What do you do when your dreams are paused—and your voice feels lost?
In this heartfelt episode of Thriving in Construction, The Podcast, I sat down with Gladys Artunedo , a Cuban-born professional who started her career in interior design but took a powerful turn into construction after immigrating to the United States.
Her story isn’t loud. It’s not about flashy titles or fast promotions. It’s about quiet strength, resilience, and a woman learning to trust herself again.
From Cuba to a New Chapter
Gladys came to the U.S. with a background in design and the hope of building something new. But life didn’t follow the plan. She had to pause her dreams and take care of family responsibilities—putting her career on hold.
“I had to stop working because of family situations… and I lost myself. I didn’t even listen to my own voice.”
What followed was a season of reflection, stillness, and rediscovery.
🛠️ Embracing Estimating, Embracing Herself
Gladys eventually found her way into estimating, a field that let her lean on both logic and creativity. While construction was a far cry from interior design, she embraced the learning curve.
“At first, I was afraid to speak up. But I’ve learned—if you don’t use your voice, people won’t hear you.”
She now sees estimating as more than just numbers and scopes—it’s her way of creating clarity and contributing to something bigger.
And just as she’s learning new systems and tools, she’s also learning to love herself again.
💬 The Real Work: Reclaiming Her Confidence
Gladys opened up about something many women in construction experience—but rarely say out loud: the emotional toll of starting over.
“I forgot who I was. But now, I’m working on it. I’m learning to love myself again.”
Her journey is a powerful reminder that professional growth often starts with personal healing. And leadership doesn’t require perfection—it requires presence.
🔑 Gladys’s Lessons for Women in Construction
Here’s what she’s learned—and what she wants others to know:
- You belong—even when you doubt it.
- Ask for help. You’re not supposed to do this alone.
- Speak up. Your experience matters.
- Start with self-love. When you know your worth, others will too.
“Now, I want to be more open. I want to say what I feel.”
🎧 Why This Episode Matters
Gladys’s story is gentle—but deeply moving. It’s about transformation from within. About rebuilding not just a career—but a voice.
If you’ve ever felt like you lost your spark—or if you’re finding your way back to yourself—this one’s for you.
👉 Listen to Gladys on Thriving in Construction, The Podcast (Season 1): https://youtu.be/PqynmnEK46Y?si=zYTAJRIWbQc4B_uO