The Tricks of Your Trade Podcast

Michelle Cirson
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The Tricks of Your Trade Podcast

If you are a commercial subcontractor contracting with big shiny builders (commercial or civil) this podcast is for you! We are here to talk about the all things subcontracting and getting you paid. Your host is a construction lawyer with actual site experience, and qualifications in building and law. From builder insolvency, adjudication for debt recovery, a systematic approach to contract administration and wherever you can, securing your payment, we spill the beans on every single hack available to you to survive the subcontracting blood bath that is the Aussie construction industry. There is no excuse for you to be blindly signing subcontracts ever again! I plan to teach you how to use commercial leverage to protect your business and negotiate from a position of strength. Now quit reading and get listening ...

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

    6 DAYS AGO

    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!

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

    NOV 7

    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).

    17 min
  3. Episode 58 - 3 Ways to make your Departure Schedule Shorter

    OCT 31

    Episode 58 - 3 Ways to make your Departure Schedule Shorter

    In this episode of the Tricks of Your Trade podcast, I share three essential tips to make your departure schedule shorter, and keep your builder happy.

    12 min
  4. Episode 57 - The Mathematical Likelihood Things Will Go South

    OCT 25

    Episode 57 - The Mathematical Likelihood Things Will Go South

    In this episode of the Tricks of the Trade podcast, I dive into a topic that's been on my mind for ages—the mathematical likelihood you'll end up in a dispute. Inspired by Survivor of all things, I discuss how predictable behavior can help you navigate contract disputes. I also break down a formula that sheds light on the probability of conflicts, the importance of doing due diligence, and the necessity of negotiating contract terms.

    20 min
  5. Episode 56 - Neapolitan Ice Cream Theory

    OCT 17

    Episode 56 - Neapolitan Ice Cream Theory

    Ever thought about mixing friends, family, and business? If so, you might want to reconsider! Today we dive into what I like to call: "The Neapolitan Ice Cream Theory". In this episode of the Tricks of your Trade Podcast, we unpack why “love jobs” can be the riskiest ventures for your business with the least reward. Discover how mixing family, friends, and business can lead to a whole lot of mess and learn the golden rule: never break the Neapolitan ice cream theory!

    11 min
  6. Episode 55 - "Better to have a gun and not need it..."

    OCT 10

    Episode 55 - "Better to have a gun and not need it..."

    Have you ever heard the phrase, "It's better to have a gun and not need it than to need it and not have it"? In this episode, I’m diving into how builders’ lawyers love throwing that around in contract negotiations— and why it’s not exactly great for building strong partnerships. I share some tricks for flipping the script, building better relationships on the job, and ultimately leading to better outcomes for both subbies and builders.

    11 min
  7. Episode 54 - the mathematical likelihood things go south

    SEP 29

    Episode 54 - the mathematical likelihood things go south

    There is actually a mathematical equation that can be done to work out the likelihood you'll fall into dispute with your builder, based on the number of transactions you enter into and the number of other parties involved in the transaction. In this episode, I drill into what you can and can't control, and why you should care about the maths. You can watch this Episode on the Youtube channel for video.

    20 min
  8. Episode 53 - Advantages of an in house contract review

    11/14/2023

    Episode 53 - Advantages of an in house contract review

    In this episode, I discuss the benefits of reviewing your own contracts internally before seeking legal advice. I explain how understanding your trade and operations can help identify risks better than a lawyer alone. Key takeaways include reading contracts like drawings, using a checklist tailored to your needs, and asking lawyers targeted questions. Episode Highlights: Read contracts by separating clauses instead of reading front to back Create a contract review checklist specific to your trade and risks Review contracts yourself first to understand operational impacts Provide lawyers context on your trade and ask targeted questions

    19 min
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About

If you are a commercial subcontractor contracting with big shiny builders (commercial or civil) this podcast is for you! We are here to talk about the all things subcontracting and getting you paid. Your host is a construction lawyer with actual site experience, and qualifications in building and law. From builder insolvency, adjudication for debt recovery, a systematic approach to contract administration and wherever you can, securing your payment, we spill the beans on every single hack available to you to survive the subcontracting blood bath that is the Aussie construction industry. There is no excuse for you to be blindly signing subcontracts ever again! I plan to teach you how to use commercial leverage to protect your business and negotiate from a position of strength. Now quit reading and get listening ...

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