The Building Talks Podcast

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! What if the biggest opportunity in construction is not just what we build next, but how we make the buildings we already have perform better? In this episode of The Building Talks Podcast, I sit down with Christian Schiemann, whose work sits at the intersection of technology and the built environment. What starts as a conversation about buildings quickly opens up into energy, innovation, retrofitting and how the assets we already own could look, feel and operate very differently in the years ahead. We talk about reducing energy consumption, improving building performance, upgrading existing residential and commercial properties, and the technology that could change the way buildings are managed over the next couple of decades. It is a slightly different conversation for the show, but a really interesting one for anyone curious about where property, construction and technology are heading. Takeaways: ✅ How technology is changing the way buildings perform ✅ Why existing buildings may hold huge untapped potential ✅ The role of retrofitting in improving energy efficiency ✅ How residential and commercial assets could operate differently in future ✅ Why reducing energy consumption is becoming a major priority ✅ What innovation in the built environment could look like over the next decade Chapters: 03:27 Christian’s Journey into Building Automation 05:11 How Building Automation Has Evolved 08:54 Open Protocols and Getting Building Systems to Communicate 11:45 Automating Energy Efficiency and Bringing AI into Buildings 14:31 Net Zero Buildings and the Massive Retrofit Opportunity 18:09 Why Government Policy Matters for Decarbonising Buildings 20:24 The Cost, Payback and Commercial Case for Greener Buildings 24:07 Smart Homes, Solar, Batteries and Home Energy Management 27:20 Housing Affordability, Building Standards and Smarter New Homes 36:30 Data Centres, Energy Consumption and the Cooling Challenge 43:06 Renewable Energy, Battery Technology and the Road to 2050 48:46 The Four Layer Approach to Retrofitting Existing Buildings 54:50 Self-Generating Buildings, Technology Adoption and Bringing People Along 1:00:41 Health, Wellbeing and the Human Benefits of Building Automation Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about smarter buildings, better performance and the future of technology in property and construction. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #BuildingTechnology #SmartBuildings #EnergyEfficiency #PropertyTechnology #BuiltEnvironment #BuildingPerformance #Retrofitting #SustainableBuildings #ConstructionInnovation #FutureOfProperty #AustralianConstruction #PropertyDevelopment #TheBuildingTalksPodcast 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Some episodes look at projects; this one looks at the people carrying them. In this episode of The Building Talks Podcast, I sit down with Dan Silver, founder of SiteGuard. Dan started his career as a carpenter, spent more than 15 years in site management, and has since moved into the HSEQ space, helping construction businesses improve safety, systems and site support. We get into the real pressure sitting on site managers, the glass ceiling many of them hit, and whether the industry is doing enough to support the people delivering projects day in, day out. Dan also shares his thoughts on psychosocial safety, burnout, construction culture and how AI and technology may help reduce workload, improve systems and create better outcomes across the industry. Takeaways: ✅ Why site managers are under more pressure than ever ✅ The career ceiling many site managers eventually face ✅ How psychosocial safety is becoming a bigger issue in construction ✅ Why burnout and culture need more honest discussion ✅ How AI and technology can reduce admin and site stress ✅ What better support for site teams could look like Chapters: 02:40 From Mechanical Engineering to a Carpentry Apprenticeship 07:05 From Domestic Carpentry to Commercial Construction 08:17 Moving into HSEQ and the Site Manager Glass Ceiling 16:23 Long Hours, Burnout and the Health Cost of Site Management 20:35 Why Site Managers Carry So Much Pressure 27:23 What Psychosocial Safety Means in Construction 32:54 Capacity, Family Life and Running on Empty 37:10 Toxic Culture, Masculine Leadership and Women in Construction 45:51 Practical Solutions, MMC, AI and Better Leadership 48:45 Site Manager Pay, Saturdays, Mentoring and the Skills Gap 56:56 Site Manager Resilience and the Creation of SiteGuard 1:03:59 AI Tools Site Managers Can Use Today 1:08:09 AI Agents, Governance and Buying Back Time 1:13:36 AI Adoption, the Future of Construction and Contacting SiteGuard Tune in for a grounded and timely conversation about site leadership, safety, culture and the future of work in construction. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #SiteManagement #PsychosocialSafety #ConstructionSafety #HSEQ #SiteGuard #BuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #AIinConstruction #ConstructionCulture #BurnoutPrevention #WorkLifeBalance #AustralianConstruction #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionTechnology 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! If AI still feels like something for later, this episode is a good reminder that later has probably already arrived. In this episode of The Building Talks Podcast, I sit down with Callum Cryans, originally from South Africa and a trained and qualified Quantity Surveyor. Callum has worked across a broad mix of projects, including tunnels, rail, roads, water infrastructure, buildings and schools, giving him a sharp view of how construction really works across different sectors. The main focus of this chat is AI in construction, and how quickly it is starting to change the way the industry operates. We talk about how AI is already reducing admin, contract workload, procurement pressure and commercial management tasks. Callum also shares why businesses and individuals who learn to