The Underlay - A Clever Choice Podcast

The Sydney road trip continues on The Underlay as Matt heads into Western Sydney to visit the team at Flooring Extra Narellan, sitting down with Tom, Jamie and Anthony for one of the most honest and entertaining conversations of the tour. What starts as a few laughs quickly turns into a real look at what running a modern flooring business actually involves.The trio share how they each fell into flooring from completely different backgrounds, from growing up in a family carpet shop, to stumbling into retail after school, to coming across from the tiling trade by accident. Despite different paths, the outcome is the same: flooring becomes more than a job. It becomes a livelihood, a family, and for many in the industry, a lifetime career. A major theme of the episode is professionalism in the flooring industry. The team talks openly about the need for apprenticeships, licensing, and better collaboration among retailers, installers, and suppliers. They explain why great installers are the backbone of the business and how communication between the store and tradesperson directly impacts the customer's final result. Floor preparation also takes centre stage, with the boys reinforcing a message heard throughout the tour: the quality of the subfloor determines the quality of the finished floor. From managing expectations to walking away from jobs that can't be done properly, they explain why doing the job right matters more than simply winning the sale.It's a fun, honest and educational episode about culture, teamwork and building trust with customers in a constantly changing industry.#TheUnderlayPodcast #FlooringExtraProspect #FlooringIndustry #FloorPreparation #InstallerLife #AustralianTrades #FlooringRetail #HybridFlooring #CleverChoiceFlooring #WesternSydney

The Sydney tour continues on The Underlay as Matt and Michael head to the Hawkesbury to visit one of Western Sydney's most unique showrooms, Flooring Extra Hawkesbury. Sitting down with store owner Jennifer, this episode quickly becomes far more than a store profile; it turns into a masterclass in flooring, retail, and understanding what customers actually need when choosing a floor.Jennifer shares her journey from retail salesperson to supplier representative, and finally to opening her own store in 2017 after more than two decades in the industry. Her passion is clear; flooring isn't just a product, it's about solving problems and guiding customers through an overwhelming decision. The conversation dives into what makes her store different, including a strong focus on design, styling and creating a welcoming space where customers can visualise their home, not just pick a colour. The episode explores real-world issues retailers and homeowners face every day, from lighting affecting colour choice to why the "house picks the floor" to the critical role of subfloor preparation. Jennifer explains how installation quality, proper preparation and realistic expectations matter far more than marketing claims, particularly with modern products like hybrid and floating floors. Along the way, the team talks trends, why greys are disappearing in favour of warmer tones, the importance of installers, and how warranties actually work. It's honest, educational and full of practical advice for retailers, installers and homeowners alike.If you want to understand flooring properly, this episode is essential listening.#TheUnderlayPodcast #FlooringExtraHawkesbury #FlooringIndustry #FloorPrep #HybridFlooring #RetailFlooring #AustralianTrades #InteriorDesign #FlooringEducation #CleverChoiceFlooring

The New South Wales tour rolls on in this episode of The Underlay, with Matt and Michael heading west to Penrith to spend time inside one of the most welcoming flooring stores you'll find anywhere, Flooring Extra Penrith. What unfolds is more than a store visit; it's a story about family, community, loyalty and how a flooring business can become part of the fabric of its local area.Joined by Tony, Nick and Lisa, the conversation traces the journey from a small, carpet-only operation into a thriving two-level showroom built around hard flooring, service and long-term relationships. Tony shares how he fell into flooring more than a decade ago, why timing and population growth in Western Sydney mattered, and how embracing hard flooring early helped shape the business it is today.Nick offers a fresh perspective as the next generation in the business, balancing a background in film and technology with estimating, measuring, and customer education. Lisa rounds out the picture, explaining how the family dynamic, repeat clients, and genuine care underpin everything they do, not commissions or quick wins.The episode also dives into market shifts, from bamboo booms to waterproof planks, changing colour trends, and why darker, richer timber tones are making a comeback. Along the way, there's plenty of laughter, footy talk, jet skis, family banter and a reminder that great flooring businesses are built on trust, not transactions.This is a warm, honest look at what happens when family values meet flooring expertise, and why local businesses like Flooring Extra Penrith continue to thrive.#TheUnderlayPodcast #FlooringExtraPenrith #FlooringIndustry #FamilyBusiness #AustralianFlooring #HardFlooring #FlooringRetail #LocalBusiness #WesternSydney #FlooringProfessionals

