The Building Talks Podcast

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

  1. 12/22/2025

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

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast, wrapping up Season 4 with a story that perfectly captures grit, growth, and what’s possible in construction when mindset meets opportunity. In this finale, I’m joined by Joey Hidalgo, founder of the TMC Academy and host of The Profitable Estimator Podcast. Joey moved from the Philippines to Australia with just $700, sending out 50 resumes a day before breaking into estimating and launching his own Estimating business. He shares how he built his career, the underestimated power of estimators, and why systems and mentorship matter more than ever. We also discuss how offshoring can solve skills shortages when done right and why Australia’s hiring mindset needs a serious rethink. Takeaways: ✅ Building a career from scratch in a new country ✅ Estimating as a critical (and overlooked) skill ✅ Joey’s WPR framework: Win, Profit, Repeat ✅ The offshoring debate: cheap labour or opportunity bridge? ✅ Fixing the hiring mindset to focus on training, not perfection Chapters: 05:23  Cultural Representation in Construction 08:20  National Pride and Historical Context 14:14  Career Path and Opportunities in Engineering 17:03  Transitioning to Estimating in Australia 23:54  Innovations in Estimating Processes 29:57  Reflections on Diversity in Construction 39:25  From Estimator to Entrepreneur 42:55  Identifying the Skills Gap in Estimating 45:40  The Challenge of Estimating in Construction 51:39  Building a BPO for Estimators 55:34  The Importance of Fair Compensation 58:22  The SOT Framework for Successful Offshoring 01:01:11  Building Trust and Communication in Remote Teams 01:08:43  Developing Talent in the Construction Industry 01:17:19  Finding the Right Fit: Training vs. Hiring 01:27:43  Perceptions of the Australian Construction Industry Tune in for an inspiring, no-fluff chat about building a career from scratch, unlocking offshore potential, and why estimating deserves way more respect. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionCareers #EstimatingMatters #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #TMCacademy #ProfitableEstimator #OffshoringInConstruction #SkilledMigration #MentorshipInConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #DiversityInConstruction  The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    1h 45m

  2. 12/08/2025

    Talking with Scott Clements about Growing an Engineering Firm, Attracting Talent, and Embracing AI in Construction

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Hi there, and welcome to The Building Talks Podcast, where we dig into what really builds success… In this episode, I sit down with Scott Clements, Managing Director of Inertia Engineering, a growing multidisciplinary Engineering firm based in Southeast Queensland. Scott’s story takes us from his early career in the UK to scaling a 70-person consultancy back in Australia, including some impressive growth during the COVID era. We explore the mix of strategy, timing and mindset that helped Inertia grow through unpredictable conditions. Scott also shares sharp takes on labour shortages, skilled migration, the real role of AI in construction productivity, and how he's using smart partnerships, including a joint venture with a New Zealand tech firm, to keep Inertia ahead of the curve. It’s a shorter conversation than usual, but full of practical insights and forward-thinking leadership. Takeaways: ✅ Growing through uncertainty, strategy vs luck ✅ Using AI and partnerships to drive productivity ✅ Talent shortages and the immigration squeeze ✅ Positioning your business for future growth ✅ Engineering leadership that challenges the norm Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Overview 00:15 - Scott's Career Journey 01:25 - Industry Themes and Challenges 02:35 - Inertia Engineering's Growth and Strategy 03:37 - Podcast Partnership and Sponsorship 05:10 - Scott's Early Interest in Engineering 05:45 - Overseas Experience and Cultural Impact 11:01 - Inertia Engineering's History and Expansion 18:27 - Southeast Queensland Market Insights 24:54 - Productivity Challenges in Construction 28:12 - Cultural Shifts in Construction 28:48 - Innovation and Technology in Engineering 29:50 - Partnership with New Zealand Firm 30:38 - Challenges in Project Leadership 32:46 - Investment in AI and Automation 37:08 - Education and Skill Development 39:53 - Immigration and Labor Shortages 47:38 - Future Predictions and Strategies 57:55 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Tune in for a sharp, honest chat on scaling smart and leading with intention in the built environment. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #ConstructionLeadership #EngineeringBusiness #SoutheastQueensland #BuiltEnvironment #AIFuture #ImmigrationPolicy #ProductivityInConstruction #TheBuildingTalksPodcast The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au  The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    59 min

  3. 11/24/2025

    Talking with Alana Luppi about breaking cycles, building culture and backing the next gen of builders

