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Building Confidence

Author: Louise Azzopardi

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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.
137 Episodes
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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 advocating for yourself in professional and personal settings. This podcast is supported by the Go Company The GO Company is dedicated to supporting women in underserved industries by providing essential sanitary solutions. We are kicking off this partnership with a Instagram giveaway – link to enter - https://www.instagram.com/p/DUHZgMbjCsY/ Check out there range of practical period products - https://www.thegocompany.com.au/go-shop Takeaways If you don't ask, the answer is always no. No question is a silly question, but be mindful of repetition. You never know what someone will say until you ask. Asking for a pay rise requires initiative. You must enforce your boundaries to be respected. Fear often leads to negative assumptions about outcomes. Opportunities won't come to you if you don't seek them. Self-advocacy is essential in professional settings. Difficult conversations can lead to positive outcomes. Coaching can help you navigate asking for what you need.
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 contact me through my website, Louiseazzopardi.com, and we can schedule a coaching consultation! Shewear proudly supports this episode. She Wear safety work boots that women have designed to fit and look good on women. Not only do they have specially designed work boots for women, but they also have a wide range of women's work wear from various brands in one spot! Get shopping at http://www.shewear.com.au
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 safety at the event. They share memorable moments and the community spirit that makes the expo a unique experience for attendees and exhibitors alike! DDT EXPO team are thrilled to share another year on site at the Sydney dragway in 2026 The event is 17 - 19 April 2026  @Sydney dragway NSW    Contact Marti our event manager if you wish to showcase your products and services Ph:0411648465  Email: marti@dieseldirtandturf.com.au Additionally you may submit the digital application form attached  And we can get in touch with you.   Application form: https://www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/expo-exhibitors/exhibitor-application-forms/ Prospectus: https://www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/expo-exhibitors/prospectus-information/ Visitors/ info/ about/ when and where: https://www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/visitors/when-where/ Testimonials: https://www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/expo-exhibitors/exhibitor-testimonials/   ------------------------------------------------------------ Takeaways Diesel, Dirt and Turf Expo is a family-oriented event. The expo is inclusive and community-focused. The crowds have grown significantly since the first year. The event has evolved to become more polished and organized. Exhibitors have learned to be more professional over the years. The expo provides a platform for networking and collaboration. Problem-solving skills are crucial during the event. Safety and compliance are top priorities at the expo. The event creates memorable experiences for families and attendees. The team values their strong foundation and support for each other.
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 growth is so important. This conversation touches on societal issues, personal experiences, and the impact of social media on perceptions of tradeswomen. If you would like help or support with this process or you are a business wanting to make the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com Zadie proudly sponsors this episode. Zadie is a workwear brand made by tradeswomen for tradeswomen and is made to fit your hips, thighs and butt; check them out at https://www.zadieworkwear.com.au/ Key Take aways – Takeaways   Anger can be a powerful emotion that needs to be understood. It's important to recognize the energy that anger consumes. Channelling anger into constructive actions can lead to positive change. Self-awareness is crucial in managing our reactions to anger. The perception of tradeswomen can be influenced by societal norms and media. We should evaluate whether our actions are good for ourselves and others. Staying angry often harms our own well-being. Finding solutions to what angers us can empower us. It's okay to seek support when dealing with anger. Personal growth often comes from navigating difficult emotions. Key search words - anger, tradeswomen, emotional energy, social media, self-awareness, personal growth, advocacy, coaching, community support, mental health
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 shame when someone shared their view of my situation with me. Listen to hear more! 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 1:1 support or you are a business wanting to make the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com This episode is proudly sponsored by midies. If you're looking for comfortable, practical, and stylish underwear, women's boxer briefs might just be a perfect choice. Use code LOUISEAZZOPARDI for 10% off- https://www.midies.co/?ref=LouiseAzzopardi 
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 goal for 2026. Have a listen to this episode if you are deciding what vibe you want to bring to 2026! If you are a tradeswoman or tradesperson who would like to feel less anxious and more confident, don't hesitate to contact me through my website, Louiseazzopardi.com, and we can schedule a coaching consultation! In this episode I discuss - Choosing joy is a conscious decision for 2026. Mental health struggles can lead to deeper self-awareness. Setting bold goals can empower personal growth. Community support is crucial for mental well-being. Joy can be a radical act against societal pressures. Recognizing the impact of past experiences on current mental health. The importance of gratitude in personal development. Creating sustainable energy through joy enhances productivity. Coaching can provide valuable tools for emotional resilience. It's essential to acknowledge and thank those who support us.
