Mindful Builder

"The bank said no." Every builder has heard this from clients whose dreams hit financial reality. But what if we told you there are dozens of lenders beyond the big four banks, many offering better rates and specialised products for construction projects? We sat down with Sarah Zhou from Beyond Financial, who is Matt’s mortgage broker, to understand the different options you have in financing your build.Most people accept the first "no" they receive, not realising dozens of other options exist. Engaging experts early, exploring all available options, and ensuring your financing strategy matches your project ambitions can transform what seems impossible into an achievable reality.The question isn't whether financing exists for your project - it's whether you're working with someone who knows where to find it.LINKS:Beyond FinancialConnect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Concrete is responsible for 8% of global carbon emissions. That's a staggering number when you consider how much concrete surrounds us every day. So when Daniel from Curvecrete told us his technology could reduce concrete emissions by 70%, we had to understand how. What we learned might change how you think about one of construction's most fundamental materials.Low-carbon concrete is a practical technology addressing real industry challenges. As sustainability requirements tighten and carbon costs increase, innovations like Curvecrete become competitive advantages rather than nice-to-haves.For builders considering future projects, understanding these emerging technologies positions you ahead of regulatory changes and client demands. The question isn't whether sustainable concrete will become mainstream - it's whether you'll be ready when it does.LINKS:CurvecreteConnect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"I'm fine." How many times have you heard that response when you knew it wasn't true? We've all been there - sensing something's off with a mate, colleague, or family member, but hesitating to dig deeper. What if we’re making things awkward? What if we don't know what to say? RUOK Day exists to break through exactly this hesitation and give you the perfect excuse to ask your mates how they’re really doing.We sat down with Alistair Schuback, RUOK Day Ambassador and Safety Culture Specialist, who's witnessed firsthand how mental health plays out in workplaces and communities. His insights combine practical advice with personal experience, focusing on creating environments where people feel safe to speak up.RUOK Day happens once a year, but its message applies every day. Making mental health check-ins a regular habit, especially in high-stress industries like construction, could prevent tragedies and improve workplace culture.The question isn't whether you're qualified to ask, it's whether you care enough to try. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply show up and listen.So, are you OK? And more importantly, who will you ask today?LINKS:RUOK DayConnect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"Why is my building surveyor being so difficult?" Almost every builder has asked this question at some point, usually when facing another compliance issue or documentation request. But what if we've been looking at this relationship all wrong? We sat down with Dave from Permit Approvals Plus to understand why building surveyors might actually be builders' best allies, not obstacles.In an industry where regulations constantly evolve, trusted building surveyors aren't just helpful - they're essential. They bring knowledge that ensures builds meet stringent industry standards, creating construction that performs well long-term.For builders planning projects, engaging surveyors early isn't a setback - it's a strategy. This partnership provides tools for construction excellence while protecting against compliance issues that could surface later.LINKS:Permit Approvals PlusConnect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"We're training apprentices the same way we did 30 years ago." That stark observation from Trent McCarthy, Director of Clean Economy at Melbourne Polytechnic, captures a fundamental problem in Australian construction. While technology transforms how we build, our training methods remain stuck in the past. We sat down with Trent to understand why the building industry's education system desperately needs an overhaul.For the building industry to attract and retain the next generation, training must evolve to match how we actually work today. The question isn't whether change is needed, it's whether we'll act quickly enough to remain competitive.LINKS:Melbourne Polytechnic: Connect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