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Thanks for joining me today on The Building Talks Podcast, got a ripper episode lined up… In this episode, I’m joined by Alana “Lu” Luppi, Senior Project Manager at ESR Group. From cleaning site sheds and abseiling high-rises to leading major commercial builds, Lu’s journey into construction is anything but ordinary. We chat about how mentoring over 40 emerging professionals shaped her career, the story behind launching the Speak Up Foundation, and why emotional intelligence and continuous training matter more than bravado. If you care about culture, growth and fixing the industry’s training gaps, this one's for you. Takeaways: ✅ Mentoring done right can keep people in the industry ✅ Curiosity trumps bravado in great leaders ✅ The industry needs more structured training and support ✅ Speaking up changes culture from the inside ✅ You don’t have to “do it tough” just because others did Chapters: 04:40 – The Toughness of the Construction Industry 08:52 – Personal Journey into Construction 12:19 – Gender Dynamics in Construction 17:03 – Career Pivots and Education 20:05 – Mentorship and Support Systems 28:15 – Empowering Women and Marginalised Group in Construction 31:54 – Addressing Bias and Inclusion in the Industry 33:33 – The Role of Mentorship in Career Development 36:12 – Challenges in In-House Career Development 39:05 – The Importance of Leadership and Support 42:03 – Creating a Supportive Work Environment 44:39 – The Speak Up Foundation’s Mission 50:01 – The Future of Training and Development in Construction 58:39 – Evolving Mindsets and Personal Growth 01:00:46 – The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 01:03:18 – Navigating Challenges in Project Management 01:07:32 – Time Management and Reflection in Construction 01:10:52 – The Journey of Writing a Book 01:16:31 – Balancing Passion Projects with Professional Life Tune in for an honest, energising chat on what it really takes to create a better future for construction. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #MentoringMatters #MentalHealthInConstruction #SpeakUpFoundation #WomenInConstruction #ESRGroup #ProjectManagement #IndustryCulture  The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit:    www.buildingenvirons.com.au    Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    1h 28m

  4. 11/10/2025

    Talking with Andrew Deveson and David Caputo about what it takes to Scale Kapitol from Zero to a Billion-Dollar Builder

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Welcome to the 100th episode of The Building Talks Podcast  & what better way to celebrate than with a powerhouse conversation guaranteed to inspire and challenge your thinking! Back on the mic are Andrew Deveson and David Caputo, co-founders of Kapitol, who first joined us back in March 2023.  In today's conversation we dive into the details about how Kapitol has become Australia's fastest growing commercial builder, what it takes to lead a business that’s redefining the industry through digital innovation, smart systems, & strong culture. We also explore how they’re tackling training, wellbeing, leadership, and their upcoming move into health and defence projects.   Takeaways: ✅ How Kapitol went from startup to billion-dollar builder ✅ The strategic discipline behind their rapid rise  ✅ Their honest thoughts on the 13,000+ hours of internal training  ✅ How they're using digital innovation & systems thinking to reshape construction ✅ Their mindset, staying healthy & leading with clarity ✅ Growing into new sectors: health, defence, Northern Territory ✅ Leadership, restlessness and resilience at scale Chapters: 05:43 – Introduction and Reflections on Growth 06:53 – The Importance of Partnership in Business 08:57 – Rapid Growth and Business Success 14:00 – Investing in Systems and Training 20:12 – Cultural Shifts and Industry Disruption 25:51 – Future of Construction and AI Integration 33:09 – Transforming the Construction Industry 38:30 – Diversification and New Opportunities 43:02 – Building Systems for Success 50:00 – Navigating Leadership Challenges 59:38 – Investing in Training and Development 01:06:55 – Investing in AI: Costs and Training 01:12:45 – Mental Preparation for Leadership 01:22:02 – Future Goals and Strategic Vision Tune in for a no-filter look at how two leaders are rewriting the rulebook for Australian construction at scale. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #Kapitol #ConstructionLeadership #CommercialConstruction #DigitalEngineering #ConstructionCulture #40HourWorkWeek #Upskilling #AustralianConstruction #PropertyPodcast #BuiltEnvironment #ModernConstruction #ConstructionInnovation #100thepisode  The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit:    www.buildingenvirons.com.au    Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au  The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    1h 27m

  5. 10/27/2025

    Talking with Ben Rowe about 'New Epping', and what it takes to deliver a $2 billion mixed-use precinct, and his insights to Property Development!

