#30 Navigating Challenges in Modern Construction with Sam, Matt and Rob - Part 2

In this special live episode, the Build Insite Podcast team sits down with Andy Bowen, Director at Bowens, and Luke McEnany, Head of Sales, to unpack how a 131-year-old family-owned company is staying competitive in an ever-evolving construction industry. From Andy's transition from finance into the family business to Luke's insights on digital transformation, this episode is a must-listen for builders and business owners alike. The conversation explores Bowens' journey of modernization, e-commerce innovation, and introducing sustainable building solutions-all while fiercely protecting their independence and culture. Discover how Bowens continues to evolve with the industry, support their staff, and inspire builders through initiatives like Bowens TV, training programs, and their immersive Circa Showroom experience.

Welcome to this live episode of the Build Insite Podcast, recorded from the Circus Studio in Port Melbourne at Bowens Hardware. This special session features a dynamic builders panel with Dean from Backman Builders, Matt from Elevate, Rob from EVO Built, and Sam from Built by Hammond. Together, they share their experiences in sustainable building, the rise of passive house design, and how the industry is adapting to modern client expectations-especially those shaped by TV and social media. From team culture to client communication, this episode uncovers practical strategies for delivering high-quality custom homes while building trust and supporting the community. Plus, learn how coaching and mentorship have played a vital role in the panelists' personal and professional growth.

In this episode, we explore the impact of the latest NCC changes on the construction industry and discuss how builders can stay ahead through continuous education. Our guests, Rebecca Brock (@brockfabel_design) and Jessica Allen (@climasuresa) share their strategies for keeping up with industry developments, including mentorship, professional growth, and leveraging resources. The conversation also highlights the importance of mentorship for women in construction, tips for creating a respectful and inclusive work environment, and practical advice for building sustainable practices. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights on adapting to industry changes and thriving in the evolving construction landscape.

Sustainable building and energy efficiency are shaping the future of construction, and in this episode, we dive deep into these critical topics with Jessica Allen (@climasuresa) and Rebecca Brock (@brockfabel_design). Our guests share their personal journeys into the construction industry, highlighting the evolving opportunities for women in the field and the importance of early collaboration in building projects. They also break down the latest building codes, debunk common sustainability misconceptions, and provide expert insights on how to build healthier, more energy-efficient homes. Whether you're a builder, designer, or homeowner, this episode offers practical strategies and inspiring stories to help you make a lasting impact through smarter, more sustainable construction.

The construction industry is facing a growing labor and skill shortage, making it harder than ever to find and retain skilled tradespeople. In this episode, we sit down with James Turner (J Turner Constructions), Zak Johnson (ZJ Building), and Luke Doecke (Saxony Building) to explore how builders are overcoming these challenges. Our guests share their experiences hiring both young apprentices and mature-age workers, emphasizing the importance of passion, drive, and the right attitude in the trade. We also discuss innovative ways to attract the next generation, the impact of major infrastructure projects on labor availability, and the critical role of business culture in retention. Beyond workforce challenges, the conversation delves into financial management in construction, the importance of a supportive business community, and why early education in trades is essential for the industry's future. If you're a builder looking to build a stronger, more resilient team, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.

In this episode, we explore the key differences between rural and urban construction with Adam Antony from Veo Building Co. Adam shares firsthand experiences of building in small communities versus larger cities, offering insights into project management, client engagement, and business efficiency. He highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making, maintaining a strong project pipeline, and practicing effective delegation. Adam also discusses how software tools like WonderBuild, Xero, and DEXT have helped streamline his operations. Plus, he opens up about balancing work and personal life, ongoing professional education, and tackling common misconceptions about custom home building. If you're looking for expert strategies to optimize your building business, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world advice.

In this episode, we welcome Adam Antony, founder of Veo Building, a dedicated builder from the Southern Tablelands, NSW. In part 1, Adam shares his journey from a carpentry apprentice to running his own thriving construction business. He opens up about his transition from a partnership to a solo venture, the pivotal role of business coaching, and how technology and software have helped streamline his operations. Adam also dives into the challenges and rewards of working in rural areas, his approach to pre-construction planning, and the tools he uses like ProCalc to improve efficiency. Whether you're an aspiring builder or an experienced professional, this episode is packed with practical insights and valuable advice to help you grow in the construction industry.

In this episode, we continue discussing with Joanne Hurt of Broadfeather Design to explore the art of personalizing your living space. Joanne shares insights into the start-to-finish process of interior design, guiding homeowners from the initial consultation to the final handover. She emphasizes the importance of understanding personal style, how color and texture influence mood, and ways to make sustainable choices without breaking the bank. We also dive into future design trends, material innovations, and practical tips for achieving a high-end look on a budget. Whether you're redesigning a single room or an entire home, Joanne's expert advice will help you make informed, authentic, and sustainable decisions.

Dive into Episode 26 Part 1 of the Build Insite Podcast, where we explore the intriguing world of interior design with Joanne Hurt from Broadfeather Design. In this episode, Joanne discusses her remarkable journey from healthcare to interior design, detailing how her background as a registered nurse has influenced her design philosophy. She shares the inspiration behind her company's name, drawn from iconic figures Grant Featherston and Florence Broadhurst, and her dedication to creating tailored, inclusive environments for every client. The conversation also highlights the crucial role of interior design in the construction process, the importance of collaborating closely with builders from the onset of a project, and insights into the current 'Wabi Sabi' design trend, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and personalized spaces. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic and detailed process of interior design and its impact on construction today.

Welcome back to Episode 25 of the Build Insite Podcast, where we continue our discussion with renowned South Australian builders Luke Doecke, James Turner, and Zak Johnson. This episode focuses on the critical topics of managing client expectations and enforcing rigorous quality control measures in the construction industry. Our guests share their strategies for setting and maintaining realistic timelines and cost expectations for clients, utilizing effective communication, and leveraging contracts to protect both builders and clients. They dive into various quality control tactics, such as project management software, checklists, and trade rating systems, which help ensure projects run smoothly from start to finish. Moreover, this episode highlights the importance of internal training programs aimed at developing future leaders within their companies, addressing the challenges and rewards of nurturing talent. Tune in to discover actionable insights that can elevate your client relations and improve operational efficiency in your construction projects.