Taking the Con out of Construction

H Squared Construction Ltd
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'Taking the Con out of Construction' is the straight-talking podcast for contractors, developers, and construction business owners who want to stay in control of their projects, protect their cash, and avoid costly mistakes.  Featuring Michelle Carr, Chartered CIOB professional and founder of H Squared Construction and Construction Alchemy, the show draws on 25+ years of experience rescuing projects and safeguarding investments across the UK construction industry. We break down the biggest challenges in construction, from contracts and cash flow to disputes and profit margins, and share practical steps to keep your projects on track. Whether you’re a subcontractor, developer, property flipper, or just starting out, you’ll get insider insights, actionable advice, and a fresh perspective on how to turn complexity into clarity. Together, we can change the industry one project, one company, and one episode at a time. Find Michelle on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/    Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find H Squared Construction on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy  For further information on Construction Alchemy, visit https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/  Find Construction Alchemy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/construction-alchemy-limited Contact us at info@constructionalchemy.co.uk CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk   DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor Construction Alchemy accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.  

  1. Why Most Construction Projects Fail Before Site Starts | Planning, Risk & Commercial Control

    3D AGO

    Why Most Construction Projects Fail Before Site Starts | Planning, Risk & Commercial Control

    In this episode of Taking the Con Out of Construction, Michelle Carr exposes one of the most costly and avoidable mistakes in the industry: rushing to site before the foundations of the project are truly ready. Too many construction projects are effectively set up to fail before work even begins. Contracts are skim-read, designs are poorly coordinated, commercial risks are underestimated, and teams are pushed on-site under pressure to “just get started.” The result is familiar: delays, disputes, cash flow strain, and margins quietly eroded long before problems become visible. Michelle breaks down why the pre-construction phase is where projects are really won or lost. She explains how investing time upfront in planning, design coordination, contract understanding, and commercial oversight creates control, resilience, and stronger outcomes on site. The episode also explores the role of front-end leadership, how early decisions shape motivation and performance during delivery, and why fractional commercial support can be a game-changer for growing construction businesses that need expertise without full-time overheads. The message is simple but powerful: preparation isn’t a delay, it’s protection. Get the start right, and everything that follows becomes smoother, stronger, and more profitable. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    38 min
  2. Retaining Commercial Protection | Protecting Margin and Cash Flow in Construction

    FEB 11

    Retaining Commercial Protection | Protecting Margin and Cash Flow in Construction

    In this episode of Taking the Con out of Construction, Michelle Carr shares practical construction business advice on commercial protection — and why failing to protect your commercial position quietly destroys margin, cash flow, and control for contractors and construction business owners. Michelle gets straight to the uncomfortable truth most construction businesses only learn the hard way: if you don’t actively protect your commercial position, problems compound long before they ever show up on a balance sheet. She breaks down what commercial protection really means in practice — not legal jargon or box-ticking, but the real-world actions that safeguard profitability when projects come under pressure. From underestimated commercial risk to the costly consequences of weak contracts and poor documentation, Michelle explains where construction businesses are most exposed. The episode also explores the critical role of knowledgeable Quantity Surveyors in contract formation, why understanding contractual obligations is non-negotiable, and how investing in people, processes, and commercial strategy builds resilience in a volatile construction industry. If you want to stop reacting to commercial disasters and start running a construction business that’s protected, profitable, and built to last, this episode is essential listening. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    29 min
  3. Avoiding Crisis in Construction | Protecting Investments, Teams, and Cash Flow

    FEB 4

    Avoiding Crisis in Construction | Protecting Investments, Teams, and Cash Flow

    In this episode of Taking the Con Out of Construction, Michelle Carr shares practical construction business advice for contractors, developers, and project leaders on avoiding crisis and protecting investments. Going straight to the sharp end of the industry, she draws on decades of experience rescuing failing projects and supporting funders and developers under pressure. Michelle explains how most construction crises don’t happen overnight, but slowly emerge through poor communication, underfunding, and avoidance of difficult conversations. Using real-world examples, she shows how transparency, ethical decision-making, and small, achievable wins stabilise projects, safeguard cash flow, and align teams. This episode is essential listening for anyone wanting to prevent costly mistakes and run construction projects with control, clarity, and confidence. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    34 min
  4. The Project Reality Check | Uncovering Risks and Protecting Profit in Construction

    JAN 28

    The Project Reality Check | Uncovering Risks and Protecting Profit in Construction

    In this episode of Taking the Con Out of Construction, Michelle Carr shares practical construction business advice for contractors, developers, and project leaders on identifying hidden risks and protecting profitability. She introduces the power of a Project Reality Check — the fastest way to uncover what’s really happening on your job before small issues turn into expensive disasters. Michelle explains why a Reality Check isn’t about blame, but about visibility, clarity, and control, and how hidden risks around cash flow, programme slippage, and weak commercial management quietly derail projects every day. By spotting gaps early and acting decisively, construction businesses can safeguard margins, improve decision-making, and steer projects back on track with confidence. This episode is essential listening for anyone wanting fewer surprises and stronger project outcomes in construction. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    33 min
  5. Commercial Strategy | Building Control, Profit, and Resilience in Construction