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 else she could try. We came up with  the concept of 'Big Fat Greek Wedding Style' as a workplace communication strategy. People with weak egos are more likely to do something when they believe it is there idea – like in the movie. I wish we would just be listened to and respected but unfortunately we are not there yet in some workplaces. Have a listen to this episode if you are looking for a different way to communicate because you have tried all the standard ways. If you are a tradeswoman or tradesperson who would like to feel less anxious and more confident, don't hesitate to contact me through my website, Louiseazzopardi.com, and we can schedule a coaching consultation! Shewear proudly supports this episode. She Wear safety work boots that women have designed to fit and look good on women. Not only do they have specially designed work boots for women, but they also have a wide range of women's work wear from various brands in one spot! Get shopping at http://www.shewear.com.au In this episode you will learn – Ways to adapt our communication style to get what we need. Understanding how coworkers communicate to help us strategize effectively. Being authentic doesn't mean you can't be strategic in communication. Managing up involves providing solutions to your manager to ease decision-making. Pre-emptive communication can help avoid being put on the spot. It's important to plant seeds for ideas to be accepted by others. Quick tweaks in communication can lead to significant outcomes. Believing in yourself is crucial for success. Key words – communication, workplace strategies, managing up, tradeswomen, authenticity, leadership, confidence, negotiation, workplace dynamics, professional development
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 insights into the challenges faced in the early days and how the expo has impacted future generations in the earth moving industry. If you would like to know more about the expo check out their website - https://www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/ 10% off show tickets here - http://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1387147929799/?discount=LACDDTEXPO10  
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 wanting to make the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com Zadie proudly sponsors this episode. Zadie is a workwear brand made by tradeswomen for tradeswomen and is made to fit your hips, thighs and butt; check them out at https://www.zadieworkwear.com.au/
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 ideas from this conversation is what I am sharing with you this week! 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 1:1 support or you are a business wanting to make the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com This episode is proudly sponsored by midies. If you're looking for comfortable, practical, and stylish underwear, women's boxer briefs might just be a perfect choice. Use code LOUISEAZZOPARDI for 10% off- https://www.midies.co/?ref=LouiseAzzopardi 
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 person going through harassment. If you are a tradeswoman or tradesperson who would like to feel less anxious and more confident, don't hesitate to contact me through my website, Louiseazzopardi.com, and we can schedule a coaching consultation! Shewear proudly supports this episode. She Wear safety work boots that women have designed to fit and look good on women. Not only do they have specially designed work boots for women, but they also have a wide range of women's work wear from various brands in one spot! Get shopping at http://www.shewear.com.au
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.
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 the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com Zadie proudly sponsors this episode. Zadie is a workwear brand made by tradeswomen for tradeswomen and is made to fit your hips, thighs and butt; check them out at https://www.zadieworkwear.com.au/
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 1:1 support or you are a business wanting to make the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com This episode is proudly sponsored by midies. If you're looking for comfortable, practical, and stylish underwear, women's boxer briefs might just be a perfect choice. Use code LOUISEAZZOPARDI for 10% off- https://www.midies.co/?ref=LouiseAzzopardi 
When people come at you in frustration, outrage and blame, often it is not about you. I know in the moment it can be hard to believe. In this episode I go through what is usually behind someone’s outburst and how to take steps to see what is their responsibility and what is yours. If you would like help or support with this process or you are a business wanting to make the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com Zadie proudly sponsors this episode. Zadie is a workwear brand made by tradeswomen for tradeswomen and is made to fit your hips, thighs and butt; check them out at https://www.zadieworkwear.com.au/
Sometimes you can find yourself doing the same thing over and over and over again. You can find yourself wondering what is going on. In this episode we discuss how to evaluate the situation and decide next steps! If you are a tradeswoman or tradesperson who would like to feel less anxious and more confident, don't hesitate to contact me through my website, Louiseazzopardi.com, and we can schedule a coaching consultation! Shewear proudly supports this episode. She Wear safety work boots that women have designed to fit and look good on women. Not only do they have specially designed work boots for women, but they also have a wide range of women's work wear from various brands in one spot! Get shopping at http://www.shewear.com.au  
New is uncomfortable, nothing has gone wrong. When we start a new job, it can often feel like we are apprentices again because we are in a new learning phase, and you know what that is normal. In this episode, I go through why a new job can feel uncomfortable and what you can do about it! This episode is dedicated to our supporters, one of my supports/mentors/peers passed away recently and I wanted to use this opportunity to thank all of our supporters. If you would like help or support with this process or you are a business wanting to make the workplace better for tradeswomen and minorities, you can inquire through my website, louiseazzopardi.com
You have things that you care about, that mean a lot to you but sometimes when you are nearing burnout you need to stop and have a think. Ask yourself “what do I care about and why?” Its important to ask ourselves this question because sometimes you find yourself working towards someone else’s dream and that can be quite exhausting. You may be doing all of the things but it doesn’t seem to feel any good or getting you any closer to where you want to go. It might be time to check in and ask yourself “what do I care about and why?” In this weeks episode I go through when you want to ask yourself this question and what to start doing with the answers. Time and People are supporting this podcast episode as well a coaching scholarship for a tradeswoman/person. The coaching scholarship is available for tradeswomen/people living in Australia working in trades as an apprentice, qualified technician or team leader. You can apply and find more information here.
Continuing on from last weeks discussion on the difference between pride and arrogance we are now talking healthy arrogance and also sexism. We all know that people have an opinion on pretty much anything women do. The main theme of that is women staying small and quiet, but we are most defiantly not doing that here. When you have a healthy amount of arrogance you stand up for yourself and your knowledge and skills and this is what we are discussing in this episode! Time and People are supporting this podcast episode as well a coaching scholarship for a tradeswoman/person. The coaching scholarship is available for tradeswomen/people living in Australia working in trades as an apprentice, qualified technician or team leader. You can apply and find more information here.
You do hard and awesome stuff all the time, but do you let yourself be proud of if? do you have people around you that you feel safe to be proud around? In this episode I discuss being proud vs being arrogant giving examples from my life and my clients’ lives. Time and People are supporting this podcast episode as well a coaching scholarship for a tradeswoman/person. The coaching scholarship is available for tradeswomen/people living in Australia working in trades as an apprentice, qualified technician or team leader. You can apply and find more information here.
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