Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The HODCAST - Building Conversations
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Why Social Media Thrives on Division | Charles Arthur | Conversation #43 | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:53:20 | |
Why does social media feel more hostile, divided, and polarised than ever? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Charles Arthur explores how social media platforms shape behaviour and why division is not an accident, but a by product of how these systems are designed. Charles Arthur is an experienced journalist and author, best known for his work covering technology and its impact on society. As the former technology editor at The Guardian and the author of Social Warming, he brings a rare combination of technical understanding and social insight. We discuss • How social media platforms reward outrage and conflict • Why nuance struggles to survive online • The psychological effects of algorithm driven content • What Social Warming reveals about our digital habits • How awareness can reduce the pull of tribal thinking This is a calm, thoughtful conversation for anyone who wants to better understand the forces shaping online behaviour and public debate. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #CharlesArthur #SocialWarming #SocialMedia #Technology #Polarisation #DigitalWellbeing #TogetherWeCan Buy Charles' Book Social Warming - https://amzn.eu/d/0aM2i0lI Read Charles' Blog The Overspill - https://theoverspill.blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why Construction Needs a Motorsport Mindset | George Blundell | Conversation 42 | 03 Feb 2026 | 01:03:51 | |
How can lessons from motorsport improve the way we build? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, George Blundell, Managing Director of Explore Modular, shares how racing shaped his thinking around precision, preparation and performance. We talk about • Why by working together we achieve more • Parallels between motorsport and modular construction • Leadership under pressure • What construction can learn from high performance industries A grounded conversation about quality, consistency and the future of building. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #GeorgeBlundell #ExploreModular #MMC #ModularConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The One Marketing Strategy Construction Has Been Missing | Jill Willis Conversation #33 | 02 Dec 2025 | 01:01:54 | |
How do you attract people who are not ready to buy, commit or make a decision? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Jill Willis, Founder of Attract & Engage, explains why the answer lies in stronger storytelling, better communication and a clearer understanding of the 95 percent who are not yet ready to take action. We talk about: A thought provoking conversation for leaders, educators and anyone shaping the future of the industry. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #JillWillis #ConstructionMarketing #Storytelling #SkillsGap #FutureWorkforce #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Climbing Out of Darkness | Logan Price | Conversation #32 | 25 Nov 2025 | 01:07:52 | |
What happens when someone hits rock bottom and chooses to climb their way back up? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Logan Price, Degree Apprentice, Mental Health Ambassador and advocate for innovation and sustainability in construction, opens up about his journey through mental health struggles and recovery. We explore:
A powerful conversation about resilience, hope and finding purpose through pain. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #LoganPrice #MentalHealth #SuicideAwareness #Construction #Inspiration #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| From Apprentice to Director: What Construction Needs Next | Mark Imray | Conversation #31 | 18 Nov 2025 | 01:02:12 | |
This week Sam La Roche talks with Mark Imray about the real state of UK construction. Mark started as an apprentice and worked his way up to construction director and beyond, giving him a lifetime of insight into how the industry works. They explore what the sector needs in 2025, why mentoring matters, what apprentices are facing on site and how strong leaders can shape the future. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Bleak Truth and How We Fix It | Andy Stevens | Conversation #30 | 11 Nov 2025 | 01:13:20 | |
Why is the construction industry struggling to attract and keep people, and what can we do to fix it? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Andy Stevens, founder of The Build Network UK, talks openly about the challenges that are stopping people from joining the industry and what needs to change. We cover: This is an honest conversation about the future of construction and the people trying to make it better. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #AndyStevens #BuildNetworkUK #Construction #Recruitment #SkillsGap #Leadership #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Failure Builds Success in Construction | Nick Brasier | Conversation #29 | 04 Nov 2025 | 01:03:06 | |
Can failure be the foundation for future success? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Nick Brasier, Construction Director at Stonebond, shares how the lessons learned through failure have shaped his leadership and approach to building teams in construction. We talk about: A powerful and honest conversation about leadership, learning and the value of failure in building better people and projects. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #NickBrasier #Stonebond #Construction #Leadership #Failure #Success #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Building Communities and Careers that Last | Darren Rodwell | Conversation #28 | 28 Oct 2025 | 01:19:25 | |
What does true regeneration look like beyond the headlines? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Darren Rodwell, former Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, shares his perspective on leadership, housing, and creating opportunity in one of London’s most ambitious boroughs. We talk about:🏙️ The real challenges of regeneration and renewal💬 Balancing housing growth with community needs👷 Why construction and councils must work together🌍 What it takes to deliver lasting change for local people An honest and inspiring look at leadership, regeneration and the future of local communities. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #DarrenRodwell #BarkingAndDagenham #Leadership #Regeneration #Housing #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Future of Training Starts with Investment | Christian Hatherall-Good | Conversation #27 | 21 Oct 2025 | 01:04:37 | |
What does the construction industry really need to attract more people? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Christian Hatherall-Good of The Lee Marley Group shares his insight on the power of training, what draws people into the trade, and why investment is the key to solving the skills gap. We talk about: A grounded and forward-thinking conversation about people, opportunity and progress. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #ChristianHatherallGood #Construction #Training #Investment #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What It’s Really Like Being a Woman on Site | Tegan Pryor – Conversation #26 | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:30:51 | |
What’s it like starting out as a young woman in one of the most male-dominated industries in the world? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Tegan Pryor, NVQ Level 2 Bricklayer at GSQ Brickwork Ltd, shares her journey from apprentice to fully qualified bricklayer. We explore: A raw and honest conversation about training, resilience and challenging perceptions in construction. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #TeganPryor #WomenInConstruction #Bricklaying #Apprenticeships #Training #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Accident That Changed Everything | Justin Manley | Conversation #25 | 07 Oct 2025 | 01:19:32 | |
When a life-changing accident forces you to stop, you see the industry differently. In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Justin Manley talks about his journey in construction, the accident that changed everything, and how it shaped his views on training, mentorship and the skills gap. We talk about: An honest, grounded conversation about growth, purpose and what it means to truly build people. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #JustinManley #Construction #SkillsGap #Resilience #Training #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Training the Next Generation of Bricklayers | Bill Guiver | Conversation #24 | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:43:53 | |
How do we give apprentices the tools, patience and guidance they need to succeed in construction? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Bill Guiver, Training Manager at GSQ Brickwork Ltd and an integral part of Site Ready Solutions, shares his journey from apprentice to trainer and what he has learned across three decades in the trade. Bill talks about: 👷 The changes in training from the 1980s to today📉 The construction skills gap and how to bridge it💬 Why apprentices need patience and understanding to grow into value This is a grounded, practical conversation about what training really looks like on the ground. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #BillGuiver #Bricklaying #ConstructionTraining #Apprenticeships #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Marketing, AI and Building a Legacy | Clare Friel | Conversation #41 | 27 Jan 2026 | 01:03:03 | |
In this episode of The Hodcast, I am joined by Clare Friel, Managing Director of Friel Marketing, for a wide-ranging conversation about marketing, AI, leadership, and legacy in a digital and construction-led world. We talk about how people and businesses really behave online, not how they intend to. Clare shares her perspective on authenticity without virtue signalling, how leaders should decide when to speak publicly and when to stay quiet, and why clarity and standards matter more than ever as AI reshapes how work is done. We also explore women in construction and leadership. What is still misunderstood, the pressure that comes with visibility, and why real cultural change only happens when behaviour changes, not when policies are written. The conversation then moves into performance and growth. How do you define high performance when metrics are easy to track but meaning is harder to measure? How do you balance pace with depth in a world that rewards immediacy? And what responsibility comes with having a voice when digital footprints last far longer than intentions? We close by stepping back from careers and platforms to ask the deeper question. When titles and metrics are stripped away, what does a good life actually look like, and what is non-negotiable if you want to avoid the regrets of the living? The Hodcast is a podcast about the work of becoming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Apprentices, Construction Culture and The Future of the Industry | Dan Carey – Conversation #23 | 23 Sep 2025 | 01:19:06 | |
