EP. 49: Off the Hamster Wheel: How Stacey and Jeff Get Their Business, Money, and Life Back

In this raw and inspiring episode, we sit down with Stacey and Jeff Connell from Connell’s Building and Renovation, alongside their coach Teresa Mullins, to share how they stepped off the hamster wheel and built a business (and life) they actually love. From clashing over “office vs tradie” roles, drowning in tiny jobs, and battling burnout, to raising their rates, letting go of the stress, and working as a real team, this story is proof that change pays off.From a secret struggle with drinking to learning the power of breakeven numbers and boundaries, Jeff opens up with honesty that will hit home for many tradies. Stacey shares how letting go of control, hiring help, and trusting the process gave her back her spark. And Teresa shows how the right mix of mindset, money know-how, and accountability can change everything.In this episode of Ladies with Tradies – Workin’ the Trade, Livin’ the Life, host Kate Muldoon chats with Stacey, Jeff, and Teresa about what it really takes to stop running in circles and start creating a business that feels lighter and more rewarding.You’ll hear:How Stacey and Jeff went from working against each other to building as one teamWhy ditching small “maintenance” jobs and changing their business name was a game changerThe surprising confidence boost that came from raising their rates by $50 an hourHow breakeven numbers gave them clarity and control over cash flowWhy hiring the right admin support created freedom for Stacey—and better results for clientsJeff’s brave journey of stepping back from heavy drinking and finding balance againThe ripple effect of open, vulnerable leadership on staff and apprenticesKey TakeawayGetting off the hamster wheel isn’t about grinding harder—it’s about working together, knowing your numbers, and trusting the process. With the right support and the courage to let go, you can create a business that pays and a life you’re proud of. THE MONEY JUNKET: A TRADIE COUPLES RETREAT21st to 23rd AUGUST 2026 - BRISBANE QLDGet on the Same Page. Fix the Numbers. Feel Like a Couple Again.Join us at southbankClick here to register.Limited spots, because we keep these events intimate and interactive. 🎧 Ready to take your tradie business to the next level?🚀 Money Junket 2026 Join us for our biggest event of the year—helping tradie couples build profitable, sustainable businesses (without burning out or breaking their relationship). 👉 https://ghl.ladieswithtradies.com/the-money-junket-bne-2026💡 The Empowered Tradie Business Program (FREE) Get clarity, structure, and direction in your business—without the overwhelm. 👉 https://ghl.ladieswithtradies.com/empowered-tradie-program📞 Book a ‘What To Fix First’ Call Not sure what’s holding your business back? Let’s figure it out together. 👉 https://links.ladieswithtradies.com/widget/bookings/30min_chatdirect