The Build Insite Podcast

What does it really take to grow an award-winning steel business while raising a young family and keeping your team motivated on site? In part two of our chat with Matt from Built Structural, we dig into the unglamorous decisions, hiring calls, and mindset shifts behind the highlights reel. If you missed part one, jump back to last week’s episode first – then come back here as we unpack mentors, mistakes, team culture and what truly separates Built Structural in a crowded market. Matt shares how he’s used mentors and advisors to make better decisions, why timing your hires is so crucial (and so hard), and how they’ve built a culture where people feel appreciated, supported and aligned to the bigger picture. We also talk through awards, recognition and why the application process itself can be a powerful way to reflect on how far you’ve come. On the home front, Matt opens up about juggling business growth with renovating, building, and raising two young daughters – and why looking after your health (and having the right support at home) is key if you want to stay in the game long term. What you’ll learn in this episode • How to use mentors and advisors without becoming dependent on them • Why networking and surrounding yourself with the right people really matters • The hidden cost of hiring too late – and how strategic roles can change everything • Practical ways to build culture, loyalty and buy-in across multiple departments • How awards and recognition can help you reflect, reset and keep perspective • What separates Built Structural from other steel contractors in the market Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back & intro to Part 2 00:38 – Networking, mentors & asking better questions 03:17 – Forklifts, steel beams & “what were we thinking?” moments 04:16 – Software mistakes, Tekla, and paying for the right tools 06:07 – Hiring timing, strategic roles & bringing on a VA 09:01 – Keeping five departments aligned & building team culture 10:55 – Coffee runs, caring about people & real leadership on site 11:51 – Awards, recognition & Daily Top 40 Under 40 finalist 14:48 – Trade Excellence & Residential Trade Structures awards 15:56 – Why award applications help you reflect on your growth 18:05 – Juggling business, renovations, babies & family life 20:16 – Shout out to Nat & the power of support at home 20:55 – What separates Built Structural from other steel contractors 22:38 – Caring about quality and saying “no” when something isn’t right 23:56 – Most challenging builds & problem-solving under pressure 25:19 – Shout out to Jacko & the value of great people 26:09 – Mentors who’ve shaped Matt’s thinking 27:46 – Tools you can’t live without (beyond software) 28:22 – Drink of choice & Friday arvo vibes 28:40 – Wrap up & where to find Built Structural Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Matt Warner from Built Structural 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

What happens when a chippy with 19 years on the tools decides he can lift the game in structural steel? That’s the story behind Built Structural. In this episode of the Build Insite Podcast, Luke and Dean sit down in Adelaide with Matt Warner from Built Structural. Matt shares how nearly two decades as a carpenter, a few side businesses, and one lightbulb moment on his own home led to building a multi-award-winning structural steel company in under four years. You’ll hear how Matt’s carpentry background shapes the way Built Structural details, drafts, and installs steel – especially on complex renos where nothing is straight and everything moves. He breaks down the systems behind turning engineer’s plans into practical solutions on site, and why having in-house drafting and the right people in the right roles has been crucial to their growth. The boys also dive into the human side of business – managing different personalities across boilermakers, site crews, draftees and sales teams, handling growing pains, and why the best engineers are the ones who listen to what’s really happening on site. 🔑 What You’ll Learn • How Matt went from 19 years of carpentry to co-founding Built Structural • Why carpentry experience can give you an edge in structural steel • How to take engineer’s details and make them actually buildable on site • The realities of growing a multi-award-winning structural steel business in under four years • Practical tips for managing personalities, values, and stress as your team grows • Why collaboration between engineers, builders, and steel fabricators saves clients money and headaches ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back from Adelaide & intros 00:50 – Matt’s story: nearly 20 years as a carpenter and chasing something new 02:19 – The lightbulb moment: doing his own steel and starting Built Structural 03:53 – How carpentry experience shapes better structural steel detailing 06:20 – From plans to install: Built Structural’s process, especially on renos 09:20 – Growing a multi-award-winning business in under four years 11:24 – Timber vs steel: what Matt had to relearn in the steel game 13:43 – Hot topic: should engineers have to go to site first? 17:15 – Managing people, values, and different personalities across the business 21:10 – In-house drafting, 3D models, and making life easier for site crews 24:34 – Wrap up, sponsors, and Build Insite disclaimer Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Matt Warner from Built Structural 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

The best builds don’t start with drawings — they start with collaboration. In this episode, we wrap up our chat with Brendan from Envision Building to explore how getting builders involved early can make all the difference when it comes to design, cost, and client satisfaction. Brendan shares how his pre-construction process helps clients stay on budget, the power of open communication between builders and designers, and why taking small, consistent steps toward sustainability can make a huge impact in the long run. He also reflects on mindset, mentorship, and what he’d tell his younger self about building a business that lasts. What You’ll Learn • How early collaboration keeps your project on track • Ways to simplify your pre-construction process • Practical steps to make homes more sustainable • Why coaching and continuous learning matter • Lessons in leadership and work-life balance Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Build Insight 00:18 – Collaboration through pre-construction 03:16 – Managing budgets and client expectations 05:26 – The state of the industry post-COVID 07:59 – The value of coaching and business mentorship 08:00 – Building smarter and more sustainably 11:18 – Educating clients through collaboration 13:39 – Communication, teamwork, and staying in your lane 15:44 – Mindset, mentorship, and lessons for the next generation 17:27 – Balance, wellbeing, and finding calm outside of work 19:44 – Quickfire questions and industry insights Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Brendan Gill from Envision Building 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

“From dreaming of the skies to building homes on the ground.” In this episode, we sit down with Brendan from Envision Building — a South Australian builder who went from aspiring pilot to custom home builder in the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula. Recorded live from the Build Insight Studio in Adelaide, hosts Luke and Dean unpack Brendan’s early beginnings, his first steps into construction, and the lessons he’s learned transitioning from a sole trader to a business owner with a growing team. You’ll hear how Brendan’s approach to quality craftsmanship, transparency, and continuous learning has shaped Envision’s success — and why coaching, systems, and teamwork are central to his building philosophy. 🔑 What You’ll Learn • How Brendan found his way from Year 10 to a lifelong career in building • The challenges and lessons from his first ever project • Why early business coaching shaped his mindset for growth • Insights into managing apprentices and building a strong team culture • The tools and systems Envision Building uses to streamline operations 🕒 Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:40 – Meet Brendan from Envision Building 01:03 – Life in the Fleurieu Peninsula 02:00 – From aspiring pilot to carpenter 03:00 – The first taste of construction through TAFE 04:00 – Apprenticeship beginnings and early mentors 06:25 – Launching Envision Building 08:00 – The custom vs. volume builder experience 11:00 – Early business lessons and first project challenges 13:30 – The role of coaching and continuous improvement 17:00 – Building the Envision team and company values 19:00 – Adult apprentices vs. young apprentices 21:00 – What sets Envision apart from other builders 26:00 – How tech and systems transformed their operations 29:00 – Walking through the Envision client process Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Brendan Gill from Envision Building 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

The theory’s one thing. Making it work in the real world? That’s where it gets interesting. In Part 2 of our conversation with Jackson Digney from Enduro Builders, we dive deeper into the mindset behind scaling a building company — from humble beginnings to leading the way in high-performance, energy-efficient homes. Jackson opens up about the real lessons that shaped his journey: growing up around small business owners, learning the hard way without mentors, and why business coaching completely changed how he leads today. We also get personal — talking burnout, fitness, and what it takes to stay sharp while juggling family, growth, and the daily chaos of running a construction company. What You’ll Learn • Why builders can’t do it all alone — and where to find the right support • The systems and mindset shifts that help Enduro Builders stay profitable • Honest insights into burnout, recovery, and finding balance • How Jackson plans to scale from 25 to 100 builds a year — sustainably • The biggest misconceptions about high-performance homes Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Part 2 with Jackson Digney 00:40 – Growing up around small business and early lessons 02:10 – First ventures and business challenges 04:00 – The turning point: why mentoring matters 07:10 – Enduro Builders: team, projects & mission 09:50 – Scaling from 25 to 100 homes a year 13:00 – Planning, cash flow & avoiding insolvency traps 15:00 – Burnout, fitness, and finding balance 20:00 – Advice for young builders entering the industry 21:30 – Quick-fire round: projects, tools & dream collaborations 26:30 – Where to find Enduro Builders & Climashore 27:20 – Build Insite wrap-up and sponsor thanks Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Jackson Digney from Enduro Builders and Climashore 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

Jackson Digney’s journey isn’t your typical builder’s story. From growing up on the beaches of Perth to running Enduro Builders and Climashore in Adelaide, Jackson’s career has been driven by curiosity, sustainability, and integrity. In this episode, we unpack how his passion for energy-efficient design and building science has shaped his mission to build homes that last and tread lightly on the planet. Joined by hosts Luke Callery and Dean Backman (live from Adelaide), Jackson shares how sailing, manufacturing, and family lessons on financial discipline led him to building better – from fixing another builder’s books to launching a thriving high-performance building company. 💡 What You’ll Learn • How a sailing hobby led Jackson into the world of building and business • Why sustainability starts with mindset and integrity, not just materials • Lessons from Earthships and the link to modern Passive House design • How Climashore bridges the gap between building science and practicality • Why saying “no” to the wrong client can save your business long-term ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Meet Our Guest: Jackson Digney from Enduro Builders & Climashore 02:00 From Perth to Adelaide: How It All Started 04:10 Lessons from Early Business Struggles 06:30 Launching Enduro Builders (and the power of integrity) 09:00 How Family Shaped His Sustainability Mindset 13:00 Earthships, Self-Sufficiency, and Healthy Homes 17:00 Lessons from Building with His Daughter in Hawaii 19:00 The Birth of Climashore and Building Science Advocacy 23:00 Passive House, Pro Clima & the Science Behind Airtight Homes 26:00 Why Homeowners Need to Care About Moisture and Materials 28:00 Trust, Clients, and Saying “No” in Business 29:30 Final Reflections on Integrity and Building Better Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Jackson Digney from Enduro Builders and Climashore 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

“The best thing I’ve done for my business is learn how to slow down.” In this episode, Luke from Adelaide Plastering Solutions returns to talk balance, leadership, and the next era of sustainable plastering. After covering the early business journey in Part 1, we dive into: • Managing growth without losing your presence on site • Setting boundaries between work, family, and personal wellbeing • How a simple mindset shift can help prevent burnout • Lessons from running a trade business, and recovering from a major injury • Why sustainability, connection, and craftsmanship are shaping the future of plastering Whether you’re a builder, tradie, or business owner trying to juggle it all, this chat is packed with honest insights on what it really takes to build better, both professionally and personally. 💡 What You’ll Learn • How to balance leadership on site and in the office • Small daily habits that reset your mindset and prevent burnout • Lessons in money management and paying yourself properly • Building loyal, motivated teams that buy into your vision • Why sustainable building practices like Hempcrete are the future ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Build Insite Podcast #44 (Part 2) 00:40 – Finding balance between site and office 02:00 – Family life and recovery after injury 05:00 – Lessons in managing money and wages 07:00 – Building the right team and leadership style 10:00 – Apprentices, maturity, and attitude in the trade 12:00 – Sustainability, Hempcrete & the future of plastering 17:00 – APS vision & working with like-minded builders 22:00 – Standout projects & creative content plans 24:00 – Rapid Fire: Tools, myths & advice for new tradies 25:30 – Closing thoughts & where to find Luke Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Luke Perovic from Adelaide Plastering Solutions 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

The journey from oil and gas to solid plastering might sound like a leap, but for Luke, it’s the story of finding passion, creativity, and purpose in building something of his own. In this episode, we’re live from the Adelaide studio with Hosts, Dean Backman & Luke Callery and guest Luke Perovic, the man behind Adelaide Plastering Solutions. Luke shares how he turned a trade he’d never heard of into a thriving business, why communication and trust matter more than markups, and what it really takes to grow a small team without losing quality. From learning his craft to leading crews on complex rendering projects, Luke’s story is all about hard work, smart decisions, and knowing your numbers. What You’ll Learn • How Luke went from oil & gas to building a successful plastering business • The difference between solid plastering and common misconceptions about the trade • Real talk on business growth, cash flow, and hiring mistakes • How sustainable building and new materials like hemp and Bass Rock are changing the game • Why clarity and communication set the best contractors apart Chapters 00:00 – Live from Adelaide studio 01:05 – Meet Luke from Adelaide Plastering Solutions 04:10 – From oil rigs to rendering: Luke’s early journey 10:45 – Lessons from starting a business from scratch 15:20 – Sustainable building and hempcrete inspiration 22:00 – The Bass Rock project: lessons in new materials 29:45 – Communication on site and client trust 34:20 – Knowing your numbers and hiring smart 41:00 – Coaching, systems, and scaling sustainably 49:00 – Final thoughts and advice for tradies Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Luke Perovic from Adelaide Plastering Solutions 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

The theory is one thing. Making it work on site is where it gets real. In Part 2, we get practical about airtightness, apprentices, software, and the habits that help builders and families thrive. Hosts Luke Callery and Dean Backman sit down again with Chris Cahill (Primebuilt Constructions) and Timothy Greenham (Emerald Building Services), live from Circa Studio at Bowens Port Melbourne. From blower door “aha” moments to the culture that transforms apprentices into leaders, this episode is full of lessons you can take straight to site. We also explore the realities of switching to all-in-one software (WunderBuild), how being your own client changes design decisions, and where the industry is heading with code changes and shifting demand. Plus, we look at the boundaries and routines that help business owners stay healthy, both on and off the tools. What you’ll learn • How on-site blower door testing sharpens team culture and build quality • Practical ways to grow apprentices into confident carpenters and leaders • When to rip the band-aid off software migration—and what to standardise first • Client-first decision making: prefab vs stick build vs SIPs, and how to find the sweet spot • Mindset shifts for a tougher market, and why boundaries like no weekends still matter Chapters 00:00 – Introduction (Episode 43, Part 2) 00:58 – Passive training experience in Fiji 02:58 – On-site insights from blower door testing 03:32 – Apprentice achievement: 0.35 ACH project 05:36 – Trade school compared to on-site learning 06:14 – Job documentation and compliance practices 10:06 – Transitioning to WunderBuild software 13:05 – Building your own home: balancing cost and efficiency 19:04 – Establishing work–life boundaries 24:12 – Industry outlook: NCC changes and market pressures 28:15 – Quick Fire Q&A with guests 29:53 – Closing remarks and guest details Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Chris Cahill - Primebuilt Constructions Timothy Greenham - Emerald Building Services 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

The theory is one thing. Making it work on site is where it gets real. In this builder’s panel, we dive into the journeys, wins, and hard lessons shaping how great homes actually get delivered. Live from Circa Studio at Bowens Port Melbourne, hosts Luke Callery and Dean Backman sit down with Chris Cahill (Primebuilt Constructions) and Timothy Greenham (Emerald Building Services). From carpentry beginnings to leading teams, they unpack culture, communication, and the decisions that keep projects moving. You’ll hear how a “Focus 30” check-in builds buy-in, why renovations still sharpen a builder’s edge, and what it takes to navigate a tougher market without losing momentum. Tim shares his Passive House lens, along with a personal reason for chasing healthier homes, plus the story behind a Scandinavian-style subdivision he’s building for his own family. Chris lifts the lid on a 40-metre hallway rural residence with stables and a painstaking 12-sided ceiling over a pool. He also explains how clarity, pre-cons, and honest client education keep complexity under control. It’s practical, candid, and full of on-site wisdom. What you’ll learn • How carpentry foundations shape decision-making as a builder • Practical ways to keep culture strong when you’re off the tools • Using quick “Focus 30” check-ins to spot issues early and support your team • Renovations vs new builds: where the real problem-solving happens • Staying resilient through a challenging 18 months: pipeline, pricing, and mindset Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & live from Circus Studio (Bowens Port Melbourne 00:40 – Meet our guests: Chris (Primebuilt) & Tim (Emerald Building Services) 02:10 – Carpentry beginnings and family trade stories 05:05 – From apprentice to registered builder: early milestones 07:10 – Staying connected with the crew when you’re off the tools 10:05 – Culture in practice: go-karts, BBQs, and the “Focus 30” check-in 13:20 – Project mix: renovations, extensions, and custom new builds 16:00 – Clients, life stages, and designing for health (Passive House) 18:15 – Tim’s Scandinavian-style Passive House subdivision (personal project) 21:10 – Chris’s large-scale rural residence & stables: lessons from complexity 25:00 – Market reality check: the last 18 months and buyer confidence 28:20 – Leading through uncertainty: transparency, CRMs, and team comms 31:00 – Tools & teamwork: sharing models, job channels, and growth paths Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Chris Cahill - Primebuilt Constructions Timothy Greenham - Emerald Building Services 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

In this episode, Dean Backman & Luke Callery sit down with John Bowen (Managing Director, Bowens) to unpack what keeps a 131-year business alive—culture, disciplined basics, and smart bets on innovation. Recorded live at CIRCA Studio, Bowens Port Melbourne, John talks about starting in Victoria’s early-90s downturn, rebuilding crumbling yards into modern builder hubs, and why Bowens stays laser-focused on pros: stock depth, rapid delivery, and solutions that actually save days on site. They dig into long-tenured teams, the Bowens Expo, and new hands-on spaces for high-performance building. What you’ll learn How to scale without losing the soul: the habits that keep teams for decades The real meaning of “best at the basics” (and why it beats shiny new things) Practical ways suppliers can accelerate your day: stock, systems, and a yes-mindset A builder-first approach to innovation: selection centres, expos, and training What’s coming for high-performance building—and how Bowens plans to help How private, purposeful growth keeps the focus on builders (not retail volume) Chapters 00:00 – Introduction (live at CIRCA Studio, Bowens Port Melbourne) 00:23 – Meet John Bowen: 4th-gen MD, 131 years strong 01:07 – Early ’90s downturn: starting out when Victoria stalled 03:17 – Store closures, hard lessons, and culture that stuck 06:20 – From timber yard to selection experience: why it took years 10:33 – Formalising innovation: from Steve Mannion to Andrew Healy 13:04 – Bowens Expo: drawing real innovation from suppliers 15:33 – Rebuilding the asset base: bigger, better, builder-focused stores 21:24 – Basics done right: stock, range, and rapid delivery 24:31 – Challenges: do fewer things, execute them better 26:22 – Acoustic, fire, thermal—solving real site problems 27:30 – Hastings innovation space: hands-on display and training 29:08 – Growth philosophy: private, purposeful, and builder-led Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: John Bowen — Managing Director, Bowens 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite 🌐 More at buildinsite.com.au

In Part 2 of this two-part conversation, Dean Backman & Luke Callery continue with Mitch Emery (Align Architect) to move from pre-construction into delivery — contracts, documentation, council realities, and the on-site coordination that keeps projects on track. What you’ll learn Planning permits & council realities Keeping budget aligned with design intent Documentation that reduces RFIs & variations Choosing contracts & defining scope clearly On-site coordination, RFIs & information flow Handover, defects & client experience 00:00 – Intro & Part 1 recap 02:30 – Planning permits & approvals 05:00 – Client onboarding & brief refinement 07:29 – Budget alignment & allowances 09:59 – Documentation: drawings & specs 12:29 – Contracts, scope & risk 14:59 – Variations & change control 17:29 – On-site coordination, RFIs & info flow 19:58 – Handover, defects & next steps   Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Mitch Emery — Align Architect 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite 🌐 More at buildinsite.com.au

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Dean Backman & Luke Callery sit down with Mitch Emery (Align Architect) to open the hood on how architects and builders can work tighter— from the first client brief through concept, documentation, permits and pre-construction. What you’ll learn How Mitch approaches the early brief, concept design and client onboarding Why engaging the builder early saves time, rework and budget Documentation standards that reduce RFIs, variations and on-site friction How to balance design intent with cost (smart value-engineering) Planning permits, council realities and setting expectations with clients Practical advice for builders and homeowners to keep projects on track 00:00 – Intro & welcome (Dean & Luke) 02:22 – Meet Mitch Emery (Align Architect) 04:43 – Mitch’s path into architecture 07:05 – Align’s approach: brief to concept 09:27 – Early builder engagement & budgets 11:48 – Documentation that reduces risk 14:10 – Client communication & expectation-setting 16:32 – Planning permits & council realities 18:53 – Design vs cost: value engineering 21:15 – Site constraints & constructability 23:37 – Advice for homeowners & builders   Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery Guest: Mitch Emery — Align Architect 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite 🌐 More at buildinsite.com.au

Founders’ stories aren’t just about “starting a business”—they’re about building something that lasts. In this episode of the Build Insite Podcast, we sit down with Jesse & B'ashae from J Vella Builders to unpack the real journey behind a growing building company—how they split responsibilities on site vs operations, the systems that keep projects moving, and what it takes to lead a team while keeping clients informed and happy. What you’ll learn How founders split roles (on-site vs back-office) without stepping on each other’s toes Early lessons that shaped quality, culture, and client communication The systems and workflows that reduce chaos and keep projects on schedule Pricing, estimating, and margin thinking as you scale Marketing that actually wins work (referrals, brand, and being present online) What’s next for the business and where they’re placing their bets 00:00 – Intro & guest welcome 03:01 – Founders’ backstory 06:01 – Starting the business 09:02 – Early challenges & lessons 12:03 – Roles: on-site vs operations 15:03 – Team, culture & leadership 18:04 – Systems & workflow 21:04 – Client experience & comms 24:05 – Estimating, budgets & margins 27:06 – Marketing, referrals & brand 30:06 – What’s next & growth plans 33:07 – Wrap-up & where to find us Perfect for builders, site managers, and ops leads who want a smoother business with happier clients. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite 🌐 More at buildinsite.com.au

The theory's one thing. Making it work on site? That's where it gets interesting. In part two with Ben Walsham from Arkata, we get into the nitty-gritty of energy-efficient building—the stuff that separates good intentions from homes that actually perform. Ben walks us through a high-performance passive solar project in cold climate conditions, breaking down the real challenges: slab insulation that works, achieving proper airtightness, and delivering thermal comfort that homeowners can feel. What you'll get from this episode: - How energy modelling software actually helps you make smarter decisions (and where to spend your money) - The honest trade-offs different design choices involve - Why your builder-architect-engineer triangle can make or break a project - Where the retrofit market is heading and what it means for your business - Window performance insights that impact your energy ratings - Ben also shares his move from Adelaide to Melbourne and what opportunities he's seeing in the Victorian market—plus some candid thoughts on collaboration and where the industry's headed. Perfect for builders, architects, and anyone who wants homes that perform as well as they look. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Alterations & Additions 00:32 – Welcome to Build Insite Podcast 00:49 – High-Performance Passive Solar Design 01:20 – Exploring Slab Insulation Options 02:25 – Software for Star Ratings 04:25 – Cost & Performance Analysis 06:38 – Future Performance & Resilient Homes 13:45 – Collaboration & Design Decisions 15:59 – Big Move: Adelaide to Melbourne 17:30 – A New Beginning in Brunswick 18:08 – Exploring Retrofit Opportunities 20:14 – The Importance of Window Performance 22:10 – Energy Efficiency Ratings Explained 26:03 – Sponsorship Announcement 28:14 – Future Plans & Personal Connections 29:35 – Rapid Fire Questions 32:17 – Closing Remarks & Contact Information 33:24 – Acknowledgements & Disclaimer 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

In this episode of the Build Insite podcast, Luke and Dean sit down with Ben Walsham, founder of Arkata, an energy efficiency consultancy specialising in residential projects. Ben shares his journey from architecture to energy consulting, revealing why early engagement in the building process is crucial for long-term project success. The conversation explores the impact of seven-star NatHERS ratings, whole-of-home assessments, and how the NCC 2022 updates are reshaping the industry. You’ll also hear Ben’s perspective on: - The challenges and opportunities in today’s construction landscape - How to design healthier, more comfortable, and energy-efficient homes - The growing role of Passive House principles in residential projects - Insights from his current work and future aspirations Packed with practical advice and forward-thinking strategies, this episode is a must-listen for builders, designers, and homeowners who want to stay ahead of the curve in sustainable construction. Chapters:  00:00 – Introduction & Welcome  00:33 – Meet Our Guest: Ben Walsham  01:53 – Ben’s Journey & Arkata’s Mission  03:17 – Energy Efficiency & Process Changes  05:45 – Understanding Energy Efficiency Consulting  12:44 – NCC Compliance & Star Ratings Explained  20:12 – The Future of Energy Efficiency & Passive House Design  24:31 – Conclusion & Sponsor Acknowledgements 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

In this second half of our on-site chat with the Callery Building team, we focus on a skill that’s just as important as swinging a hammer: clear communication.   Luke sits down again with Andrew, Nathan, and Oscar to unpack how communication impacts productivity, culture, and ultimately—project success. From daily run-throughs to handling mistakes, the boys share how good communication can prevent chaos and build trust across the crew.   In this episode, you'll hear: Why clear communication is make-or-break in construction How team culture and site vibes set the tone What makes a great supervisor or team leader Honest advice for those new to the trade And plenty of stories and insights straight from the tools Whether you’re leading the job site or just getting started, this episode offers real talk on how to keep the site moving—and the team strong.    Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 00:40 – The Power of Clear Communication 05:32 – Team Culture & Site Vibes 11:44 – Lessons Learned for Supervisors 14:13 – Advice for Industry Newcomers 17:43 – Sponsorship & Industry Insights 26:00 – Rapid Fire Questions & Final Takeaways 28:45 – Conclusion & Sponsor Acknowledgements   🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

In this continuation of our chat with Andrew George from Lou Projects, we dig deeper into what it takes to grow a thriving construction business in today’s high-performance building landscape. Andrew opens up about the real-world challenges he's facing, from balancing innovation with efficiency, to scaling a team that’s equipped for passive house principles and energy-efficient builds. He also shares the story behind building Lou Projects' brand-new hub and office space—a game-changer for team collaboration and culture. This episode is packed with practical tips for builders, including the importance of early project collaboration, professional development, and staying ahead with modern construction techniques. Whether you're a solo operator or managing a growing team, Andrew’s insights will help elevate your business. Chapters: 00:00 – Intro 00:50 – Collaboration at the Start of a Build 01:11 – Using High-Performance Building Products 02:57 – Team Training & Upskilling for Efficiency 07:17 – Designing a Functional Office & Hub 12:23 – Future Business Plans & Growing the Team 20:56 – Rapid Fire Questions 23:28 – Final Thoughts & Sponsor Acknowledgements 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite

In this episode of the Build Insite Podcast, Luke and Dean sit down with Andrew George, founder of Lou Projects, a high-end residential builder based on the Central Coast. From working across different trades to leading a fast-growing building company, Andrew shares his journey, his values, and the systems that have helped him build more than just homes he’s building a culture. The episode tackles the modern builder’s reality: more admin, complex communication, and rising expectations. Andrew unpacks how pre-construction consulting, strong team mindset, and continuous learning can ease the pressure while still delivering high-quality work. A standout segment is Andrew’s deep dive into Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) its sustainability benefits, technical challenges, and the way it’s reshaping residential construction. There’s also practical advice on handling client variations, scaling with intention, and why transparency in marketing matters more than ever. If you're a builder aiming to lead with clarity, culture, and craftsmanship, this episode is a must-listen. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Purpose of the Episode 00:38 – Welcome to the Build Insite Podcast 01:00 – Meet Andrew George from Lou Projects 02:30 – Challenges Facing the Building Industry Today 06:37 – Andrew’s Career Journey into Building 11:03 – Building a Strong Team Culture and Mindset 17:06 – CLT Projects: Challenges and Opportunities 21:15 – Why Pre-Construction Consulting Matters 25:28 – Marketing, Education, and Industry Transparency 30:59 – The Reality of Managing Variations 35:37 – Closing Thoughts and Thank You 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. 🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/ 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite