The Building Talks Podcast

Hosted by Martin Preece

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Episodes

112

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-GB

About the show

A fortnightly podcast showcasing conversations with professionals across Australia’s Built Environment—spanning Construction, Property Development, Engineering, Architecture, Project Management, Consulting (and much besides). In each episode, we explore the challenges, opportunities, and trends shaping the industry, while hearing the stories, insights, and experiences of the people behind the projects. From architects and engineers to builders, project managers, quantity surveyors, researchers, and business leaders, our guests offer valuable perspectives from across the sector. Whether you're curious about industry issues or want to better understand the people driving Australia’s built environment, The Building Talks Podcast brings you authentic conversations with those ‘in the know.’

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June 8, 2026Episode 91 hr 21 min

Talking with Andrew Sparks about Founder Dependency, Scaling Construction Companies Smarter and Building Business Value

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Pull up a chair for another episode of The Building Talks Podcast, this one is for construction business owners (or insights for anyone who aspires to set up their own construction business in the future) who feel like they have become the engine, the brake and the decision-maker all at once.In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Sparks, who works with business owners to help them better understand, scale and increase the value of their companies. We dig into a challenge many construction, property and consulting businesses eventually face, the founder becomes the bottleneck.Andrew shares practical insights on founder dependency, leadership, culture, hiring and recruitment, and what it takes to build a business that can grow beyond the owner. We also talk about why strong systems, high performers and clear decision making have such a major impact on business value, especially if you want more freedom, stronger performance or a business that can one day run, grow or sell without everything relying on you.Takeaways:✅ Why founder dependency can quietly hold a business back✅ Building a company that scales beyond the owner✅ The link between leadership, culture and business value✅ Why hiring the right people can lift performance and valuation✅ How high performers help stop businesses from hitting a ceiling✅ Creating more freedom without losing control✅ Building a business that does not rely on every decision running through youChapters:07:14 Understanding Business Exits: Lifestyle vs. Payday10:20 The Importance of Planning for Business Exit11:00 Building Value in Construction Businesses12:31 The Role of Business Owners in Valuation13:45 Maturity and Growth in Business15:52 Identifying Bottlenecks in Construction Businesses19:11 Leadership Challenges in the Construction Industry22:16 Attracting and Retaining Talent26:48 The Role of Culture in Business Success29:59 Understanding Roles and Responsibilities33:02 Performance Management and Clarity37:04 The Importance of Onboarding42:28 Learning Through Experience46:15 Hiring Process and Best Practices51:55 Adapting Leadership Styles55:23 The Choice Between Complaining and Improving57:55 The Evolving Role of Leadership1:01:18 Addressing Business Bottlenecks1:04:48 Navigating Growth and Complexity1:09:39 The Impact of AI on Business Efficiency1:14:56 Common Mistakes in Scaling BusinessesTune in for a practical conversation on building a stronger, smarter and more valuable business that can grow beyond the founder.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#BusinessGrowth #FounderDependency #ConstructionBusiness #PropertyDevelopment #BuildingTalksPodcast #Leadership #BusinessValue #ScalingABusiness #Recruitment #HighPerformanceTeams #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #BusinessOwners #CultureAndLeadershipThe Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.auProud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

May 25, 2026Episode 81 hr 20 min

Talking with Mark O'Mahony, about Quantity Surveying, Costs and Escalations, the role of the QS and the Construction market

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast. This one gets right into one of the biggest pressure points in construction right now, cost certainty.In this episode, I sit down with Mark O'Mahony, quantity surveyor and Co-founder of Cohaven, and all-round top bloke! We first recorded this chat around Mark’s career journey, his move from Ireland to Melbourne, and what it takes to build a QS consultancy in the local market. But with construction costs shifting so quickly, we jumped back on to record an updated section on what’s happening in the market right now.We get into rising construction costs, global supply chain pressure, procurement shifts, and what’s actually increasing versus what the market is absorbing. Mark also shares his take on how quantity surveying has evolved, what good cost advice looks like, and why managing risk, value and certainty has never been more important.Takeaways:✅ What’s really driving construction cost movement✅ How global events are flowing into local projects✅ The evolving role of quantity surveyors✅ Why procurement models have shifted over time✅ Managing cost, risk and value in a changing market✅ What good QS advice actually looks like Chapters:04:24 The Pathway of Quantity Surveying in Ireland10:41 Transitioning to Australia: Mark’s Journey16:26 Shifts in Procurement Models in Construction23:17 Founding A2M Consulting: The Journey Begins29:06 The Importance of Personal Branding in Business35:17 Project Aspirations and Business Growth Strategies41:42 Key Functions and Responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor47:45 The Importance of Early Involvement in Design52:46 The Ripple Effect of COVID on Construction Costs1:06:17 Keeping Up with Market Changes and Cost Data1:11:14 Rebranding as 'Cohaven' for Future GrowthTune in for a timely, practical chat on construction costs, market pressure, and how to make better project decisions in uncertain conditions.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#QuantitySurveying #ConstructionCosts #BuildingTalksPodcast #CostManagement #CommercialConstruction #Procurement #Cohaven #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionLeadership #ProjectDelivery #ConstructionMarket #RiskManagementThe Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:www.buildingenvirons.com.auProud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/ The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

May 17, 2026Episode 742 min

SPECIAL EPISODE: Talking With Dave Woolsey, about resilience, mindset and commitment, as he cycles 3,500km from Perth to Melbourne, to raise money for the Brain Cancer foundation

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Thanks for tuning in to another episode of The Building Talks Podcast. This one is a little different......and honestly, a little mad.In this special episode, I sit down with Dave Woolsey, General Manager of Renascent in Victoria, who is currently in the middle of riding a push bike (like, a real bike, on the road) from Perth to Melbourne over just 14 days, covering more than 3,500km, all to raise money and awareness for Carrie Bickmore’s Beanies for Brain Cancer foundation.What makes this challenge even more ridiculous is that Dave hadn’t seriously ridden a bike in almost six years before deciding to commit to it.This conversation goes well beyond cycling. We get into mindset, discipline, suffering, resilience, fatherhood, purpose, and the mental battle that comes with voluntarily putting yourself through discomfort for something bigger than yourself.Dave speaks openly about the emotional driver behind the challenge, particularly the impact brain cancer has on Australian families and children, and why this cause hit home hard enough for him to dedicate months of training and two weeks of pain to raising money for it.We also unpack the psychology behind endurance challenges, the conversations you have with yourself when your body wants to stop, and how leadership, pressure, and resilience from the construction industry strangely prepares people for challenges like this.There are some laughs in there too, including discussions around lycra, saddle soreness, mental breakdowns in the Nullarbor, and the reality of trying to train for elite endurance while balancing work, leadership and family life.More than anything though, this is a conversation about perspective, purpose, and proving to yourself that you’re capable of more than you think.Takeaways:✅ Why Dave committed to riding 3,500km for brain cancer research✅ The mental side of endurance and suffering✅ How purpose changes your ability to push through pain✅ Leadership, resilience, and mindset under pressure✅ The emotional impact of brain cancer on families✅ Why ordinary people are capable of extraordinary thingsChapters:00:00 The Journey Begins: A Brother's Challenge05:17 The Route and the Goal: Riding Across Australia08:15 The Physical and Mental Challenge: Overcoming Obstacles14:05 Mindset and Motivation: The Importance of Goals16:36 Breaking the Routine: Finding Balance in Life22:33 Managing Stress Through Physical Activity30:04Mental Resilience and Emotional Support34:48 Raising Awareness for Brain Cancer ResearchIf you’d like to support Dave’s ride and help raise money for brain cancer research, head to:p2m4bc.COM - to follow his journey,And if you're keen to donate, head to:https://fundraise.carriesbeanies4braincancer.com/fundraisers/davidw/perth-to-melb-4-bcEvery donation genuinely helps!The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

May 11, 2026Episode 61 hr 12 min

Talking with Alastair Blenkin and Tim Rogers about ProcurePro - Procurement, Protecting Margin, and Using Tech to Reduce Risk in Construction

