The Daily Dose #188 | From Bricklaying Barriers to Industry Leadership: The Joanna Cassidy Story

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az and Renae sit down with Joanna Cassidy — one of the most inspiring new voices in Australian construction. Joanna’s path into brick and blocklaying is anything but typical. With degrees in environmental health and criminology, years in government compliance roles, and a blended family of five kids, she made the bold decision to switch careers and take on one of construction’s most physically demanding trades.Joanna shares how a hands-on moment during a home renovation opened the door to a new passion, how she pushed through industry resistance to secure an apprenticeship, and why bricklaying gave her a level of fulfilment no corporate job ever could.Now the co-founder of Cassidy’s Brick and Blocklaying, Joanna is building a business grounded in high standards, strong team culture, mental health awareness, and genuine inclusivity. She talks openly about the barriers women face entering the trades, why representation in bricklaying is still below one percent, and her mission to change that by visiting schools, mentoring young women, and showing what’s possible.The conversation also dives into what makes a truly “good builder,” why curiosity matters on every job site, and how real change starts with doing what you say you’ll do.A powerful, honest story from someone who is not just talking about lifting the industry — she’s actually doing it.Listen now.For more: https://www.cassidysbrickandblocklaying.com.au/