In this episode of The Underlay, Matt sits down with Clever Choice Flooring Queensland Sales Manager Greg Harvey for a deep dive into one of the most important categories in hard flooring, timber. Recorded in the festive “Christmas studio”, this conversation strips away myths, misconceptions, and outdated thinking around timber floors, replacing them with real-world insight, practical advice, and honest industry experience.Greg walks through Clever Choice Flooring's newly refreshed timber offering, breaking down the three new ranges, Beauty, Meadows, and Pure, and explaining exactly where each sits in the market. From premium clean-grade boards to rustic, high-feature options and accessible entry-level timbers, the discussion highlights how Clever Choice has closed key gaps in the market without compromising on quality, authenticity or performance.The episode also tackles the topics that truly matter on the showroom floor: livability, durability, repairability and long-term value. Matt and Greg unpack why timber is far more practical than many consumers believe, how modern UV coatings and finishes have improved wear resistance, and why timber remains one of the most sustainable and future-proof flooring options available.Installation methods, floating versus direct stick, and the critical role of subfloor preparation are front and centre, reinforcing why education and correct system selection are just as important as the product itself. The conversation concludes with a look ahead to Clever Choice Flooring's 2026 roadmap, including product development, training, and where the broader flooring market is heading.This is a must-listen episode for retailers, installers and anyone serious about selling timber floors the right way.#TheUnderlayPodcast #TimberFlooring #CleverChoiceFlooring #FlooringIndustry #AustralianTimber #FlooringEducation #DirectStick #SubfloorPreparation #FlooringProfessionals #HardFlooring

In this special episode of The Underlay, Matt and Michael bring listeners an on-the-ground snapshot from one of the biggest days on the flooring industry calendar, the ATFA Flooring Industry Expo at the Melbourne Showgrounds. Positioned right in the heart of the action, The Underlay team were impossible to miss, attracting a steady stream of installers, suppliers, innovators, and long-standing industry leaders throughout the day.This episode features the best conversations from the floor, beginning with ATFA CEO Phil Buckley, who shares his excitement about the event’s overwhelming turnout, the importance of national collaboration, and why training and craftsmanship will define the future. From there, Matt and Michael dive into the innovations, challenges and opportunities shaping the industry through interviews with Nathan from Belgotex, Brent from RLA Polymers, Josh from Marques Flooring, and Dale from Quickstep.Across every conversation, a clear theme emerges. Training, education and collective responsibility are the backbone of a sustainable and successful flooring industry. From unlocking next-generation timber systems to improving subfloor preparation to expanding installer career pathways, every guest reinforces that knowledge is power, and the industry thrives when everyone lifts together.This episode captures the energy, community spirit and shared passion that made the ATFA Expo such a standout event. Part Two arrives in the new year, but for now, enjoy the people, the ideas and the momentum shaping the future of flooring in Australia.#TheUnderlayPodcast #FlooringIndustry #ATFAExpo #TimberFlooring #FlooringProfessionals #AustralianFlooring #InstallerTraining #FlooringEducation #TradesIndustry #CleverChoiceFlooring