Apprenticeships are the foundation of construction, but are we giving them the respect and support they deserve? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Dan Carey, Director of Core4 and host of Hard Hat Chat, shares his insights on: Packed with straight-talking insights from one of the industry’s most passionate voices, this conversation is for anyone who cares about the future of construction. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #DanCarey #Core4 #HardHatChat #Construction #Apprenticeships #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What Social Value Really Looks Like in Construction | Helen Clements – Conversation #22 | 16 Sep 2025 | 01:09:25 | |
What does social value mean beyond the paperwork? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Helen Clements, Social Value Lead at Morgan Sindall, talks about what it looks like in practice on building sites. We cover: This is about people, purpose and building an industry that serves everyone. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #HelenClements #Construction #SocialValue #DiversityInConstruction #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Learners Can Bring Value On Day One | Jack Dawson | Conversation #21 | 09 Sep 2025 | 01:05:57 | |
What can industry and education learn from each other? In Part 2 of The Hodcast with Jack Dawson, Co-Founder of SuperTrowel and Programme Manager at Hertford Regional College, host Sam La Roche dives into his story. Jack shares his journey into bricklaying, why he chose to teach, and his thoughts on how to bring colleges and the construction industry closer together. This is about building skills, passing on knowledge, and giving apprentices the best possible start in the trade. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #JackDawson #Construction #Education #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Jack Dawson on SuperTrowel 2025 | Conversation #20 | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:40:06 | |
The SuperTrowel 2025 final caused more noise than any competition before it. Now, Jack Dawson, Co-Founder of SuperTrowel, joins The Hodcast with host Sam La Roche to share his side of the story. In this conversation we cover:🔥 How SuperTrowel became the most talked-about competition in the trade💬 The truth about the 2025 final and the controversy surrounding it👷 What comes next for bricklaying competitions and apprentices in the UK If you have seen the headlines or the comments online, this is the full story behind them. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #SuperTrowel #JackDawson #Bricklaying #Construction #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Who Should Build Basildon? | Jessica Power – Conversation 19 | 26 Aug 2025 | 01:11:22 | |
When it comes to regeneration, who should take the lead in building Basildon? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Cllr Jessica Power, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Jobs and Skills and Social Value Manager for Skanska, talks about her belief that regeneration must start with the community itself. She shares what “Basildon, building Basildon” really means, why social value matters, and how change can be lasting when local people are the ones building it. This is a story of service, community, and leadership rooted in place. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #JessicaPower #Basildon #Community #Regeneration #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why Money Loses Meaning – Justin Walton – Conversation #18 | 19 Aug 2025 | 01:09:20 | |
When the numbers grow but the meaning fades — what’s left? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Justin Walton opens up about his journey from financial success to finding deeper fulfilment. We talk about money, mindset, and why purpose matters more than profit. If you’ve ever asked yourself “What’s all this for?” — this conversation is for you. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Hope in Human Form - Jenny Ibarra - Conversation #17 | 12 Aug 2025 | 01:04:14 | |
From rural Spain to the streets of Basildon — Jenny Ibarra has made service her mission. In this heartfelt episode of The HODCAST, Jenny opens up about her journey into community work, her role at Signpost Basildon, and the real stories behind the systems we don’t often see. This is about more than support services, it’s about human connection, trust, and the quiet heroes who fight for people when nobody’s watching. 🎙️ Hosted by Sam La Roche Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| From the Army to Bricklaying and Back from the Brink | Steve Murphy – Conversation #16 | 05 Aug 2025 | 01:04:19 | |
Steve Murphy is the definition of resilience. From a disciplined start in the military to building one of the UK’s best bricklaying subcontractors, Steve’s story took an unexpected turn with a devastating cancer diagnosis and the collapse of his business. In this episode of The HODCAST, hosted by Sam La Roche, Steve shares how he kept going, what cancer taught him, and how laughter and loyalty kept him afloat when life got dark. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How to Lead With Heart in a Divided World – Miriam Chalkley – Conversation #15 | 29 Jul 2025 | 01:22:48 | |
What does it take to build a truly inclusive community? In this episode of The HODCAST, host Sam La Roche speaks with Miriam Chalkley, founder of FLEX Community, about how her personal experiences of exclusion inspired her to create space for others. Together, they explore: A must-listen for leaders, changemakers, and anyone passionate about building a better, more welcoming future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Redemption, Mentorship & the 21up Movement - Perry Blake - Conversation #14 | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:59:31 | |
Perry Blake was written off — until he picked up the pen and rewrote his story. After a childhood marked by trauma and time behind bars, Perry could’ve given up. Instead, he built the 21up Movement, mentoring young people through music, mindset, and real-life experience. In this deeply personal Hodcast conversation, Perry opens up about the road he took — and why he’s so committed to helping others avoid it. 🎙 Hosted by Sam La Roche🔊 Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions & Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #PerryBlake #21upMovement #TogetherWeCan #MentorshipMatters #RedemptionStory #YouthEmpowerment #PodcastUK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why the Military Is Construction’s Most Untapped Talent Pool | Will Draper | Conversation #40 | 20 Jan 2026 | 01:06:25 | |
Why is construction overlooking one of the most skilled and disciplined talent pools available? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Will Draper, founder of Military to Masonry, explains why ex military personnel are ideally suited to construction and how better pathways could transform both the industry and the lives of service leavers. We talk about• The transferable skills veterans bring to construction• The realities of transitioning out of the military• How Military to Masonry creates clear routes into the trade• What construction employers need to understand• Why purpose, structure and teamwork matter after service A thoughtful and practical conversation about recruitment, responsibility and building a workforce that values experience and character. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #WillDraper #MilitaryToMasonry #Veterans #ConstructionCareers #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Changing Futures from the Ground Up - Loren Janes - Conversation #13 | 15 Jul 2025 | 01:02:28 | |
Loren Janes isn’t just an educator , she’s a builder of second chances. In this emotional and inspiring episode of The Hodcast, Loren opens up about founding Changing Futures, why she had to write her own learning materials, and how leading with heart can break cycles that textbooks never will. This is a conversation about purpose, perseverance, and rewriting what’s possible. 🎙 Hosted by Sam La Roche #TheHodcast #LorenJanes #ConversationsWorthHaving #ChangingFutures #TogetherWeCan #LeadershipWithHeart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Go from Apprentice to £100 Million CEO - Lee Marley - Conversation #12 | 08 Jul 2025 | 01:12:15 | |
Lee Marley went from apprentice to founder of one of the UK’s biggest brickwork companies — a business now worth over £100 million. In this episode of The Hodcast, he shares the story behind that growth, and why people, passion, and purpose are just as important as profit. For anyone chasing long-term success — this conversation delivers. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why Bricklaying Still Means Everything to Me - Greeny - Conversation #11 | 01 Jul 2025 | 01:08:55 | |
Greeny is a legend in the world of bricklaying — but what sets him apart isn’t just his skill. In this episode of The Hodcast, Greeny opens up about why he still loves the job, why training the next generation matters so much, and how bricklaying became more than a career — it became his purpose. This one’s full of heart, honesty, and straight-up wisdom. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Raising Standards, Apprentices & the Future of Bricklaying - Charlie Thorp - Conversation #10 | 24 Jun 2025 | 01:39:10 | |
Charlie Thorp has trained, assessed, and inspired thousands of bricklayers — and in this episode of The Hodcast, he opens up like never before. Now retired from FE and working as an End Point Assessor for City & Guilds, Charlie shares his view on what’s working, what’s broken, and how we make sure the next generation of apprentices get the training — and belief — they deserve. We cover: This is a story of standards, structure, and giving people a chance to succeed the right way. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Rebuilding Architecture, Culture & the Future of Construction - James Collinson - Conversation #9 | 17 Jun 2025 | 01:06:56 | |
James Collinson, MD of Design Spec, believes architecture has lost its way — and it’s time to rebuild from the ground up. In this episode of The Hodcast, James opens up about what’s broken in the design process, how better collaboration could transform construction, and how mergers and acquisitions can actually help the older generation pass on their businesses, skills, and knowledge to the next. We talk about: If you're thinking about the future of the industry — this is the conversation. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “Architecture was fundamentally broken - from top to bottom.” James Collinson doesn't hold back! | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:00:50 | |
From design failures to leadership flaws, this conversation gets to the root of what’s really going wrong — and what we can do about it. 👀 Get a sneak peek of what’s coming. #TheHodcast #SpotifyPodcast #JamesCollinson #ArchitectureTruths #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #PodcastTrailer #ConversationsWorthHaving #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Addiction, Court Battles & Building a New Life - Lee Fuller - Conversation #8 | 27 May 2025 | 01:09:20 | |
