Tackling The Trades With Marlie & Steph

Join Marlie Packer and Steph Leese in this episode of Tackling the Trades as they dive into the unwritten rules of site etiquette, bad habits, and pet peeves! From stepping into customers’ homes with dirty boots to leaving a clean workspace for the next trade, they’re breaking down how professional manners, teamwork, and mutual respect make or break your reputation on the tools. This week, Marlie and Steph welcome two fantastic industry pros: Carpenter Alessandra (a.k.a. Ohana Makeover), who shares her biggest site pet peeves, practical apprentice advice on anticipating the next move, and the reality of health and safety standards; and Alli Gay, director of CHI Homes Ltd and regional chair for the Federation of Master Builders, who breaks down site inductions, PPE, CSCS cards, and how clear leadership sets boundaries against bad behaviour. 

Join Marlie Packer and Steph Leese in this episode of Tackling the Trades as they pull back the curtain on the hidden costs of running a business in the trades! From soaring fuel prices and insurance to unseen prep time and the "mate's rate" trap, they're breaking down what it really takes to stay afloat and make an actual profit on the tools.This week, Marlie and Steph are joined by three industry experts: Danny Webb (a.k.a. Sparky Milan), best-selling co-author of How to Price Jobs as an Electrician, who breaks down why missing your overheads will leave you working for free; Freya Pell, hands-on property investor and working mum of three, who shares the real-life juggle of rising business expenses and unexpected costs; and Claire Rolton, director of Addison Accounting and Training, who drops essential rules on separating your bank accounts, saving for tax, and navigating the dreaded VAT threshold.This episode gives you the practical financial advice, site-ready banter, and inspiration you need to take control of your finances and make your mark, whether you're an experienced pro or just starting on the tools!

Join Marlie Packer and Steph Leese in this episode of Tackling the Trades as they dive headfirst into the world of mental health on the tools! In an industry where "toughing it out" is often the default, they're breaking down the real-world pressures women face on site and exploring how to keep a positive mind while navigating long hours, tight deadlines, and isolated van life.This week, Marlie and Steph are joined by two incredible guests: Matt Balfour, founder of Let's Go Wellbeing, who shares key insights on spotting workplace burnout, and psychotherapist Hannah Kendell, who tackles the "crack on" culture and the shocking reality of mental health struggles in construction. From the hidden impact of tool theft to practical tips for listening to your body, this episode opens up essential conversations on resilience, self-care, and looking out for your mates.

Join Marlie Packer and Steph Leese for episode 2 of Tackling the Trades. They’re diving into how sports, exercise, and staying active can transform life on and off the job site. Joined by special guest Jo Scofield, a Liverpool Feds standalone, England Women's Over-40s football player, and active firefighter, they’ll explore the physical and mental realities of working in demanding, male-dominated industries. From the truth about tool theft and carrying heavy equipment to managing work fatigue and intentional exercise, they discuss how sports foster community, combat burnout, and help future-proof your health. Whether you're looking for tips to build stamina, searching for a supportive network of tradeswomen, or just here for the site-ready banter, this episode offers the inspiration you need to keep moving and make your mark!

Join Marlie Packer and Steph Leese in this premiere episode of Tackling the Trades! This week, we're introducing the ultimate collaboration between site life and the sports pitch. They're breaking down the real-world grit it takes to break boundaries in male-dominated industries. Marlie shares her journey from bricklayer's labourer to plumber to England rugby star, proving how early hands-on experience breaks the office job myth and opens doors for the next generation of tradeswomen.Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to share your skills, a sports fan who loves site-ready banter, or searching for a new career in the trades, this episode gives you the inspiration and community you need to make your mark!

Tackling the Trades with Marlie Packer & Steph Leese, launching this September across all major podcast platforms.