PODCAST · education
Building Confidence
by Louise Azzopardi
A podcast about growth, realistic tools, practical strategies, and support.Whether you’re starting out, facing challenges, or looking to level up, Building Confidence brings you real conversations, practical insights, and inspiring stories to help you navigate your journey with confidence.Your host, Louise, is a heavy vehicle and plant mechanic by trade who started her apprenticeship at just 15 years old. Over the years, she has faced and overcome harassment, impostor syndrome, mental health struggles, and workplace challenges—while also achieving industry awards and experience in both large corporations and family businesses.Now a life coach and mentor for tradeswomen, Louise is here to share the lessons she’s learned so that her struggles weren’t for nothing—and so you can build the confidence to take charge of your own path.
Episodes
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The Little Things That Build an Incredible Career - Hannah Legg - Building Confidence – Episode 172
What if the little things you do today are what create your biggest opportunities tomorrow? In this episode of Building Confidence, I'm joined by Hannah, founder of HER Engineering, Machining and Maintenance, to talk about her incredible journey from apprentice fitter and machinist to…
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Teaching Men How to Work With Women - Building Confidence - Episode 171
What if the people in your new workplace aren't rejecting you—they're just figuring out how to work with you? In this episode of Building Confidence, we're talking about something that doesn't get discussed very often: teaching men how to work with women. When you enter a male-dominated workplace...
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Take Every Opportunity You Can - Abbie-Rose Powell Building Confidence - Episode 170
What if choosing a trade could open more doors than you ever realised? In this episode of Building Confidence, I sit down with fitter by trade and Women in Trades Project Officer Abbie to talk about the incredible variety a trade career can offer—and the lessons she's learned along the way. Abbie...
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Popping People's Tradeswoman Virginity - Building Confidence - Episode 169
What do you do when someone is shocked to discover that you're a tradeswoman… again? In this episode of Building Confidence, I'm sharing one of the more unusual reframes I've created with a coaching client: popping people's tradeswoman virginity. When women still make up such a small percentage…
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Behind Every No, There's a Yes - Kasey Lewis - Building Confidence - Episode 167
What if the career you really want takes two years of hearing "no" before you finally get your "yes"? In this episode of Building Confidence, I sit down with electrician and protection technician Kasey to talk about her journey from graphic designer to mature-age electrical apprentice…
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The Power of "And" Instead of "But" - Building Confidence - Episode 167
What if changing one tiny word could change the way you talk to yourself? In this episode of Building Confidence, we're talking about the surprisingly powerful difference between "and" and "but"—and how a small shift in language can help us recognise how far we've come without ignoring where we...
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From Stay-at-Home Mum to Award-Winning Tradeswoman - Samantha Hall - Building Confidence - Episode 166
Can you build a successful trade career while raising a family? Absolutely. In this episode of Building Confidence, I sit down with award-winning boilermaker Samantha Hall to talk about her journey from being a stay-at-home mum to becoming a qualified tradeswoman, industry award winner, and…
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Maybe You Don't Need to Get Rid of Self-Doubt - Building Confidence - Episode 165
What if a little bit of self-doubt is actually a good thing? In this episode of Building Confidence, we're talking about something I call appropriate self-doubt—that little voice that makes you stop, double-check, ask a question or recognise when you might need some help. We often think becoming...
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From Apprentice to Breakdown Technician - Rachael Heufel - Building Confidence – Episode 164
What if the career you love is waiting just outside your comfort zone? In this episode of Building Confidence, I sit down with heavy vehicle technician Rachael to talk about her journey from a high school student unsure of her future to becoming a trusted breakdown technician who thrives on…
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Objective vs Subjective: The Feedback Filter That Changes Everything - Building Confidence - Episode 163
How much of the feedback you receive is fact—and how much is just someone's opinion? In this episode of Building Confidence, I unpack one of the simplest tools I use with my coaching clients: understanding the difference between objective and subjective feedback. Learning to recognise the...
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Building a Community That Changes Lives - Amanda Bulow | Building Confidence – Episode 162
What happens when you stop waiting for change and decide to create it yourself? In this episode of Building Confidence, I sit down with Amanda, founder of Awesome Women in Construction, to talk about how one breakfast with 14 women grew into a thriving community supporting women across every part...
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Breaking Self-Fulfilling Prophecies | Building Confidence – Episode 161
Have you ever caught yourself saying, "I'm always anxious," "I always make mistakes," or "This is just who I am"? The words we repeatedly tell ourselves can shape the way we think, feel, and act—often without us even realising it. In this episode of Building Confidence, I explore the concept of...
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Perseverance in the Face of Challenges: Kym’s Trade story - Building Confidence - Ep 160
What do you do when the career you've been chasing takes seven years to become reality? You keep going. In this episode of Building Confidence, I sit down with electrician and maintenance supervisor Kym to unpack her journey into the trades. From spending seven years applying for apprenticeships,...
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Returning to Work with Confidence | Building Confidence – Episode 159
Returning to work after time away can feel exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between. Whether you've been recovering from burnout, navigating bullying, welcoming a new baby, managing an injury, or simply taking time to heal, stepping back into the workplace is a transition—and it's okay…
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The Power of Asking: How to Open Doors and Create Opportunities - Caitlyn Hayes - Ep158 - Building Confidence
In this episode of Building Confidence, I sit down with heavy vehicle mechanic and dual-trade auto electrician Caitlyn Hayes to chat about the journey that has taken her from applying for countless apprenticeships to working FIFO in Western Australia. We talk about what it takes to back yourself...
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Watering Grass vs. Watering Concrete: Focus on Growth - Building Confidence - Ep 157
I explore the metaphor of watering grass versus watering concrete, discussing the importance of focusing efforts on environments where growth is possible, highlights how investing energy in the wrong areas can lead to burnout. If you would like help and support to implement this process you can...
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Breaking Barriers: Alice's 23-Year Journey in Trades - Building Confidence - Ep156
In this week’s interview, Alice shares her 23-year journey as a tradeswoman, overcoming challenges related to gender bias, workplace respect, and career transitions. Discover valuable and practical insights on supporting women in trades, the importance of community, and how to succeed in a...
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Team meeting with your anxiety - Building Confidence - Ep 155
Anxiety can sometimes be chatter in your mind and sometimes it can be yelling – sound familiar? It can be like a team meeting where peoples voices are not being taken into account, and they get louder and louder until you cannot ignore them. In this episode I go through how to have a productive...
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Unlocking Opportunities in Trades: Insights from Caitlin Knox - Building Confidence - Ep 154
In this episode, Caitlin Knox shares her inspiring journey from stepping out of university to becoming an apprentice development lead. We discuss the realities of trades, the importance of attitude, navigating vocational training, and seizing leadership opportunities early in a career....
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Embracing the Unknown: Saf's Path to Success - Building Confidence - Ep 153
"I’ve become the gun tradie I used to look up to." Saf joins us on the podcast to share her 16 year long carer in the trades, sharing challenges she over came and her mindset of continues learning which has lead her to becoming the gun tradie that she used to look up to!! takeaways Choosing an...
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Irregular Action Over No Action: Building Confidence with Evidence - Ep 152
In this episode, I share practical strategies for building confidence through regular actions, the importance of gathering evidence of success, and managing ADHD symptoms without shame. If you would like help and support to implement this process you can book a coaching consultation here If you…
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Overcoming Workplace Bullying: Building Confidence After Adversity- Kate V – Building Confidence – Ep 151
In this weeks episode I chat to Kate, a qualified heavy diesel mechanic based in NZ. We discuss Kate’s journey from the air force into the trades which unfortunately wasn’t smooth sailing. We talk about the impact of workplace bullying, confidence building, and overcoming adversity in…
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The Hidden Impact of Bullying on Your Skills Development - Building confidence - Ep150
In this episode I share a fact about bullying that is rarely discussed – the impact on your learning. This really impacts you during your apprenticeship when learning is intense but beyond your apprenticeship it effects your performance. I through how this impacted me and how I moved through it.…
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Beyond Machines: The Human Side of Leadership with Ashley Belteky - Building Confidence - Ep 149
This week I interview Ashley Belteky, heavy vehicle mechanic and the founder of Blue Leader. She shares her journey from being a mechanic to a leader, sharing the steps she took along the way which included trying a few different jobs in the mechanical space! Key takeaways Leadership involves...
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Why the Unknown Is Your Best Next Step - Building Confidence - Ep 148
In this episode I explore the feelings of change, emphasizing how embracing the unfamiliar can lead to growth and better opportunities. I highlight the importance of self-awareness and continuous personal development in navigating career and life transitions. If you would like help and support to...