Lee Fuller’s journey is one of the most powerful we’ve heard on The Hodcast. From addiction and courtrooms to life on-site and eventually running his own media business, Lee shares what it really takes to turn your life around — and why he’s now helping others do the same. We talk about fatherhood, failure, second chances, and building a brand from the ground up. If you’ve ever felt stuck — this is the episode you need. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Truth About Apprenticeships, Training & What Needs to Change - Bob Noseda - Conversation #7 | 20 May 2025 | 01:26:24 | |
Bob Noseda has spent decades shaping the UK’s construction training landscape — but in this episode, he opens up like never before. We talk honestly about: Bob’s message is clear: if we want better outcomes for young people, we need to rebuild the system from the ground up. This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in training, education, construction — or anyone who believes in building a better future. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Crisis No One Is Talking About: Schools, Mental Health & the Trades - Gary Stringer - Conversation #6 | 13 May 2025 | 01:26:12 | |
There’s a crisis unfolding in our classrooms and workplaces — and it’s time we talked about it. In this episode of The Hodcast, Gary Stringer shares his powerful perspective on why the education system is letting young people down, how mental health is being ignored, and why construction could be the answer to rebuilding futures. We cover: If you care about young people, leadership, and building a better future — this one’s for you. #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What Happens When You Let Girls Build? With FA Coach of the Year - Varsha Patel - Conversation #5 | 06 May 2025 | 01:10:32 | |
Varsha Patel is FA Essex Coach of the Year 2024 and founder of #GirlsCanBuild — a movement proving that girls can lead, build, and break barriers on and off the pitch. In this inspiring episode of The Hodcast, Varsha shares how she’s changing lives through grassroots football and construction, coaching under-10s girls with purpose and power. We talk about: This episode is for anyone passionate about youth empowerment, women in leadership, and the future of sport and construction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How to Unlock the Alcohol Free Advantage | Andy Ramage | Conversation #39 | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:55:59 | |
Exclusive for Hodcast listeners! www.authenticbrew.com Our listeners gets a 10% discount throughout January if they use ‘AR10’ at checkout!For more from Andy Ramage go to the links below! www.andyramage.com www.coachbusiness.school What if high performance is not about doing more, but removing what is holding you back? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Andy Ramage shares how taking a break from alcohol can improve sleep, clarity, relationships and overall performance in everyday life. This is not about perfection or elite sport. It is about practical changes that help normal people feel better, think clearer and live with more intention. We explore A thoughtful and accessible conversation for anyone curious about improving their health, focus and quality of life. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #AndyRamage #AlcoholFree #Wellbeing #Sleep #Performance #Lifestyle #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Brutal Truth About Construction Life- Terry Farnham - Conversation #4 | 29 Apr 2025 | 01:12:47 | |
This week on The Hodcast, Terry Farnham pulls no punches. If you’ve ever been on site, managed a crew, or just wondered what the building game is really like behind the scenes, this is the episode for you. 🎙️ New episodes every Tuesday at 6am. Follow The Hodcast for more honest conversations from inside the industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Bricklayer Who Didn’t Want the Job and Now He’s Leading the Way - Tony Humphreys - Conversation #3 | 22 Apr 2025 | 01:10:43 | |
Tony Humphreys: Didn’t Want the Job… Now He Runs the Show Tony Humphreys never wanted to join the building trade — but fate (and family) had other plans. In this episode of The HODCAST, Tony shares how he went from reluctant hoddy to the Production Director of A&D Brickwork, one of the South West’s leading bricklaying firms. We talk early resistance, the family legacy that shaped his journey, and the apprenticeship program he's built to give others a future in the trade. It’s a story of turning doubt into drive — and building more than just walls. Family roots. Future builders. Real talk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Truth About Construction’s Skills Crisis - Garry Staines - Conversation #2 | 15 Apr 2025 | 01:22:47 | |
Garry Staines has seen both sides of the trowel — from building his own successful brickwork company to launching Site Ready Solutions, a training hub designed to give the next generation of tradespeople a fighting chance. In this episode of The HODCAST, Garry opens up about the growing skills gap in construction, why the industry is crying out for fresh talent, and how we can reshape the future of trades — not just by teaching skills, but by changing mindsets. 🎯 We dig into: This is a must-watch for employers, educators, apprentices, and anyone who cares about the future of construction. 📢 Got thoughts on how we train and inspire the next generation? Let’s talk in the comments. 👇 WATCH NOW — and hear why Garry believes the future is still being built, one apprentice at a time. #ConstructionTraining #SiteReadySolutions #GarryStaines #TheHODCAST #Bricklaying #Apprenticeships #UKConstruction #SkillsGap #TradesEducation #Inspiration #Leadership #FutureOfWork Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| No One Respects Bricklayers… Until You Become the Best - Charlie Collison - Conversation #1 | 08 Apr 2025 | 01:34:28 | |