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Good on you for joining us for another episode of The Building Talks Podcast! This time, I had the chance to speak with Ben Rowe, Project Director at RIVERLEE, who’s overseeing one of Melbourne’s most ambitious urban transformations, the regeneration of the 'New Epping' precinct. It’s a 50-hectare site that’s evolved from a 10-year plan to a 20-year vision, and Ben’s been at the centre of it for the last eight years. We get into the realities of managing a multi-decade, multi-asset development that includes housing, healthcare, commercial, and retail, all while adapting to planning delays, shifting markets, and rising construction costs. Ben shares his approach to keeping long-term momentum, how to build trust with councils and communities, and what it takes to navigate risk, pick the right builders, and bring patient capital into the fold. He also opens up about his advocacy work through Queers in Property, driving visibility and inclusion in the built environment. Takeaways ✅ Keeping momentum on long-term, complex projects ✅ Balancing risk, resilience and changing market conditions ✅ Building stakeholder trust through clear communication ✅ Why developers need adaptability and strong networks ✅ The importance of inclusion in property and construction Chapters: 06:38 – The Journey into Property Development 09:21 – The Complexity of Large-Scale Developments 12:03 – Creating a Vision for Urban Regeneration 19:32 – Creating People-Friendly Spaces 24:38 – Understanding Community Needs 29:48 – Challenges in Construction Costs 34:36 – Managing Diverse Asset Classes 37:31 – User-Centric Design in Healthcare Projects 41:58 – Current Status of New Epping Project 49:09 – The Art of Development: Storytelling and Influence 52:00 – Current Challenges in Melbourne’s Property Development 58:13 – Creating Inclusive Spaces: The Role of Queers in Property 1:08:31 – Future Projects and Industry Outlook Tune in for a real-world look at what it takes to deliver a future-ready precinct from the ground up. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #UrbanRegeneration #PropertyDevelopment #EppingProject #Riverlee #BuiltEnvironment #PrecinctPlanning #LongTermVision #ConstructionLeadership #InclusiveDesign #QueersInProperty #BuildingTalksPodcast The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au  The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    1h 12m

  6. 10/13/2025

    Talking with Ben Thomson about the Psychology Behind Traffic, Parking and Urban Planning

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Hey folks, thanks for hitting play on another episode of The Building Talks Podcast! This time I’m joined by Ben Thomson, Traffic and Transport Engineer at Ratio Consultants, to explore how our streets really work and why they sometimes don’t. We dive into car parking psychology, the balance between people and cars, e-scooters, 30km speed zones, and the transport challenges of greenfield vs inner-city suburbs. If you’re shaping communities, navigating planning, or just wondering why your street looks the way it does, this one’s for you. Takeaways ✅ Why traffic engineers are people experts, not just planners ✅ The emotional politics behind “my parking spot” ✅ Designing streets for people, not just cars ✅ Transport challenges in greenfield vs inner-city areas ✅ The policy gaps behind the rise of e-scooters and e-bikes ✅ Balancing ideal planning with real-world constraints ✅ How early design decisions shape long-term outcomes Chapters: 04:15 – Understanding Traffic Engineering and Its Impact 06:01 – The Role of AI in Traffic Engineering 08:40 – Day-to-day Responsibilities of a Traffic Engineer 11:20 – Challenges in Traffic Engineering Projects 14:13 – Emotional Aspects of Traffic Planning 25:53 – Designing Streets for People, Not Just Cars 30:29 – Transforming Urban Spaces: The Times Square Example 39:00 – Balancing Cars and Pedestrians in Urban Design 42:24 – The Impact of Speed Limits on Community Safety 52:51 – E-Mobility: The Future of Urban Transport 01:07:21 – Global Perspectives on Informal Transport 01:09:05 – Innovative Transport Alternatives in Australia 01:23:32 – The Role of Pets in Urban Planning Step behind the scenes of the built environment and hear what really makes streets and cities work, for people and for progress. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #TrafficEngineering #UrbanPlanning #SmartCities #TransportDesign #EScooters #GreenfieldGrowth #MelbournePlanning #BuiltEnvironment #ParkingDesign #CityMobility #PublicTransport #BuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #InfrastructurePlanning The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au  The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    1h 28m

  7. 09/29/2025

    Talking with Adam Jeffery about International Construction experiences: from London to New York and back to Melbourne!

