Building Conversations

Allen and Frank

Welcome to Building Conversations, the podcast where we dive into a wide range of topics—everything from property development and investment to market trends, legal insights, entrepreneurship, and beyond. Whether it's the world of construction, design, business, or life’s unexpected lessons, we explore it all through thought-provoking discussions, interviews, and stories. Tune in for engaging conversations that spark new ideas and insights, no matter your industry or interest!

Episodes

  1. 01/12/2025

    #10 CSC Robotics: Conversations in Construction Tech

    Dive into the Fifth Industrial Revolution with Michael Ren, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of CSC Robotic Engineering Limited. In this critical episode, we explore the future of the construction industry and how robotics is the vital bridge to solving the massive skilled labor shortage. Michael makes the provocative argument for "Physical AI"—intelligent machines that execute, rather than abstract AI models. Learn how CSC's autonomous drilling and anchoring robots are providing an essential solution to low productivity and the staggering 40% waste produced by construction. Michael reveals the engineering genius behind the force-sensing technology that safely avoids rebar, and offers an exclusive glimpse into the game-changer technology that will define the next generation of infrastructure. This is a must-listen for anyone searching for podcasts on ConTech, construction automation, jobsite safety, AI in construction, and the future of sustainable building.

    1h 7m

  2. 07/09/2025

    #9 Lessons from a C-Level Strategist: A 31-Year Business Journey (With Roger Amir)

    In this episode of Building Conversations, we sit down with Roger Amir of Mytronics to discuss his incredible business journey. From cold calls to connections, Roger shares the key lessons he's learned over a 31-year career building an empire from a single office to a national company with 18 locations. Discover the secret to success isn't what you think—it's about focusing on relationships and providing value, not just making a sale. Roger reveals his "belly-to-belly" networking strategy and his unique approach to turning losses into wins. This is more than a business story; it's a masterclass in the entrepreneur's mindset: building an empire, one conversation at a time. Join us for a chat with Roger Amir of Mytronics and learn how to navigate the modern business world with old-school principles of integrity, hard work, and genuine connection.

    44 min

  3. 19/08/2025

    #8 The Business of Football with Western Sydney Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson

    What does it take to run a top-tier football club? We sit down with Scott Hudson, CEO of the Western Sydney Wanderers, to get a behind-the-scenes look at the world of Australian football. From managing player transfers and fan expectations to building a sustainable community presence and leveraging new technology like AI, Scott reveals the many "spinning plates" of his role. He opens up about the unique challenges of the A-League, the rise of women's football, and his optimistic vision for the sport's growth in Australia, all while sharing personal stories from his career and a love of the game that started right in his own backyard.

    48 min

  4. 25/05/2025

    #7 The Hidden Cost of Building the Old Way: Why the Building Industry Is Due for Disruption

    Could a modular home be safer in an earthquake? Is time more important than cost when building? And why are we still using century-old methods to construct modern homes? In this episode, Dr. Pejman Shirazi from Western Sydney University unpacks the real barriers holding back the construction industry—and what it will take to modernise it. From gigafactories to net-zero cities, modular housing to robotic rebar tying, this conversation is packed with future-focused insights, bold ideas, and practical solutions for an industry overdue for disruption.

    1h 1m

  5. 11/05/2025

    #6 Can Robots Fix What People Broke?

    We’ve reached a tipping point. Trade culture is in crisis, hard work is undervalued, skilled workers are vanishing—and now we’re looking to technology, robots, and AI to save an industry that people themselves have neglected. In this raw and eye-opening conversation, Nick Halakatevakis, founder of Innovatus Projects, shares how decades on the tools, managing teams, and running projects shaped his views on what’s really broken in the construction industry. We talk about: The slow death of work ethic and sacrifice Why younger generations are avoiding hands-on trades The growing gap in real training and practical experience Labour shortages and productivity decline Rising cost of living—and a culture that wants luxury without effort And why robots might help, but can’t replace lost values It’s a grounded, honest look at what’s happening behind the scenes—and what might need to change if we want a future we can actually build.