use AI properly could move ahead fast, not just in productivity, but in culture, collaboration, mental health and work-life balance. Takeaways: ✅ How AI is already changing construction workflows ✅ Why admin, contracts and procurement are ripe for improvement ✅ The impact of AI on quantity surveying and commercial management ✅ Why learning AI early could create a serious career advantage ✅ How AI may help reduce stress and improve work-life balance ✅ Whether smarter tools can make construction more collaborative Chapters: 03:54 Callum’s Path into Quantity Surveying 06:28 Moving to Australia and Shifting from QS to Contract Administration 14:53 Why Site Experience Matters for Commercial Professionals 22:01 Building a Diverse Career Across Tunnels, Roads, Rail and Water 27:26 Starting CMC Contracts and Preparing for the AI Shift 36:47 What AI Can and Cannot Do in Construction Today 41:47 Learning to Use AI and Automating Repetitive Admin 47:57 Levelling the Playing Field for Smaller Subcontractors 51:38 Contract Reviews, Departures and Risk Negotiation 53:50 Reducing Conflict and Improving Project Outcomes with AI 58:25 How AI Could Reshape Contract Administration and Construction Careers 1:05:43 Training Future Professionals, Accountability and Human Oversight 1:14:58 The Future of AI, Collaboration and Mental Health in Construction Tune in for a sharp and practical conversation about AI, productivity and what the next few years could look like for construction. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #AIinConstruction #QuantitySurveying #ConstructionTechnology #CommercialManagement #Procurement #ConstructionInnovation #BuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionProductivity #FutureOfConstruction #BuiltEnvironment #ProjectDelivery #ConstructionLeadership #WorkLifeBalance #AustralianConstruction 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! This one takes us back to have another look into the built-to-rent market and how it's evolving. We hear what it's like to step out from a senior position in a large corporate property business and start up your own property business, or anyone trying to understand what is actually getting projects moving right now. In this episode of The Building Talks Podcast, I sit down with leading Build to Rent and property sector expert, Sean Ryan, who joins us on the pod for a second time. Since his last appearance, Sean has stepped away from a senior role at Greystar, right in the middle of the built-to-rent boom, and launched his own business, Delatite Projects. We unpack that decision, the risk behind it, and what changes when you leave the structure of a corporate role and suddenly have to back yourself. We also dig back into the built-to-rent sector and hear how the first wave of projects have performed, where the market is shifting, and the opportunities emerging across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Sean shares clear insights on development, capital, finance, risk, and what is actually helping deals stack up in the current market. A sharp, practical conversation for developers, investors, builders, consultants and anyone interested in where residential property is heading. Takeaways: ✅ Why Sean left a senior role at Greystar to start Delatite Projects ✅ The reality of backing yourself and going out on your own ✅ What the first wave of built-to-rent projects has taught the market ✅ Where the next opportunities may sit across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane ✅ How the next phase of build-to-rent projects will evolve ✅ How capital, finance and risk are shaping development decisions ✅ What is actually getting deals moving in the current market Chapters: 04:15 Career Transitions and Personal Growth 07:15 The Build-to-Rent Landscape 10:05 Community and Culture in Build-to-Rent 12:58 Operational Insights in Build-to-Rent 16:20 Amenities and Market Trends 20:00 The Future of Build-to-Rent 23:02 The Impact of Build-to-Rent on Housing Affordability 40:55 Creating Community Spaces in Built-to-Rent Developments 44:10 The Evolving Built-to-Rent Market in Australia 49:08 The Importance of Networking in Construction 54:54 Navigating Growth and Client Relationships 1:06:10 Opportunities and Challenges in Property Development 1:15:05 The Role of AI in Construction and Development 1:18:41 The Meaning Behind Delatite Projects Tune in for a practical conversation about built-to-rent, development risk and what it really takes to step out and build something of your own. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #BuiltToRent #PropertyDevelopment #DelatiteProjects #Greystar #BuildingTalksPodcast #AustralianProperty #DevelopmentFinance #ResidentialDevelopment #MelbourneProperty #SydneyProperty #BrisbaneProperty #ConstructionIndustry #BuiltEnvironment #PropertyInvestment 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Here’s one for the construction leaders, the career builders and anyone who knows resilience is built long before the hard moments arrive. Returning guest Dave Woolsey, General Manager of Renascent Victoria, joins the show after his incredible 14-day charity ride from Cottesloe in Perth to Melbourne, raising awareness and support for brain cancer. Many listeners will remember Dave from his special episode during the ride, but this time we dig deeper into his career, leadership journey and the lessons that have shaped him both on the bike and in business. We talk about Dave’s path into construction, the fit-out and refurbishment market, leading teams, building culture, career growth and resilience under pressure. There are plenty of insights here for anyone in construction, leadership or business, especially those interested in what it takes to stay grounded, lead well and keep pushing forward when things get tough. Takeaways: ✅ The story behind Dave’s Cottesloe to Melbourne charity ride ✅ Lessons in resilience from the bike and the boardroom ✅ Dave’s path into construction and fit-out leadership ✅ Leading teams in the fit-out and