Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Thanks for joining me today on The Building Talks Podcast, got a ripper episode lined up…In this episode, I’m joined by Alana “Lu” Luppi, Senior Project Manager at ESR Group. From cleaning site sheds and abseiling high-rises to leading major commercial builds, Lu’s journey into construction is anything but ordinary.We chat about how mentoring over 40 emerging professionals shaped her career, the story behind launching the Speak Up Foundation, and why emotional intelligence and continuous training matter more than bravado. If you care about culture, growth and fixing the industry’s training gaps, this one's for you.Takeaways:✅ Mentoring done right can keep people in the industry✅ Curiosity trumps bravado in great leaders✅ The industry needs more structured training and support✅ Speaking up changes culture from the inside✅ You don’t have to “do it tough” just because others didChapters:04:40 – The Toughness of the Construction Industry08:52 – Personal Journey into Construction12:19 – Gender Dynamics in Construction17:03 – Career Pivots and Education20:05 – Mentorship and Support Systems28:15 – Empowering Women and Marginalised Group in Construction31:54 – Addressing Bias and Inclusion in the Industry33:33 – The Role of Mentorship in Career Development36:12 – Challenges in In-House Career Development39:05 – The Importance of Leadership and Support42:03 – Creating a Supportive Work Environment44:39 – The Speak Up Foundation’s Mission50:01 – The Future of Training and Development in Construction58:39 – Evolving Mindsets and Personal Growth01:00:46 – The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership01:03:18 – Navigating Challenges in Project Management01:07:32 – Time Management and Reflection in Construction01:10:52 – The Journey of Writing a Book01:16:31 – Balancing Passion Projects with Professional LifeTune in for an honest, energising chat on what it really takes to create a better future for construction.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#TheBuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #MentoringMatters #MentalHealthInConstruction #SpeakUpFoundation #WomenInConstruction #ESRGroup #ProjectManagement #IndustryCulture The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit:  www.buildingenvirons.com.au  Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.auThe views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at [email protected]