The Subbies' Toolbox Podcast

Michelle Cirson
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The Subbies Toolbox Podcast is for Australian commercial subcontractors who want to understand the real rules of construction and stop being worn down by outdated systems and one-sided contracts. Hosted by Michelle Cirson, a construction lawyer, adjudicator and former builder contracts administrator, this podcast calls out industry norms that no longer make sense and explains how subcontractors can navigate them with clarity and confidence. Michelle explores topics like contract risk, power imbalances, commercial leverage and smarter ways to work within the system while pushing for better outcomes across the industry. Season 2 marks the evolution of the podcast from Tricks of Your Trade into The Subbies Toolbox, with a sharper focus on education, systems, and advocacy that help subcontractors stay out of disputes and in control of their businesses. New episodes are released weekly. www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

  1. Episode 7 - How to Get Your Departure Schedule Approved Faster (Recast)

    2d ago

    Episode 7 - How to Get Your Departure Schedule Approved Faster (Recast)

    In this episode, Michelle shares three practical ways to shorten your departure schedule and make it easier for builders to actually engage with your proposed changes. If you’ve ever had a departure schedule completely knocked back or ignored, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. The longer and more complicated it gets, the less likely it is to be properly considered and that usually means you’re stuck signing something that doesn’t protect your business. This episode is about cutting through that. Michelle breaks down how to prioritise your departures, how to frame them in a way builders are more likely to accept, and how to avoid turning a commercial conversation into a stalemate. If you want better outcomes without blowing up relationships, this is a good place to start. Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    11 min
  2. Episode 6 - Material Price Increases v Fixed Price Contracts

    May 20

    Episode 6 - Material Price Increases v Fixed Price Contracts

    Ep#6 – Material Price Increases v Fixed Price Contracts Material price increases are back in the construction industry and subcontractors everywhere are starting to feel that familiar knot in their stomach again. This week on The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle Cirson dives into the reality of fixed price contracts during periods of economic instability, fuel increases and supplier price hikes. After years of dealing with the fallout from COVID-era pricing blowouts, many Aussie Subbies thought the worst was behind them. But suppliers are once again sending out increase notices, builders are pushing for certainty, and subcontractors are being left exposed under fixed price contracts that no longer stack up commercially. In this episode, Michelle breaks down the practical and legal realities subcontractors need to understand right now, including: What you can and can’t do under existing fixed price contracts The risks of refusing work or walking away from a contract How standing offer arrangements and schedule of rates contracts can trap subbies for years The clauses you need to review immediately in your current contracts Practical off-ramps and strategies that may help protect your business How to structure future contracts to better manage volatile pricing The role provisional sums, separable portions and variation clauses can play moving forward The hidden risks of “good bloke” emails and casual conversations during uncertain times Michelle also shares practical strategies subcontractors can use during negotiations to avoid getting locked into long-term deals that could quickly become commercially dangerous. If you’re an Aussie Subbie working in Commercial Construction, this episode is an important reminder that rushing into contracts during uncertain times can have long-term consequences for your cashflow, margins and business survival. Resources Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership  Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au Get Your Fix on Social Media Follow Michelle on Linked In - HERE  Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE Follow Michelle on Facebook - HERE  Rate and Review the Podcast If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks! About the Host Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership. If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    28 min
  3. Episode 4 - The Shift Towards AI in Contract Review

    Apr 15

    Episode 4 - The Shift Towards AI in Contract Review

    AI is starting to show up everywhere in construction, including contract reviews. For subcontractors working in commercial construction, that can sound like a huge time saver. But it also introduces risks that many people don’t realise.  In this episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle Cirson shares practical insights from reviewing hundreds of construction contracts and explains where AI can genuinely help subcontractors, and where it can quietly lead them into trouble.  Michelle walks through some real examples of how AI can misunderstand prompts, miss important contract risks, or frame your thinking about a deal before you’ve even assessed it properly yourself.  Most importantly, she explains how subcontractors can use AI as a tool rather than a decision-maker when reviewing builders’ contracts.  If you’re starting to experiment with AI in your business, this episode will help you use it wisely while still protecting your commercial interests.  This episode explores:  The risks of uploading contract documents into AI tools  Why AI can misinterpret prompts during contract reviews  The danger of letting AI frame your view of a deal  How subcontractors can use AI to locate key clauses in contracts  Why context, risk appetite and trade knowledge still matter in contract negotiations  Practical ways to approach contract risk before generating a departure schedule  Michelle also explains the hierarchy of contract risk controls and how subcontractors can use it to decide whether a clause needs negotiation, adjustment to scope, or whether the project risk is simply too high.  Resources  Get the Business Risk Checklist (Free Download) https://www.subbiestoolbox.com.au/risk  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership   Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School  Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.  Get Your Fix on Social Media   Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/  Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/subbiestoolbox/   Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade  Rate and Review the Podcast  If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!  About the Host   Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.   If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.

