The Build Insite Podcast

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 Episode00:38 – Welcome to the Build Insite Podcast01:00 – Meet Andrew George from Lou Projects02:30 – Challenges Facing the Building Industry Today06:37 – Andrew’s Career Journey into Building11:03 – Building a Strong Team Culture and Mindset17:06 – CLT Projects: Challenges and Opportunities21:15 – Why Pre-Construction Consulting Matters25:28 – Marketing, Education, and Industry Transparency30:59 – The Reality of Managing Variations35:37 – 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 Overview00:29 – Growth of Building Science in the U.S.01:37 – Challenges & Legal Issues in Construction02:59 – Why Professionalism & Education Matter04:56 – Collaboration with Clients for Project Success08:04 – Building Science: Insights from Matt’s Experience13:23 – Day-to-Day Operations & Running the Build Show Network19:33 – Mentorship & The Power of Builder Communities24:22 – 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 – Introduction00:31 – Meet Matt Risinger: Master Builder from Austin, Texas01:38 – Matt’s Journey into Building Science02:25 – Challenges and Lessons in Building Science05:46 – The Importance of Waterproofing for Durability13:29 – Comparing Building Standards: U.S. vs Australia23:50 – How the Build Show Network Was Born28:41 – Exploring Innovative Building Materials32:45 – 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 Motivation00:31 – Welcome to the Build Insite Podcast00:35 – Introducing Ryan Gazzard & My Virtual Team00:58 – Why Collaboration and Education Matter02:53 – The Hiring and Vetting Process05:05 – How to Successfully Onboard Offshore Staff08:13 – Outsourcing Myths & Building Real Partnerships13:03 – Hybrid Teams: What’s Next for Construction?17:10 – Quickfire Segment: Ryan’s Insider Tips19:01 – Closing Remarks & How to Connect with Ryan19:57 – 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 – Introduction01:02 – From Marketing to Construction: Ryan’s Journey03:45 – The Birth of Built Theory and My Virtual Team07:30 – Solving the Skills Shortage with Offshore Talent11:12 – The Power of 3D Modelling in Construction16:08 – Training, Documentation & Systems That Scale20:45 – Why Mental Health Still Needs More Attention24:30 – How Virtual Teams Help Builders Focus on Their Zone28:57 – Practical Advice for Builders Looking to Innovate33:10 – 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 future01:35 – Suzanne's journey in interior architectural design01:49 – Business development at Bowens02:24 – The concept behind Circa Studio03:11 – Building during COVID04:47 – How Bowens supports small and mid-sized builders06:32 – The value of education and training in the industry11:21 – Sustainable materials and smarter product selection18:29 – Material shortages and navigating supply chain issues21:54 – 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 Efficiency00:35 – The Role of Passive House in Energy Efficiency01:46 – Innovations in Building Materials03:03 – Balancing Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact04:31 – Challenges and Solutions in Energy Efficient Building05:35 – Cost Analysis and Long-Term Benefits06:38 – Ideal Wall Buildups for Energy Efficiency10:48 – Educating the Industry on Sustainable Practices17:36 – Retrofitting Existing Homes for Energy Efficiency20:24 – Collaborating for Efficient Building Design21:41 – Future of Membranes and Ventilation Systems24:36 – Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry28:02 – Advice for Builders and Tradespeople30:20 – Rapid Fire Questions and Closing RemarksThis 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 Membranes00:36 – Welcome to the Build Insite Podcast00:48 – Meet the Guests: Devin Grant and Joel Seagren02:13 – The Importance of Wall Wraps and Vapour Permeable Membranes04:44 – Understanding Airtightness and Ventilation06:45 – Mechanical Ventilation and Building Code Requirements09:01 – Water Management and Building Durability12:11 – Encouraging Better Building Practices Across the Industry22:19 – Range Hoods, Makeup Air, and Indoor Air Quality28:37 – Conclusion and Preview of Next Week's EpisodeThis 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