Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week I sat down with Cate McLellan, also known as Carpenter Cate from Instagram and TikTok. Cate shares her incredible journey of transitioning from a decade-long career in office administration to becoming a skilled carpenter. She opens up about the pivotal moment that led her to trade school and the challenges she faced, including discovering her ADHD and navigating the impact of COVID-19 on her career and family life.

Cate discusses the importance of mentorship in her new career, the supportive role of her husband, and the joy she finds in being a tradesperson and a mom. She recounts the struggles and triumphs of balancing a demanding job with parenthood and how her husband's unwavering support played a crucial role in her success. Cate also highlights the transformative power of community and mentorship in the trades, sharing how her carpentry teacher and boss have been instrumental in her development.

From learning the intricacies of carpentry, like building stairs, to embracing the challenges of using new tools, Cate’s story is one of resilience, passion, and empowerment. She talks about the misconceptions she had about the trades, the surprising camaraderie she found among her colleagues, and the satisfaction of creating something tangible with her hands. Cate's journey is a testament to the power of taking bold steps, even when the path is uncertain.

Join us for an episode filled with candid conversations about career changes, the realities of working in trades, and the fulfillment that comes from following one's true calling.

Cate McLellan:
https://www.instagram.com/carpenter_cate/

https://www.tiktok.com/@carpenter.cate?_t=8hBAhSQmBEL&_r=1

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we are joined by Dr. Molly Patterson, a renowned oceanographer, climate scientist and Assistant Professor at Binghamton University. In this episode, Molly delves into the critical issue of sea level rise and its implications for coastal communities worldwide. We explore how sea level rise exceeding 30 centimeters could spell disaster for low-lying cities and island nations, with extreme sea level events projected to occur annually.

We delve into the SWAIS2C project, in which Dr. Patterson is a co-chief. Molly explains the dynamics of Antarctic ice sheets and their response to warming. Molly explains the work of her team and how by drilling into the Antarctic seabed they can analyze the sediment records from the Ross Ice Shelf. By deciphering past ice sheet movements during warm periods, they aim to develop predictive models for future sea level rise.

Through interdisciplinary research and international collaboration, the project seeks to unravel the sensitivity of the West Antarctic ice sheet to warming and its potential impact on sea level rise.

Molly underscores the importance of mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration in climate science. They discuss the challenges of communicating complex climate data to the public and the vital role of scientists in tackling the biotic crisis triggered by climate change. Their conversation sheds light on the complexities of climate research in Antarctica and underscores the urgent need for collective action to mitigate its consequences.

The Smoko Podcast is sponsored by Peggy Workwear: workwear designed by women, for women. From the shop floor to the boardroom, Peggy Workwear creates workwear which fits and functions for your everyday. Whatever that may be! After all, we've been in your boots.

www.peggyworkwear.ca

Take a break, we’re on Smoko! This week we are joined by Nhu Nguyen, a trailblazing figure in the automotive industry as the first female certified Porsche classic technician. Nhu shares her remarkable journey into the world of automotive mechanics, driven by her passion for cars and driving since her teenage years.

From her early days of street racing to making the bold decision to transition into automotive mechanics, Nhu's story is one of determination and skill. Despite taking a significant pay cut to start at the bottom in a shop, she quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing her innate talent for tinkering and problem-solving.

As Nhu delves into her love for Porsche vehicles, particularly their sporty and performance-oriented nature, listeners gain insight into her journey to becoming a certified Porsche classic technician. This prestigious certification, earned through rigorous training and exams, solidifies Nhu's expertise in the field and highlights her dedication to her craft.

The conversation also touches on Nhu's memorable experience driving with the President of Porsche Canada as part of a classic Porsche competition, underscoring her achievements and recognition within the automotive community.

Nhu offers valuable advice to aspiring women in male-dominated fields, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, perseverance, and seeking supportive environments. Her inspiring words serve as a reminder that with passion and determination, anything is possible.

The Smoko Podcast is sponsored by Peggy Workwear: workwear designed by women, for women. From the shop floor to the boardroom, Peggy Workwear creates workwear which fits and functions for your everyday. Whatever that may be! After all, we've been in your boots.

www.peggyworkwear.ca