Constructive Conversations with Tatiana

Tatiana Gust

Constructive Conversations with Tatiana is a space for real talk about construction, leadership, and the lessons learned along the way. Tatiana Gust opens up about the wins, the struggles, and everything in between, sharing stories from the field, insights from her journey as an immigrant entrepreneur, and practical advice to help you navigate work and life with confidence. Whether you’re in construction or simply love honest conversations that make you think, this podcast brings insight, positivity, and a whole lot of heart. Join us as we build stronger teams, smarter processes, and a better industry... one conversation at a time.

  1. 1d ago

    From Inspection to Protection: A Conversation About Construction Warranties

    In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, Tatiana sits down with her good friend Scott Zellak, a Certified Master Home Inspector, to discuss one of the most misunderstood aspects of the homebuilding process: construction warranties. Scott shares what a home inspector does, how inspections help protect homeowners, and why understanding your warranty is essential long after construction is complete. Together, they explore common homeowner questions, the inspection process, and how builders, inspectors, and homeowners all play a role in delivering a quality home. Whether you're building a new home, buying one, or simply curious about what happens after the keys are handed over, this conversation provides valuable insight into protecting your investment and understanding the importance of professional home inspections. Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow Constructive Conversations with Tatiana for more conversations with industry professionals sharing practical knowledge about construction, permitting, and homeownership. https://scottzellak.com/

    From Inspection to Protection: A Conversation About Construction Warranties

  2. Jul 15

    From Kickoff to Keys: The World Cup & Construction

    What do the World Cup and a successful construction project have in common? More than you might think! In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, Tatiana explores how preparation, teamwork, leadership, strategy, and following the rules can determine success both on the field and on the jobsite. From assembling the right team to creating a strong game plan and adapting when unexpected challenges arise, discover why construction, just like soccer, is truly a team sport. Ready to better understand the permitting process and approach your next project with confidence? Get your copy of Tatiana Gust’s book, The Building Permit Playbook, here: https://a.co/d/0aRNml75

    From Kickoff to Keys: The World Cup & Construction

  3. Jun 30

    Threshold Buildings Are Changing in FL: Is Your Project Ready?

    Recent changes to Florida's building regulations are changing the way certain projects are reviewed and managed,especially when it comes to threshold buildings and window replacement projects. In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, she breaks down what these updates mean for property owners, contractors, architects, and industry professionals. She discusses when threshold requirements apply, how these changes can affect permitting and construction timelines, and why understanding the latest regulations is essential for staying compliant and avoiding costly delays. Whether you're planning a project or simply want to stay informed about Florida's evolving construction landscape, this episode provides practical insights you won't want to miss.

    Threshold Buildings Are Changing in FL: Is Your Project Ready?

  4. Jun 15

    The Danger of "We've Always Done It This Way"

    "We've always done it this way." It's one of the most common phrases in construction, and one of the most dangerous. In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, she explores how relying solely on years of experience can sometimes prevent growth, innovation, and better outcomes. While experience is invaluable, the construction industry is constantly evolving through new technologies, updated building codes, changing regulations, improved materials, and more efficient processes. Join her as she discusses why the most successful professionals aren't just the ones with the most years in the industry, they're the ones who never stop learning. Whether you're a contractor, builder, designer, permit professional, or industry leader, this conversation will challenge you to rethink old habits and embrace continuous improvement. Because in construction, staying the same isn't staying ahead. It's falling behind.

    The Danger of "We've Always Done It This Way"

  5. Jun 1

    EFFECTIVE JULY 1ST 2026: Florida HB 803

    Florida’s construction industry is about to see some major changes. In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, we break down Florida’s new HB 803 legislation and what it means for homeowners, contractors, builders, and the permitting process across the state. From the new permit exemptions for certain residential projects under $7,500 to expanded private provider authority, faster permit timelines, HOA changes, and updated inspection requirements, this law is set to reshape how projects move from planning to construction. Join Tatiana as she explains the key provisions of HB 803, who will be affected, potential benefits and concerns, and what industry professionals should be preparing for before the law takes effect. Whether you're building a home, managing projects, or simply trying to stay informed on Florida construction regulations, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Cheat Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ie_fOQC_WwAPoTmgM9ikW4IyIzPntT5E/view?usp=sharing Tune in to stay ahead of the changes and understand how HB 803 could impact your next project.

    EFFECTIVE JULY 1ST 2026: Florida HB 803

  6. May 15

    Behind the Walls: The Hidden Challenges of Older Buildings

    Older buildings often come with more than just history and character, they can also come with undocumented changes, missing permits, outdated systems, and unexpected construction challenges that complicate renovations and approvals. In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, Tatiana Gust breaks down why older properties can become difficult to navigate during the permitting and construction process, what hidden issues are commonly discovered behind the walls, and why proper research, inspections, and documentation are critical before starting a project. Whether you’re a contractor, property owner, investor, or developer, this conversation offers valuable insight into the realities of working with older structures and how preparation can help avoid costly surprises and delays.

    Behind the Walls: The Hidden Challenges of Older Buildings

  7. May 1

    The 50% Rule: What It Is, When It Applies, and Why It Can Change Your Entire Project

    In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, we’re breaking down one of the most misunderstood, and often costly, regulations in construction: the 50% Rule. If you’re planning a renovation, addition, or repair, this is the rule that can completely shift your project from a simple update to a full compliance upgrade. Tatiana explains what the 50% Rule actually means, how it’s calculated, and why property value, not construction cost, is what really matters. We dive into: When the 50% Rule is triggeredHow it impacts remodels, especially in coastal and flood-prone areasWhat happens once you cross that thresholdCommon mistakes that lead to unexpected delays and costsHow to plan ahead and avoid getting caught off guardWhether you’re a contractor, homeowner, or developer, understanding this rule is critical before you submit plans or start construction. Because in permitting, it’s not just about what you’re building, it’s about how the system evaluates it.

    The 50% Rule: What It Is, When It Applies, and Why It Can Change Your Entire Project

  8. Apr 15

    Threshold Buildings: What Changed and Why It Matters

    Big changes are happening in Florida’s building regulations, and if you’re a contractor, developer, or property owner, this is something you can’t afford to overlook. In this episode of Constructive Conversations with Tatiana, She break down the recent updates to threshold building requirements, what they are, what’s changed, and why these changes are a big deal for your projects. From stricter oversight to new inspection and documentation expectations, these updates are reshaping how larger and more complex structures move through the permitting and construction process. Tatiana walks you through how these changes impact timelines, costs, and compliance, and more importantly, how to stay ahead of them. Because when it comes to threshold buildings, missing a detail doesn’t just cause delays, it can stop your project altogether. If you’re building in Florida, this episode will give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

    Threshold Buildings: What Changed and Why It Matters
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About

Constructive Conversations with Tatiana is a space for real talk about construction, leadership, and the lessons learned along the way. Tatiana Gust opens up about the wins, the struggles, and everything in between, sharing stories from the field, insights from her journey as an immigrant entrepreneur, and practical advice to help you navigate work and life with confidence. Whether you’re in construction or simply love honest conversations that make you think, this podcast brings insight, positivity, and a whole lot of heart. Join us as we build stronger teams, smarter processes, and a better industry... one conversation at a time.

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