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Thanks for tuning in to another episode of The Building Talks Podcast. This one digs into where margin and risk really sit in construction. In this episode, we're joined by Alastair Blenkin and Tim Rogers, the team behind ProcurePro. There’s plenty of talk in the industry about productivity, but this conversation gets into something often overlooked, procurement, and why it plays such a critical role in project success.On the surface, procurement doesn’t sound that exciting, but scratch beneath it and you’ll find where margin is protected, risk is managed, and a lot of project stress quietly builds.We unpack how ProcurePro came to life, Tim’s experience on the contractor side with Hutchinson Builders, and Alastair’s background in tech and law. From spreadsheet-heavy processes and quote levelling to scope clarity and the impact of COVID, this is a proper look at one of the most manual parts of the industry.There’s also a great discussion around AI, productivity, and why good systems shouldn’t replace people, they should free them up to focus on higher-value work.If you’ve ever wondered why construction struggles to adopt new tech, and why implementation is often harder than the idea itself, this will be an eye-opener for you.Takeaways:✅ Why procurement is the frontline for protecting margin✅ The risks of spreadsheet-driven processes✅ How quote levelling and scope clarity reduce project stress✅ Where AI fits into construction workflows✅ Why implementation is harder than innovationChapters:10:10 Understanding Procurement Challenges16:54 The Evolution of Procurement Solutions21:23 Building the Minimum Viable Product29:07 The Importance of Scope in Construction35:57 Streamlining Procurement with ProcurePro40:45 The Visibility Revolution in Construction43:46 AI’s Role in Transforming the Construction Process 54:42 Implementing Change: Overcoming Resistance in Construction Tech1:00:28 Future Aspirations: Saving a Billion Construction HoursTune in for a smart, practical conversation on how better procurement can drive performance across every project.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#ConstructionTech #Procurement #BuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #AIinConstruction #BuiltEnvironment #ProjectManagement #ConstructionInnovation #CommercialConstructionThe Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:www.buildingenvirons.com.auProud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

April 27, 2026Episode 51 hr 18 min

Talking with Ethan Chittick about The Reality of Running a Subcontracting Business in Construction

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Back with another episode of The Building Talks Podcast, this one’s a deep dive into how smart subcontractors actually build successful businesses.I sit down with Ethan Chittick, carpenter and co-founder of B&E Built and Commercial Carpentry. Over the past decade, he’s built a serious subcontracting operation, with a sharp focus on the numbers and how the business really runs.We get into cash flow, margins, retention, and why many tradies don’t fully understand their numbers. Ethan shares the risks of scaling too fast, how to choose the right builders, and why a production-line approach often beats being a jack of all trades. We also unpack the shift from the tools to leading a team, and why doing what you say you’ll do is still a key differentiator.Takeaways:✅ Why most subcontractors struggle with margins and cash flow✅ The risks of growing too fast in construction✅ How to choose the right clients and builders✅ Moving from the tools to running a business✅ Building systems that scale, not just surviveChapters:06:46 Navigating the Subcontractor Landscape09:38 Transitioning from Residential to Commercial12:38 The Journey of Entrepreneurship19:10 Understanding Contracts and Financial Risks22:13 Qualifying Leads and Building Relationships27:20 Identifying Good Clients32:54 Learning and Growth as a Business Owner36:25 Understanding Margins and Risks44:27 Designing Efficient Workflows49:20 Navigating Competition in the Market56:19 Nurturing Talent: The Importance of Apprenticeships1:02:40 Assessing Project Management: The Key to Successful Collaborations1:03:55 Market Insights: Current Trends in Melbourne’s Construction1:10:53 Future Growth: Aiming for $20 Million Revenue1:13:07 Passion for Building: The Heart of Business SuccessTune in for a practical, straight-talking conversation about building a subcontracting business that actually works.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#ConstructionBusiness #SubcontractorLife #BuildingTalksPodcast #CommercialCarpentry #ConstructionLeadership #CashflowManagement #TradeBusiness #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionCareers #BusinessGrowthThe Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:www.buildingenvirons.com.auProud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

April 13, 2026Episode 41 hr 21 min

Talking with Brian Donovan about Risk, Resilience and Building a Business from Scratch

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!In this episode, we hear from Brian Donovan, who built an enviable career through his time at Multiplex and Mirvac where he rose to Project Director, before taking the leap in 2018 to launch Jardon Group. We unpack what it’s really like stepping away from Tier 1 construction and leading $400M projects, to setting up and growing a construction business.Brian shares the reality of starting just before COVID hit, the uncertainty, pressure, and what failure feels like when you’ve got a young family depending on you. It’s an honest conversation about his experiences setting up a construction business: risk, resilience, mindset and people. Plus why trust, early engagement, and doing ECI properly can completely shift a project’s outcome and act as a great foundation to deliver great projects.Takeaways:✅ Leaving Tier 1 construction to start your own business✅ The reality of launching a company only for COVID to rock up just as you get going✅ Managing risk when you’ve got family and responsibility✅ Building resilience through uncertainty and pressure✅ Why trust and early contractor involvement matterChapters:05:32 Early Influences and Entry into Construction06:56 Navigating Early Career Challenges09:49 Opportunities and Growth in the Industry12:29 Cultural Differences in Work Environments15:17 Mentorship and Professional Development18:31 International Experience and Career Progression25:41 The Journey to Independence32:01 Embracing Failure and Taking Risks38:05 The Reality of Starting a Business44:58 Navigating Challenges During Covid-1947:49 Growth and Evolution of Jardon Group53:30 Navigating Market Entry Challenges56:17 The Evolution of Land Lease Communities59:25 Understanding D&C Contracts and Client Engagement1:04:51 Building Trust in the Construction Industry1:15:29 Looking Ahead: Growth and Market OpportunitiesTune in for a real-world conversation about risk, resilience, and what it takes to build something from the ground up.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#ConstructionLeadership #BuildingTalksPodcast #Entrepreneurship #ConstructionBusiness #JardonGroup #ECI #BuiltEnvironment #ConstructionCareers #Leadership #Resilience The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

March 30, 2026Episode 31 hr 43 min

Talking with Justin McGrath about Leadership Pressure, Health and the Cost of High Performance in Construction

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Thanks for jumping into another episode of The Building Talks Podcast…this episode’s a little different, and one that really matters.Returning guest Justin McGrath is back on the show. With more than 40 years in construction, Justin’s built a career many would admire, starting as an apprentice and working his way through to Construction Director, leading major projects, big teams, and high-pressure environments.But this conversation isn’t about project wins or career milestones. Six months ago, Justin suffered a stroke.What follows is a raw, honest chat about the realities of long-term pressure in construction, the hours, the responsibility, the constant problem-solving, and the mindset of just pushing through because “that’s the job.” Justin shares what he’s learned, what he’d do differently, and how the same drive that built his career is now fuelling his recovery.This isn’t about sympathy, it’s about perspective. A powerful reminder for anyone in the industry about the cost of always being “on”, and why paying attention to your health might be the most important call you make.Takeaways:✅ The hidden toll of long-term pressure in construction✅ Why “pushing through” isn’t always the answer✅ Recognising warning signs before it’s too late✅ Using discipline and mindset for recovery✅ Rethinking success, health, and longevity in the industryChapters:07:51 Career Highlights and Major Projects12:23 The Day of the Stroke: A Personal Account24:31 The Role of Family in Health Decisions28:51 The Demands of the Construction Industry38:33 Transitioning to Strategic Roles44:45 Conclusion and Key Takeaways50:44 The Impact of Stress on Health56:26 Recognising Burnout1:02:40 Rehabilitation and Recovery Process1:09:59 Mental Resilience in Recovery1:18:13 Overcoming Physical and Mental Challenges1:25:32 Navigating the Road to Return to Work1:31:01 Reflections on Work-Life Balance and Industry ChangesTune in for a powerful, honest conversation about health, perspective, and the real cost of high performance in construction.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#ConstructionLeadership #BuildingTalksPodcast #MentalHealthInConstruction #WorkplaceWellbeing #ConstructionCareers #LeadershipPressure #HealthInConstruction #BuiltEnvironment #Resilience #IndustryInsightsThe Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

March 16, 2026Episode 21 hr 6 min

Talking with Seamus Egan about Leadership, Resilience and Navigating Construction’s Toughest Moments

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Season 5 rolls on with a thoughtful and honest conversation about leadership in the toughest moments of construction.In this episode, returning guest Seamus Egan joins me again on The Building Talks Podcast. Since his last appearance, Seamus has had a full-on couple of years, moving from BESIX Watpac to Roberts Co shortly before their collapse in Victoria, and now in a new role as General Manager at Henny.We talk openly about what leadership looks like when things stop going to plan. Seamus shares his perspective on navigating uncertainty, the mental load that comes with senior roles, and the importance of leaning on your network when the pressure ramps up. We also unpack his move into a smaller, more agile business, the opportunities emerging in sectors like retirement living, student accommodation and social housing, and why the industry needs to value experience rather than lose it too early.A grounded, reflective conversation about resilience, leadership and the realities of the construction industry.Takeaways:✅ Leadership during uncertainty and industry downturns✅ The mental load of senior roles in construction✅ Why resilience and networks matter in tough markets✅ Lessons from moving from Tier 1 contractors to a mid-tier builder✅ The cost of losing experienced professionals too earlyChapters:06:43 The Complexity of the Construction Industry11:45 Transitioning to General Management at Henny16:35 The Evolving Retirement Living Sector22:20 Advice for Aspiring Leaders in Construction32:29 Navigating Leadership Pressures37:59 Reflecting on Stressful Experiences42:45 Decompressing After Challenges45:08 Transitioning to New Opportunities49:24 The Future of the Construction Industry54:49 Collaboration Across the Industry59:35 Building Trust and RelationshipsTune in for an honest discussion about resilience, leadership and navigating the realities of construction when the pressure is on.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#ConstructionLeadership #BuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionIndustry #LeadershipInConstruction #Resilience #PropertyDevelopment #ConstructionCareers #BuiltEnvironment #ProjectLeadership #VictoriaConstruction The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