    JAN 21

    Commercial Strategy | Building Control, Profit, and Resilience in Construction

    In this episode of Taking the Con Out of Construction, Michelle Carr shares practical construction business advice for contractors, developers, and construction leaders on building commercial strength and protecting profitability. She cuts through the noise around “commercial strategy” and explains why it’s about far more than contracts and claims. Michelle breaks down how understanding risk, pricing work correctly, managing change, and making the right decisions early can be the difference between control and chaos on construction projects. She shares her practical approach to building commercial resilience through people, rigorous pre-contract planning, clear accountability, and rock-solid records that stand up when things go wrong. From gap analysis to financial oversight, this episode shows why commercial success isn’t accidental — it comes from deliberate, informed decisions made consistently over time. Essential listening for anyone wanting to run construction projects profitably, efficiently, and with control. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    26 min
  6. Accountability | Building Strong Teams and Project Control in Construction

    JAN 14

    Accountability | Building Strong Teams and Project Control in Construction

    In this episode of Taking the Con Out of Construction, Michelle Carr shares practical construction business advice for contractors, developers, and project leaders on accountability and team performance. She gets real about one of the most uncomfortable topics in construction: how finger-pointing and blame culture quietly destroy projects and teams, and why true ownership of responsibilities is critical for project success. Michelle breaks down practical steps to improve communication, make better decisions, and lead construction projects with confidence — especially when things go wrong. Through real-life examples, she explains how taking responsibility strengthens leadership, boosts team performance, and protects long-term business outcomes. She also touches on her mission to support subcontractors, champion women in construction, and help reshape the industry through education, mentorship, and mindset shifts. This episode is essential listening for anyone frustrated by “not my problem” attitudes and wanting stronger, more accountable construction teams. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    29 min
  7. Systems & Processes | Protecting Profit and Efficiency in Construction

    JAN 7

    Systems & Processes | Protecting Profit and Efficiency in Construction

    In this episode of Taking the Con Out of Construction, Michelle Carr shares practical construction business advice for contractors, developers, and project leaders on building strong systems and processes that protect profitability. Drawing on frontline experience, she explains why relying on memory, habit, or “the way we’ve always done it” quietly exposes construction businesses to risk, disputes, and avoidable costs. Michelle breaks down how simple, well-designed processes can prevent low-value adjudications, reduce friction across teams, and safeguard cash flow. She also explores where AI can genuinely support efficiency — and where it can’t — while emphasising why people and training remain critical to making systems work. The message is clear: strong systems aren’t red tape — they’re the foundation for control, confidence, and sustainable growth. Essential listening for anyone wanting to run construction projects efficiently, profitably, and with control. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    30 min
  8. Roles & Responsibilities | Clarifying Teams and Accountability in Construction

    12/17/2025

    Roles & Responsibilities | Clarifying Teams and Accountability in Construction

    In this episode of Taking the Con Out of Construction, Michelle Carr shares practical construction business advice for contractors, developers, and project leaders on defining roles, responsibilities, and accountability within project teams. She breaks down exactly who is who in construction — from Quantity Surveyors and Estimators to Project Managers, Architects, and Financial Controllers — and explains what each role is truly responsible for. Drawing on three decades of experience rescuing struggling projects, Michelle shows why clear role definition isn’t optional: when everyone knows their responsibilities, decisions are sharper, communication is clearer, and teams deliver with confidence. When they don’t, confusion, delays, and costly mistakes quickly creep in. This episode is essential listening for anyone wanting to build teams where responsibilities are understood, strengths are leveraged, and projects run smoothly from start to finish. Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find Michelle Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/ H Squared Construction: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy. Find out more about Construction Alchemy here: https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/ CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor H Squared Construction accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.

    37 min
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About

'Taking the Con out of Construction' is the straight-talking podcast for contractors, developers, and construction business owners who want to stay in control of their projects, protect their cash, and avoid costly mistakes.  Featuring Michelle Carr, Chartered CIOB professional and founder of H Squared Construction and Construction Alchemy, the show draws on 25+ years of experience rescuing projects and safeguarding investments across the UK construction industry. We break down the biggest challenges in construction, from contracts and cash flow to disputes and profit margins, and share practical steps to keep your projects on track. Whether you’re a subcontractor, developer, property flipper, or just starting out, you’ll get insider insights, actionable advice, and a fresh perspective on how to turn complexity into clarity. Together, we can change the industry one project, one company, and one episode at a time. Find Michelle on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-carr/    Visit https://h2construction.uk/ to learn more. Find H Squared Construction on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2-commercial-consultancy  For further information on Construction Alchemy, visit https://constructionalchemy.co.uk/  Find Construction Alchemy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/construction-alchemy-limited Contact us at info@constructionalchemy.co.uk CREDITS: 'Taking the Con out of Construction’ is a OneZeroCreative production. Discover how podcasting can grow your brand: https://www.onezerocreative.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-zero-creative Contact us at enquiries@onezerocreative.co.uk   DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are based on the personal experiences of Michelle Carr and her guests. They are for general information only and should not be relied upon as professional or legal advice. Always seek your own independent advice before making decisions. Neither Michelle Carr nor Construction Alchemy accepts liability for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from actions taken based on this podcast.  

Information

  • Creator
    H Squared Construction Ltd
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Taking the Con out of Construction
  • Show Website
    Taking the Con out of Construction