One back injury changed everything for Jake. After years perfecting his carpentry skills, a seemingly minor workplace injury ended his on-site career. What happened next challenges everything we think we know about career transitions in the trades. We sat down with Jake from Notorious Tools to understand how he rebuilt his professional life when his body couldn't handle the physical demands anymore.Jake's journey demonstrates that career-ending injuries don't have to mean industry-ending relationships. Sometimes forced transitions open opportunities you never considered. The challenge is recognising that your industry knowledge and professional relationships remain valuable assets, even when your physical capabilities change.LINKS:Notorious Tools: https://notorioustools.com.au/Connect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"You're the crazy guy who wants double glazing in everything." That's what Justin heard throughout his early career when he pushed for high-performance building standards that seemed unnecessary to most. Twenty years later, those "crazy" ideas have become industry benchmarks. We sat down with Justin to understand his journey from a 12-year-old working in his mum's shed to becoming a leading voice in sustainable construction.Today, Justin continues consulting and advising on construction technology through his work at Performance Membranes. His goal remains straightforward: sharing accumulated knowledge so others can access the details needed for safe, quality construction. It's not just about individual projects - it's about elevating industry standards.LINKS:Performance MembranesConnect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"Straw? You want to build with straw?" That's the reaction Derek Layfield from Durra Panel gets when he tells people his building material of choice. But before you dismiss this as another three little pigs scenario, consider this: Durra Panels have been protecting major Australian airports and surviving bushfire tests since the 1950s. We sat down with Derek to understand why straw might be the future of sustainable construction.LINKS:Durra Panel Website: https://durrapanel.com/Connect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Twelve years in consulting, senior management track, solid income and Shivani walked away from it all. Why would someone leave a successful corporate career to start over in interior design? We sat down with Shivani, founder of Madison Interiors to understand her transition from consultant to founder of a sought-after interior design business.For anyone contemplating a significant career change, Shivani's journey offers practical insights. Fear of failure is normal, but redefining success on your own terms is liberating. Your existing skills often transfer in unexpected ways, and daily practices like visualisation can create real momentum.LINKS:Madison Interiors: https://madisoninteriors.com.auInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/madison.interiors_/Connect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"SIPS will never work in Australia" - that's what many builders said about Structural Insulated Panels just a few years ago. Today, we're exploring why companies like Fenster & Panel are proving them wrong.We sit down with Dave to understand why SIPS are gaining traction in Australian construction. These engineered panels combine structural strength and insulation, offering faster construction times, reduced waste, and better thermal efficiency. For an industry facing skilled labour shortages and rising energy costs, these benefits are becoming increasingly attractive. Dave shares practical insights about shifting from traditional methods to prefabricated solutions, addressing common concerns while demonstrating real-world value.LINKS:Fenster and Panel: https://fensterandpanel.com/Connect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"We love the design, but can you make it cheaper?"Every builder has heard this request, and it highlights one of the biggest challenges facing our industry today. The gap between what clients want and what they can afford is widening, leaving architects, builders, and clients frustrated. We need to talk about why this is happening and what we can actually do about it.The solution requires cooperation between clients, architects, and builders from day one. Everyone needs to understand pricing complexities, and we need to work towards realistic briefs that align with financial realities without compromising quality or sustainability.This means involving builders in early design conversations, establishing clear budget parameters upfront, and maintaining open communication throughout the process. When all parties understand the constraints and possibilities, better outcomes become achievable.The industry is evolving, and those who embrace collaborative approaches will be best positioned for success.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Harley Truong, the godfather of Passive Houses in Australia, to explore his incredible journey from public servant to sustainability pioneer. Twelve years ago, Harley was working at the Department of Defence in Canberra when he decided he'd had enough of Australia's zero-star energy efficiency housing and drafty homes. We dive into how he took on the ambitious challenge of building his own passive house without ever having stepped foot in one, using research from Germany's Passive House Institute to create what would become a trendsetting masterpiece.We talk about the reality of building without a blueprint and how Harley had to literally rewrite the rules to achieve his vision. His meticulous approach resulted in an astounding 0.1 air changes per hour—and we explore what that actually means and why it matters. The conversation gets really interesting when we discuss how one exceptional house wasn't enough for Harley, leading him to recognise a massive gap in the Australian market and found Logikhaus to import high-performance European windows, essentially becoming both consultant and supplier to help other builders achieve their eco-dreams.Throughout our chat, we explore Harley's bigger vision for the industry and how he's catalysing crucial conversations about providing better, more sustainable housing for all Australians. We discuss his goal of making high-performance windows the norm rather than the exception, and why he believes we're just at the beginning of an inclusive industry revolution. If you're interested in sustainable building, pioneering business moves, or just love hearing about someone who dared to dream bigger, this conversation will inspire you. LINKS:Connect with Harley: Website: https://www.logikhaus.com.au/ Instagram: @logikhaus.windowsConnect with us on Instagram:   @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"What happens if I make my house airtight but have no mechanical ventilation?" This question comes up more often than you'd think, and the answer might surprise you. We sat down with Cameron Munro from Passive Analytics and Brad McEwan from Sanford BuildCo to tackle this and other building questions from our social media following that every builder should understand.Building a high-performance home isn't just about achieving airtightness - it's about understanding how all building elements work together. The key takeaway? You cannot have an airtight building without proper mechanical ventilation. The energy and comfort benefits only work when you maintain healthy indoor air quality.For builders serious about high-performance construction, remember that details matter, and investing in proper ventilation systems isn't optional - it's essential for creating truly healthy homes.If you’d like to submit a question for us to discuss on the podcast, reach out to us on Instagram.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Winter hits different when you're working outdoors. The sun disappears by 4 pm, the cold seeps into your bones, and suddenly that motivation you had in summer feels like a distant memory. If you've noticed your mood dropping with the temperature, you're not imagining things. We sat down with our good friend and psychologist, Julie to understand why winter affects us so deeply and what we can actually do about it.Winter challenges are normal, but they don't have to derail your mental health. These strategies work best when implemented consistently, not just when you're already struggling. If you notice symptoms persisting or worsening, professional help can make a significant difference.Remember, acknowledging winter's impact on your mental state isn't weakness, it's awareness that leads to better self-care.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Window installation may not instantly grab your attention, but for anyone involved in building or renovating, it's a critical aspect that cannot be neglected. Think about why we have windows: they connect our living spaces with the outside world, offering natural light, beautiful views, and essential ventilation. However, beyond these obvious reasons, there is a layer of complexity and science in window installation that is necessary to explore further.When it comes to window installation, the type of window is fundamentally essential. Each type has its nuances. It’s these differences that require us to break down and approach each installation uniquely. Matt aptly noted during our latest podcast that while there are some industry standards, every project has nuance and a unique set of challenges.If you’re navigating window installations—whether you're a seasoned builder or an enthusiastic DIYer, it’s about more than just inserting glass into a gap. It's about strategising each move, considering the materials, and above all, applying a thoughtful blend of science and practicality to the process. LINKS:Thanks to Hip Vs Hype for having usConnect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