    20 min
  4. Episode 5 - The Hidden Impact of Fair Contract Laws on Subcontractors

    Apr 14

    Episode 5 - The Hidden Impact of Fair Contract Laws on Subcontractors

    This week on The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, we’re talking about unfair contract terms laws and whether the changes brought in during 2023 have actually made things better for subcontractors. On paper, these laws look like a big win. There are serious penalties now for companies that include unfair terms in their contracts. But in practice, things aren’t always that simple. Most subcontractors are still being handed standard form contracts on a take it or leave it basis. And the reality is, many of the clauses in those contracts still heavily favour the builder or upstream party. So the real question isn’t whether the laws exist. It’s whether they’re actually changing behaviour on the ground. In this episode, I walk through what’s really happening in the industry, what I’m seeing in negotiations every day, and where these laws are starting to make a difference. We also unpack some of the more questionable contract practices that are still floating around, including early payment discounts and how they actually work behind the scenes. If you’re signing contracts regularly, this is something you need to understand. Not from a legal theory perspective, but from a practical, commercial one.   Get the Business Risk Checklist (Free Download) https://www.subbiestoolbox.com.au/risk  Resources  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership   Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School  Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.  Get Your Fix on Social Media   Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/  Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/subbiestoolbox/   Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade  Rate and Review the Podcast  If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!  About the Host   Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.   If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

    20 min
  5. Episode 3 - The Power of ITPs in Subcontracting

    Apr 1

    Episode 3 - The Power of ITPs in Subcontracting

    In this episode, Michelle explains why Inspection Test Plans (ITPs) are one of the most overlooked tools subcontractors have to protect themselves on commercial construction projects.  Many subbies see ITPs as just paperwork. Something the builder asks for that ends up sitting in a folder no one ever looks at. But when payment disputes happen, when projects go sideways, or when builders start questioning your work, ITPs can become some of the most powerful evidence you have.  Michelle shares real cases where subcontractors lost hundreds of thousands of dollars simply because they could not prove what had been delivered or completed on site. She also explains how a simple, systematic approach to ITPs can protect your business and help you get paid.  This episode also looks at how poor record keeping can backfire if ITPs are completed incorrectly or treated as a box-ticking exercise.  If you work in commercial construction, this is one of the simplest risk management systems you can implement in your business.  Get the Business Risk Checklist (Free Download) https://www.subbiestoolbox.com.au/risk  Resources  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership   Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School  Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.  Get Your Fix on Social Media   Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/  Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/subbiestoolbox/   Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade  Rate and Review the Podcast  If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!  About the Host   Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.   If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.

    18 min
  6. Episode 2 - Mastering Risk Management for Subcontractors

    Mar 24

    Episode 2 - Mastering Risk Management for Subcontractors

    In this episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast, Michelle breaks down one of the most overlooked risk areas for commercial subcontractors: purchase order terms and conditions. Drawing on real experiences from legal disputes in the commercial construction industry, Michelle explains how many payment disputes actually start much earlier in a project. Small gaps in documentation, supplier agreements, or purchasing processes can quickly escalate into major financial problems. Michelle shares practical stories from subcontractors who found themselves exposed because there was nothing in writing when purchasing specialist equipment or engaging suppliers. If you want to protect your subcontracting business, this episode explains why purchase order terms and conditions should be one of the first contracts you implement. Get the Business Risk Checklist (Free Download) https://www.subbiestoolbox.com.au/risk Resources  Get the Business Risk Checklist (Free Download) https://www.subbiestoolbox.com.au/risk  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership   Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School  Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.  Get Your Fix on Social Media   Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/  Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/subbiestoolbox/   Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade  Rate and Review the Podcast  If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!  About the Host   Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.   If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.

    18 min
  7. Episode 1 - The contracting hierarchy in construction is designed to keep Subcontractors under control – not build better buildings.