Charlie Collison isn’t just a bricklayer — he’s a master of his craft, a mentor to the next generation, and proof that building walls can also build a legacy. In this episode of The Hodcast, Charlie sits down to share the untold story behind the trowel: from his earliest days on site to becoming one of the UK’s most recognised figures in the bricklaying world. We talk about the mindset needed to survive and thrive in the trades, the pressures that come with setting the standard, and what it really means to earn respect in an industry where nothing is handed to you. Whether you're laying your first course or looking to leave your mark, this conversation is packed with hard truths, raw insights, and moments that’ll make you stop and think. 🎧 Listen now — and hear how brick by brick, Charlie built more than just walls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How You Actually Change an Industry | Garry Staines | Conversation #38 | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:54:08 | |
How do you move from running a business to shaping an industry? In the first episode of the new year, Sam La Roche sits down with Garry Staines to reflect on the progress made since his last appearance on The Hodcast and how new initiatives have reshaped his approach to leadership, training and influence. Garry shares insight into This conversation sets the tone for the year ahead. Practical, reflective and focused on creating lasting impact. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #GarryStaines #ConstructionLeadership #Training #Mentoring #Influence #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Conversations That Defined 2025 | The Hodcast Highlights | 30 Dec 2025 | 00:43:37 | |
This special episode of The Hodcast brings together some of the most powerful moments from conversations recorded throughout 2025. Hosted by Sam La Roche, this highlights episode features clips from Together, these voices reflect the themes that shaped the year. Training, leadership, skills, regeneration, resilience and the future of construction. Whether you are listening for the first time or returning to revisit the moments that stood out, this episode captures why honest conversation still matters. A reflection on a year of conversations worth having. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #ConstructionPodcast #Leadership #Training #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Model That Keeps Young People in Work | Martyn Price MBE Conversation #36 | 22 Dec 2025 | 01:07:25 | |
What actually keeps young people engaged in training and work, and why do so many systems fail them? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Martyn Price MBE shares his experience of building employability and training models that focus on people first, not just outcomes. We talk about A grounded and insightful conversation about creating pathways that work for young people and the industries that need them. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #MartynPriceMBE #Employability #SkillsGap #ConstructionCareers #YouthDevelopment #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Truth About the Future of Building Homes | Rupert Bates | Conversation #35 | 16 Dec 2025 | 01:17:00 | |
Rupert Bates joins Sam La Roche to discuss the future of house building in the UK, what leaders are really talking about, and how media, industry and education must align to inspire the next generation.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd WhatHouse? Awards - https://www.whathouse.com/awards/ BBQ Magazine - https://www.thebbqmag.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The Truth About Why Young People Avoid Construction | Dan Edwards Conversation #34 | 09 Dec 2025 | 01:22:11 | |
Why is construction struggling to attract young people, and what do we need to change to fix it? In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Dan Edwards, Founder of Constructed Pathways, shares what he has learned from working directly with young people, schools and industry leaders. We discuss A practical and honest conversation for educators, employers and anyone invested in the future of the construction sector. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd #TheHodcast #DanEdwards #ConstructedPathways #SkillsGap #Education #ConstructionCareers #Apprenticeships #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| SEASON FINALE! Why You Struggle With The Basics (And How To Fix It) | Tyler Butt | Conversation #52 | 11 Apr 2026 | 01:06:34 | |
Season One Finale. In this episode of The Hodcast, Sam La Roche sits down with Tyler Butt — a fast-rising entrepreneur with over 4 million followers across Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. But this conversation isn’t about social media. It’s about something far more important: Why everyday life feels harder than it should. From building a brand at a young age to helping millions simplify their routines, Tyler has built his platform around one core idea: Simple systems beat motivation every time. In this episode, we explore: • Why people struggle with something as basic as feeding themselves • The hidden reasons behind overwhelm and inconsistency • How to remove decision fatigue from your day • What it takes to build something from nothing • And how small daily habits shape your entire life Practical, honest, and immediately useful. The biggest guest. The biggest conversation. The perfect way to close Season One. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Are You Living a Life You Actually Chose? | Will Polston | Conversation #51 | 04 Apr 2026 | 00:51:43 | |