This is part 2 of our conversation with Cameron Munro about insulation. We recommend listening to part 1 first before listening to this episode.—When it comes to building or renovating a home, insulation is one of those topics that seems simple on the surface, but quickly gets complicated. That’s why we brought in Cameron Munro from Passive Analytics to help us break down how insulation really works. In part two of this conversation we pivot the topic to focus on insulation used in walls and roof spaces.After talking with Cam, we’re more convinced than ever that insulation is about more than just picking a product off the shelf. It’s about understanding how heat and moisture move through your home, choosing the right materials for your climate and design, and making sure everything is installed with care. If you want a healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient home, don’t cut corners on insulation—or on the expertise you bring in to get it right.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Cameron Munro from Passive Analytics to really dig into the world of insulation. If you’ve ever wondered why your house feels too hot or too cold, or if you’re curious about how the colour of your roof actually affects your comfort, this one’s for you.Key TakeawaysInsulation is about controlling heat transfer—conduction, convection, and radiation all matter.The colour of your roof or cladding has an impact, but it’s less important in well-designed, high-performance buildings.Still air is a great insulator; moving air (convection) is not.Windows are complex—double/triple glazing, air gaps, and coatings all affect performance.Context is everything: what works in one climate or building type may not work in another.Moisture management is just as important as thermal performance.A huge thanks to Dr. Cameron Munro for sharing his expertise and helping us unpack the science (and myths) around insulation. If you’re designing, building, or renovating, we hope this episode—and this article—gives you a clearer understanding of what really matters when it comes to keeping your home comfortable and efficient.We recorded this episode in two parts, so look out for part two where we move further into wall and roof insulation.LINKS:Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

3,214 Australians. That's how many lives were lost to suicide in 2023. As builders, we're experts at measuring, calculating, and fixing physical problems - but when it comes to mental health, many of us struggle to even start the conversation. That's why when Matt and I met Nick Hudson, founder of the Pushup Challenge, we knew his story needed sharing with our community.This conversation inspired us to take action. We're mobilising the Mindful Builder community - contractors, architects, designers, and everyone in between - to participate in this year's Pushup Challenge. Our industry faces unique mental health challenges, and it's time we addressed them together.Participation is free, and while fundraising for organisations like Headspace and Lifeline is an option, the real value comes from joining a community committed to mental fitness. For those who've experienced loss due to mental health struggles, this isn't just about pushups - it's about potentially saving lives.Ready to make a difference? Visit the Pushup Challenge website, sign up individually or create a team, and start building mental fitness alongside physical strength. Can't do traditional pushups? Modified versions work just as well - what matters is participation and awareness.Let's build a stronger industry from the inside out.LINKS:The Pushup ChallengeConnect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

"Nobody wants to be a carpenter anymore." It feels like this rings true in the building industry today. We’re seeing a shift in Australia’s trades landscape, and it’s time to talk about it. We’re exploring why carpentry apprenticeships - once highly sought after - are now struggling to attract and retain talent. Whether you're in the industry or considering a trade career, the insights from this conversation may help you think differently about where this industry is headed.LINKS:Thanks to Hip Vs Hype for having usConnect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

We’ve all dreamt of that perfect home - something warm, inviting, and aesthetically pleasing. But, how often do we consider the science behind construction that makes a house not only a thing of beauty but also a safe and comfortable haven? We recently sat down with Jess Kismet, a building science consultant who opened our eyes to the hidden factors some of us in the building and construction industry can overlook.Jess, through her building science expertise, aims to enhance awareness and practical application of science in building homes. Her dedication is clear in her personal pursuits such as her own podcast, The Building Sciology Poddie which further explores these themes.We walked away from this conversation with fresh ideas and a reaffirmed commitment to integrating science into building practices. In doing so, we aren’t just constructing homes; we are creating healthier, sustainable environments for future generations.LINKS:Thanks to Hip Vs Hype for having usConnect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram:  @sanctumhomesWebsite:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite:  www.carlandconstructions.com/