refurbishment space ✅ Why culture, people and consistency matter in business ✅ Career growth lessons from one of the industry’s good operators Chapters: 03:39 Career Path and Construction Background 07:10 Reflections on the Ride Experience 13:17 Mental Challenges During the Ride 19:00 Leadership and Team Dynamics 24:54 Evolving Leadership Skills 30:30 Industry Changes and Relationships 35:01 Navigating Challenges in Leadership 36:20 Current Trends in the Fit-Out Market 39:20 Evolving Fit-Out Designs Post-COVID 41:11 Attracting and Retaining Talent in the Industry 42:16 Leadership Lessons from the Pandemic 48:09 Expectations of Early Career Professionals 51:15 The Dynamics of Career Progression 52:40 The Fast-Paced Nature of Fit-Out Projects 54:15 Personal Growth Through Challenges 1:02:55 Empowerment Through Focus and Determination Tune in for an honest and grounded chat about leadership, resilience and the lessons that carry from personal challenges into construction and business. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #DaveWoolsey #Renascent #FitOutConstruction #Refurbishment #ConstructionLeadership #BuildingTalksPodcast #BrainCancerAwareness #LeadershipLessons #Resilience #CareerGrowth #BuiltEnvironment #AustralianConstruction #ConstructionCulture 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! This one matters, because housing is no longer just a policy issue, it is a community issue, an economic issue and an industry issue. In this episode of The Building Talks Podcast, I sit down with returning guest Rob Pradolin from Housing All Australians, alongside Brad Duggan, CEO of Metricon Homes, Australia’s largest home builder. We get into the growing challenge of housing affordability, homelessness and what happens when everyday Australians are slowly priced out of safe, stable accommodation. This is not just a conversation about the scale of the problem, it is about practical action. We talk about the role the private sector can play, the work Housing All Australians (with the support of companies like Metricon) are already doing to create short-term accommodation from vacant buildings, and why the stigma around social and affordable housing needs to shift. We also look at why property is tied so closely to security and identity in Australia, how more people are being pushed further from stable housing, and where the construction and property sector can step up with practical solutions. Takeaways: ✅ Why housing affordability is now everyone’s issue ✅ The growing divide between property owners and those locked out ✅ How vacant buildings can become short term accommodation ✅ Why the private sector has a major role to play ✅ Challenging the stigma around social and affordable housing ✅ What Housing All Australians and Metricon are doing in practice ✅ Why property sits so deeply in the Australian mindset Chapters: 04:05 The State of Homelessness in Australia 09:50 Metricon's Involvement in Housing Solutions 17:09 Awakening to the Homelessness Issue 21:42 Barriers to Housing Solutions 23:27 Urgent Housing Needs and Support Mechanisms 25:53 Engaging Private Sector Partners 27:08 Repurposing Buildings for Housing 29:18 Skills and Services Needed in Housing Projects 32:34 Corporate Responsibility in Housing 39:57 Stigma and Perception of Social Housing 46:54 Bridging the Housing Divide 50:04 Future of Housing Initiatives 56:53 Call to Action for Community Involvement Tune in for a thoughtful and practical conversation about housing, community and what the property and construction industry can do to help. #AustralianHousingCrisis #HousingAllAustralians #Metricon #AffordableHomesAustralia #SafeHousingForAll #HomelessnessSolutions #PropertyAndConstruction #BuiltEnvironmentAustralia #HousingSolutions #SocialImpactProperty #CommunityHousing #IndustryLedChange #BuildingTalksPodcast 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Pull up a chair for another episode of The Building Talks Podcast, this one is for construction business owners (or insights for anyone who aspires to set up their own construction business in the future) who feel like they have become the engine, the brake and the decision-maker all at once. In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Sparks, who works with business owners to help them better understand, scale and increase the value of their companies. We dig into a challenge many construction, property and consulting businesses eventually face, the founder becomes the bottleneck. Andrew shares practical insights on founder dependency, leadership, culture, hiring and recruitment, and what it takes to build a business that can grow beyond the owner. We also talk about why strong systems, high performers and clear decision making have such a major impact on business value, especially if you want more freedom, stronger performance or a business that can one day run, grow or sell without everything relying on you. Takeaways: ✅ Why founder dependency can quietly hold a business back ✅ Building a company that scales beyond the owner ✅ The link between leadership, culture and business value ✅ Why hiring the right people can lift performance and valuation ✅ How high performers help stop businesses from hitting a ceiling ✅ Creating more freedom without losing control ✅ Building a business that does not rely on every decision running through you Chapters: 07:14 Understanding Business Exits: Lifestyle vs. Payday 10:20 The Importance of Planning for Business Exit 11:00 Building Value in Construction Businesses 12:31 The Role of Business Owners in Valuation 13:45 Maturity and Growth in Business 15:52 Identifying Bottlenecks in Construction Businesses 19:11 Leadership Challenges in the Construction Industry 22:16 Attracting and Retaining Talent 26:48 The Role of Culture in Business Success 29:59 Understanding Roles and Responsibilities 33:02 Performance Management and Clarity 37:04 The Importance of Onboarding 42:28 Learning Through Experience 46:15 Hiring Process and Best Practices 51:55 Adapting Leadership Styles 55:23 The Choice Between Complaining and Improving 57:55 The Evolving Role of Leadership 1:01:18 Addressing Business Bottlenecks 1:04:48 Navigating Growth and Complexity 1:09:39 The Impact of AI on Business Efficiency 1:14:56 Common Mistakes in Scaling Businesses Tune in for a practical conversation on building a stronger, smarter and more valuable business that can grow beyond the founder. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #BusinessGrowth #FounderDependency #ConstructionBusiness #PropertyDevelopment #BuildingTalksPodcast #Leadership #BusinessValue #ScalingABusiness #Recruitment #HighPerformanceTeams #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #BusinessOwners #CultureAndLeadership 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast. This one gets right into one of the biggest pressure points in construction right now, cost certainty. In this episode, I sit down with Mark O'Mahony, quantity surveyor and Co-founder of Cohaven , and all-round top bloke! We first recorded this chat around Mark’s career journey, his move from Ireland to Melbourne, and what it takes to build a QS consultancy in the local market. But with construction costs shifting so quickly, we jumped back on to record an updated section on what’s happening in the market right now. We get into rising construction costs, global supply chain pressure, procurement shifts, and what’s actually increasing versus what the market is absorbing. Mark also shares his take on how quantity surveying has evolved, what good cost advice looks like, and why managing risk, value and certainty has never been more important. Takeaways: ✅ What’s really driving construction cost movement ✅ How global events are flowing into local projects ✅ The evolving role of quantity surveyors ✅ Why procurement models have shifted over time ✅ Managing cost, risk and value in a changing market ✅ What good QS advice actually looks like Chapters: 04:24 The Pathway of Quantity Surveying in Ireland 10:41 Transitioning to Australia: Mark’s Journey 16:26 Shifts in Procurement Models in Construction 23:17 Founding A2M Consulting: The Journey Begins 29:06 The Importance of Personal Branding in Business 35:17 Project Aspirations and Business Growth Strategies 41:42 Key Functions and Responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor 47:45 The Importance of Early Involvement in Design 52:46 The Ripple Effect of COVID on Construction Costs 1:06:17 Keeping Up with Market Changes and Cost Data 1:11:14 Rebranding as 'Cohaven' for Future Growth Tune in for a timely, practical chat on construction costs, market pressure, and how to make better project decisions in uncertain conditions. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #QuantitySurveying #ConstructionCosts #BuildingTalksPodcast #CostManagement #CommercialConstruction #Procurement #Cohaven #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionLeadership #ProjectDelivery #ConstructionMarket #RiskManagement 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Thanks for tuning in to another episode of The Building Talks Podcast. This one is a little different......and honestly, a little mad. In this special episode, I sit down with Dave Woolsey , General Manager of Renascent in Victoria, who is currently in the middle of riding a push bike (like, a real bike, on the road) from Perth to Melbourne over just 14 days, covering more than 3,500km, all to raise money and awareness for Carrie Bickmore’s Beanies for Brain Cancer foundation. What makes this challenge even more ridiculous is that Dave hadn’t seriously ridden a bike in almost six years before deciding to commit to it. This conversation goes well beyond cycling. We get into mindset, discipline, suffering, resilience, fatherhood, purpose, and the mental battle that comes with voluntarily putting yourself through discomfort for something bigger than yourself. Dave speaks openly about the emotional driver behind the challenge, particularly the impact brain cancer has on Australian families and children, and why this cause hit home hard enough for him to dedicate months of training and two weeks of pain to raising money for it. We also unpack the psychology behind endurance challenges, the conversations you have with yourself when your body wants to stop, and how leadership, pressure, and resilience from the construction industry strangely prepares people for challenges like this. There are some laughs in there too, including discussions around lycra, saddle soreness, mental breakdowns in the Nullarbor, and the reality of trying to train for elite endurance while balancing work, leadership and family life. More than anything though, this is a conversation about perspective, purpose, and proving to yourself that you’re capable of more than you think. Takeaways: ✅ Why Dave committed to riding 3,500km for brain cancer research ✅ The mental side of endurance and suffering ✅ How purpose changes your ability to push through pain ✅ Leadership, resilience, and mindset under pressure ✅ The emotional impact of brain cancer on families ✅ Why ordinary people are capable of extraordinary things Chapters: 00:00 The Journey Begins: A Brother's Challenge 05:17 The Route and the Goal: Riding Across Australia 08:15 The Physical and Mental Challenge: Overcoming Obstacles 14:05 Mindset and Motivation: The Importance of Goals 16:36 Breaking the Routine: Finding Balance in Life 22:33 Managing Stress Through Physical Activity 30:04Mental Resilience and Emotional Support 34:48 Raising Awareness for Brain Cancer Research If you’d like to support Dave’s ride and help raise money for brain cancer research, head to: p2m4bc.COM - to follow his journey, And if you're keen to donate, head to: https://fundraise.carriesbeanies4braincancer.com/fundraisers/davidw/perth-to-melb-4-bc Every donation genuinely helps! The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Thanks for tuning in to another episode of The Building Talks Podcast. This one digs into where margin and risk really sit in construction. In this episode, we're joined by Alastair Blenkin and Tim Rogers, the team behind ProcurePro. There’s plenty of talk in the industry about productivity, but this conversation gets into something often overlooked, procurement, and why it plays such a critical role in project success. On the surface, procurement doesn’t sound that exciting, but scratch beneath it and you’ll find where margin is protected, risk is managed, and a lot of project stress quietly builds. We unpack how ProcurePro came to life, Tim’s experience on the contractor side with Hutchinson Builders, and Alastair’s background in tech and law. From spreadsheet-heavy processes and quote levelling to scope clarity and the impact of COVID, this is a proper look at one of the most manual parts of the industry. There’s also a great discussion around AI, productivity, and why good systems shouldn’t replace people, they should free them up to focus on higher-value work. If you’ve ever wondered why construction struggles to adopt new tech, and why implementation is often harder than the idea itself, this will be an eye-opener for you. Takeaways: ✅ Why procurement is the frontline for protecting margin ✅ The risks of spreadsheet-driven processes ✅ How quote levelling and scope clarity reduce project stress ✅ Where AI fits into construction workflows ✅ Why implementation is harder than innovation Chapters: 10:10 Understanding Procurement Challenges 16:54 The Evolution of Procurement Solutions 21:23 Building the Minimum Viable Product 29:07 The Importance of Scope in Construction 35:57 Streamlining Procurement with ProcurePro 40:45 The Visibility Revolution in Construction 43:46 AI’s Role in Transforming the Construction Process 54:42 Implementing Change: Overcoming Resistance in Construction Tech 1:00:28 Future Aspirations: Saving a Billion Construction Hours Tune in for a smart, practical conversation on how better procurement can drive performance across every project. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionTech #Procurement #BuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #AIinConstruction #BuiltEnvironment #ProjectManagement #ConstructionInnovation #CommercialConstruction 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Back with another episode of The Building Talks Podcast, this one’s a deep dive into how smart subcontractors actually build successful businesses. I sit down with Ethan Chittick, carpenter and co-founder of B&E Built and Commercial Carpentry. Over the past decade, he’s built a serious subcontracting operation, with a sharp focus on the numbers and how the business really runs. We get into cash flow, margins, retention, and why many tradies don’t fully understand their numbers. Ethan shares the risks of scaling too fast, how to choose the right builders, and why a production-line approach often beats being a jack of all trades. We also unpack the shift from the tools to leading a team, and why doing what you say you’ll do is still a key differentiator. Takeaways: ✅ Why most subcontractors struggle with margins and cash flow ✅ The risks of growing too fast in construction ✅ How to choose the right clients and builders ✅ Moving from the tools to running a business ✅ Building systems that scale, not just survive Chapters: 06:46 Navigating the Subcontractor Landscape 09:38 Transitioning from Residential to Commercial 12:38 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 19:10 Understanding Contracts and Financial Risks 22:13 Qualifying Leads and Building Relationships 27:20 Identifying Good Clients 32:54 Learning and Growth as a Business Owner 36:25 Understanding Margins and Risks 44:27 Designing Efficient Workflows 49:20 Navigating Competition in the Market 56:19 Nurturing Talent: The Importance of Apprenticeships 1:02:40 Assessing Project Management: The Key to Successful Collaborations 1:03:55 Market Insights: Current Trends in Melbourne’s Construction 1:10:53 Future Growth: Aiming for $20 Million Revenue 1:13:07 Passion for Building: The Heart of Business Success Tune in for a practical, straight-talking conversation about building a subcontracting business that actually works. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionBusiness #SubcontractorLife #BuildingTalksPodcast #CommercialCarpentry #ConstructionLeadership #CashflowManagement #TradeBusiness #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionCareers #BusinessGrowth 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! In this episode, we hear from Brian Donovan, who built an enviable career through his time at Multiplex and Mirvac where he rose to Project Director, before taking the leap in 2018 to launch Jardon Group. We unpack what it’s really like stepping away from Tier 1 construction and leading $400M projects, to setting up and growing a construction business. Brian shares the reality of starting just before COVID hit, the uncertainty, pressure, and what failure feels like when you’ve got a young family depending on you. It’s an honest conversation about his experiences setting up a construction business: risk, resilience, mindset and people. Plus why trust, early engagement, and doing ECI properly can completely shift a project’s outcome and act as a great foundation to deliver great projects. Takeaways: ✅ Leaving Tier 1 construction to start your own business ✅ The reality of launching a company only for COVID to rock up just as you get going ✅ Managing risk when you’ve got family and responsibility ✅ Building resilience through uncertainty and pressure ✅ Why trust and early contractor involvement matter Chapters: 05:32 Early Influences and Entry into Construction 06:56 Navigating Early Career Challenges 09:49 Opportunities and Growth in the Industry 12:29 Cultural Differences in Work Environments 15:17 Mentorship and Professional Development 18:31 International Experience and Career Progression 25:41 The Journey to Independence 32:01 Embracing Failure and Taking Risks 38:05 The Reality of Starting a Business 44:58 Navigating Challenges During Covid-19 47:49 Growth and Evolution of Jardon Group 53:30 Navigating Market Entry Challenges 56:17 The Evolution of Land Lease Communities 59:25 Understanding D&C Contracts and Client Engagement 1:04:51 Building Trust in the Construction Industry 1:15:29 Looking Ahead: Growth and Market Opportunities Tune in for a real-world conversation about risk, resilience, and what it takes to build something from the ground up. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionLeadership #BuildingTalksPodcast #Entrepreneurship #ConstructionBusiness #JardonGroup #ECI #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionCareers #Leadership #Resilience 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Thanks for jumping into another episode of The Building Talks Podcast…this episode’s a little different, and one that really matters. Returning guest Justin McGrath is back on the show. With more than 40 years in construction, Justin’s built a career many would admire, starting as an apprentice and working his way through to Construction Director, leading major projects, big teams, and high-pressure environments. But this conversation isn’t about project wins or career milestones. Six months ago, Justin suffered a stroke. What follows is a raw, honest chat about the realities of long-term pressure in construction, the hours, the responsibility, the constant problem-solving, and the mindset of just pushing through because “that’s the job.” Justin shares what he’s learned, what he’d do differently, and how the same drive that built his career is now fuelling his recovery. This isn’t about sympathy, it’s about perspective. A powerful reminder for anyone in the industry about the cost of always being “on”, and why paying attention to your health might be the most important call you make. Takeaways: ✅ The hidden toll of long-term pressure in construction ✅ Why “pushing through” isn’t always the answer ✅ Recognising warning signs before it’s too late ✅ Using discipline and mindset for recovery ✅ Rethinking success, health, and longevity in the industry Chapters: 07:51 Career Highlights and Major Projects 12:23 The Day of the Stroke: A Personal Account 24:31 The Role of Family in Health Decisions 28:51 The Demands of the Construction Industry 38:33 Transitioning to Strategic Roles 44:45 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 50:44 The Impact of Stress on Health 56:26 Recognising Burnout 1:02:40 Rehabilitation and Recovery Process 1:09:59 Mental Resilience in Recovery 1:18:13 Overcoming Physical and Mental Challenges 1:25:32 Navigating the Road to Return to Work 1:31:01 Reflections on Work-Life Balance and Industry Changes Tune in for a powerful, honest conversation about health, perspective, and the real cost of high performance in construction. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionLeadership #BuildingTalksPodcast #MentalHealthInConstruction #WorkplaceWellbeing #ConstructionCareers #LeadershipPressure #HealthInConstruction #BuiltEnvironment #Resilience #IndustryInsights 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Season 5 rolls on with a thoughtful and honest conversation about leadership in the toughest moments of construction. In this episode, returning guest Seamus Egan joins me again on The Building Talks Podcast. Since his last appearance, Seamus has had a full-on couple of years, moving from BESIX Watpac to Roberts Co shortly before their collapse in Victoria, and now in a new role as General Manager at Henny. We talk openly about what leadership looks like when things stop going to plan. Seamus shares his perspective on navigating uncertainty, the mental load that comes with senior roles, and the importance of leaning on your network when the pressure ramps up. We also unpack his move into a smaller, more agile business, the opportunities emerging in sectors like retirement living, student accommodation and social housing, and why the industry needs to value experience rather than lose it too early. A grounded, reflective conversation about resilience, leadership and the realities of the construction industry. Takeaways: ✅ Leadership during uncertainty and industry downturns ✅ The mental load of senior roles in construction ✅ Why resilience and networks matter in tough markets ✅ Lessons from moving from Tier 1 contractors to a mid-tier builder ✅ The cost of losing experienced professionals too early Chapters: 06:43 The Complexity of the Construction Industry 11:45 Transitioning to General Management at Henny 16:35 The Evolving Retirement Living Sector 22:20 Advice for Aspiring Leaders in Construction 32:29 Navigating Leadership Pressures 37:59 Reflecting on Stressful Experiences 42:45 Decompressing After Challenges 45:08 Transitioning to New Opportunities 49:24 The Future of the Construction Industry 54:49 Collaboration Across the Industry 59:35 Building Trust and Relationships Tune in for an honest discussion about resilience, leadership and navigating the realities of construction when the pressure is on. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionLeadership #BuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionIndustry #LeadershipInConstruction #Resilience #PropertyDevelopment #ConstructionCareers #BuiltEnvironment #ProjectLeadership #VictoriaConstruction 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Season 5 is here, and we’re kicking off with a big one! I’m joined by Jesse Lockhart Krause, founder of Lockhart-Krause Architects, to talk about the redevelopment of the iconic Bondi Surf Club, the oldest surf club in the world. Since we first planned this chat, Bondi experienced a tragic event that shook the community. Jesse was there that day, and while our focus is on architecture and leadership, we briefly acknowledge the resilience of the local community and lifesavers. We unpack how Jesse secured approval for the redesign after two failed DAs by separating heritage from new architecture, introducing a courtyard concept, and genuinely listening to the community, achieving approval without a single objection. We also