership In this episode, Pat, shares her inspiring journey from Southeast London to becoming the VP of Major Projects for Bird in Vancouver. Starting with a childhood dream of becoming a policewoman, she pivoted to the construction industry, building a successful 35-year career spanning multiple countries. Pat discusses her early challenges, including her entry into the workforce, and navigating a male-dominated industry. She highlights her career's milestones and later her move to Canada to lead major P3 healthcare projects. Pat also emphasizes the importance of being genuine, working hard, and the value of teamwork. She reflects on her role as executive sponsor of the Women@Bird ERG and shares her aspirations to reach the C-suite level to continue making a positive impact in the industry. 00:00  Meet Patricia: Childhood Dreams and Early Career 05:33 First Steps in Construction 07:03 Career Milestones and Growth 18:14 International Career Moves 26:14 Role at Bird Construction 30:56 Advice for Women in Leadership 32:24 Importance of ERGs 36:16 Reflecting on a 35-Year Career 37:31 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts