The Build Insite Podcast

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

In this insightful follow-up episode of the Build Insite Podcast, Luke and Dean reconnect with master builder and Build Show Network founder Matt Risinger to dig deeper into the global shift toward smarter, science-led construction. Matt opens up about some of the toughest lessons from his early years—especially the legal challenges that ultimately pushed him to build better, safer homes. From airtightness and moisture management to insulation, client communication, and pre-construction strategy, the trio explores what it really takes to raise the bar in residential construction. They also reflect on the growing role of mentorship, the power of builder communities, and why continuous education is the most underrated tool in a builder’s arsenal. Whether you’re managing a job site or mapping out future builds, this episode offers real-world advice, battle-tested strategies, and a vision for building homes that last. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Episode Overview 00:29 – Growth of Building Science in the U.S. 01:37 – Challenges & Legal Issues in Construction 02:59 – Why Professionalism & Education Matter 04:56 – Collaboration with Clients for Project Success 08:04 – Building Science: Insights from Matt’s Experience 13:23 – Day-to-Day Operations & Running the Build Show Network 19:33 – Mentorship & The Power of Builder Communities 24:22 – Rapid Fire Questions & Closing Thoughts   🎧 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 special episode of the Build Insite Podcast, we are joined by none other than Matt Risinger—master builder, educator, and founder of the Build Show Network—live from Austin, Texas. Known for his deep knowledge and passion for building science, Matt opens up about his journey into high-performance construction, the costly mistakes that shaped his mindset, and why water is the #1 enemy in building durability. The conversation digs into the nuances of waterproofing, the evolution of building practices in the U.S. and Australia, and how rising awareness around science-led construction is changing the industry. Matt also shares how the Build Show Network came to life, what Australian builders can learn from global approaches, and why material choice, planning, and education are key to building homes that last. Whether you're a custom builder or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights to help you build smarter and future-proof your projects. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 00:31 – Meet Matt Risinger: Master Builder from Austin, Texas 01:38 – Matt’s Journey into Building Science 02:25 – Challenges and Lessons in Building Science 05:46 – The Importance of Waterproofing for Durability 13:29 – Comparing Building Standards: U.S. vs Australia 23:50 – How the Build Show Network Was Born 28:41 – Exploring Innovative Building Materials 32:45 – Conclusion and 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, we continue to explore with Ryan Gazzard, the founding director of My Virtual Team, and talk about the evolving workforce model transforming residential construction. Ryan shares practical, step-by-step strategies for successfully integrating virtual assistants—from recruitment and vetting, to onboarding and long-term team culture. We bust common outsourcing myths, dive into the structural benefits of hybrid teams, and explore how AI may influence recruitment in the near future. Whether you’re a custom builder, PM, or business owner, this episode is packed with actionable advice and forward-thinking insight to help you build a high-performing team... without burning out. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Motivation 00:31 – Welcome to the Build Insite Podcast 00:35 – Introducing Ryan Gazzard & My Virtual Team 00:58 – Why Collaboration and Education Matter 02:53 – The Hiring and Vetting Process 05:05 – How to Successfully Onboard Offshore Staff 08:13 – Outsourcing Myths & Building Real Partnerships 13:03 – Hybrid Teams: What’s Next for Construction? 17:10 – Quickfire Segment: Ryan’s Insider Tips 19:01 – Closing Remarks & How to Connect with Ryan 19:57 – Sponsor 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 forward-thinking episode of the Build Insite Podcast, Luke and Dean sit down with Ryan Gazzard—founder of Built Theory and My Virtual Team—to explore how virtual talent and 3D design are transforming the construction industry. From a corporate marketing background to leading construction innovation in Adelaide, Ryan shares his unique journey and why he believes the future of building lies in smarter systems, skilled virtual teams, and tech-driven processes. The conversation covers everything from 3D modelling and the real impact of offshore support, to solving Australia’s skills shortage, mental health in the trades, and what builders need to do to stay ahead.Whether you're managing boots on the ground or looking to scale your building business, this episode is packed with real stories, proven strategies, and fresh ideas to help future-proof your operation.   Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 01:02 – From Marketing to Construction: Ryan’s Journey 03:45 – The Birth of Built Theory and My Virtual Team 07:30 – Solving the Skills Shortage with Offshore Talent 11:12 – The Power of 3D Modelling in Construction 16:08 – Training, Documentation & Systems That Scale 20:45 – Why Mental Health Still Needs More Attention 24:30 – How Virtual Teams Help Builders Focus on Their Zone 28:57 – Practical Advice for Builders Looking to Innovate 33:10 – Closing

In this episode, Dean and Luke sit down for a relaxed, honest, and insightful catch-up to mark the halfway point of the year. As the end of financial year approaches, they unpack lessons from the past six months—sharing personal stories, business updates, and practical takeaways for builders navigating the highs and lows of site life. Whether you're deep in spreadsheets or framing a house, this episode offers a moment to reset, reflect, and get ready for what’s ahead. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 00:22 – Reflecting on the Year So Far 01:11 – Current Projects and Site Updates 02:25 – Networking and Collaboration 03:03 – Insights from the Open Site Day Experience 12:36 – End of Financial Year Tips and Tax Planning 18:58 – Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Industry Trends 23:57 – Podcast Growth, Community Engagement & Highlights 30:03 – Closing, Sponsor Shoutout & July Teasers   🎧 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 part 2 of our live series from the Circa Studio in Port Melbourne, the conversation with Suzanne, Damien, and Dan continues—this time with a sharper focus on cutting-edge materials, evolving building practices, and the push for healthier, more sustainable homes. From denim insulation and safe boards to DIN sell systems and thermo tech windows, our guests share their hands-on experience with emerging products that are changing the way we build. You'll also hear about the rising importance of early collaboration between builders and architects, and how suppliers like Bowens are helping lead the charge toward smarter, high-performance construction. Whether you're a builder, designer, or project manager, this episode is packed with forward-thinking insights, practical takeaways, and fresh perspectives on the materials shaping tomorrow's construction sites.  00:00 – Introduction to high performance and sustainability  00:44 – Innovations in construction materials  01:45 – Exciting new products: DIN Sell, Thermo Tech, Denim Insulation & More  05:58 – Emerging trends in building materials  10:16 – Quality control and procurement challenges  13:11 – The Role of industry collaboration  17:31 – Looking ahead  25:07 – Closing 🎧 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 special live episode of the Build Insite Podcast, we broadcast from the Circa Studio in Port Melbourne to talk about the power of collaboration in construction. We are joined by Dan Evans, a sustainability-focused builder from Evans Building Group, Suzanne McNeice, an interior designer from Circa, and Damien Thomas, Business Development Manager at Bowens. This episode dives into how builders, designers, and suppliers can work more closely to improve project outcomes. Topics include sustainability in product selection, the evolution of Circa as a support hub for small to mid-sized builders, and how education, design support, and access to the right materials are shaping better builds. If you're looking to elevate the builder-client-designer relationship or stay ahead of industry shifts in materials, training, and supply chain management, this conversation is full of real-world insights. 00:00 – Introduction 01:08 – Building a sustainable future 01:35 – Suzanne's journey in interior architectural design 01:49 – Business development at Bowens 02:24 – The concept behind Circa Studio 03:11 – Building during COVID 04:47 – How Bowens supports small and mid-sized builders 06:32 – The value of education and training in the industry 11:21 – Sustainable materials and smarter product selection 18:29 – Material shortages and navigating supply chain issues 21:54 – Closing thoughts 🎧 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

Welcome to Part 2 of Episode 32 of the Build Insite Podcast, featuring Devin Grant from Performance Membranes and Joel Seagren from Fantech. In this episode, we dig deeper into what it truly takes to build energy-efficient homes—beyond the buzzwords and surface-level upgrades. Devin and Joel share practical insights into the principles of Passive House, the importance of holistic planning, and how new technologies in membranes, ventilation, and materials are transforming construction in Australia. The conversation explores how to balance sustainability with performance, the role of retrofitting, and the long-term value of smarter building choices. Whether you're a builder, designer, or tradesperson, this episode is packed with clear, actionable advice on how to lead the charge toward healthier, more energy-efficient homes—one smart detail at a time. 00:00 – Introduction to Energy Efficiency 00:35 – The Role of Passive House in Energy Efficiency 01:46 – Innovations in Building Materials 03:03 – Balancing Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact 04:31 – Challenges and Solutions in Energy Efficient Building 05:35 – Cost Analysis and Long-Term Benefits 06:38 – Ideal Wall Buildups for Energy Efficiency 10:48 – Educating the Industry on Sustainable Practices 17:36 – Retrofitting Existing Homes for Energy Efficiency 20:24 – Collaborating for Efficient Building Design 21:41 – Future of Membranes and Ventilation Systems 24:36 – Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry 28:02 – Advice for Builders and Tradespeople 30:20 – Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks This is the episode to share with your crew, your designer, and your client—it’s about working smarter, building better, and doing it together. 🎧 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 Episode 32 Part 1 of the Build Insite Podcast, we’re live from the Circa Studio at Bowens Hardware in Port Melbourne with two brilliant minds shaping the future of high-performance building—Devin Grant from Performance Membranes and Joel Seagren from Fantech. This episode dives into the science and practicality behind performance membranes, mechanical ventilation, and airtight construction. From wall wraps and vapour-permeable membranes to the necessity of makeup air and smart water management, Devin and Joel unpack the real-world benefits of better building systems—including enhanced energy efficiency, improved durability, and healthier indoor environments. If you're a builder, designer, or anyone invested in raising construction standards across Australia, this episode is packed with the insights you need to build smarter and healthier. 00:00 – Introduction to Performance Membranes 00:36 – Welcome to the Build Insite Podcast 00:48 – Meet the Guests: Devin Grant and Joel Seagren 02:13 – The Importance of Wall Wraps and Vapour Permeable Membranes 04:44 – Understanding Airtightness and Ventilation 06:45 – Mechanical Ventilation and Building Code Requirements 09:01 – Water Management and Building Durability 12:11 – Encouraging Better Building Practices Across the Industry 22:19 – Range Hoods, Makeup Air, and Indoor Air Quality 28:37 – Conclusion and Preview of Next Week's Episode This is a must-listen for anyone committed to lifting the standard of building in Australia—from better building envelopes to smarter ventilation strategies. 🎧 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 special live episode, the Build Insite Podcast team sits down with Andy Bowen, Director at Bowens, and Luke McEnany, Head of Sales, to unpack how a 131-year-old family-owned company is staying competitive in an ever-evolving construction industry. From Andy’s transition from finance into the family business to Luke’s insights on digital transformation, this episode is a must-listen for builders and business owners alike. The conversation explores Bowens’ journey of modernization, e-commerce innovation, and introducing sustainable building solutions—all while fiercely protecting their independence and culture. Discover how Bowens continues to evolve with the industry, support their staff, and inspire builders through initiatives like Bowens TV, training programs, and their immersive Circa Showroom experience. 00:00 – Introduction 00:48 – Meet Andy and Luke 01:41 – Challenges and successes of modernizing a family business 04:21 – Andy Bowen's journey 06:17 – Balancing independence with growth 09:49 – Marketing and e-commerce innovations at Bowens 17:16 – Sustainability and product innovation 20:05 – From timber framing to high-performance building 21:05 – Navigating industry challenges and opportunities 23:04 – Training, upskilling, and building Innovation 25:03 – Company culture: the backbone of Bowens 29:06 – Inside the Circa Showroom 31:09 – Personal reflections and future aspirations 35:41 – Rapid fire questions and final thoughts 🎧 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