Not every good business needs to scale.

Some just need to care.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we sit down with Ryan O’Leary, a Bribie Island tiler known for his craftsmanship, straight talk, and unapologetic belief that “average is the enemy.”

Ryan shares what it really looks like to build a sustainable trade business without chasing size, volume, or hype — and why pride in the finished product still matters more than growth metrics.

We talk about:

• Why staying small and selective has worked better than scaling
• How culture, humour, and banter keep teams engaged long term
• The danger of rushing jobs just to stay busy
• What builders do that makes a trade’s job easier — or harder
• Why caring about details is as much about self-respect as it is quality

This is not a polished success story.

It’s an honest conversation about enjoying the work, backing your standards, and building a reputation that lasts — even if it means saying no to growth.

Who this episode is for:

Builders and trades who want to do great work, enjoy their days on site, and build a business that fits their life — not the other way around.

Builders don’t struggle because they lack skill.

They struggle because capacity gets stretched.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we sit down with Anisha and Nayan from Scale Up Smart to break down the five roles builders are most commonly delegating — and why those roles matter more than most realise.

Drawing on real data from builders across Australia, we unpack where time is actually being lost day to day, and how poor delegation quietly creates stress, errors, and stalled growth.

This conversation covers:

• Why estimating is often the first and most critical role to delegate
• How admin and drafting quietly drain momentum and headspace
• The real impact of weak customer service and communication on trust and reputation
• Why marketing and CRM systems fail when builders don’t have support
• How delegation isn’t about “outsourcing everything”, but protecting focus and cash flow

This episode is practical, grounded, and based on what builders are actually experiencing on the ground — not theory.

If you’re busy, capable, and still feeling stretched, this conversation will help you see what to let go of first so you can focus on building, leading, and growing sustainably.

Who this episode is for:

Residential builders who are busy, under pressure, and want to scale without burning out.

Thanks to this month's Podcast sponsor Pay.com.au, remember our audience gets 20,000 bonus points when you sign up.

USE code: GOOD20

T&C's apply go to pay.com.au/tgb

#TheGoodBuilder

#BuildingLeadership

#AustralianConstruction

#ResidentialBuilding

#HomeBuilding

#ConstructionIndustry

#BuilderLife

#HousingSupply

#IndustryLeadership

#ConstructionInsights

#BuiltEnvironment

#PropertyDevelopment

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az sits down with Will, founder of Core Painting, to unpack what it really means to raise standards in the trades — and why quality work alone is no longer enough.

From his early years learning the trade in Northern England to building one of the Sunshine Coast’s fastest-growing painting businesses, Will shares how discipline, preparation, and customer experience have shaped his approach to business. The conversation goes beyond painting, diving into leadership, team culture, accountability, and why service before, during, and after a job is what separates good operators from great ones.

Will explains how lessons learned from heritage restoration, family business, and hard-earned failures influenced his belief that trades are service businesses first — and how owning mistakes, respecting clients’ money, and communicating properly builds long-term trust with builders and homeowners alike.

This is an honest, grounded conversation about building teams people want to be part of, creating systems that scale without losing quality, and why the future of the construction industry depends on lifting standards across trades, not cutting corners.

A must-listen for builders, trades, and business owners who care about reputation, culture, and doing the job properly — every time.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron Ng sits down with Bruce Robb to unpack the essential ingredients for starting and strengthening a building business. From crafting a clear vision and mission to defining your unique selling proposition, Bruce outlines how to build with purpose, not just on site, but behind the scenes.

They dive into business models, customer journeys, financial strategies, brand development and how the right tech plan ties it all together. Whether you’re starting out or sharpening your systems, this conversation is a must-listen for builders who want to grow with clarity and consistency.

Key Takeaways:

• Why your vision should drive every business decision
• How to stand out with a real USP (not just ‘quality homes’)
• What a solid business model looks like in construction
• Why mapping the client experience gives you a competitive edge
• The role of tech and systems in running a smoother operation
• Why process matters as much as product

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Building Business Fundamentals

02:28 – Establishing Vision and Mission

05:33 – Understanding Unique Selling Proposition

08:25 – Developing a Business Model

11:46 – Mapping Customer Journey and Processes

14:35 – Creating a Financial and Brand Strategy

17:23 – Implementing Technology Plans

20:28 – Conclusion and Future Insights

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron sits down with Alan Brannick, founder of The New Home Electrical Specialist and one of the first partners to back The Good Builder. Alan shares how his team takes stress off builders by streamlining electrical planning, managing client interactions, and delivering smooth, efficient processes from start to finish.

From navigating feast-or-famine workloads with agility, to embedding communication as a core value, Alan explains why the builder experience matters just as much as the end product. He also opens up about his passion for apprenticeships, family culture in business, and what it means to be a “good builder” in today’s industry.

