Join Jess Kismet as she delves into the world of high-performance building envelopes with James Pinyon, Kingspan's Technical Services Manager. Discover the intricacies of insulation, thermal performance, and the evolving standards in sustainable building. From the challenges of condensation in modern constructions to the innovative solutions Kingspan is pioneering, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how buildings can be made not just code-compliant, but genuinely better to live and work in. Tune in for insights on the future of insulation and sustainable building practices.

Full show notes, chapters and links can be found here:

In this episode, I chat to Sean Buchanan, an incredible builder from Northern Tasmania, to explore his journey into the world of building science. Sean shares his insights on the importance of creating durable and healthy homes, the challenges faced in the industry, and his vision for the future. Tune in to learn how Sean is making a difference in the construction world and inspiring the next generation of builders. He's the cool nerd we all need in our lives!

In this episode, I sit down with Spencer Rosen, the founder of Home Energy Academy, to talk about building science, electrification, and homeowner engagement. Spencer shares his journey into home energy education and why he’s so passionate about helping both homeowners and professionals better understand energy efficiency and sustainable living.

We chat about the challenges of upgrading existing homes, the need for a stronger baseline of knowledge among homeowners, and the exciting potential of bringing these ideas into schools. Spencer also told me all about his software development work focused on improving home energy solutions, and we chat through some smart marketing strategies that actually help energy upgrades gain traction.

We wrap up by imagining what ideal energy communities could look like and how to design homes that are truly energy-efficient offering a hopeful look at what's possible for a more sustainable future.

Show notes can be found here:

https://building-sciology-poddie.podcastpage.io/episode/15-when-you-know-better-you-build-better-with-spencer-rosen

In this conversation, I chat with Jess Ward, the founder of Mould Wise, about the vital intersection of health and home environments, particularly focusing on mould exposure and its health implications. Jess Ward shares her personal journey from experiencing severe health issues due to mould exposure to becoming a mould inspector. Our chat covers common misconceptions about mould, the connection between mould exposure and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, and the importance of proper mould remediation. Jess emphasises the need for awareness and education regarding mould-related health issues and the significance of maintaining a healthy home environment.

Show notes can be found here:

https://building-sciology-poddie.podcastpage.io/episode/14-mould-misdiagnosis-and-the-making-of-a-healthy-home-with-jess-ward

In this episode of the Building Sciology Poddie, I have a rambunctious chat with high-performance builders Hamish White and Matt Carland to discuss the intricacies of constructing sustainable homes in Australia.

We delve into the challenges faced in the residential construction industry, the importance of continuous learning, and the need for better education around energy efficiency.

The conversation also touches on the myths surrounding building practices, the significance of Passivhaus certification, and the potential for innovative projects to push the boundaries of construction standards. Ultimately, the episode emphasises that building better is a choice that can lead to healthier living environments.

It is also, so far, the only episode I have had to place the explicit warning on so don't say you weren't warned! Haha a great chat with a couple of fantastic builders who want to see the industry they love rise up. Enjoy!

Show notes can be found here:

https://building-sciology-poddie.podcastpage.io/episode/13-passivhaus-performance-the-power-of-building-science-with-hamish-white-and-matthew-carland

This is the longest episode yet, but it’s worth every minute!

In this episode of the Building Sciology Poddie, I interview Clarence Macalister, a builder and scientist with extensive experience in remediation and condensation management. In our chat we go deep into problems created by moisture and also into roof ventilation, finally an explanation!!

We chat about the nuances of Passivhaus design, the role of sensors in monitoring building conditions, and share case studies of building failures.

Clarence has a huge amount of practical skill and experience we can all learn, from so tune in and put any questions or feedback in the comments!

Show notes can be found here:

https://building-sciology-poddie.podcastpage.io/episode/12-condensation-roof-ventilation-and-building-science-with-clarence-macalister

In this episode of The Building Sciology Poddie, I chat with Clare Conroy, who shares her unique journey from homeowner to project manager at 35 South Building Co. Clare opens up about entering the construction industry, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of relationships and trust in building. The conversation explores the responsibility that comes with creating homes, the misconceptions around energy efficiency, and how building smaller can still mean building better.

Clare also introduces her inspiring new project aimed at making building science accessible to children through storytelling - teaching concepts like insulation and orientation in fun, engaging ways. We highlight the urgent need for better education around building performance for both professionals and the public, and the power of knowledge sharing to create meaningful change in the industry.

Show notes can be found here:

https://building-sciology-poddie.podcastpage.io/episode/11-responsibility-energy-efficiency-purpose-with-clare-conroy

In this episode, I interview Villy Yordanov, a mechanical engineer and innovation engineer at Pro Clima. We discuss the importance of building science, sustainability, and moisture management in construction. Villy shares his journey into the field, the role of WUFI in hygrothermal modeling, and the significant challenges associated with managing moisture in concrete structures. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about moisture in buildings, the balance between air tightness and vapour control, and the latest innovations in building science.

Show notes can be found here

https://building-sciology-poddie.podcastpage.io/episode/10-wufi-walls-and-weatherproofing-with-villy-yordanov