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The Power of 20-Minute Goals: Boost Your Momentum - Building Confidence - Episode 147
In this episode I explore how setting 20-minute goals can create momentum, boost motivation, and can help create space for you to want to plan effectively for the future. I talk about the importance of small, achievable targets to build energy and confidence over time. If you would like help and...
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Mum and Mechanic - Chelsea Lawson Life Lessons - Building Confidence - Episode 146
In this episode I have the wonderful opportunity to chat with Chelsea Lawson, who is a mechanic, mum and mentor. We explore how to advocate for yourself and how important it is to trust your judgment! If you would like help and support to implement this process, you can book a coaching…
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How to Use Observer Mode to Manage Emotions and Thoughts - Building Confidence - Ep 145
In this episode, I explore the concept of observer mode, a powerful mental tool for gaining clarity, reducing emotional reactivity, and improving self-awareness. I share practical examples from my coaching practice, discuss how to observe thoughts and scenarios objectively, and highlights its...
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Building Confidence: Life Lessons from Tradeswoman Bardie Somerville - Episode 144
Join Bardie and I as we explore life lessons, the power of community, mental health, and authenticity in the trades industry. This conversation offers insights on personal growth, building meaningful relationships, and embracing change at any age. Bardie shares her journey and what helped her...
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Getting constructive and useful feedback - Building Confidence - Ep143
In this episode, I discuss how to give and receive constructive feedback effectively, especially in technical and trades environments. I share practical examples, personal mentoring stories, and tips for resourcefulness and trust-building in feedback processes. If you are a tradeswoman or...
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Bridget Bell - Life Lessons - Building Confidence - Ep 142
In this episode I chat with Bridget Bell, who is currently working as a trainer and assessor. We dive into Bridget's journey from drag racing to becoming a leader in the automotive industry, sharing valuable lessons on upskilling, community building, and empowering women in traditionally...
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Business Impact Report - Building Confidence - Ep 141
In this episode, I reflect on my five-year journey in coaching and speaking on the problems tradeswomen face, sharing insights from my impact report. I discuss the challenges and successes faced by tradeswomen, the importance of community support, and the mission to create inclusive workplaces. I...
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Coralee Zueff's Life’s lessons and new book! – Building Confidence – Episode 140
In this episode of the Building Confidence Podcast, host I speak with Coralee Zueff, an automotive professional and author. We discuss Coralee's journey in the automotive industry, her transition from employee to business owner, and her passion for teaching and empowering others in the trades....
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International Women's Day - Building Confidence - Episode 139
In preparation for International Women’s day I wanted to start the conversation on how this day affects us (women) both positively and negatively. A day of hype is great, but what about the rest of the year? What do we do then? That is what I go through in this episode! If you would like help or...
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Logan Barnett - Life Lessons - Building Confidence - Ep 138
In this week's episode of the Building Confidence Podcast, I interview Logan from the Go Company, discussing her journey in the trades, the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, and the importance of work-life balance. We explore Logan's transition to part-time work, her...
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DDT Exhibitors, Technology, Golf day and more – Building Confidence – Episode 137
In this episode of the Building Confidence Podcast, host I interview Matt Hollier, Michael Parkinson, and Emma Zivkovich, who are key figures in the Diesel Dirt and Turf Expo. They discuss the innovative insurance solutions offered by Gensure. We discuss the importance of networking at the expo,...
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If you don’t ask, the answer is always “No”- Building Confidence – Ep136
In this episode of the Building Confidence podcast, I discuss the importance of asking for what you want in various aspects of life. If you don't ask, the answer is always no. Fear and assumptions can prevent you from seeking opportunities. I share ways to overcome barriers to communication and...
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Compare and Despair - Building Confidence - Episode 135
In this weeks episode I dive into the despair we sometimes feel when we compare ourselves to others. I don’t have all the answers for this one but I share what has worked for me! If you are a tradeswoman or tradesperson who would like to feel less anxious and more confident, don't hesitate to...
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Celebrating 10 Years of Diesel, Dirt and Turf - Building Confidence - Episode 134
In this episode, I speak with members of the Diesel Dirt and Turf Expo team to celebrate the expo's 10-year anniversary. This conversation covers the personal connections of the team to the expo, its evolution over the years, the impact on their careers, and the importance of problem-solving and...
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Things that anger you - Building Confidence - Episode 133
In this week’s episode, I discuss the complexities of anger, particularly within the tradeswomen community. I explore how anger can manifest, the importance of understanding its roots, and the necessity of channelling that energy into constructive actions. The need for self-awareness and personal...
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Frameworks - Building Confidence - Episode 132
People are looking through their own beliefs, knowledge, experiences and values when they assess any situation, these are most likely very different to ours. As we move through life we are always learning and we can make changes to our frames. Adjusting my frame helped me move through a time of...
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Choosing Joy For 2026 - Building Confidence - Ep 131
In this episode, I discuss my journey towards choosing joy for 2026, reflecting on my mental health struggles and how I worked out the hard way the importance of setting goals that prioritize joy and sustainability. I share the process my coach took us through that confirmed that joy should be my...
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Big Fat Greek Wedding Style - Building Confidence - Ep 130
During a session with a client who is trying to get what she needs from a manager with a weak ego we decided to try something outside the box - with the goal here being her learning. We have tried everything in the book, she wants to stay in this work place so we started reaching for anything…
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History of Diesel Dirt and Turf - Building Confidence - Episode 129
In this episode of the Building Confidence Podcast, I interview Emma from Diesel Dirt and Turf Expo. We discuss the origins of the expo, its evolution over the past decade, the importance of community and family involvement, and the opportunities available for sponsors and exhibitors. Emma shares...
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Lizard brain - Building Confidence - Episode 128
You know that automatic feeling of anxiety that hits you seemingly out of no where? That is what we are going through in this episode of the podcast, the seemingly instance feeling of stress that feels out of our control! If you would like help or support with this process or you are a business...
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Emotional Immune System - Building Confidence - Episode 127
This week I was chatting to a tradeswoman about her emotional capacity right now, she was hit with a break up and was frustrated with how her confidence has been hit. Going through this we started planning things that could help boost her emotional immune system now that it has been hit and the...
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Supporting people going through harassment - Building Confidence - Episode 126
When someone close to you is going through harassment either in the workplace or out of the workplace it can be hard and you can feel helpless. You want to take away their pain but unfortunately in most circumstances it is up to them. In this episode I go through some ways you can support a…
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Too much bad in the world - Amber Czech and Outi Hicks - Building Confidence - Episode 125
This episode is for anyone who feels like the world is too much right now. Unfortunately, I don’t have the answers, but I am sharing what I am thinking to keep me moving forward and moving at all.
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Building a personal brand as a trades woman, part 2 - Building Confidence - Episode 124
What happens when the personal brand you created starts drawing attention, a lot of attention. Opportunities that are amazing but you can't fit them all in? This is what we chat about in this week's episode! If you would like help or support with this process or you are a business wanting to make...
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Building a personal brand as a trades woman, part 1 - Building Confidence - Episode 123
What is a personal brand, why is it important and how can you build it? This is what we go through in this episode of the Building Confidence podcast! If you would like help or support with this process, you can join my free Facebook community, tradeswomen owning their power, or if you would like...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
A podcast about growth, realistic tools, practical strategies, and support.Whether you’re starting out, facing challenges, or looking to level up, Building Confidence brings you real conversations, practical insights, and inspiring stories to help you navigate your journey with confidence.Your host, Louise, is a heavy vehicle and plant mechanic by trade who started her apprenticeship at just 15 years old. Over the years, she has faced and overcome harassment, impostor syndrome, mental health struggles, and workplace challenges—while also achieving industry awards and experience in both large corporations and family businesses.Now a life coach and mentor for tradeswomen, Louise is here to share the lessons she’s learned so that her struggles weren’t for nothing—and so you can build the confidence to take charge of your own path.
HOSTED BY
Louise Azzopardi
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Building Confidence have?
Building Confidence currently has 173 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Building Confidence about?
A podcast about growth, realistic tools, practical strategies, and support.Whether you’re starting out, facing challenges, or looking to level up, Building Confidence brings you real conversations, practical insights, and inspiring stories to help you navigate your journey with confidence.Your...
How often does Building Confidence release new episodes?
Building Confidence publishes regularly with 173 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Building Confidence?
You can listen to Building Confidence on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Building Confidence?
Building Confidence is created and hosted by Louise Azzopardi.
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