If you’re a builder looking to work smarter, foster better trade partnerships, and grow with people who genuinely care about client experience, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Before he was leading sales growth at Creation Homes, Tony Gall was courtside coaching Victorian state basketball teams and running junior development camps for Australia. That background in coaching and people development now underpins his leadership in the building industry, from his early days at AV Jennings, through years with Metricon, to helping scale one of Queensland’s fastest-growing builders.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Tony talks about the lessons he carried from sport into business: why the right team matters more than any individual star, how to recruit and coach salespeople for long-term results, and what he learned working inside some of the biggest and most respected names in Australian home building.

We also dive into display strategies, sales processes, and what it takes to create a culture that actually lasts in construction. For builders and business owners looking for practical insight into leadership, growth and building trust with clients, this episode is a playbook worth studying.

Australia’s building industry is caught in a squeeze — not enough tradies to hit ambitious housing targets, yet record immigration fuelling housing demand. In this week’s Monday Brief, we dig into the paradox and what it means for builders.

We’ll also break down:

• The latest Housing Accord approval numbers and what they signal for supply.
• Goop Guys’ 25th birthday at Australia Zoo and what their journey means for builders.
• Emerging construction technologies — hype vs help.
• Tony Gall’s leadership tip for site coaching.
• What’s coming up this week on The Good Builder, including the launch of our Business Directory.

Stay sharp, stay informed — this is your 10-minute kick-off for the week.

#TheGoodBuilder #ConstructionNews #HomeBuilding #Immigration #TradieShortage #HousingCrisis #SkilledTrades #HousingAccord #BuildingApprovals #FutureOfConstruction #ConstructionTechnology #BuilderTips #LeadershipInConstruction #AustralianBuilders #BuildingCommunity #GoopGuys

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we sit down with Candice, Queensland State Manager at Advanced Buildings & Restoration, to uncover a side of construction most never see.

From major weather events to meth labs, trauma clean-ups to fire restoration, Candice and her team show up when people are at their absolute worst, and help them rebuild.

Her story is powerful. From humble beginnings in South Africa to leading one of the most high-pressure teams in the building industry, Candice brings a rare blend of grit, heart, and humility to her role.

We talk about:

• What it really takes to lead through chaos
• Building trust with trades and clients after disaster
• How women are reshaping the building industry
• The culture she’s built — and why walking the floor matters
• What makes a good builder (hint: it’s not just the tools)

If you work in construction, leadership, or just want to hear what true resilience looks like — this is the episode for you.

🎧 Subscribe and listen now on Spotify, Apple or YouTube

What do stand-up comedy, gold medals in Jiu-Jitsu, and scaling one of Australia’s fastest-growing home builders have in common?

Alex Quirke.

In this episode, Az sits down with the high-performance enigma behind AVIA Homes’ explosive growth — and dives into the routines, mindset, and values that drive him. From civil construction to comedy nights, from raising his daughter as a single dad to helping AVIA deliver hundreds of homes a year — Alex shares how discipline, transparency, and a genuine love for people have shaped his journey.

We explore:

• His journey from civil sites to the sales floor
• How martial arts shaped his resilience
• What makes AVIA Homes different (and why the industry is watching)
• His take on leadership, integrity, and builder trust
• Why transparency — not tech — is AVIA’s real superpower

Whether you’re a builder, a business leader, or just someone looking to get more out of life — Alex’s story is one worth tuning in for.

🎧 Subscribe, listen and share.

🔗 https://thegoodbuilder.com.au/podcast

📲 @goodbuilder_au

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az breaks down the exact structure of a landing page that turns ad clicks into real enquiries.

Most builders are wasting money sending Google Ads or Facebook Ads traffic to their homepage. A proper landing page does one thing — converts.

You’ll learn:

• Why every landing page needs a single goal
• How to match your ad promise to your headline
• What to include above the fold for maximum impact
• The difference between features and benefits (and how to write them)
• How to use social proof to build trust fast
• The importance of mobile-first design and tracking
• Easy tools and AI prompts to build landing pages without a developer

Whether you’re running ads now or planning to, this episode gives you the blueprint to build landing pages that actually work.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az is joined by Anisha and Nayan from Scale Up Smart to unpack some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing Australia’s construction industry.

The conversation dives into the rise of modular building and why it’s becoming a serious solution for housing supply. They explore how outsourcing can help builders overcome labour shortages, improve estimating accuracy, and free up time for project management.

Anisha and Nayan share how Scale Up Smart partners with builders to provide specialised resources that support growth, efficiency, and resilience, all while helping avoid the burnout that too many in the industry face.

From shifting builder mindsets to the ripple effect of better business decisions, this is an episode packed with insights for anyone looking to run a smarter, more sustainable construction business.

Plus, Scale Up Smart are offering our community a 30-day free trial to see the benefits for yourself.

#TheGoodBuilder #ModularBuilding #ConstructionIndustry #Outsourcing #BuilderResources #ScaleUpSmart #BusinessEfficiency #Estimating #ProjectManagement #BuilderMindset

This week on The Good Builder Podcast, we’re breaking down the boldest moves in Aussie construction right now:

• WA’s five-week prefab homes – are they the future of faster, smarter building?
• The government’s new apprentice milestone payments – will they actually stop tradies walking off the tools?
• And the wild “spare bedroom tax” idea – yep, it was actually floated… and it’s copped a hiding on social media.

Plus, a shoutout to this week’s partner, Lauxes Grates, and a spotlight on Makayla, one of the rising stars of the building game and a force in the next generation of tradies. Her story’s live now at thegoodbuilder.com.au, go check it out.

This episode of The Good Builder Podcast is a story about hard yakka in every sense.

Jack from Yakka Solutions didn’t set out to be a recruiter. He started as a young footy player, labouring on sites between games, before taking a chance opportunity that changed his career. Years later, with his partner Tay by his side and their newborn son inspiring them, they took the leap and launched Yakka Solutions.

Two and a half years on, they’ve built a business grounded in trust, authenticity, and family values — helping builders find not just more people, but the right people.

We talk about:

• Why Jack believes recruitment is personal, not transactional
• How sport shaped his approach to business and leadership
• The hidden opportunities with immigration, apprenticeships, and regional talent
• Why authenticity matters more than polish in building lasting relationships

Jack’s story is one of graft, guts, and genuine care for the people he works with. If you want to hear what it looks like when family, footy, and construction come together to create a business that’s changing lives, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron Ng sits down with Brendan Welsh, founder of HavaChat, to unpack how real-world sales frustrations led to the creation of one of the most practical AI tools emerging in the construction and supplier space.

Brendan shares his journey from senior leadership roles in manufacturing and sales to building HavaChat from scratch, without a coding background. The conversation dives into why most salespeople hate admin, how poor follow-up damages relationships, and why technology should remove friction rather than add complexity.

They explore how simple tools can dramatically improve communication, note-taking, and accountability across sales teams, builders, and industry professionals who spend their days moving between meetings, sites, and conversations.

This episode also looks beyond the app itself, touching on where AI is heading in construction, why admin—not jobs—is the real target, and how builders and suppliers can start using technology to save time, improve client experience, and stay competitive.

A practical, honest conversation for builders, suppliers, and sales professionals who want less admin, better communication, and tools that actually fit how the industry works.

Land. It’s the one topic that builders, developers, and suppliers can’t stop talking about, and for good reason. Right now, access to land is the single biggest bottleneck shaping Australia’s housing market.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az is joined by Con from OpenLot, Queensland Manager for one of the country’s most powerful land insights platforms. Together they unpack:

• Why Queensland is facing record levels of demand but chronic undersupply of developable land.
• How builder–developers are emerging as a response to land scarcity.
• The hotspots to watch, from Logan and Narangba to the Scenic Rim and regional growth corridors.
• The critical role of data and insights in helping builders form relationships with developers and secure future land pipelines.
• How consumer behaviour has shifted post-COVID, and why interstate migration continues to fuel Queensland’s growth.

Con also shares a behind-the-scenes look at OpenLot’s unique platform, how it’s arming both consumers and industry with real-time land insights, and why their data is becoming “gold” for builders looking to stay ahead.

Whether you’re struggling to secure lots, trying to forecast demand, or simply want to understand the dynamics driving Australia’s housing supply, this episode is packed with insights that will help you navigate the toughest challenge in the industry right now.

In today’s episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az breaks down four of the biggest stories shaking up Australia’s home building industry:

• The Albanese Government’s decision to pause National Construction Code changes until 2029 — relief or just kicking the can?
• Why government charges now make up nearly half the cost of a new home, and what that means for affordability.
• Can AI really unclog the 26,000-home backlog in housing approvals — or is it more hype than help?
• WA launches its own Productivity Commission — will it deliver faster approvals and cut red tape?

Packed with builder perspectives, industry voices, and hard data, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating Australia’s housing and construction challenges.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az sits down with Conrad Gardner, a long-time leader at G.J. Gardner Homes and now driving growth across the United States. The two reflect on their shared history, the culture that shaped their careers, and the lessons Conrad has learned leading teams across Australia, New Zealand, and the U.S.

From the power of conferences and community to why culture is the “immune system” of a business, Conrad shares insights on leadership, humility, sustainability, and the future of home building. This raw, honest conversation unpacks daily disciplines, the importance of integrity, and what truly makes a good builder.

If you’re a builder, leader, or just someone passionate about raising the bar in construction, this episode will inspire you to rethink how you lead, support your team, and deliver great homes.

In today’s episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we’re diving into three under-the-radar platforms that could make a real difference to your building business. From booking billboards on demand with Caassie, to tapping into real conversations on Reddit’s AusRenovation board, to reaching new buyers through Facebook Marketplace...these are practical, low-cost tools you can start using today.

Whether you’re a builder, tradie, or supplier, you’ll walk away with ideas you can implement straight away to market smarter, build authority, and get in front of the right people.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az sits down with Sarah, Franchise Operations Manager at Goop Guys, to unpack one of the smartest...and most sustainable....business models in the construction game.

We dig into Sarah’s own journey from running a painting company to leading a fast-growing national franchise. You’ll hear how Goop Guys is helping builders across Australia protect surfaces during construction, reduce site damage costs, and tap into real sustainability.

We also talk franchising: how builders and tradies are launching profitable side businesses, the kind of support Goop Guys provides, and why now’s the time to expand into high-demand areas like WA and Tasmania.

Plus, hear about their upcoming 25-year celebration, the Dunga Rally fundraiser, and why Goop Guys might just be the smartest move for a builder looking to diversify.

🎧 Listen and Watch:

Spotify: The Good Builder Podcast

YouTube: Good Builder AU

Website: thegoodbuilder.com.au

In today’s episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we’re diving into what’s actually moving the needle for Aussie builders.

We kick things off with a look at how smart builders are improving margins without hiring more staff — by bringing in support where it counts, from estimating to admin, thanks to services like Scale Up Smart.

Then we head south to Victoria, where a new TAFE and Master Builders initiative could finally help fix the skills crisis. Plus, Queensland’s ‘Lay the Way’ bricklaying program is taking a boots-on approach to getting more tradies on-site — especially in the regions that need them most.

We wrap with a Brew with the Builder featuring Kai Oranshaw from the Sunshine Coast. He’s proving that craftsmanship isn’t dead — and that sometimes your best mentor is your competition.

Packed with insights, real talk and industry wins — this is one for builders who give a damn.

🎧 Links:

Listen on Spotify

Watch the clips on YouTube

Read the stories at thegoodbuilder.com.au

In this solo episode, Az flips the usual “business is war” narrative on its head and introduces a metaphor that builders, trades and suppliers will actually relate to, your business is a garden.

Inspired by a recent email from Ali Mamujee (The Moat), Az unpacks the powerful mindset shift builders need right now:

• Why rushing the harvest leads to burnout
• The importance of pruning — in your business and in life
• How to read the seasons of the construction market
• What it means to protect your ‘soil’ — your culture, your team, your reputation

With building approvals at decade lows and industry fatigue setting in, this is your reminder to step back, check the roots, and plant for the future.

Too many businesses think culture is Friday beers or the occasional team day. In reality, it’s the daily standards, the way leaders show up, and how teams handle mistakes.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron sits down with Dan from 1000 Feet Deep to unpack what real team building looks like in construction and beyond. From the “hand, head and heart” approach to psychological safety, unity, and accountability, Dan breaks down the foundations of culture that actually last.

Whether you’re a builder growing your first crew or a business owner running multiple teams, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways you can use straight away.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Most builders think tech means massive systems, big costs, and long rollouts. But the truth? A handful of simple tools can transform how you win work, manage clients, and stand out from the crowd.

In this Daily Dose, Az shares 5 practical tech ideas you can implement this week:

• AI customer service agents to handle client FAQs
• Live chat that boosts website leads by up to 40% (LiveChat Monitoring)
• Lead magnets around first home buyer schemes and land releases
• Virtual display homes that convert at 4x the rate of plans alone
• Display home kiosks that capture real-time feedback and fresh leads

No heavy lifting, no endless planning — just practical hacks to make your building business smarter and sharper.

👉 Tune in and try one of these this month. The results might surprise you.

Most people would’ve quit after a product fail that cost them eighty grand.

Kirstee and Shane doubled down.

They went from mixing batches in their garage to running a national franchise with global distributors — all while building a business that works around life, not the other way around.

My big takeaways:

• Stubborn wins – grit beats “perfect” every time.
• Lifestyle > hustle – their model gives franchisees flexibility and profit.
• Community counts – they don’t just make money; they put it back into local causes.
• Cut the divide – Kirstee’s women-in-construction take is pure common sense: stop segregating, start collaborating.

This isn’t just a business story. It’s a masterclass in how to keep swinging when the scoreboard’s against you.

Check them out: https://goopguys.com/

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron Ng breaks down what The Good Builder really is and, more importantly, how builders, trades, suppliers and industry partners can actually use it to get ahead.

With thousands of new followers and subscribers joining the community, this episode is a practical walk-through of how The Good Builder supports the industry through trusted journalism, builder stories, podcasts, video, events and the Community Directory.

Aaron shares why the platform was created, the problems it is trying to solve in a fragmented industry, and how both builders and suppliers can tap into education, exposure, partnerships and community without the hard sell.

If you have ever wondered how to get value from The Good Builder, this episode is for you.

This episode is proudly supported by New Home Electrical Specialist, 2025 Protrade Innovative Business of the Year and trusted partners of The Good Builder.

In today’s Daily Dose, we bring you three innovations shaking up the building industry.

First, Surpley — the online marketplace helping builders and tradies turn surplus materials into cash instead of landfill.

Second, the newest evolution of AI with ChatGPT-5, now faster, smarter, and able to work with plans, photos, and documents to save builders serious time.

And third, Google VEO3 — a next-level video intelligence tool that can scan, search, and summarise hours of site footage in seconds.

Whether you want to boost your efficiency, reduce waste, or keep a closer eye on your sites, these tools are worth a look.

For more industry news and insights, head to thegoodbuilder.com.au.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we’re serving up a triple-header that blends business grit, regional wins, and some exciting news from TGB HQ.

First up, a sneak peek at this Friday’s episode with Kirstee from Goop Guys. What started as a humble cleaning business on the Sunshine Coast turned into a revolutionary product idea, and then a nightmare $80,000 product failure that could have ended it all. Instead, Kirstee and her husband Shane doubled down, fixed the formula, and built a 25-year franchise empire with national reach and international distributors. Their story is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and building a business around the life you want.

Next, we head to South Australia’s Mid North for a $1 million housing boost in Port Pirie. Graycar Contractors have blown expectations out of the water, delivering more than double the housing lots required under Renewal SA’s Regional Housing Initiatives Program. With 10 key worker homes locked in and 42 new allotments, this project is set to strengthen the local workforce and supercharge the Balmoral Park Estate development — all in record time.

And finally, we’ve got two big announcements from The Good Builder:

• Our brand-new Video Offer for builders and suppliers who want their products or projects showcased in professional, on-site videos that get in front of thousands of industry eyes — without the boring corporate vibe.
• The soon-to-launch TGB Trade Directory, a national online hub where quality trades can connect with quality builders. Think of it as the matchmaking service the industry’s been crying out for — minus the awkward small talk.

Whether you’re here for the inspiration, the industry intel, or just a laugh at our analogies, this one’s packed with value.

Jasmyn and Logan have each spent a decade on the tools as electricians, often as the only women on site. Out of those experiences came The Go Company...a business creating practical on-site solutions for female tradies, building community through monthly catch-ups, and partnering with charities like TIACS to support mental health.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we talk about their early careers, the challenges they faced, the spark that started The Go Company, and why male allies are essential to progress for women in trades. This is a candid, practical conversation about making worksites better for everyone.

Listen in and become part of the conversation.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we explore three stories that prove our industry runs on relationships.

• Porsche Cup Race Day: How MyConstruct turned a day at the track into a masterclass in connection and gratitude.
• SkyRidge for Sale: The inside scoop on a once-in-a-generation Gold Coast development opportunity — and what it means for builders.
• The Silence After Handover: Why smart builders never disappear after the keys are handed over, and how to turn past clients into lifelong advocates.

Whether you’re chasing the next big project, nurturing client loyalty, or just looking for a fresh perspective, these stories connect the dots between opportunity, trust, and long-term success.

In this high-impact episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron sits down with industry favourite Anthony Kirby from BuildMentor to tackle one of the most misunderstood challenges in building businesses today: sales.

From in-house vs. contract sales teams to the power of pre-sales, AK shares frameworks, blueprints and punchy advice that every builder should hear — especially if you’re serious about growing, not just surviving.

Expect real-world strategies on hiring, training, and knowing when it’s time to level up. Plus, we break down the four types of salespeople you might already have (and how to know who’s worth keeping), and we call out the modern myth of viral marketing and vanity metrics.

If you’re a builder trying to scale, lead better, or just get more organised with your pipeline — this is a must-listen.

🎯 Key Topics:

• The tipping point in building companies
• Why ‘going all in’ beats dabbling every time
• Contract vs. in-house sales: what works in 2025
• How to warm leads before they hit the showroom
• The 4-question matrix to identify A-players
• Why your list is more important than your likes
• A powerful offer for builders looking to grow

🎧 Connect with Anthony and BuildMentor:

• Website: buildmentor.com.au
• LinkedIn: Anthony Kirby

This week on The Good Builder Podcast, we sit down with Makayla (aka Mak), Marketing Manager at Lauxes Grates, one of the most forward-thinking suppliers in Australia’s building industry.

Mac shares her journey from Reece showroom consultant to marketing lead at a business that’s not only growing fast, but doing it with heart, humour, and genuine connection.

We dive into:

• How Lauxes rewards its distributors with unforgettable experiences (hello, ski trips to Japan)
• What it means to build real relationships with builders and distributors — not just chase orders
• The power of customer service experience in shaping great marketing
• Why builders should be promoting functionality, not just features — especially with products like grates

Mak also gives us an inside scoop on new product innovation coming soon from the Lauxes team and shares what she thinks makes a great builder in 2025.

If you’re a supplier, builder, or just love a good yarn about building brands the right way — this episode’s for you.

🎧 Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

📺 Watch on YouTube

📰 More industry insights at thegoodbuilder.com.au

#TheGoodBuilder #LauxesGrates #ConstructionPodcast #BuildingBetter #SupplierStories #ConstructionMarketing #AussieBuilders #WomenInConstruction #ConstructionLife #BuilderPodcast

In today’s episode of The Daily Dose by Az at The Good Builder, we unpack four major stories shaping the building industry right now. First, Metricon has confirmed a serious ransomware attack by the international group Qilin, with sensitive data stolen and threatened for release. We explain what this means for builders, how phishing remains the weak point, and why every business needs a cybersecurity action plan. (If you haven’t done an audit, now’s the time, we recommend Tecoda, who work directly with Aussie builders.)

Next up, the MyConstruct Porsche, wrapped in Lightning McQueen livery, returned to the track at Queensland Raceway. But it’s more than motorsport. It’s a clever campaign that links construction tech to performance and visibility. Builders using MyConstruct aren’t just seeing their software work hard, they’re watching it race. Learn more at myconstruct.com.au.

In policy news, Queensland’s Boost to Buy scheme has already drawn over 11,000 expressions of interest. With a 2% deposit now enough to enter the market, builders should be preparing stock, systems, and broker partnerships now to ride the next wave of buyer demand.

And finally, new data from Longview reveals that real capital growth is coming from land — not location. We dig into the suburbs outperforming due to block size and zoning flexibility, and what that means for knockdown-rebuild strategies in outer rings.

Plus, your daily builder tip....

Check it out and don't forget to like and subscribe!

External Links:

• Cybersecurity guidance and audits for builders: https://www.tecoda.com.au
• Construction tech and site software: https://www.myconstruct.com.au

Az sits down with leadership coach Daniel Urquhart to unpack why trust matters more than ever in the building industry. From internal team culture to client relationships, they explore the habits of high-trust businesses, the danger of covering up mistakes, and why good leadership starts with “upstream thinking.” Builders who want to lead better and build stronger teams will get plenty from this conversation.

#TheGoodBuilder #ConstructionLeadership #BuilderTrust #TeamCulture #BuildingIndustry #LeadershipMatters #BuilderPodcast #ResidentialConstruction #BuildingBetter #HighTrustTeams

Duayne isn’t just building homes, he’s building a movement. In this powerful episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Duayne opens up about the personal struggles that reshaped his business, his mission to create healthier homes (not just buzzwords), and why he believes small builders are the key to fixing Australia’s housing crisis.

We talk about the mould behind the plasterboard, the myth of Passive House, the toxic trap of volume building, and how Duayne’s Live Life Build community is changing the lives of hundreds of builders by helping them run better businesses and become better humans.

This is one for the builders doing the hard yards and the suppliers who want to help them build a better future.

Jared from Redkem Constructions isn’t just building quality homes, he’s fixing one of the building industry’s biggest pain points: quoting jobs that go nowhere.

In this episode, Jared joins Az to unpack his journey from 15-year-old apprentice to business owner and tech founder, and how his platform Before You Build is helping builders and clients get real about budget before the plans even begin.

They dive into:

• Why quoting without qualifying is killing builder productivity
• The rise of healthy, high-performance homes (including Jared’s first 10-star build)
• How Before You Build went from side project to software used by thousands — and how builders are now embedding it directly on their websites to generate qualified leads daily

This episode is packed with gold for any builder who’s serious about getting their time back, building smarter, and growing with the right clients.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we take a step back and look at the real forces shaping life for builders as 2026 gets underway — not just what’s happening on site, but what’s happening around the industry that quietly stacks pressure on businesses every day.

We unpack three key stories that, when viewed together, explain why building can feel harder than it should right now.

First, we explore the growing trust gap in housing, sparked by renewed backlash over misleading property marketing. While the criticism is aimed at listings and agents, builders are often left carrying the fallout, managing heightened expectations, sceptical clients, and tension that starts long before construction begins.

👉 Read the full article:

https://thegoodbuilder.com.au/misleading-listing-images-spark-renewed-calls-for-tighter-regulation-in-real-estate-marketing/

We then turn to the industry’s call for a $12 billion cut in red tape, and what stalled productivity actually looks like on the ground. From duplicated approvals to inconsistent council processes and rising holding costs, this is a story about uncertainty, not just compliance — and why smaller and mid-sized builders feel it the most.

👉 Read the full article:

https://thegoodbuilder.com.au/housing-industry-calls-for-12-billion-cut-to-red-tape-as-productivity-stalls/

Finally, we look at a rare example of long-term certainty being done properly, with South Australia releasing six regional plans that map housing, land use and infrastructure over the next 15 to 30 years. For builders, suppliers and trades, this is a clear signal about where future work will sit, what types of homes will be needed, and how growth is expected to occur — not reactively, but deliberately.

