S6 E3 - With Electrician Kamile Macijauskaite and Gay O’Connor and Caroline Jones from Solas

This episode is packed with real stories, raw and powerful conversations across two powerful segments. Back in Season 1, we caught up with Kamile Macijauskaite, aka KimmyTheSparks — over the phone. Fast forward to Season 6, and we finally sit down with her in person at Robus HQ in Dublin during her Robus Visitor Tour.In this stripped-back conversation, Kimmy opens up about:Working abroad and the cultural differences she’s seen in the trades.Using her platform to inspire young girls to consider careers in the electrical industry.The personal challenges she’s overcome and how they’ve shaped her journey.A major knee injury that hit pause on her 2024 plans and gave her new insight into disability and access.We discuss social media and content creation.The struggles tradespeople face in London, especially around parking fines and bailiffs, and how it affects daily work.This is more than a chat about the trade — it's a deep dive into the person behind the tools.GUEST INTERVIEW SEGMENT: Caroline Jones & Gay O’Connor from SOLASIn the second half, we’re joined by Caroline Jones and Gay O’Connor from Solas Ireland, a state agency for Further Education and Training. With passion and purpose, they talk about:Supporting former prisoners as they re-enter society and seek employment.The barriers that ex-offenders face, including homelessness, mental health struggles, and childhood trauma.Their experience with the Mountjoy Harmony Choir — a unique music initiative that brought together male inmates and female Solas staff in song.The transformative power of music behind prison walls, and the disappointment felt when the program was suddenly shut down in November 2024 due to occupancy changes.This episode highlights the importance of second chances, breaking cycles, and the role of both creativity and community in healing and growth.This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting and this season is in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland.