Claim OwnershipYour Project Shepherd Construction Podcast
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Your Project Shepherd Podcast is your personal guide for residential construction.
Hosted by Curtis Lawson of Shepherd Construction Advisors and Crafted Custom Homes, we explore all facets of the custom home building process through educational storytelling and knowledge-sharing conversations with seasoned industry expert guests. Our mission is to give you the tools you need to make informed decisions and empower you to navigate your project with confidence. No gatekeeping - let’s build success together!
New episodes every Friday. Watch and subscribe on YouTube @yourprojectshepherd.
Hosted by Curtis Lawson of Shepherd Construction Advisors and Crafted Custom Homes, we explore all facets of the custom home building process through educational storytelling and knowledge-sharing conversations with seasoned industry expert guests. Our mission is to give you the tools you need to make informed decisions and empower you to navigate your project with confidence. No gatekeeping - let’s build success together!
New episodes every Friday. Watch and subscribe on YouTube @yourprojectshepherd.
123 Episodes
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In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson unpacks the hidden costs of construction that no budget accounts for: stress, burnout, and anxiety. Curtis explores how builders face unreliable trades, constant financial pressure, and client demands—while homeowners ride an emotional roller coaster from excitement to regret. These challenges aren’t separate—they’re two sides of the same coin. If you’re a builder, architect, or homeowner, this episode shines a light on why projects derail and why trust often breaks down. Tune in as Curtis sets the stage for practical solutions in the next episode.
In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why “winging it” in construction is a recipe for disaster. Using a luxury fence in River Oaks, TX as an example, Curtis unpacks the hidden risks of vague plans, poor alignment, and lack of detail in design. He explains how homeowners, builders, and architects can prevent disputes, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure projects stay on track. From pre-construction planning to selecting the right builder, this episode delivers actionable insights for anyone in residential construction. Learn how details protect your project—and your reputation.
In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Dan Bawden, owner of Legal Eagle Contractors and a nationally recognized expert in Universal Design. They explore how smart, adaptable design goes beyond ADA standards to create homes that work for everyone—today and in the future. From zero-step entries and intuitive kitchens to safe, stylish bathrooms and elevator-ready layouts, Dan shares practical tips that add value, safety, and beauty to any project. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or designer, this episode will change how you think about remodeling and new construction.
In this short but powerful episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a real-world lesson every builder, architect, and designer needs to hear: “stick to your process and win more projects”. In this episode, Curtis shares how his process saved a client from making a costly mistake. From bid comparisons to educating homeowners on scope and budget, this episode shows how consistency builds trust and credibility. Whether you’re a builder or design professional, these insights will help you win better clients and avoid painful missteps.
In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Brinn Miracle, owner of Architangent, to explore the intersection of branding, architecture, and design. Brinn shares how the “Why of Design” helps business owners and design professionals uncover their deeper purpose, clarify their niche, and create spaces that tell authentic stories. From connecting emotionally with clients to building long-term brand equity, this conversation is packed with insights for builders, architects, and designers looking to differentiate themselves and attract the right clients. Discover why branding must come before design.
In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Chris Bolio of Alair Homes to unpack why preconstruction agreements are the hidden key to successful builds. Chris explains how investing in planning upfront saves homeowners, architects, and builders from costly mistakes, scope surprises, and broken trust down the road. From budgeting and timelines to uncovering hidden “gotchas,” Chris shares real-world lessons that reshape how professionals approach construction projects. If you’re a builder, remodeler, architect, or homeowner looking to avoid budget blowouts and create smoother projects, this episode is packed with insights you can’t afford to miss.
In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a hard-earned $3M lesson about the dangers of breaking your own process. Curtis opens up about losing a luxury home renovation project — and how skipping key steps, rushing timelines, and letting others take control can cost more than just revenue. You’ll learn why sticking to a proven pre-construction process is critical, how to spot red flags early, and the costly risks of bending to client or partner pressure. Perfect for builders, remodelers, and business leaders looking to protect profit and reputation in high-stakes projects.
In this solo episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Francis Ramos, Media & Marketing Manager at Crafted Custom Homes and Podcast producer, shares a step-by-step guide to getting started with social media marketing for builders and designers. Discover why social media is more than just trends—it’s a powerful, free marketing tool that works while you sleep. Francis breaks down platform choices, how to post without being a "content creator," and how to build trust with clients online. Whether you're overwhelmed or unsure where to start, this episode gives you the confidence to grow your business through authentic, consistent content.
Most builders lose leads not because of bad work—but because of bad words. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Lauren Jefferson, co-founder of FocusCopy, to uncover how strategic messaging can transform your entire client journey. From fixing broken communication systems to using storytelling to build trust, Lauren shares the exact framework builders need to attract better clients, boost referrals, and stop ghosting in its tracks. If you're tired of feeling invisible online or losing clients after the first call, this conversation is your playbook for better copy and better conversions.
In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Bob Peterson—Second Vice Chairman of NAHB and founder of Associates in Building and Design. With over 40 years of experience, Bob shares the journey from building homes in Colorado to leading one of the most influential construction organizations in the U.S. Learn how to build a company that can thrive without you, the role of national advocacy, and what younger builders need to succeed in today’s market. If you're in residential construction, remodeling, or leadership—this episode is packed with practical, hard-earned wisdom.
In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, luxury homebuilder Erin Stetzer shares what it really takes to scale from small remodels to $10M+ homes—without sacrificing your family, your sanity, or your standards. Erin breaks down the critical systems, mindset shifts, and team dynamics required to deliver high-end projects. Whether you're a builder, architect, or designer, this conversation offers practical insights on project management, trade relationships, and avoiding burnout while growing in the residential construction industry. Don’t miss Erin’s advice on how to grow with intention and lead with integrity.
In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, we sit down with remodeling business coach Kyle Hunt of Remodelers On The Rise to uncover why skilled remodelers still struggle with profitability, time management, and burnout. Kyle shares proven strategies for mastering financials, sales, marketing, and leadership—so you can stop running your business in survival mode and start building with confidence. Whether you're new to remodeling or a seasoned pro, this episode delivers high-impact coaching to help you fix the holes in your business and reclaim your life.
Builders are great at building—but not always at documenting. In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why so many construction professionals struggle with paperwork, recordkeeping, and documentation—and why that puts your business at risk. From missed change orders to legal issues and frustrated clients, Curtis shares real-world insights and practical solutions. Learn how to improve your systems, use construction technology more effectively, and build better habits that protect your company. Whether you're a builder, remodeler, or project manager, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to tighten up their back-office game.
In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, we explore the three types of “superhuman vision” every great builder needs: 3D vision, X-ray vision, and long-range vision. Learn how to visualize complex assemblies, anticipate hidden issues in remodeling, and plan ahead to avoid costly mistakes down the road. Whether you’re building new or remodeling old, this episode will help sharpen your project foresight and improve communication with clients, trades, and your team. Packed with real-world examples and expert advice, this is a must-listen for builders, remodelers, and project managers aiming to level up their execution.
In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, we dive into the world of LED tape lighting with Jake Briolat from ProLuxe by American Lighting and Patrick Szymkowiak of Datasmart / Duncan Security. Learn where LED tape lighting works best, what mistakes to avoid, and how smart planning transforms ordinary homes into showstoppers. From kitchens and closets to floating shelves and pool decks, we cover real-world applications that matter to builders, architects, and homeowners. If you’re designing or remodeling a home, this episode is your guide to smart, modern lighting design.
In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson shares expert strategies for finding, managing, and retaining high-quality subcontractors in the residential construction industry. Whether you're a homebuilder, remodeler, or general contractor, you'll learn how to build lasting trade relationships, prevent slippage, structure fair payment terms, and streamline your processes for better project outcomes. Curtis also introduces peer coaching opportunities through Remodelers on the Rise. Packed with practical advice, this episode is your playbook for running a more efficient and profitable business with dependable subs by your side.
What makes modern homes so much harder to build? In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to reveal why clean lines, flush finishes, and minimalism demand maximum precision. From foundation tolerances to flush baseboards, flat roofs to custom cabinetry, this episode dives into the hidden costs, planning challenges, and coordination headaches of high-end modern home design. If you're a homeowner, builder, or designer in the custom home space, this is the deep dive you've been waiting for.
Building a modern home sounds simple—until it’s not. In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson is joined by architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to explore the real-world complexities of custom modern home construction. Discover how tight tolerances, framing precision, foundation planning, and high-end finishes impact cost and performance. If you're planning a custom home, remodeling with modern design, or working in residential architecture, this episode is packed with expert tips and insights. Learn how collaborative planning leads to smoother builds—and better homes.
Foundation issues are more common than you think—especially in Houston. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Jake Gottfried and Sonora Storm of Lincoln Jacob Construction to unpack everything pros need to know about foundation repair, soil movement, drainage problems, and why skipping gutters is a costly mistake. From cracked walls and sticky doors to sewer line red flags, learn how to spot early signs of failure and prevent long-term damage. To our Houston homeowner community, this episode is packed with real-world insights to protect your homes.
Join host Curtis Lawson in this conversation with Andrew Fisher and Derek Schuppenhauer of Home Elevator of Texas. This comprehensive discussion explores the nuanced world of residential elevators, from financial considerations and strategic planning for new construction to the sophisticated process of integrating elevators into existing homes. In this discussion, Derek and Andrew share various elevator designs while emphasizing critical safety protocols and the foresight required for long-term accessibility planning. You can expect valuable insights on addressing unique installation challenges in coastal regions and floodplains, underscoring the importance of early collaboration with elevator specialists to ensure architectural harmony and operational excellence in your living space. If you’re looking to build your forever home, then you’ll want to listen to this episode.
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