The ToolShed Mick Hawes

Tech Advancement in Construction With so many software options for builders, it can be a real head-scratcher figuring out which one suits your business best. We're talking tools that save you time, money, and a heap of frustration. Whether you're jotting down specs on a beer coaster or wrestling with outdated spreadsheets, there's a better way, and we're here to show you how to find it. BuildXact a revolutionary software transforming the building industry. Integrating technology into construction businesses can streamline operations, save time, and boost profitability.
Joining us today is a true heavyweight in construction tech, Steve Yates, the CEO of BuildXact. With a rock-solid background in global supply chains and enterprise sales, Steve excels in strategic planning and development. Before BuildXact, he was the CEO of Cliftonvale in California, mastering sourcing and logistics. Steve's mission is all about making builders' lives easier and more productive. Get ready for top-notch insights and practical advice from someone who's been there and done that.
Coming up this episode:
Integrate builder software into your business operations to streamline processes and improve profitability. The common challenges builders face and how technology can help overcome them. BuildXact's features for better project management and efficiency. The importance of community and collaboration in the building industry and how BuildXact facilitates this. Real-life benefits and success stories from builders who have transformed their operations with BuildXact. Think differently about your current methods and explore new, more efficient ways to manage your building projects. All this and more, on this week’s episode of THE TOOLSHED.
Links: BuildXact.com Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com
Stay tuned next week when we talk about another awesome tool called Next Minute. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Crafting Memorable Client Experiences The way you make your clients feel is just as important as the structure you build for them. From the initial planning stages to the final handover, it’s all about creating a positive and memorable experience. We discuss how to align design visions with budget realities and foster strong collaborative relationships between builders, designers, and clients to ensure project success.
Joining us for this chat is Adrian Ramsay, an acclaimed designer from New Zealand. Adrian started in fashion, making waves with his innovative swimwear and sportswear designs for high-profile clients like America’s Cup teams and Sir Edmund Hillary. His passion for design led him to architecture and interiors, where he's now a celebrated figure with over a hundred projects. Adrian also hosts the "TALK design" podcast and is the Queensland host for Channel 9’s "Dream Homes Revealed." His dedication to quality design makes him the perfect guest to explore the emotional impact of our work.
Key takeaways:
Learn how to create designs that align with budget constraints without compromising quality. Understand the importance of collaboration between builders, designers, and clients. Learn to manage client expectations effectively throughout the project. Understand how to communicate effectively with clients to meet their needs. Hear us talk about the challenges and rewards of working in the design industry. All this and more, on this week’s episode of THE TOOLSHED.
Links: https://ardesignhouse.com/
Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com
Stay tuned next week when we talk about an awesome tool called Buildxact. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Hidden dangers in our homes We spend so much time worrying about our diets, exercise routines, and overall wellness, but how often do we consider the very environment we live in? From mold to building materials and electromagnetic fields, these unseen factors can have a profound impact on our health and well-being. It's high time we shone a light on these hidden hazards and understood how our homes might be undermining our health. Today, we'll explore practical steps to ensure our living spaces support our overall well-being and create a healthier environment for ourselves and our families. So, if you're keen to learn how to create a living space that supports your health rather than harms it.
Joining us today is Zara D'Cotta, a powerhouse in building biology and founder of The Healthy Home. After battling cancer and environmental illness, Zara turned her experience into a mission to promote healthier building practices. Her expertise in healthy home design and building materials empowers builders across Australia to create sustainable and safe homes. Featured on Domain and ABC Radio Hobart, and speaking for top organisations like the Australian Institute of Architects, Zara's dedication to healthier living environments is truly commendable.
Key takeaways:
Our living environments have a huge impact on our health, often more than we realise. Mold, building materials, and electromagnetic fields are critical factors in creating a healthy home. Zara D'Cotta’s journey from battling cancer and environmental illness has driven her to promote healthier building practices. Healthy homes should prioritise clean air, clean water, proper lighting, and reducing exposure to manmade electromagnetic fields. Investing in air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and keeping an eye on indoor humidity levels can make a big difference to your home’s health. Builders can create healthier homes without necessarily increasing costs by making smarter choices with materials. The Healthy Home’s courses are fantastic for educating builders on enhancing client health and sustainability while cutting down on liability risks. Links: The Healthy Home Contact Zara at hello@thehealthyhome.com.au Follow Zara on Instagram: @zaradcotta_thehealthyhome All this and more, on this week’s episode of THE TOOLSHED.
Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com
Stay tuned for new episode next week as we talk about how to create a successful construction project. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Streamlining Trades Business with AroFlo Softwares are essential in trades businesses as it streamlines processes, reduces errors, and improves efficiency, leading to cost savings and enhanced customer satisfaction. In this episode, we discuss the innovative solutions AroFlo offers for trades and construction businesses. We'll talk about Peter’s extensive industry experience, the unique features of AroFlo, and how it can improve efficiency on your business workflow.
Our guest, Peter Darley, is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in field service software. As the General Manager of AroFlo Software, Peter leads a team dedicated to creating innovative solutions tailored for the trades. Peter's deep understanding of field service management has driven meaningful advancements in software solutions, making him a powerhouse in the industry.
In this episode you will:
Learn how to enhance your field service management with AroFlo Software. Understand the journey and evolution of AroFlo from its founding to serving thousands of customers. Learn to implement efficient workflow solutions tailored for trades and construction businesses. Take a deeper look at the user-friendly features and benefits of AroFlo’s mobile app. We answer a question about the importance of compliance in field service management. Rethink your project management by utilising integrated software solutions that streamline operations. Understand the impact of customer feedback on continuous software improvement. The advantages of moving from spreadsheets and whiteboards to digital solutions. Learn how the foundations of effective field service management can transform your business. Think differently about managing field operations with advanced digital tools. We talk in-depth about the support and training available to AroFlo users, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing success. Links: https://aroflo.com/
All this and more, on this week’s episode of THE TOOLSHED.
Join us in the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com
Stay tuned for new episode next week as we talk about how to create healthier living environment! So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Creating a Stronger Construction Community We all know the construction industry can be a pressure cooker. It's a massive issue that we can't afford to shy away from, especially given the challenges we've all faced over the past few years. We'll be exploring some powerful tools, philosophies, and community-driven techniques that can help us build not just better businesses, but a better industry overall.
Our guest today is Adrien Mamet. Adrien has seen it all, from towering commercial projects to the intricate details of residential builds. But lately, his focus has shifted. He's passionate about creating a supportive community for construction business owners, a place where you can share the weight and celebrate the wins, together. Adrien will share his insights on the industry, the challenges you face, and most importantly, how we can build (pun intended) a stronger network of support for one another.
In this episode you will:
Learn how to navigate the challenges of the building industry with practical strategies. Understand the critical role of proactive mental health initiatives in mitigating daily stress. Learn to harness the power of mentorship and coaching for business success. Take a deeper look at the benefits of building a strong, supportive community. We answer a question about the importance of having a business or life coach. Rethink your approach to business challenges by implementing proactive mental health practices. Understand the value of sharing and supporting each other within a community. Hear us talk about the transformative impact of being part of a collective. Learn how the foundations of a successful business include mentorship, community, and mental health awareness. Think differently about how community support can accelerate your personal and professional growth. We talk in-depth about the experiences and insights of Adrian Mamet, from his personal journey to creating Build Up Australia. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamethomes
https://buildupaustralia.com.au/
All this and more, on this week’s episode of THE TOOLSHED.
Join us in the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com
Stay tuned next week as we talk about an awesome tool builders can use to improve efficiency! So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

Embracing Mental Health in the Building Industry A critical and often overlooked issue in the building industry is mental health. In this episode, we talked about recognising the signs of mental health struggles, and the importance of open conversations. But it's not just about recognizing the signs, it's about being present, supporting one another, and fostering open conversations. Too often, mental health is overlooked, but it's crucial to tackle it head-on.
Our guest today is Sonja Bottern, a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. After the tragic loss of her father to suicide, Sonja dedicated herself to this vital cause. She facilitates workshops, provides support through Jesuit Social Services' Support After Suicide program, and collaborates on training projects at Monash University. Her commitment and expertise are invaluable as we delve into recognizing mental health struggles, supporting those in need, and fostering a healthier community.
In this episode, you will:
Learn how to recognise the signs of mental health struggles in yourself and others. Understand the prevalence and impact of mental health issues in the building industry. Learn to approach and support someone who may be experiencing mental health challenges. Take a deeper look at the practical steps for providing mental health first aid. We answer a question about how to effectively listen to and empathise with someone struggling with suicidal thoughts. Rethink your approach to mental health by incorporating genuine conversations and support. Understand the importance of asking direct questions about suicide to offer real help. Hear us talk about personal stories and experiences that highlight the critical nature of mental health awareness. Learn how the foundations of mental health training like SafeTalk can be implemented in your business. Think differently about the role of empathy and support in preventing suicide. We talk in-depth about the resources available for those struggling with mental health issues and how to access them. Links:
Web - https://botternconsulting.com.au Email: info@botternconsulting.com TIACS - https://www.tiacs.org Beyond Blue - https://www.beyondblue.org.au All this and more, on this week’s episode of THE TOOLSHED.
Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com
Stay tuned next week as we talk about how community can be a toolbox for your mental health! So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.
Want more resources to help build your building or trades-based business? Join us in the ToolShed - thetoolshedpodcast.com
Stay tuned for new episode next week. So, don’t forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.