    Jan 28

    Episode 1 - The contracting hierarchy in construction is designed to keep Subcontractors under control – not build better buildings.

    Welcome to Season 2 and the first episode of The Subbies Toolbox Podcast.  If you’re a commercial subcontractor working for builders in Australia, this podcast is for you.  In this episode, I explain why the podcast has evolved from Tricks of Your Trade into the Subbies Toolbox, who I am, and why most subcontractor problems can be avoided long before anyone needs to go near a courtroom.  We talk honestly about why construction contracts don’t operate on common sense, how the system is designed to default in the builder’s favour, and why subcontractors need a systematic approach to help them get through business life unscathed.  Resources  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies' Toolbox Membership   Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School  Get Free Checklists, Templates and guides here www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.  Get Your Fix on Social Media   Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/  Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/subbiestoolbox/   Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade  Rate and Review the Podcast  If you like what you’re hearing on The Subbies’ Toolbox Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!  About the Host  Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.   If you want to understand how this system actually works and where subcontractors tend to get caught out, you’ll find more resources at www.subbiestoolbox.com.au.

    28 min
  8. Episode 65 - Final Episode: Why Tricks of Your Trade Is Ending (and What Comes Next)

    Jan 12

    Episode 65 - Final Episode: Why Tricks of Your Trade Is Ending (and What Comes Next)

    This is the final episode of the Tricks of Your Trade podcast.  In this episode, I explain why the podcast name is changing, how the business has evolved and what that means for you as a subcontractor working in commercial construction.  I share the story behind how Tricks of Your Trade started, from my time as a builder’s CA through to becoming a solicitor, building The Subbies Toolbox and shifting away from done-for-you contract admin into education, systems and advocacy that will actually move the needle for subbies.  I talk openly about why the Tricks of Your Trade brand no longer reflects the professional services we now provide, and why our brand positioning matters if we want subcontractors to be taken seriously by builders, regulators, and government.  This episode also outlines what’s coming next, including a renewed focus on industry reform, unfair contract terms, trust account failures and using bigger platforms to push for change that benefits subcontractors long term.  Key Takeaways  Why the Tricks of Your Trade brand no longer fits the work we do today  How The Subbies Toolbox evolved from a USB stick of templates into a full support system  What’s changing with the podcast and what’s staying the same  Where advocacy, education and industry reform fit next  About the Host  Michelle Cirson is construction lawyer, adjudicator and former commercial builder’s CA who now works exclusively with Australian subcontractors. She helps commercial subcontractors manage their builders’ contracts and get paid on time, without losing jobs and blowing up builder relationships. Michelle is the founder of The Subbies Toolbox Membership.  ------------------------------------------------------------------ Download Michelle's Freebies! 10 Changes to Make to Your Builders Contract; A Guide For Subcontractors  Explore ways to get more of Michelle in your world Book a Free Scoping Call with Michelle  Want to negotiate better contract terms? Explore Negotiation School (4 Week Course)  Tired of builders pushing you around? Arm yourself with the Subbies Toolbox Get Your fix on Social Media  Follow Michelle on Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecirson/ Follow Michelle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tricksofyourtrade Follow Michelle on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tricksofyourtrade Share the love If you like what you’re hearing on The Tricks of Your Trade Podcast, support the show by taking a few seconds to leave a rating and/or comment on ApplePodcast, or Spotify Thanks!

    28 min
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About

The Subbies Toolbox Podcast is for Australian commercial subcontractors who want to understand the real rules of construction and stop being worn down by outdated systems and one-sided contracts. Hosted by Michelle Cirson, a construction lawyer, adjudicator and former builder contracts administrator, this podcast calls out industry norms that no longer make sense and explains how subcontractors can navigate them with clarity and confidence. Michelle explores topics like contract risk, power imbalances, commercial leverage and smarter ways to work within the system while pushing for better outcomes across the industry. Season 2 marks the evolution of the podcast from Tricks of Your Trade into The Subbies Toolbox, with a sharper focus on education, systems, and advocacy that help subcontractors stay out of disputes and in control of their businesses. New episodes are released weekly. www.subbiestoolbox.com.au

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Cirson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Subbies Toolbox. All rights reserved. This podcast and its content are provided for general information only and do not constitute legal advice.
  • Show Website
    The Subbies' Toolbox Podcast