👉 Read the full article:

https://thegoodbuilder.com.au/south-australia-sets-a-30-year-blueprint-for-regional-growth/

This episode is about connecting the dots between trust, regulation and planning — and why builders who understand the bigger picture are better placed to protect margins, manage expectations, and build more resilient businesses over the long term.

Less noise. More clarity. Conversations that actually help.

In today’s Daily Dose, Az breaks down three major land plays that could reshape housing across Australia:

• Jacka (ACT): Canberra’s second all-electric suburb leads with sustainability, space, and community-first planning.
• Mount Peter (QLD): Now a Priority Development Area, this Cairns corridor is unlocking 18,500 new homes.
• Lismore (NSW): A fresh start with 400 flood-free homes backed by the Resilient Lands Program.

Each story includes takeaways for builders and a question to help you think more strategically about how you build, where you grow, and who you serve.

Also in this episode: a quick tip on how to map future land opportunities using council and state planning tools.

In today’s episode of The Daily Dose by The Good Builder, we dive deep into two conversations every builder needs to hear:

First up, business mentor and ex-builder Dan Urquhart joins us to call out a hard truth: most builders are stuck in the grind, confusing constant motion with actual progress. Dan shares the mindset shift that changed everything for him — from managing maintenance issues himself to stepping into true leadership. We talk time management, non-negotiables, and why your “busy badge” might be costing your business more than you think.

Then, we switch gears to explore one of the most unexpected success stories in construction product branding: Lauxes Grates. What started as a stainless-steel floor drain is now a featured design element in luxury bathrooms. General Manager Brendan unpacks how bold branding, cheeky confidence, and a laser focus on educating the market turned a forgotten product into a hero feature. It’s a masterclass in detail, differentiation, and design thinking — and it’s packed with takeaways for builders and suppliers alike.

If you’re serious about leading a better building business — and delivering smarter, sharper results — this episode is for you.

In today’s Daily Dose from The Good Builder, we dive into two game-changing topics: why smart builder–developer partnerships could be your biggest growth lever over the next 12 months, and what Aussie builders can learn from New Zealand’s bold new take on compliance. Plus, a practical client communication tip to prevent costly misunderstandings on site.

Brought to you by Az and the team at TGB. Tune in, take notes, and take action.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, host Az sits down with Brendon, General Manager at Lauxes Grates, to unpack what it takes to build high-performing teams in today’s construction industry. From his early days at Neumann Steel to leading one of the sector’s most innovative businesses, Brendan shares insights on leadership, the role of communication in creating strong partnerships, and why mental health needs to be part of every workplace conversation.

We dive into the strategies Lauxes Grates is using to drive growth, foster a positive culture, and stay ahead through innovation. Whether you’re a builder, supplier, or industry leader, this episode delivers actionable takeaways on culture, collaboration, and competitiveness.

Key themes:

✔ Building and leading effective teams

✔ How regular communication drives accountability

✔ Creating a culture that prioritises mental health

✔ Why innovation is key to staying relevant

✔ The future growth vision for Lauxes Grates

Listen now to gain fresh insights that can help you lead with impact and elevate your business.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az sits down with Toby from BuiltGrid – a platform that’s making life easier for builders and suppliers by cutting admin, streamlining procurement, and unlocking new opportunities for work.

We dive into:

✅ Why efficiency is the key to unlocking industry capacity

✅ The real cost of scope gaps and how to fix them

✅ How tech adoption is shaping the future of small-to-medium builders

✅ Integrations that matter: BuildGrid + your favourite software

✅ Why collaboration – not competition – is the new edge for builders

If you’re a builder, trade, or supplier looking to boost efficiency, reduce waste, and stay ahead in a two-speed economy, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now and discover practical insights you can use in your business today.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we unpack three big stories shaping Australia’s home building industry:

1. Queensland’s $300 Million Activation Fund – Where the money is going, which regions stand to benefit, and what it means for builders looking to secure future projects.
2. The Multi-Generational Living Movement – Why one in five Australians now live in multi-gen households, and how builders can adapt their designs to meet this surging demand.
3. Unlocking Greenfield Potential – How coordinated infrastructure planning could be the key to solving Queensland’s land supply challenge and what builders should do to prepare.

If you’re a builder looking for real opportunities in a changing market, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

What does it really take to create a culture where everyone thrives in construction? In this episode, Az sits down with industry leader and advocate Kim Allen to talk about building a stronger, more inclusive industry. From practical steps builders can take to welcome women into the trade, to why culture matters more than any marketing strategy, Kim shares honest insights and actionable tips.

We also cover her work with the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries, the challenges of leadership, and how small shifts can create monumental change in your business.

If you’re a builder serious about growth, culture, and the future of our industry, this is a must-listen.

Most builders confuse busyness with progress—but is your time really moving the needle? In this episode, Az sits down with leadership coach Dan Urquhart to unpack why so many business owners get trapped in the daily grind, what it really means to aim high, and how to define success beyond the next job.

From shifting your mindset from worker to leader, to understanding the importance of core purpose and time as your most valuable resource, Dan shares practical strategies that every builder needs to hear. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin, stuck in the weeds, or unsure what to say “yes” to, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to lead your business forward.

We also dive into:

• Why setting clear non-negotiables changes everything.
• The difference between activity and impact in your workweek.
• How defining success holistically—across finances, family, health, and lifestyle—can stop burnout before it starts.

This is one of those conversations you’ll want to revisit anytime the noise gets loud.

In this special episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Az takes a break from design trends and industry news to shine a light on the heart of our sector — the people and initiatives making a real difference. From Goop Guys rallying for local families through the iconic Dunga Rally, to Avia Homes’ Charity Golf Day raising awareness for TIACS and mental health, and Rise Construction’s powerful stand against bullying with their Rise Up movement — this episode is all about community, courage, and giving back.

Tune in to hear why these stories matter, how you can get involved, and why the building industry is about so much more than bricks and mortar.

🔗 Read the full stories and support these initiatives at thegoodbuilder.com.au

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we tackle three stories that are stirring up conversations across Australia’s building industry.

First up: NSW has launched its bold Housing Pattern Book, offering architect-designed plans for just $1. These designs promise faster approvals, reduced costs, and streamlined processes—but is this innovation the answer to housing affordability, or does it risk turning our suburbs into cookie-cutter estates? We unpack the opportunities, the challenges, and what this means for builders, architects, and homeowners.

Next: Forget your typical house-and-land package—what about owning a 500-hectare island? That’s right. Keswick Island, off the coast of Mackay, is on the market, complete with its own ferry and barge. Is this a developer’s dream or a logistical nightmare? We take a look at why this listing is creating buzz and what it says about the state of land availability in Australia.

Finally: A quick tip that could make a real difference to your business—why Google Ads might be the easiest marketing move for builders right now. We explain why search intent matters, how local targeting works, and why even a small budget can deliver big results.

Packed with insights, ideas, and a dash of humour, this episode is a must-listen for builders, tradies, suppliers, and anyone passionate about the future of home building in Australia.

For more news and resources, visit thegoodbuilder.com.au.

On this Australia Day episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron Ng breaks down three of the most effective marketing campaigns he has personally been involved in across Australia and New Zealand — not because they looked clever, but because they genuinely worked.

From G.J. Gardner Homes’ Most Trusted campaign, to Avondale Homes’ Open Homes Under Construction, and Stonewood Homes’ The House New Zealand Built, this episode unpacks what made these campaigns successful and why trust, positioning and real customer insight matter more than flashy ads or quick leads.

Aaron explains how each campaign helped builders earn trust, attract the right clients, and create long-term brand value — and why builders should stop chasing tactics and start building credibility instead.

For members of The Good Builder Community Directory, a deeper “how-to” breakdown and resources are available. For everyone else, this episode delivers the principles you can apply immediately in your own building business.

If you want marketing that delivers real outcomes, not just noise, this one’s for you.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we unpack why client experience is one of the biggest drivers of reputation and referrals in the building game.

Az shares:

✅ Why poor client experience costs builders more than they think

✅ The exact framework inside The Client Experience Blueprint

✅ How proactive communication can protect your brand and boost referrals

✅ Simple scripts and questions to ask at three key stages

Plus, Az reveals the strategy that helped G.J. Gardner become one of the most trusted builders...and how you can use it to grow your own building business.

📥 Download the free guide here: https://thegoodbuilder.com.au/customer-experience-download/

This week on The Good Builder Podcast, we’re talking about three standout moments shaping our industry right now:

1. RISE Construction’s 100th Bi-Ax Slab – why this milestone was more than concrete, and what true collaboration looks like on site.
2. The $15K House Revival with Craig Stewart – a removal home that’s getting a new lease on life, and the clever strategies making it possible.
3. Avia Homes Golf Day – the fastest-growing builder in Queensland putting mental health front and centre with TIACS and Trademutt.

Plus, a quick update on our Gold Coast Titans jersey raffle in support of mental health. Don’t miss this episode packed with insights, shout-outs, and plenty of inspiration for the good builders out there.

🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more industry stories at thegoodbuilder.com.au

The average new home in Australia wastes over $19,000 in building materials. And over the next five years, the industry could dump up to $64 billion worth of unused product.

In this episode, we unpack the Australia’s Waste[d] Opportunity 2025 report — and what it means for residential builders.

Az walks through the findings, from over-ordering and damaged goods to the illusion of recycling and the true business case for waste reduction. If you’re a builder looking to sharpen your operations, run cleaner sites, and protect your margins — this is 10 minutes well spent.

Key topics:

• The top materials being wasted
• How much waste you’re likely generating per job
• Why recycling stats don’t tell the full story
• 6 practical steps to cut waste and lift your margins

A clean site isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a competitive edge.

Listen now — and start turning your bin into better margins.