The Build Insite Podcast

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.

Tune into episode 25 of the Build Insite podcast for a compelling roundtable discussion with some of South Australia's premier builders. In this episode, our co-hosts Luke and Dean engage with James Turner of J Turner Constructions, Zak Johnson of ZJ Building, and Luke Doecke of Saxony Building. Together, they explore key themes critical to advancing in the construction industry, including accountability, the significance of community, and the relentless pursuit of continuous improvement. The conversation also covers their experiences with business coaching, the intricacies of pre-construction processes, and the benefits of collaborating with architects and designers. This episode provides a rare glimpse into the strategies these industry leaders use to not only enhance their own operations but also to drive the entire sector towards higher standards. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain insights from seasoned professionals who are reshaping the building landscape. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:51 - Meet the leaders in South Australian building 03:41 - Strategies for staying ahead in the building industry 04:55 - Exploring the impact of business coaching on builders 09:26 - The role of networking and collaboration with architects and designers 18:00 - Optimizing pre-construction processes and improving client management 35:32 - Wrapping up: key takeaways and next steps for builders

Join us for episode 24 of the Build Insite podcast as we sit down with Clea White, a trailblazing young carpenter making her mark in the world of high-end carpentry. At just 22 years old and in her fourth year of apprenticeship, Clea has faced the unique challenges of working in a field traditionally dominated by men. In today's episode, she shares her personal journey, from the influence of her father, a seasoned builder, to her own experiences on the job site. Clea also dives into how she manages to balance her professional passion with her love for dirt biking, bringing a fresh perspective on work-life harmony. Clea's story is not just about carpentry; it's about inspiration, dedication, and the importance of persistence and curiosity in mastering one's craft. Tune in to hear Clea discuss the pivotal role of asking questions, learning continuously from every new task, and breaking barriers in the construction industry.

Welcome back to part two of episode 23 of the Build Insite podcast, featuring Nathan Stevenson. In this episode, we continue our exploration of the multifaceted nature of the construction industry. Nathan shares invaluable insights into the benefits of diversifying the workforce by hiring female apprentices, enhancing problem-solving and broadening perspectives within teams. We also tackle the tough topics that have impacted the industry this year-from project delays and financial strains due to interest rate hikes to navigating client relationships during personal crises like marriage breakdowns. Emphasizing the critical importance of mental health and community support, this episode also discusses the role of effective pre-construction forecasting and the enduring value of robust networking, apprenticeship training, and the pursuit of ongoing education. Dive into this conversation with us as we uncover the highs, lows, and key lessons for building a sustainable business and improving personal well-being in the trades.