dive into growing an architecture practice, hiring for character, and why listening may be the most powerful leadership skill in the built environment. Takeaways: ✅ Reimagining an iconic heritage building the right way ✅ Securing community approval in a tightly held precinct ✅ Designing with people, place and purpose in mind ✅ Growing an architecture practice with strong foundations ✅ Why listening beats ego in leadership Chapters: 12:40 The Importance of Real World Experience 18:43 Skills Beyond Degrees 23:34 Mindset and Endurance in Life 24:50 The Importance of Exercise and Community Engagement 26:23 Bondi Surf Club: A Historical Perspective 29:03 Architectural Challenges and Community Needs 30:29 Tragedy and Community Resilience 34:35 Navigating Feedback in Architecture 36:59 The Art of Balancing Design and Functionality 49:39 The Role of Community in Architecture 55:54 Growing a Business in Architecture 01:01:22 The Future of Architecture and Industry Trends Tune in for an honest conversation about architecture, resilience, and what it really takes to design with community at the centre. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ArchitectureAustralia #BondiSurfClub #UrbanDesign #HeritageArchitecture #CommunityLedDesign #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #SydneyArchitecture #PeoplePlacePurpose #BuildingTalksPodcast 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) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.au https://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast , wrapping up Season 4 with a story that perfectly captures grit, growth, and what’s possible in construction when mindset meets opportunity. In this finale, I’m joined by Joey Hidalgo, founder of the TMC Academy and host of The Profitable Estimator Podcast. Joey moved from the Philippines to Australia with just $700, sending out 50 resumes a day before breaking into estimating and launching his own Estimating business. He shares how he built his career, the underestimated power of estimators, and why systems and mentorship matter more than ever. We also discuss how offshoring can solve skills shortages when done right and why Australia’s hiring mindset needs a serious rethink. Takeaways: ✅ Building a career from scratch in a new country ✅ Estimating as a critical (and overlooked) skill ✅ Joey’s WPR framework: Win, Profit, Repeat ✅ The offshoring debate: cheap labour or opportunity bridge? ✅ Fixing the hiring mindset to focus on training, not perfection Chapters: 05:23 Cultural Representation in Construction 08:20 National Pride and Historical Context 14:14 Career Path and Opportunities in Engineering 17:03 Transitioning to Estimating in Australia 23:54 Innovations in Estimating Processes 29:57 Reflections on Diversity in Construction 39:25 From Estimator to Entrepreneur 42:55 Identifying the Skills Gap in Estimating 45:40 The Challenge of Estimating in Construction 51:39 Building a BPO for Estimators 55:34 The Importance of Fair Compensation 58:22 The SOT Framework for Successful Offshoring 01:01:11 Building Trust and Communication in Remote Teams 01:08:43 Developing Talent in the Construction Industry 01:17:19 Finding the Right Fit: Training vs. Hiring 01:27:43 Perceptions of the Australian Construction Industry Tune in for an inspiring, no-fluff chat about building a career from scratch, unlocking offshore potential, and why estimating deserves way more respect. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionCareers #EstimatingMatters #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #TMCacademy #ProfitableEstimator #OffshoringInConstruction #SkilledMigration #MentorshipInConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #DiversityInConstruction 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.au The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Hi there, and welcome to The Building Talks Podcast , where we dig into what really builds success… In this episode, I sit down with Scott Clements, Managing Director of Inertia Engineering, a growing multidisciplinary Engineering firm based in Southeast Queensland. Scott’s story takes us from his early career in the UK to scaling a 70-person consultancy back in Australia, including some impressive growth during the COVID era. We explore the mix of strategy, timing and mindset that helped Inertia grow through unpredictable conditions. Scott also shares sharp takes on labour shortages, skilled migration, the real role of AI in construction productivity, and how he's using smart partnerships, including a joint venture with a New Zealand tech firm, to keep Inertia ahead of the curve. It’s a shorter conversation than usual, but full of practical insights and forward-thinking leadership. Takeaways: ✅ Growing through uncertainty, strategy vs luck ✅ Using AI and partnerships to drive productivity ✅ Talent shortages and the immigration squeeze ✅ Positioning your business for future growth ✅ Engineering leadership that challenges the norm Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Overview 00:15 - Scott's Career Journey 01:25 - Industry Themes and Challenges 02:35 - Inertia Engineering's Growth and Strategy 03:37 - Podcast Partnership and Sponsorship 05:10 - Scott's Early Interest in Engineering 05:45 - Overseas Experience and Cultural Impact 11:01 - Inertia Engineering's History and Expansion 18:27 - Southeast Queensland Market Insights 24:54 - Productivity Challenges in Construction 28:12 - Cultural Shifts in Construction 28:48 - Innovation and Technology in Engineering 29:50 - Partnership with New Zealand Firm 30:38 - Challenges in Project Leadership 32:46 - Investment in AI and Automation 37:08 - Education and Skill Development 39:53 - Immigration and Labor Shortages 47:38 - Future Predictions and Strategies 57:55 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Tune in for a sharp, honest chat on scaling smart and leading with intention in the built environment. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionLeadership #EngineeringBusiness #SoutheastQueensland #BuiltEnvironment #AIFuture #ImmigrationPolicy #ProductivityInConstruction #TheBuildingTalksPodcast 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.au The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

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 did Chapters: 04:40 – The Toughness of the Construction Industry 08:52 – Personal Journey into Construction 12:19 – Gender Dynamics in Construction 17:03 – Career Pivots and Education 20:05 – Mentorship and Support Systems 28:15 – Empowering Women and Marginalised Group in Construction 31:54 – Addressing Bias and Inclusion in the Industry 33:33 – The Role of Mentorship in Career Development 36:12 – Challenges in In-House Career Development 39:05 – The Importance of Leadership and Support 42:03 – Creating a Supportive Work Environment 44:39 – The Speak Up Foundation’s Mission 50:01 – The Future of Training and Development in Construction 58:39 – Evolving Mindsets and Personal Growth 01:00:46 – The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 01:03:18 – Navigating Challenges in Project Management 01:07:32 – Time Management and Reflection in Construction 01:10:52 – The Journey of Writing a Book 01:16:31 – Balancing Passion Projects with Professional Life Tune 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.au The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Welcome to the 100th episode of The Building Talks Podcast & what better way to celebrate than with a powerhouse conversation guaranteed to inspire and challenge your thinking! Back on the mic are Andrew Deveson and David Caputo , co-founders of Kapitol , who first joined us back in March 2023. In today's conversation we dive into the details about how Kapitol has become Australia's fastest growing commercial builder, what it takes to lead a business that’s redefining the industry through digital innovation, smart systems, & strong culture. We also explore how they’re tackling training, wellbeing, leadership, and their upcoming move into health and defence projects. Takeaways: ✅ How Kapitol went from startup to billion-dollar builder ✅ The strategic discipline behind their rapid rise ✅ Their honest thoughts on the 13,000+ hours of internal training ✅ How they're using digital innovation & systems thinking to reshape construction ✅ Their mindset, staying healthy & leading with clarity ✅ Growing into new sectors: health, defence, Northern Territory ✅ Leadership, restlessness and resilience at scale Chapters: 05:43 – Introduction and Reflections on Growth 06:53 – The Importance of Partnership in Business 08:57 – Rapid Growth and Business Success 14:00 – Investing in Systems and Training 20:12 – Cultural Shifts and Industry Disruption 25:51 – Future of Construction and AI Integration 33:09 – Transforming the Construction Industry 38:30 – Diversification and New Opportunities 43:02 – Building Systems for Success 50:00 – Navigating Leadership Challenges 59:38 – Investing in Training and Development 01:06:55 – Investing in AI: Costs and Training 01:12:45 – Mental Preparation for Leadership 01:22:02 – Future Goals and Strategic Vision Tune in for a no-filter look at how two leaders are rewriting the rulebook for Australian construction at scale. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #Kapitol #ConstructionLeadership #CommercialConstruction #DigitalEngineering #ConstructionCulture #40HourWorkWeek #Upskilling #AustralianConstruction #PropertyPodcast #BuiltEnvironment #ModernConstruction #ConstructionInnovation #100thepisode 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.au The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Good on you for joining us for another episode of The Building Talks Podcast ! This time, I had the chance to speak with Ben Rowe, Project Director at RIVERLEE, who’s overseeing one of Melbourne’s most ambitious urban transformations, the regeneration of the 'New Epping' precinct. It’s a 50-hectare site that’s evolved from a 10-year plan to a 20-year vision, and Ben’s been at the centre of it for the last eight years. We get into the realities of managing a multi-decade, multi-asset development that includes housing, healthcare, commercial, and retail, all while adapting to planning delays, shifting markets, and rising construction costs. Ben shares his approach to keeping long-term momentum, how to build trust with councils and communities, and what it takes to navigate risk, pick the right builders, and bring patient capital into the fold. He also opens up about his advocacy work through Queers in Property, driving visibility and inclusion in the built environment. Takeaways ✅ Keeping momentum on long-term, complex projects ✅ Balancing risk, resilience and changing market conditions ✅ Building stakeholder trust through clear communication ✅ Why developers need adaptability and strong networks ✅ The importance of inclusion in property and construction Chapters: 06:38 – The Journey into Property Development 09:21 – The Complexity of Large-Scale Developments 12:03 – Creating a Vision for Urban Regeneration 19:32 – Creating People-Friendly Spaces 24:38 – Understanding Community Needs 29:48 – Challenges in Construction Costs 34:36 – Managing Diverse Asset Classes 37:31 – User-Centric Design in Healthcare Projects 41:58 – Current Status of New Epping Project 49:09 – The Art of Development: Storytelling and Influence 52:00 – Current Challenges in Melbourne’s Property Development 58:13 – Creating Inclusive Spaces: The Role of Queers in Property 1:08:31 – Future Projects and Industry Outlook Tune in for a real-world look at what it takes to deliver a future-ready precinct from the ground up. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #UrbanRegeneration #PropertyDevelopment #EppingProject #Riverlee #BuiltEnvironment #PrecinctPlanning #LongTermVision #ConstructionLeadership #InclusiveDesign #QueersInProperty #BuildingTalksPodcast 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.au The 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 info@buildingenvirons.com.au