“I learned about discipline and resilience at a very young age, all because of this passion that I held. Those lessons have certainly translated into my adult life.”

In this episode, we sit down with Sally former Matilda, now a carpenter and business owner, to explore what it’s really like to transition careers in the building and construction industry. Sally shares her story of moving from elite sport to the tools, overcoming injury, facing health challenges, and building a new path based on shifting values and a growth mindset.

Whether you’re a mid-career tradie, thinking about a change, or just looking for inspiration, Sally’s journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to start a new chapter.

👇 CHAPTER MARKERS 👇

00:00 – Introduction & Sally’s Early Sporting Life

02:15 – Chasing the Dream: From Backyard to World Cup

05:30 – The Pressure of Success & Early Retirement

08:10 – Identity Shift: “What Now?” After Sport

10:45 – Discovering Carpentry & Starting an Apprenticeship

13:20 – Breaking Barriers: Women in Construction

16:00 – Building Community & Handy Humans Collective

18:30 – Facing Adversity: Health Challenges & Resilience

21:00 – Redefining Success & Adapting to Change

23:15 – Mentoring the Next Generation

25:00 – Lessons for Tradespeople: Growth, Values & Community

LINKS:

Handy Humans:

https://www.instagram.com/_handyhumans/

Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram: @sanctumhomes

Website: www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt:

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website: www.carlandconstructions.com/