    1h 5m

  6. 27/04/2025

    #5 Money, AI, and Meaningful Work

    Projuno and the Evolution of Construction Logistics — From finance and tech to purpose and perseverance, this episode with Tim from Projuno explores what it really takes to build something that matters. We dive into how construction businesses can simplify operations using AI, why listening to your customer beats chasing features, and what happens when tech is actually built with empathy. Plus: 1. What’s wrong with traditional software in construction 2. How AI is already reshaping jobs — faster than most think 3. The surprising connection between PR, banking, and startup life 4. And why “just do it” might be the most honest startup advice you'll hear If you care about building smarter businesses (or just want to know where the world of work is heading), this one's for you.

    55 min

  7. 13/04/2025

    $4 Facing the Fallout: From real estate success to financial collapse.

    What happens when everything you’ve built — millions in property developments, a decade-long reputation, and hundreds of investor relationships — falls apart almost overnight? In this episode, we speak with Andrew Bodnar, a former developer whose company collapse left behind significant financial fallout and public scrutiny. Andrew reflects on the decisions that led to the downfall, the pressure of leadership, and the unexpected consequences of rapid growth in a volatile market. He also shares how some clients and friends chose to support him and how he’s working to recover what was lost. This is a conversation about failure, resilience, and how redemption begins not with success, but with honesty and not walking away.

    1h 3m

  8. 31/03/2025

    #3 Humans vs. Robots: Who Wins the Future?

    As robotics and automation continue to evolve, industries face a critical question: will robots replace human workers, or will they become essential collaborators? In this episode, we explore the future of robotics with Dr. Dikai Liu, a professor at the University of Technology Sydney with 25 years of experience in robotics research, Dr. Alireza Fini, a construction researcher specializing in automation at the UTS School of Built Environment, and Blake Regan, manager of the ARC IGRH Hub for Robotics in Construction. The discussion covers the challenges and opportunities in robotics adoption, including industry hesitancy, the integration of AI and quantum computing, and the role of automation in construction. The guests share insights on how robots are already operating in real-world environments, advancements in human-robot collaboration, and Australia's leadership in field robotics. This episode provides a deeper understanding of where robotics is headed and what it means for the future of work.

    57 min

  9. 09/03/2025

    #2 Nathan Burton’s Journey

    Nathan Burton’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. In this episode, he shares his transition from the military to becoming a developer, the mindset shifts he had to make, and the deep reflections that shaped his path. Get ready for an inspiring, insightful, and at times, hilarious conversation.

    1h 3m
  10. #1 Building Dreams

    12/02/2025

    #1 Building Dreams

    Join us for an inspiring and engaging conversation where we delve into the journey of turning dreams into reality in the world of construction and business. Hosted by industry leaders, this podcast explores the challenges, lessons, and growth experiences from building successful careers and businesses in the trade sector. From starting with humble beginnings and learning the ropes to navigating entrepreneurial challenges, we share the stories, resilience, and passion that fuel our success. Whether you're in the construction industry or pursuing your own entrepreneurial dream, this podcast offers valuable insights, real-world stories, and a motivational push to help you turn your vision into a tangible success. Perfect for builders, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to build something great. Tune in to learn how dreams, vision, and the right mindset can lead to extraordinary achievements.

    49 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Welcome to Building Conversations, the podcast where we dive into a wide range of topics—everything from property development and investment to market trends, legal insights, entrepreneurship, and beyond. Whether it's the world of construction, design, business, or life’s unexpected lessons, we explore it all through thought-provoking discussions, interviews, and stories. Tune in for engaging conversations that spark new ideas and insights, no matter your industry or interest!

Information

  • Creator
    Allen and Frank
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Allen and Frank
  • Show Website
    Building Conversations