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! What’s up, everyone? This week, we catch up with Adam Jeffery, Project Manager at Kane Constructions, whose career has taken him from Melbourne to London and New York before returning home. Adam shares sharp insights into how construction differs across these markets, touching on contracts, procurement, safety, and the role (or absence) of unions. We also explore what it takes to step into project management, the balance of technical know-how and people skills, and how young professionals can prepare for the leap. Adam opens up about relocating with a young family, re-establishing himself locally, and why international experience, when used wisely, can give you a powerful career edge. Takeaways ✅ Comparing construction in London, New York and Melbourne ✅ Why project management is as much about people as it is process ✅ The different roles unions play around the world ✅ How international experience can set you apart back home ✅ The challenges (and rewards) of moving countries with a young family Chapters: 03:11 – Background and International Experience 10:44 – Transitioning to the UK Construction Industry 16:15 – Brexit and Its Impact on the Construction Workforce 19:34 – Moving to the US and New York experience 31:27 – Contracting Differences: UK vs US 37:57 – Union Dynamics in Construction 57:39 – First Project at Kane: La Trobe University 01:01:50 – Perceptions of Overseas Experience in Australia 01:03:57 – Advise for Employers on Hiring International Talent 01:07:50 – The Importance of Soft Skills in Project Management 01:10:09 – Career Progression and Aspirations in Construction 01:11:34 – Advice for Young Professionals Considering Overseas Opportunities Whether you’re eyeing an overseas stint, starting out in project management, or just curious about how different regions shape the way we build, this one’s full of practical takeaways. Hope you enjoy the podcast! #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #Construction #ProjectManagement #KaneConstructions #InternationalExperience #LeadershipInConstruction #CareerGrowth #BuildingSuccess #MelbourneConstruction #LondonConstruction #NewYorkConstruction The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    1h 20m

  8. 09/15/2025

    Talking with Kurt Hegetschweiler about Leadership, Mindset & Building Better Construction Businesses

    Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text! Hey team, welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast! In this episode, I chat with the high-energy and insight-packed Kurt Hegetschweiler, founder of Builders Coach and author of 'The Builders Business Coach'. Kurt’s worked with heaps of small to mid-sized builders across Australia, helping them build better, smarter and more profitable businesses. We unpack what sets high-performing businesses apart, from leadership and culture to the power of a growth mindset and setting clear goals. Whether you’re a business owner, manager or team member keen to get better at what you do, this episode dives into how mindset shifts and accountability can transform how you work, lead and grow. Key takeaways: ✅ The link between leadership and business success ✅ Why culture doesn’t just happen, it’s built ✅ The difference a coach can make in construction ✅ Setting scary goals, chasing growth and staying uncomfortable ✅ Making learning part of the job, not an afterthought Chapters: 07:25 – Kurt’s Journey into Coaching and Construction 10:13 – The Importance of Leadership and Mindset 13:31 – Understanding Profit Margins and Financial Health 16:18 – The Race to the Bottom: Market Pressures 20:14 – The E-Myth and Business Acumen 23:20 – Setting Goals and Maintaining Focus 26:33 – The Importance of Coaching for New Businesses 29:17 – Mindset and Continuous Growth 39:38 – The Importance of Mindset in Success 43:35 – Embracing Growth and Learning from Mistakes 50:28 – Understanding Team Dynamics and Culture 55:41 – Leadership and the Impact of Coaching 01:00:09 – Adapting Leadership Styles for Generational Differences 01:05:57 – Navigating Change in Organisations 01:14:40 – Developing Leadership Skills 01:19:40 – Embracing AI in Business 01:22:49 – Navigating Technology and Systems for Success Keen to read Kurt’s book? He’s giving away free copies, details in the episode! Tune in now for some real talk on what it takes to grow a thriving construction business. #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #BuildersCoach #MindsetMatters #ConstructionBusiness #LeadershipInConstruction #SmallBusinessGrowth #CultureInConstruction #GrowthMindset #ConstructionSuccess The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland.  For an overview of our service, visit: www.buildingenvirons.com.au Proud to partner with Housing All Australians (HAA). Check out their website, and join the movement!  www.housingallaustralians.org.au The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast. Contact The Building Talks Podcast Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram Visit us on our website Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

    1h 21m
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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Martin Preece
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    103
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Building Talks Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Building Talks Podcast