Most people don’t choose their life. They inherit it. In this episode of The Hodcast, Sam La Roche sits down with Will Polston to explore why so many people feel stuck, even when they’re doing everything “right”. From identity and belief systems to high performance and burnout, this conversation goes beyond typical self-development advice and asks a harder question: Are you building a life that’s truly yours? A powerful episode on clarity, alignment, and what it really takes to change direction. Find Will at https://www.willpolston.com/ Buy his best selling book at https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1781337284 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why Kindness Is the Hardest Leadership Skill | Carmel Saulbrey | Conversation #50 | 28 Mar 2026 | 00:52:40 | |
What happens when kindness becomes a professional standard, not just a personal choice? In Conversation 50 of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Carmel Saulbrey, Founder of The Kindness Code, shares her experience leading therapeutic children’s homes and working with young people who have experienced trauma. This is a conversation about courage, leadership and what it really takes to support people in the most challenging circumstances. We discuss • Building resilience through difficult experiences • What trauma looks like in young people • The role of kindness in leadership • Why traditional leadership models often fall short • Creating The Kindness Code training platform • How systems and culture can be reshaped through training A powerful and thought provoking conversation about people, care and the impact we leave behind. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #CarmelSaulbrey #Kindness #Leadership #TraumaInformedCare #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why the Best Worker on Site Isn’t Always the Bricklayer | Timmy Mercer | Conversation #49 | 22 Mar 2026 | 01:01:05 | |
What does it mean to take real pride in your work? In Conversation 49 of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Timmy Mercer, Hod carrier for over 4 decades, shares his experience as a hod carrier and what it means to build a reputation through consistency, discipline and graft, Hard Graft! This episode explores the value of roles that are often overlooked and the people who quietly set the standard on site. We discuss • The role of a hod carrier and why it matters • Reliability, standards and work ethic • What separates good from great on site • The identity of the working man • How construction culture is changing • Pride, reputation and long term meaning in work A grounded and powerful conversation about doing things properly and building a life through honest work. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #TimmyMercer #Construction #WorkEthic #Brickwork #Leadership #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| “What It’s Like Being a Gay Bricklayer” | Patrick Whitlock | Conversation #48 | 15 Mar 2026 | 01:06:21 | |
What does it mean to design a life you can actually live? In this episode of The Hodcast, Patrick Whitlock sits down with Sam La Roche to talk about his journey as a bricklayer, trainer, father and gay man working in construction. For years Patrick felt he had to hide a part of himself in order to fit into the culture of building sites. In this conversation he reflects on the pressure that creates and what happens when someone finally decides to stop living a life that only feels manageable. We discuss • Construction culture and mental health • The experience of being a gay bricklayer • The emotional cost of hiding identity • Career pressure and overcompensating • Redesigning life to align with who you really are • What psychological safety on site should look like A thoughtful and deeply human conversation about identity, courage and building a life that actually fits. Hosted by Sam La Roche Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #PatrickWhitlock #ConstructionCulture #MentalHealth #Brickwork #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Bricks Are Made and Why Quality Matters | Max McClean and Marc van Rijn | Conversation #47 | 10 Mar 2026 | 00:44:10 | |
How much do you really know about the bricks around you? In Conversation 47 of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Max McClean of Camtech Building Products Ltd and Marc van Rijn of Caprice Baksteen share the story behind one of the most important materials in construction. From sourcing clay in the rivers of the Netherlands to producing bricks at incredible scale, this episode explores the craft, engineering and tradition behind high quality brickmaking. We discuss • The origin of the clay used in premium bricks • The scale of modern brick production • Why Caprice Baksteen bricks are known for quality • The relationship between manufacturers and bricklayers • The future of brickwork in construction A fascinating conversation for anyone interested in how buildings are truly made. Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB Ltd Powered by Garry Staines #TheHodcast #Brickmaking #Brickwork #ConstructionIndustry #CapriceBaksteen #Camtech #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||