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Australian commercial subcontractors who want to understand the real rules of construction and stop being worn down by outdated systems and one-sided contracts.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 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
  2. 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
  3. Episode 63 - 6 Clauses that impact TIME under your subcontract

    12/22/2024

    Episode 63 - 6 Clauses that impact TIME under your subcontract

    Liquidated damages are becoming a bigger challenge for subcontractors, especially post-COVID. Builders are using them more aggressively, sometimes unfairly holding subcontractors responsible for delays they didn't cause—or even helped avoid. On today's episode of the Tricks of your Trade podcast I break down the key contract clauses you need to review to protect your business, including commencement dates, practical completion, qualifying causes of delay, and more.   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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/tricksofyourtradeFollow 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!

    19 min
  4. Episode 64 - Trickery During the Christmas Shutdown Period

    12/12/2024

    Episode 64 - Trickery During the Christmas Shutdown Period

    Hi there! Today, I want to chat with you about something that trips up a lot of people in the construction industry—the Christmas shutdown period. While many industries keep rolling through the holidays, construction traditionally grinds to a halt, and that can lead to some unexpected headaches. In this episode of the Tricks of Your Trade podcast, I dive into the three key ways this downtime can cause trouble and give you some tips to keep you ahead of the game - From payment claims, to contract deadlines, or project delays. Christmas Shutdown Dates in Australia: QLD: 22 December to 10 January (Inclusive)NSW: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)ACT: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)VIC: No shutdown (Public holidays and weekends observed)SA: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)NT: 25 December to 7 January (Inclusive) TAS: 27 to 31 December (Inclusive)   ------------------------------------------------------------------ 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/tricksofyourtradeFollow 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!

    16 min
  5. Episode 62 - Building company staff deserve fairer contract terms too

    11/28/2024

    Episode 62 - Building company staff deserve fairer contract terms too

    Why does the construction industry feel so tough when today’s technology should be making it easier? It’s a question I couldn’t stop thinking about as I stood in the rain at Brisbane’s City Hall 🏛️ (yes, I was soaked!) Looking at the incredible 1920s hand-drawn blueprints of this iconic building, I couldn’t help but wonder—if they managed all that without modern tech, why are we struggling so much now?   In this episode of the Tricks of your Trade podcast, I dig into the shared frustrations of both builder staff and subbies. Whether you’re the one issuing contracts or the one stuck with them, we’re all navigating tight budgets, unrealistic timelines, and outdated practices. But there’s common ground—and fairer contracts are the key.   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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/tricksofyourtradeFollow 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!

    17 min
  6. Episode 61 - 5 variation clauses to check during your contract review

    11/21/2024

    Episode 61 - 5 variation clauses to check during your contract review

    In this episode, I’m diving into the critical clauses around variations in contracts—a topic that I've been asked about a lot lately. I’ll cover what to look out for before signing, including how long variations can be directed, whether you have the right to decline them, how they’re valued, and how margins on variations and credits are handled. I also touch on the importance of knowing your rights when it comes to fixing defects, especially with builders tightening their margins. I’ll share a real-world story about a tiler who got caught out by a clause, leaving them significantly out of pocket. Don’t let a simple oversight like this cost you!   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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/tricksofyourtradeFollow 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!

    18 min
  7. Episode 60 - 5 Key things you should always check in your contracts

    11/14/2024

    Episode 60 - 5 Key things you should always check in your contracts

    Today’s podcast is all about the five key basics you should ALWAYS check in any builder's contract before signing. I’m talking about the bare minimum things you can do to avoid common traps and pitfalls that could cost you big time down the line. From double-checking the contract sum, scope of work, and guarantees, these straightforward checks are essential! Don't sign without them!   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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/tricksofyourtradeFollow 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!

    11 min
  8. Episode 59 - Dumb things builders say during contract negotiations

    11/07/2024

    Episode 59 - Dumb things builders say during contract negotiations

    If you’re a subcontractor, chances are your builder’s thrown some frustrating phrases your way! In this episode of the Tricks of Your Trade podcast, I’m calling out those classic lines builders use to push back in negotiations—and giving you the tools to respond with confidence (and keep your cool).   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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/tricksofyourtradeFollow 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!

    17 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
    66
  • 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