In this episode of The Underlay, Matt and Michael head to Penrith to sit down with one of the most recognisable personalities in the flooring game, Micko from Dream Flooring. What starts as a conversation about flooring quickly becomes an insight into creativity, community, and why being different is the smartest move you can make in a crowded industry.With more than 20 years on the tools, Mikko has done it all from timber to hybrid and everything in between. But it is his shift into fun, chaotic, attention-grabbing social media that has completely transformed his business. Clearing out his showroom, building a lounge-style space, and teaming up with Amy, the mastermind behind many of his wild ideas, Dream Flooring has become one of the most talked-about shops in Western Sydney.From buckets of water thrown across the showroom to inflatable pool dives to Eric attacking him with a handbag, every video is built on one thing: creating attention without taking yourself too seriously. And as Micko explains, the strategy is working far better than he ever expected. Penrith locals now walk into the shop asking to meet him, fans yell out as they pass by, and Panthers supporters come in purely because they want to support "that funny bloke from Dream Flooring.”But behind the laughter is real expertise. With decades of installation experience, Micko discusses floor prep, hybrid evolution, product trends, why former installers make the best salespeople, and the balance between affordability and doing the job right. His story proves that flooring may be boring to the masses, but it never has to be boring to sell.This one is hilarious, honest, and a cracking look at how passion, personality, and hard work can redefine a local business.JOIN THE UNDERLAY COMMUNITY What wild flooring video should Mikko film next? Can passion for footy really build a business? Should every flooring store start making fun content?Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube. Share it with a mate in the industry.#TheUnderlayPodcast #DreamFlooring #FlooringIndustry #HybridFlooring #PenrithBusiness #FlooringCommunity #TradieLife #SocialMediaMarketingAU #CleverChoiceFlooring #AussiePodcasts

The Underlay Podcast continues its Sydney road trip with a special pop-up episode recorded inside the bustling GMK Logistics headquarters. Hosts Matt and Michael sit down with Sarah Halpin, CEO of GMK Logistics, and Anthony Minuto, NSW State Manager and long-time member of the GMK family, for a lively and insightful conversation about people, culture, and the power of connection in the flooring industry.What begins as a spontaneous visit evolves into a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of one of Australia's most respected logistics providers. GMK's operation spans more than 100,000 square metres of warehousing nationwide, yet it still runs on the same family values and personal relationships that built the business more than 60 years ago.Sarah shares her journey from accountant to CEO, a career built on curiosity, resilience, and empathy and explains how she continues to champion a "people-first" culture that values every driver, warehouse team member, and client equally. Anthony, who began his GMK journey more than two decades ago, offers an insider’s perspective on how dedication, consistency, and a passion for the industry have shaped both his career and GMK's reputation for reliability.The discussion explores the importance of communication, innovation, and trust in logistics, from custom-built trucks designed specifically for flooring products to drivers who know their customers by name. Together, Sarah and Anthony reveal why GMK Logistics is more than just a transport company; it's the backbone of Australia's flooring supply chain.Of course, this is The Underlay, so there's plenty of humour too, from fluoro workwear fashion to ultra-marathon running and even a spirited debate about roll-on versus spray deodorant.It's an episode that celebrates commitment, culture, and community, the very traits that keep the flooring industry moving forward.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your pods.#TheUnderlayPodcast #GMKLogistics #FlooringIndustry #LogisticsAustralia #FlooringProfessionals #SupplyChainLeaders #AustralianManufacturing #WomenInLeadership #FlooringBusiness #CleverChoiceFlooring

In this episode of The Underlay Podcast, hosts Matt White and Michael Roberts sit down with Geoff Weir, Hard Flooring Category Manager at Carpet Court, to explore his fascinating journey through the flooring industry, from starting out knowing nothing about flooring to becoming one of the most respected voices in the business.Geoff shares how he first entered the industry nearly a decade ago, guided by a friend who saw his potential long before he did. From humble beginnings as a sales rep to national leadership roles, Geoff discusses the value of curiosity, connection, and consistency, answering your phone, showing up, and always being honest with your customers. It’s simple advice, but as Geoff explains, it’s what sets great reps apart in an industry built on trust and relationships.The conversation dives deep into the evolving world of hard flooring. Geoff reflects on major market shifts, including the rise of hybrid flooring and the resurgence of laminates, and how technology continues to reshape what’s possible in design and performance. He also opens up about the importance of aligning values between suppliers and retailers, highlighting the growing collaboration between Carpet Court and Clever Choice Flooring.In a heartfelt moment, Geoff shares his personal journey through a year of immense challenges, including becoming a father again and facing a brain cancer diagnosis, offering a powerful reminder about perspective, family, and what truly matters beyond the showroom.From industry insights to life lessons, this episode delivers an honest, inspiring, and deeply human look at what drives the people behind Australia’s flooring industry.The Underlay Podcast – where the stories beneath the surface inspire what’s next.#FlooringIndustry #CarpetCourt #CleverChoiceFlooring #PodcastAustralia #TheUnderlay #FlooringTrends #HardFlooring #Leadership #IndustryInsights #Inspiration

In this episode of The Underlay Podcast, hosts Matt and Michael sit down with Phil Buckley, the newly appointed CEO of the Australian Timber Flooring Association (ATFA), for an open and insightful conversation about the future of the flooring industry.Phil's journey is anything but typical. Growing up in Sydney, he watched his mother build one of the city's largest timber flooring companies from scratch, spent his teenage weekends on the tools, and then pivoted into education before returning to flooring to build a successful commercial and retail operation. Now, just five weeks into his role leading ATFA, Phil shares how a lifetime of hands-on experience, from laying floors to running businesses and conducting more than 600 flooring inspections, shapes his vision for the association.The conversation delves into the significant industry challenges and opportunities currently facing the sector. Phil explains the impact of the recently announced Great Northern Koala Park, which has halted access to crucial resources, such as blackbutt timber. He talks candidly about the human cost of policy changes on small businesses, mills, and communities, and why understanding the people behind the industry matters as much as protecting the environment.Education and training are at the forefront of Phil's strategy. He outlines ATFA's ambitious plans to upskill everyone in the supply chain – from retailers and sales teams who need better product fit-for-purpose knowledge, to installers, inspectors, and warranty managers who must communicate technical insights clearly to consumers. The episode also explores how ATFA is making training more accessible through online modules, face-to-face workshops, and purpose-built facilities across Australia.Phil doesn't shy away from the complexities of change – whether it's new regulations, global timber supply pressures, or technology like AI reshaping the manufacturing and retail sectors. But his message is clear: progress shouldn't leave people behind.Whether you're a retailer, installer, manufacturer, or just passionate about the flooring industry, this episode offers a valuable perspective on where the sector is headed and how ATFA plans to lead with innovation, education, and support for its people.#TheUnderlayPodcast #FlooringIndustry #ATFA #TimberFlooring #FlooringEducation #BlackbuttTimber #SustainableFlooring #FlooringRetail #InstallerTraining #FlooringInnovation 

This special episode of The Underlay Podcast takes listeners behind the scenes of Project Miriah, a groundbreaking collaboration between Clever Choice Flooring, RLA Polymers, and the FCIA.Over five intensive days in August 2025, the team came together to deliver a complete flooring installation inside a two-storey townhouse. From subfloor preparation to the final installation, the project showcased not only Clever Choice's premium vinyl and hybrid products but also the expertise of RLA's adhesives and compounds, and the hands-on involvement of FCIA apprentices.Hosts Matt White and Michael Roberts guide us through the journey, sharing insights from key stakeholders. Listeners hear directly from Fiona of the FCIA about the importance of apprenticeships, the pathways into flooring, and the value of exposing trainees to new products and techniques. Apprentices Carli, Jarra, and Max share their nerves, excitement, and determination as they tackle vinyl, hybrid flooring, and a staircase installation, an essential milestone in their training.RLA's Matt and Safi open up about subfloor prep, levelling, and the science behind their adhesives, while FCIA trainer Ryan provides expert commentary on what it takes to deliver a flawless installation. Store owners Simon and Fiona from Carpet Court Coffs Harbour also weigh in, highlighting the vital role apprentices play in the future of the trade.Project Miriah wasn't just about flooring; it was about education, collaboration, and industry growth. With hours of content filmed, including a 38-step Clever Choice installation guide, this initiative sets a new benchmark for training and industry storytelling.From the technical precision of subfloor preparation to the excitement of apprentices completing real-world modules on site, this episode captures the heart of an industry committed to building skills and supporting its next generation. Whether you're a flooring professional, a business owner, or simply curious about the craft behind the floors beneath your feet, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and lessons.#TheUnderlayPodcast #ProjectMiriah #FlooringIndustry #ApprenticesInAction #CleverChoiceFlooring #RLAPolymers #FCIA #VinylFlooring #HybridFlooring #FutureOfFlooring

In this special episode of The Underlay, hosts Matt and Michael are joined by Michael and Matt from RLA Polymers and Fiona from the FCIA to take listeners behind the scenes of Project Miriah, a groundbreaking flooring installation project that's raising the bar for education, collaboration, and craftsmanship in the industry.Recorded after two intense days on site, this conversation offers a candid look at the planning and teamwork that's gone into transforming a two-storey townhouse, from subfloor prep to vinyl and hybrid installation, including a challenging staircase. What began as a bold idea to create content around best practices has evolved into a large-scale industry showcase, featuring detailed demonstrations, technical expertise, and a focus on training the next generation of installers.The team shares their experiences and insights from the project, discussing everything from RLA's hands-on product demonstrations and Clever Choice's emphasis on user-friendly solutions to the FCIA's commitment to apprentices and skills development. Listeners will hear how every step, from moisture testing to levelling, adhesives, and installation, has been carefully documented to create an invaluable resource for the flooring community.Beyond the technical details, this episode highlights the power of collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and industry associations. Together, these stakeholders are working to raise standards, promote education, and ensure the flooring trade continues to thrive.Whether you're an installer, retailer, manufacturer, or simply passionate about the future of flooring, this behind-the-scenes look at Project Miriah demonstrates what's possible when expertise, creativity, and teamwork come together. Tune in for practical insights, inspiring stories, and a glimpse at an ambitious project that could shape the industry's future.#TheUnderlayPodcast #ProjectMiriah #FlooringIndustry #CleverChoice #RLAPolymers #FCIA #ApprenticeshipsMatter #FlooringEducation #CollaborationInConstruction #AustralianBusiness

In this episode of The Underlay Podcast, Matt and Michael sit down with a true heavyweight in the Australian flooring industry, Courtney Dunn, Director of Master Floors Group. With decades of experience spanning from floor preparation through to delivering multi-million-dollar commercial projects, Courtney shares a story that's equal parts personal, professional, and inspiring.From the very start, listeners are drawn into Courtney's journey, a career shaped by family legacy, tough lessons on the tools, and an unrelenting commitment to relationships. Courtney recalls how his father's career moves set the stage for his own, and how his early years in floor preparation became the foundation for everything he does today. The conversation dives deep into why floor prep isn't just a step in the process, but an art form that makes or breaks a project.Family is a central theme throughout the discussion. Courtney speaks candidly about raising his three kids as a sole parent while running a thriving business, and how rugby, through his own school days at TSS and now watching his sons play, remains a cornerstone of his life. He shares the pride of watching his eldest pursue opportunities in construction management, underscoring the value of hard work, apprenticeships, and creating pathways for the next generation.The business insights are equally compelling. Courtney explains why relationships and partnerships are the lifeblood of Master Floors' success, especially when dealing with tier-one builders and projects that stretch across thousands of square metres. He highlights the challenges of managing multi-tower developments, including the award-winning casino precinct project, which earned Master Floors the "Commercial Job of the Year" award at the FCIA Gala. The conversation peels back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed at this level: risk management, cash flow discipline, and, above all, trust.Listeners also get a candid look at the state of the flooring industry today, from the shift away from carpet toward timber and hybrids, to the realities of labour shortages and the urgent need for apprentices. Courtney outlines his goal to bring at least ten apprentices through Master Floors by 2027, and why investing in young talent is the only way to secure the future of the trade.It's not all work, though. Courtney discusses the importance of stepping away, whether it's holidays, golf days, or time with his partner and kids, to recharge and reset. The episode closes with the fast-five questions, giving listeners a glimpse of Courtney's lighter side, from his love of Filipino food to his go-to holiday spot in Queenstown.This episode is packed with authenticity, insight, and passion. Whether you're in the flooring industry, leading a business, or simply someone who appreciates stories of resilience and legacy, Courtney's journey is one that will resonate deeply with you.Listen now to hear how Courtney Dunn and the team at Master Floors Group are shaping the future of Australia’s flooring industry.#TheUnderlayPodcast #FlooringIndustry #MasterFloors #BusinessLeadership #CleverChoice #Apprenticeships #ConstructionIndustry #AustralianBusiness #CommercialProjects #IndustryRelationships

In this episode of The Underlay, Matt and Michael Roberts, General Manager of Clever Choice, sit down with Richard from GMK Logistics to unpack the critical role transport plays in the flooring industry. The conversation begins with an unexpected sports tangent, comparing the culture and strategic decision-making in professional teams to those in running a successful business. Both agree that, whether in sports or commerce, success ultimately comes down to building the right culture, knowing when to make tough personnel decisions, and planning for the future.From there, the discussion dives deep into the long-standing partnership between Clever Choice and GMK Logistics. Michael explains that no matter how good the product is, if delivery isn't on time and in perfect condition, the customer experience suffers. That's where GMK's high-90% on-time delivery rate and commitment to service make them an essential part of Clever Choice's success.Richard offers an inside look at how GMK maintains such performance, through decades of building the right culture, holding teams accountable, and continuously investing in people, systems, and its fleet. He highlights the importance of understanding customer needs, from delivery schedules to packaging that can withstand multiple handling points across thousands of kilometres. The conversation delves into the complexities of transportation in Australia's vast geography, the challenges of on-forwarding to remote areas, and why strong relationships with reliable partners are essential in the industry.Technology and innovation are also at the forefront. GMK is rolling out new systems for better tracking and customer communication, aiming to deliver an "Amazon-style" experience for flooring deliveries. This includes SMS updates, improved visibility of freight in transit, and integration between Clever Choice and GMK's systems for seamless order processing.The trio also explore the human side of logistics, driver training, safety systems, and employee culture, emphasising that every touchpoint, from warehouse to final delivery, impacts the brand. Public holiday disruptions, natural disasters, and the ripple effects of delays are openly discussed, with both sides emphasising the importance of proactive communication to manage customer expectations.By the end, it's clear that the Clever Choice–GMK partnership isn't just about moving products; it's about shared values, strategic growth, and a relentless focus on service. Whether you're in flooring, logistics, or any industry where delivery matters, this episode is a masterclass in building partnerships that last.Listen now to hear how two industry leaders keep the wheels turning, literally and figuratively, across Australia's flooring supply chain.#TheUnderlayPodcast #FlooringIndustry #Logistics #BusinessPartnerships #CleverChoice #GMKLogistics #CustomerServiceExcellence #SupplyChainSolutions #AustralianBusiness #OnTimeDelivery`

In this episode of The Underlay, Matt and Michael sit down with Mark Coetzee from Floorworld, a man whose journey in flooring began with Blundstone boots and has evolved into a nationwide role shaping the look and feel of retail stores across Australia.From his humble beginnings in Tasmania to overseeing the operations and store design of one of the country’s most respected flooring groups, Mark brings sharp insights and plenty of laughs. The trio dive into everything from the complexities of public speaking and flooring industry conferences to the current state of hybrid, vinyl, and laminate products on the market. Mark shares how he tailors store setups to suit regional preferences, tackles the shortage of vinyl installers, and the ever-present challenge of selling floor prep to customers who can’t see it, but will certainly feel it if it’s done wrong.The conversation also unpacks Floorworld’s strong relationship with Clever Choice Flooring, and the value of trusted partnerships in a fiercely competitive industry. Along the way, they touch on innovation, renovation trends, and why carpet is far from dead.And as always, it wouldn’t be The Underlay without a good laugh. Mark’s “Fast Five” reveals his fear of the sea, his undying love for meat lovers pizza, and a well-earned jab at roll-on deodorant. This one’s packed with stories, strategy, and a whole lot of personality.Tune in for real talk, flooring gold, and a few questionable jokes—only on The Underlay.#TheUnderlay #FlooringIndustry #MarkCoetzee #Floorworld #CleverChoiceFlooring #VinylFlooring #HybridFlooring #FloorPrepMatters #FlooringAustralia #PodcastAustralia

In this high-energy return episode of The Underlay, Matt welcomes back Michael Roberts, GM of Clever Choice, fresh from a whirlwind two-month tour across Australia and China. From interstate road trips with Ian Walker to a jam-packed product testing mission in China alongside Sean and Greg, Michael gives us a front-row seat to Clever’s evolution.This episode pulls back the curtain on what makes Clever tick, from cultural transformations in the Sydney warehouse to the obsessive quality control systems operating in both Australia and China. Michael shares insights into the power of having their own QC team on the ground in China, what goes into testing flooring products for our unique Aussie climate, and how Clever is using automation, AI, and next-gen warehousing to stay ahead of the game.Matt and Michael also touch on some big-picture topics: why Clever isn’t afraid to be open about Chinese manufacturing, how product refinement is overtaking product expansion, and what it means to keep small business values while playing in the big leagues.We also get personal, Michael opens up about balancing gym life with national travel, the importance of mental health, and why consistency (in both workouts and work ethic) is the real game-changer.With new partnerships brewing, more industry-firsts on the horizon, and an exciting second half of 2025 ahead, this episode is equal parts reflection and rally cry.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!Join the conversation:Would you try turtle on a factory tour?Is a 55-day turnaround even real?!Can CrossFit actually make you a better business leader?#TheUnderlayPodcast #CleverChoiceFlooring #FlooringIndustry #MichaelRoberts #ChinaTour #ProductTesting #FlooringQC #AIInWarehousing #FlooringInnovation #FromTheFloorUp

In part two of our FloorTec 2025 special, hosts Matt and Michael dive deeper into the future of flooring with candid conversations from industry leaders.Joining us in this relaxed, post-conference episode are:Don from ATTAR – sharing the vital role of subfloor preparation, moisture testing, and the impact of proper apprenticeship training.Fraser from AFS – talking adhesives, innovation, and what’s next in floor bonding solutions.Brett, Chairman of the FCIA, is discussing the importance of setting new standards and supporting the trades.Fiona, CEO of the FCIA, shares her perspective on workforce development, apprenticeships, and the association's future direction.From technical insights to industry-wide challenges, this episode captures authentic conversations that matter to floor layers, retailers, and manufacturers alike.From war stories about rushed installations and product failures to bold visions for national training standards and better builder accountability, this episode is packed with industry grit, practical wisdom, and a genuine passion for raising the bar in flooring.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!Join the conversation:Should all installers follow a national standard instead of 50 product guides?How do we better prepare the next generation of floor layers?Can builders and installers finally get on the same page?#TheUnderlayPodcast #CleverChoiceFlooring #FCIA #FloorTec2025 #FlooringIndustry #TrainingAndStandards #SubfloorMatters #InstallationExcellence #TrustInTrades #FutureOfFlooring #FloorPrepMatters #AustralianFlooring #HybridFlooring #TradeTalks #SupportTheTrades

In this episode of The Underlay, Matt sits down with Robert Richardson, the newest member of the Clever Choice sales team, covering Victoria and Tasmania. With just two weeks under his belt, Robert reflects on his transition from retail to wholesale, his years at Carpet Court, and what excites him most about joining Clever Choice.They chat about:The difference between high-pressure retail and long-game wholesaleThe importance of building genuine relationships in flooringClever’s standout products – including Chevron and the upcoming 10mm hybrid rangeWhat makes the flooring industry so addictive (spoiler: once you're in, you're in!)Plus, the real debate: spray-on vs roll-on deodorantFrom NDAs and secret mansions to mentoring new reps and plans to turn Tasmania into Clever’s fastest-growing state, this episode gives a great insight into the people-first mindset behind Clever’s growing team.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts! Join the conversation:Have you ever laid a floor in complete secrecy? Can Tasmania become the growth engine of Clever Choice? What’s the best way to build trust in flooring sales? #TheUnderlayPodcast #CleverChoiceFlooring #FlooringIndustry #RobertRichardson #RetailToWholesale #FlooringRepLife #ChevronFlooring #HybridFloors #SalesStories #FromTheFloorUp

In this episode of The Underlay, Matt and Michael sit down with Jamie Keyzer, CEO of Floorworld, to talk all things flooring, franchising, and finding your feet in a new industry. Recorded at Clever Choice’s stunning new Melbourne HQ, this chat is part of our Melbourne Tour series, and it’s one you don’t want to miss.Jamie opens up about his first 16 months at the helm of Floorworld, reflecting on the steep learning curve, the unique passion within the flooring industry, and what it's been like stepping into the shoes of a long-standing industry leader. From renovating his own home to road-tripping through retail stores, Jamie shares why the relationships behind the brand are just as important as the products on the shelves.We cover everything from generational flooring businesses to the future of installation, apprenticeship pathways, and how collaboration is transforming the industry. Plus, there’s some fun talk about European shoes, family golf days, and Jamie’s secret weapon for deodorant success.Key Topics Include:Jamie’s transition into the flooring industry and his first CEO roleFloorworld’s growth, new member stores, and future strategyIndustry challenges around installers and apprenticeshipsWhy product innovation and timing are critical to successThe Clever Choice–Floorworld relationship and how it’s evolvedGolf, Greek Islands, and the infamous “shoes” story Know someone starting a reno or looking for flooring? Send them this episode. And if you're in the industry, share it with your team. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow The Underlay for more stories from the floor up. #TheUnderlayPodcast #Floorworld #CleverChoiceFlooring #FlooringIndustry #TradeTalks #InnovationInFlooring #ApprenticeshipsMatter #RetailLeadership #MelbournePodcast #FromTheFloorUp

In this very special episode of The Underlay, we’re live from Andersens Coorparoo, hosted by Matt Lugo and the team, in a fantastic collaboration between Clever Choice Flooring and Andersens. Our guest? None other than Olympic and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Shayna Jack.Shayna joins Matt, Michael, and Clever Choice product specialist Greg to chat renovations, flooring, and resilience. With her Brisbane townhouse ready for a refresh, Shayna walks us through her flooring journey, from selecting Clever Choice’s stunning Enchanted Hybrid to coordinating trims, accessories, and preparation with the Andersens team.But this episode goes deeper than design. Shayna shares her career's emotional highs and lows, from navigating a two-year ban and media scrutiny to rebuilding her life, competing again, and becoming a voice for strength through adversity. Alongside flooring chat, you’ll hear about her SAS Australia experience, her love for her pets, and her drive to turn a house into a home.Highlights include:Why Shayna chose Enchanted Hybrid (and how she tested samples in-home)The importance of trust, prep, and a great retail partnerShayna’s honest account of surviving public scrutiny and finding peaceLife behind the medals: SAS, Celebrity Jungle, and comeback goalsWhat’s next on her journey—inside the pool and beyond the finish lineThis is more than just a flooring episode. It’s a powerful story of personal growth, elite sport, and the impact of good people doing great work. Listen, be inspired, and see how collaboration between Clever Choice and Andersens is helping Australians like Shayna bring their vision to life, one room at a time.#ShaynaJack #TheUnderlayPodcast #CleverChoiceFlooring #AndersensCooparoo #FlooringWithHeart #EnchantedHybrid #OlympicJourney #ResilienceInSport #HomeRenovationAU #FlooringPartnership

In this episode of The Underlay, hosts Matt and Michael sit down with Matt and James from RLA Polymers, one of Australia's fastest-growing names in construction chemicals. From adhesives and levellers to waterproofing and moisture barriers, the RLA team reveals what’s really under your flooring and why it matters more than most people realise.Tune in as the team breaks down the critical role of subfloor preparation, the most common causes of product failure, and why “flooring’s biggest issues usually happen before a plank is laid.” You’ll also hear how RLA has exploded from an $80M to $ 200M+ company in just six years, their commitment to Aussie-based R&D, and why education is the future of the trade.Key topics include:Moisture testing, levelling, and floor prep systems explainedThe rise of private labelling and how RLA supports major retailersThe “Prep Set Go” initiative and why training is a game-changerBehind the scenes of RLA’s Melbourne-based tech and innovation hubHow relationships and education are the real foundations of the industryIf you're in the flooring game, whether you're laying floors, selling them, or specifying them, this episode is a must. Share it with your team, your tradies, and your reps. Let's raise the bar from the ground up.If you want to know more about RLA Polymers, check out the website:https://www.rlapolymers.com.au/Watch the Prep Set Go video series here:https://www.rlapolymers.com.au/docs-category/prep/#TheUnderlayPodcast #RLApolymers #FlooringIndustry #SubfloorPrep #MoistureMatters #AdhesiveExperts #LevelItRight #ConstructionInnovation #AussieMade #TradeEducation