On this episode of Power Women of the Trades, hosts Cassie Pound and Heather Bargender-Wavra bring together the voices of female entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders from across the skilled trades in a dynamic conversation—featuring women we've interviewed up to this point in 2025, and hopefully, you in the near future.The discussion dives into the realities faced by women in industries traditionally dominated by men, from heating and air to plumbing and appliances, and highlights the importance of stepping outside comfort zones, building supportive circles, and being visible in roles of leadership.Listeners will hear honest stories about imposter syndrome, the double standards women often encounter, and the grit required to thrive in the home service industry. From navigating unsolicited comments online to earning respect through technical expertise and exceptional customer care, our panelists share both the obstacles and opportunities unique to being a woman in the field.We also explore the business side of women-led trades companies—including family involvement, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, and strategies for attracting, retaining, and supporting top talent—especially as technology like AI enters the scene.This episode offers actionable insights for career growth, tips for building resilience, and highlights the power of connecting with other women in HVACR, plumbing, and home services to drive lasting change in the trades industry.⏱️ Time Stamps2:10 – The importance of stepping into new groups and out of comfort zones2:42 – Facing gender bias and imposter syndrome in home services4:06 – Navigating online criticism and embracing visibility4:24 – Overpreparing to win respect and provide superior customer experience5:27 – Pathways into the trades: from fieldwork to business ownership6:06 – Earning credibility and building lifelong customer loyalty7:44 – The hiring process: why grit matters more than experience, and building support systems for success8:21 – Discussing the future of trades with AI and the value of blue-collar careers9:23 – Industry statistics: women as major consumers, administrators, and the lack of representation in executive roles10:21 – The evolution of family businesses and bringing the next generation into leadership12:22 – Balancing family, personal growth, and industry networking13:28 – The critical impact of mentors and support for women at every career stage14:13 – Letting go of mom guilt and leading by example14:40 – Closing advice: You are the silver bullet to your own success🎙 Meet Your HostsCassie Pound is the co-owner of Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Tulsa, Oklahoma.🔗 Connect with her on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cassiepoundHeather Bargender-Wavra has deep expertise in construction, accounting, and strategic business growth in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical sectors.🔗 Connect with Heather: linkedin.com/in/heather-bargender-16787a13🎧 Listen & FollowSpecial thanks to our sponsors for making this show possible:Relentless Digital – relentless-digital.comKee Hart Marketing – keehartmarketing.comForrest Perry Marketing – perrymarketing.comRilla – rilla.comTune in on your favorite platform:Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Radio Public & more.📱 Can’t see the links? Just search Power Women of the Trades wherever you listen to podcasts.🔗 Follow Us OnlineInstagram: @powerwomenofthetradespodcastLinkedIn: Power Women of the Trades PodcastTikTok: @powerwomenofthetradesYouTube: @powerwomenofthetradesFacebook: Power Women of the Trades Podcast🎧 This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast.🌐 servicebusinessmastery.com
