The ToolShed Podcast

Most builders start their business chasing freedom—more time, more money, more control. But the reality? Many end up trapped in long hours, low margins, and constant stress. In this episode of The ToolShed Podcast, Mick Hawes sits down with Bruce Poling (The Joinery Coach) to unpack why so many builders fail, the fatal assumptions that keep them stuck, and the exact steps to escape the trap. You’ll learn: – Why being great on the tools doesn’t guarantee business success – The hidden numbers you must measure to stay profitable – How small, consistent improvements can create real freedom If you’ve ever felt like your business owns you instead of the other way around, this episode will give you clarity, encouragement, and a roadmap forward. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jYFfogqn8_c Take the free 2-minute Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard

Safety gear is supposed to protect us but for many women in construction, trades, and beyond, it’s doing the opposite. In this episode of The ToolShed Podcast, Mick Hawes speaks with Amy Rooser, founder of The Safety Rack, about the widespread problem of ill-fitting PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and why it’s putting women at risk every single day. You’ll hear: – Why most women lack properly fitting PPE – Injury stories from loose vests, gloves, and boots – How poor fit causes accidents and strain – The wider impact across multiple industries – What’s being done to drive change This episode is a wake-up call for builders, tradies, site managers, and anyone who cares about workplace safety, women in trades, and the future of the construction industry. Resources: – The Safety Rack → https://thesafetyrack.org – Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard → https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

What happens when life throws you the kind of challenges that could break anyone—a relationship breakdown, depression, and a cancer diagnosis? For Troy Ross, these moments became a turning point. In this raw and powerful conversation, Troy opens up about hitting rock bottom, the wake-up call that made him seek help, and how The Alchemy of Men retreat helped him rebuild his sense of purpose, identity, and inner strength. Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard If you’re ready to take control of your financial future and stop relying solely on the next job for income, this episode is your blueprint. Learn more about Alchemy of Men: https://alchemyofmen.com  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

In this episode of The ToolShed Podcast, Terry Tran, seasoned investor and founder of The Freedom Trader, shares a simple, low-risk system to help builders turn hard-earned profits into passive income. This is not about gambling on high-risk ventures. It’s about protecting your profits, growing them steadily, and creating the lifestyle you started your business for. We cover: – Why most builders miss their best wealth-building opportunities – How to protect and grow profits without risking it all – A step-by-step approach to start investing with as little as an hour a week Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard If you’re ready to take control of your financial future and stop relying solely on the next job for income, this episode is your blueprint. Connect with Terry Tran: Company: https://www.thefreedomtrader.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFreedomTrader/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefreedomtrader/  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.  

Are you a builder making good money but still feeling broke, stressed, and stuck? In this episode of The ToolShed Podcast, Tony Harrington returns for a powerful deep-dive into a silent business killer: financial stress. We explore how money pressure sabotages productivity, damages relationships, and keeps great builders trapped in survival mode. Inside this episode: – Why builders feel broke (even with good income) – How financial stress kills productivity – A simple shift to stop cash leaks – Build a business that pays you—not traps you Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  Connect with Tony Harrington: Website: https://www.yourpropertyinvesting.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourpropertyinvesting.com.au Twitter: https://x.com/yourpropertyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-property-investing/  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.  

We're excited to feature Stacey Combe on this week’s episode of The ToolShed Podcast, where we unpack mindfulness and self-leadership in the construction industry. Discover practical tools to reduce stress, improve focus, and finally gain control over the chaos. Whether you’re managing a team, running your own building business, or simply trying to stay sane on-site this conversation will show you how to lead from within and build a business (and life) you’re proud of. Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  Connect with Stacey Combe: – Her Links: https://linktr.ee/staceycombe – Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staceycombementor/ – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-combe-mindfulness/  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.  

Most builders start their business chasing freedom—more time, more money, more control. But for many, that freedom never comes. Instead, they end up stuck in stress, chaos, and low profit. In this episode, Ron Nussbaum shares why builders get trapped in survival mode—and how to break the cycle. You'll learn how to reconnect with your 'why', fix the real problems, and finally build a business that frees you. Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  Connect with Ron Nussbaum: Company: https://www.buildercoms.com/ Website: https://www.ron-nussbaum.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theronnussbaum/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ronwesley.nussbaum Twitter: https://x.com/Moneyronwesley  If you're working harder than ever but getting nowhere, this one's for you. Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.  

What does it take to go from working on the tools to building multiple businesses? In this episode of The ToolShed, Tas Moulis shares his journey from house painter to business coach and founder of Tradiematepro. We unpack the mindset, systems, and leadership moves that helped him break free from the day-to-day grind—and how builders like you can do the same. You’ll learn: • The turning point that changed everything for Tas • How to stop running a business that runs you • The essential systems to scale with less stress • The mindset shift from survival to success This is a must-listen for residential builders and tradies ready to lead, grow, and reclaim their time. Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  Connect with Tas Moulist: – https://www.paintercoach.com/  – https://www.tradiematepro.com.au/  – https://qpaint.com.au/  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

In this episode, Mick Hawes chats with Michael Stewart from Peak Synergy Mentoring to unpack the truth about leadership in building businesses. Learn how to lead by example, build trust, and create a culture where your crew takes ownership—without burning yourself out. Key Highlights: – Why being “the boss” creates bottlenecks – How to stop answering the same questions – Building trust, culture, and accountability on site – The leadership mindset that scales your business If your team constantly relies on you, it’s time to shift from micromanaging to real leadership. Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  📲 Connect with Michael Stewart: Website: https://prestart.peaksynergymentoring.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572202569083 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaksynergymentoring/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-stewart-92472776/  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.  

Are traditional bank loans silently draining your building business? In this episode, Mick Hawes is joined by finance strategist Martin Cattach to unpack the #1 loan mistake that keeps many Aussie builders broke—and what to do instead. From understanding the difference between cashflow and liquidity, to discovering smarter funding options like trade finance, this episode will shift the way you think about money, growth, and risk in your business. What You’ll Learn: – Why most builders misdiagnose their money problems – How to fix the cash gap with flexible finance options – The danger of using your home to fund your business – The difference between good debt and bad debt – Why responsive finance beats traditional bank loans If you’re a residential builder working hard but still struggling financially, this is the conversation you need to hear. Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  Connect with Martin Cattach: Website: https://finforbiz.com.au/about/ LinkedIn: https://tinyurl.com/Martin-Cattach  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Estimating is one of the most frustrating and time-consuming parts of running a building business\ and it’s where many builders lose money without realising it. In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Lawson from V2E to talk about how builders can take the pain out of quoting using 3D construction models, accurate takeoffs, and smart systems. If you’re still stuck doing manual estimates or second-guessing your numbers, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible. We dive into: – Why most builders hate estimating – How 3D estimating works – The real cost of quoting mistakes – How to win back your time – Why better estimates lead to better clients Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  Connect with Thomas: Website: https://www.v2e.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vision2estimating/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Vision2Estimating/ Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Ever feel like your building business should be growing faster—but something invisible is holding it back? In this episode, I’m joined by Andy Barker from OrgTree to uncover the cultural blind spots that quietly kill team performance and profit. This isn’t about tools or quoting software it’s about trust, communication, and creating a team that actually wants to help your business thrive. You’ll discover: – Why team culture is a builder’s real profit lever – How 30 mins a week can transform your crew – What purpose-driven teams do differently – A case study: from $25M in losses to profitability Take the free Builder Freedom Readiness Scorecard. Identify what’s slowing you down and get actionable insights: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard  Connect with Andy: – orgtree.me – facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565096791220 Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy. Whether you’re a growing builder or just want more clarity and control, this one’s worth a listen.

Still juggling spreadsheets, scattered apps, and endless WhatsApp messages to manage your building business? In this episode, I sit down with Jordan and Alex from Loop Logics, a software solution built by builders, for builders to find out how they’re helping Aussie builders streamline their operations, boost profit, and eliminate chaos. We unpack: – Why most builder software fails – How Loop Logics scaled from garage to 200+ staff – Lessons from elite sport that apply to building businesses – Key features that make Loop different – How to know if Loop is right for you More profit, less grind? Take the 2-minute Builder Freedom Scorecard to see what’s holding you back: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard   To connect with Loop Logics, check all the links below: – https://looplogics.com/  – https://www.facebook.com/looplogics  – https://www.instagram.com/loop.logics/  – https://www.youtube.com/@LoopLogics  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy. Whether you’re a growing builder or just want more clarity and control, this one’s worth a listen.

What happens when someone takes a chance on a week of work experience—and ends up becoming a powerful leader in the trades? In this episode of The ToolShed, Mick Hawes chats with Ashley Belteky, who shares her inspiring story of how an accidental entry into the world of diesel mechanics turned into a career rooted in purpose, leadership, and impact. What You’ll Learn: – Why leadership is more than a title – How to re-engage apprentices – The link between self-awareness and team success – Real tools for builders who want to lead better More profit, less grind? Take the 2-minute Builder Freedom Scorecard to see what’s holding you back: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard   To connect with Ashley, check all the links below: – Website: https://www.ashleybelteky.com/ – Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.belteky  – Facebook: https://www.ashleybelteky.com/podcast  – Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/tradieswholead  Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Is your building site truly compliant—or just one accident away from disaster? In this episode of The ToolShed Podcast, I was joined by Nick Halley from HazardCo to uncover the truth about health and safety compliance on Australian worksites. Discover how a simple system can help you: – Avoid massive fines and site shutdowns – Protect your team and your reputation – Get expert health and safety advice without hiring in-house Nick also shares how HazardCo is supporting residential builders with smarter systems and how AI could shape the future of site safety. To connect with Nick Halley, check all the links below: – Website: https://www.hazardco.com/au/  – Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_hazardco_/ – Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HazardCo/ – Email: info@hazardco.com  More profit, less grind? Take the 2-minute Builder Freedom Scorecard to see what’s holding you back: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard   Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Can you attract premium clients without an expensive office? Absolutely. In this ToolShed Podcast episode, Dan Bailey from Tradie HQ shares how tradies can create a professional image, build trust, and grow their business using shared spaces—without the heavy overheads. What You’ll Learn: – Why client perception matters more than expensive fit-outs – How community-based workspaces build better business – Ways to create a professional image with limited resources – The future of Tradie HQ and its expansion across Australia To connect with Dan, check all the links below: – https://tradiehqwa.com.au/ – https://www.facebook.com/tradiehqwa  – https://www.instagram.com/tradiehq.wa  – https://www.buzzsprout.com/265300  More profit, less grind? Take the 2-minute Builder Freedom Scorecard to see what’s holding you back: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Even experienced builders can lose big when they step into property development without the right strategy. In this episode, I sit down with Steve Chandler as we talk about the financial traps, mindset gaps, and planning mistakes that catch so many builders off guard. If you’ve ever thought about developing your own projects or scaling beyond construction, this is a must-listen. What You’ll Learn: – Why solid builders still fail in development – Key mindset shifts from trade to strategy – How to test a deal with feasibility studies – The cost of wrong assumptions – Developer risk vs. builder profit – Asset protection 101 – Why who you work with matters To connect with Steve, check all the links below: Website: https://stevechandler.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenchandler/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/propertydevelopmentinstitute  Instagram: https://www.youtube.com/c/StevenChandler  Phone: 1300 2000 21 More profit, less grind? Take the 2-minute Builder Freedom Scorecard to see what’s holding you back: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard   Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy. #propertydevelopment #buildersbusiness #australianbuilders #constructionbusiness #residentialbuilders #buildertodeveloper #buildercoach #buildsmarternotharder #feasibilitystudy #buildingwealth #toolshedpodcast #buildersbusinessblackbelt

Most builders think scaling means more jobs, more blokes, more stress. But what if there was a better way? In this episode, I chat with Richard Armstrong from Procalc about a smarter growth strategy—scaling your profit margin, not your workload. We dig into: – Why more jobs ≠ more profit – How to raise your prices without losing quality clients – The power of delivering a great experience—not just a great home – How to reduce team size and boost productivity – What real purpose and energy can do for your business If you’re a residential builder who’s tired of the hustle and ready to work smarter—not harder—this one’s for you. To connect with Richard, check all the links below: Website: https://procalc.com.au/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076206650142  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/procalc.au/?hl=en  Twitter: https://x.com/procalc_au Want to call? +61 405 327 949 More profit, less grind? Take the 2-minute Builder Freedom Scorecard to see what’s holding you back: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard   Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy. #builderscoach #scaleyourbusiness #buildingindustry #residentialbuilder #businessgrowth #profitfirst #builderpodcast #constructionbusiness #toolShedPodcast

Builder coaching isn’t all systems and success stories—this is the real deal. In this honest conversation, builder Matthew Auld shares how he lost over $100K on a project, battled burnout, and nearly quit his business. We talk through the mindset shifts, hard-earned lessons, and the game-changing value of being surrounded by a community that truly gets it. If you’re a residential builder feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure if coaching is worth the investment—this episode gives you the truth most people won’t. To connect with Matthew Auld, Check all the links below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthew.auld.builder/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capital.sheds/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/capital.sheds  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100034819557003  More profit, less grind? Take the 2-minute Builder Freedom Scorecard to see what’s holding you back: https://bit.ly/Builder-Freedom-Readiness-Scorecard   Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

In this episode of The ToolShed Podcast, I spoke with Steph Apostolidis—better known as the Melbourne Chippy Chick—about her journey into the trades and how she’s reshaping the culture for women in construction across Australia. Steph shares the origin of the Tradie Lady Club, a growing community supporting female tradies through connection, events, and mentorship. From tackling isolation on job sites to empowering women to start their own businesses, this is a story of resilience, passion, and community-driven change. What You’ll Learn: – How Steph got into carpentry and built her career – Why she created the Tradie Lady Club – Common challenges women face in the trades – How community can transform confidence and opportunity – Inspiring stories of female-led trade businesses – The importance of support networks in the building industry If you’re a woman in trades, a builder passionate about inclusivity, or looking to understand how culture impacts performance on-site, this episode is a must-listen. To connect with Stefanie, Check all the links below: ✅ Follow Melbourne Chippy Chick on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/melbournechippychick ✅ Join the Tradie Lady Club (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/tradieladyclub ✅ Check out the Tradie Lady Club Website & Merch https://www.tradieladyclub.com.au 📌 Want to identify and fix the ONE issue holding your business back? Take the Builder’s Scorecard in just 90 seconds and get personalized insights on how to improve your business. https://bit.ly/BuildersSuccessScorecard Stay tuned next week when we talk about it. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.