March 2, 2026Episode 11 hr 8 min

Talking with Jesse Lockhart Krause about Reimagining Bondi Surf Club and Designing with Community in Mind

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Season 5 is here, and we’re kicking off with a big one!I’m joined by Jesse Lockhart Krause, founder of Lockhart-Krause Architects, to talk about the redevelopment of the iconic Bondi Surf Club, the oldest surf club in the world. Since we first planned this chat, Bondi experienced a tragic event that shook the community. Jesse was there that day, and while our focus is on architecture and leadership, we briefly acknowledge the resilience of the local community and lifesavers.We unpack how Jesse secured approval for the redesign after two failed DAs by separating heritage from new architecture, introducing a courtyard concept, and genuinely listening to the community, achieving approval without a single objection. We also dive into growing an architecture practice, hiring for character, and why listening may be the most powerful leadership skill in the built environment.Takeaways:✅ Reimagining an iconic heritage building the right way✅ Securing community approval in a tightly held precinct✅ Designing with people, place and purpose in mind✅ Growing an architecture practice with strong foundations✅ Why listening beats ego in leadershipChapters:12:40 The Importance of Real World Experience18:43 Skills Beyond Degrees23:34 Mindset and Endurance in Life24:50 The Importance of Exercise and Community Engagement26:23 Bondi Surf Club: A Historical Perspective29:03 Architectural Challenges and Community Needs30:29 Tragedy and Community Resilience34:35 Navigating Feedback in Architecture36:59 The Art of Balancing Design and Functionality49:39 The Role of Community in Architecture55:54 Growing a Business in Architecture01:01:22 The Future of Architecture and Industry TrendsTune in for an honest conversation about architecture, resilience, and what it really takes to design with community at the centre.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#ArchitectureAustralia #BondiSurfClub #UrbanDesign #HeritageArchitecture #CommunityLedDesign #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #SydneyArchitecture #PeoplePlacePurpose #BuildingTalksPodcastThe Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA) and The Building and Construction Foundation. Check out their websites and join the movement!www.housingallaustralians.org.auhttps://www.buildingandconstructionfoundation.org.au/The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

December 22, 2025Episode 221 hr 45 min

Talking with Joey Hidalgo about Estimating, Offshoring, and the Power of Starting from Zero

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast, wrapping up Season 4 with a story that perfectly captures grit, growth, and what’s possible in construction when mindset meets opportunity.In this finale, I’m joined by Joey Hidalgo, founder of the TMC Academy and host of The Profitable Estimator Podcast. Joey moved from the Philippines to Australia with just $700, sending out 50 resumes a day before breaking into estimating and launching his own Estimating business. He shares how he built his career, the underestimated power of estimators, and why systems and mentorship matter more than ever. We also discuss how offshoring can solve skills shortages when done right and why Australia’s hiring mindset needs a serious rethink.Takeaways:✅ Building a career from scratch in a new country✅ Estimating as a critical (and overlooked) skill✅ Joey’s WPR framework: Win, Profit, Repeat✅ The offshoring debate: cheap labour or opportunity bridge?✅ Fixing the hiring mindset to focus on training, not perfectionChapters:05:23 Cultural Representation in Construction08:20 National Pride and Historical Context14:14 Career Path and Opportunities in Engineering17:03 Transitioning to Estimating in Australia23:54 Innovations in Estimating Processes29:57 Reflections on Diversity in Construction39:25 From Estimator to Entrepreneur42:55 Identifying the Skills Gap in Estimating45:40 The Challenge of Estimating in Construction51:39 Building a BPO for Estimators55:34 The Importance of Fair Compensation58:22 The SOT Framework for Successful Offshoring01:01:11 Building Trust and Communication in Remote Teams01:08:43 Developing Talent in the Construction Industry01:17:19 Finding the Right Fit: Training vs. Hiring01:27:43 Perceptions of the Australian Construction IndustryTune in for an inspiring, no-fluff chat about building a career from scratch, unlocking offshore potential, and why estimating deserves way more respect.Hope you enjoy the podcast!#ConstructionCareers #EstimatingMatters #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #TMCacademy #ProfitableEstimator #OffshoringInConstruction #SkilledMigration #MentorshipInConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #DiversityInConstruction The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:www.buildingenvirons.com.auProud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement! www.housingallaustralians.org.auThe views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.Contact The Building Talks PodcastFollow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and InstagramVisit us on our websiteEmail us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au