Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome to another episode of The Building Talks Podcast!

This week, I had a brilliant chat with Dr Gretchen Gagel, a global construction leader with 40 years of experience across the US, Australia, and beyond. She’s the founder of Women Thriving in Construction and a key voice in driving cultural change in the industry. With her new book, Building Women Leaders: A Blueprint for Women Thriving in Construction, launching May 2025, she’s sharing powerful insights into leadership, workforce challenges, and the future of construction.

We covered a lot—how leadership must evolve, the real barriers facing women in construction, and how businesses can build inclusive cultures that attract and retain talent. Gretchen also touched on the need for authentic industry messaging, innovation, and real action to address the workforce shortage.

Key takeaways from this episode:

✅ From manufacturing to construction—how Gretchen found her path
✅ A global perspective—from the US to Australia
✅ The role of mentors and allies in shaping a career
✅ Why trust and collaboration drive real success
✅ Culture change and conflict resolution in construction
✅ Building workplaces where people actually want to stay
✅ Getting more women into the industry—and keeping them there
✅ Innovation and leadership as drivers of the future
✅ Tackling the talent shortage with practical, inclusive solutions
✅ Her new book, Building Women Leaders—for everyone in construction

🤔 Why tune in?

If you're passionate about leadership, diversity, inclusion, or building a better industry, this one’s packed with real talk and fresh ideas from one of the most respected voices in construction.

🎧 Tune in now for a powerful, inspiring episode!

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

#TheBuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #DrGretchenGagel #WomenInConstruction #IndustryCulture #InclusionAndDiversity #BuildingWomenLeaders #WorkforceSolutions #InnovationInConstruction #FutureOfConstruction #ProfessionalGrowth #MentorshipMatters #CultureShift #WorkplaceCulture

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to The Building Talks podcast so you don't miss any updates.

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast! This week, I had a great yarn with Nauman Akhtar, one of Melbourne’s go-to guys in the world of building services. He’s worked with some big names—D&E Air Conditioning, Multiplex, and Kapitol Group—and now he’s running the show at his own outfit, INSITE Advisory Group.

We got stuck into what building services are all about—the gear and systems behind the scenes that keep buildings running smoothly and safely. Think mechanical, electrical, plumbing, data, and more. From the rise of AI to the booming need for data centres, this episode dives into the growing complexity of modern buildings and the people needed to keep them ticking.

What you’ll take away from this chat:

✅ Nauman’s unexpected path from dreaming of Ferraris to finding purpose in construction
✅ Why building services are more important—and more complicated—than ever!
✅ How a simple internship turned into a full-blown career in construction
✅ Saying yes to the unknown can lead to big opportunities
✅ What’s fuelling the explosion in data centres (spoiler: gaming, AI, and cloud!)
✅ How AI is already reshaping building management
✅ Why there’s a serious shortage of skilled pros in this space
✅ The importance of mentoring, collaboration, and backing the next generation

🤔 Why give it a listen?

If you’re curious about the tech that powers modern buildings, wondering how AI and data are changing construction, or thinking about career paths that are flying under the radar, this episode is full of eye-openers and real talk. Nauman’s story is proof that taking a leap can lead to a career you never expected—but wouldn’t trade for anything.

Hit play and get the inside scoop on the future of building services!

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

#TheBuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionPodcast #BuildingServices #MEPSystems #SmartBuildings #AIinConstruction #DataCentres #FutureOfConstruction #ConstructionCareers #ConstructionInnovation #InsiteAdvisory #MelbourneConstruction #TechInConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #ModernConstruction

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to The Building Talks podcast so you don't miss any updates.

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome to another episode of The Building Talks Podcast! This week, I’m catching up with Damien Quinn, a bloke who’s made the bold move from construction project management to tech entrepreneur. Starting out as a cadet while studying, he climbed the ranks at Multiplex, then took the leap into software, start-ups, and securing capital to grow—and he’s got some cracking insights to share!

We chat about the shift from building sites to software development, the role of AI in construction, and the challenges of capital raising. Plus, Damien gives us the inside scoop on how real-time quality assurance tech like Visibuild is shaking up the industry.

Key takeaways from this episode:

✅ From cadet to CEO—how Damien made his career shift.
✅ Why some construction pros are turning to tech and start-ups.
✅ The power of real-time quality control in construction.
✅ The evolving role of AI—is it ready to change the game?
✅ How sales and relationship-building drive success in any industry.
✅ The start-up rollercoaster—raising capital, bootstrapping, and picking the right investors.
✅ The work-life balance struggle in construction—can it be fixed?

🤔 Why tune in?

If you’re in construction, tech, or thinking about making a career move, this episode is full of real talk, great insights, and practical takeaways. Whether you’re leading a team, starting a business, or just keen to understand how software is transforming construction, you won’t want to miss it!

🎧 Hit play now and let’s get into it!

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

#ConstructionPodcast #TechInConstruction #BuildingTalks #CareerPivot #StartupJourney #AIinConstruction #QualityAssurance #VentureCapital #WorkLifeBalance #ConstructionTech #Leadership #ConstructionInnovation #ScalingStartups #SalesInConstruction #TrustAndGrowth #BuildingSuccess

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to The Building Talks podcast so you don't miss any updates.

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into a fascinating and thought-provoking topic—Post Carbon Inclusion.

Our guests for this episode are Ralph Horne and Louise Dorignon from RMIT University in Melbourne. Ralph is the Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor at the College of Design and Social Context, while Louise serves as the Vice Chancellor's Postdoctoral Research Fellow. Together, along with others they’ve co-authored Post Carbon Inclusion (get your hands on a copy here), a book that explores the intersection of decarbonisation and inequality within the built environment.

This episode goes beyond the usual discussions of around project delivery, companies, design, Engineering or Architecture. Instead, we ask big-picture questions:

• How do we ensure decarbonisation is delivered equitably? 🌏
• What are the unintended consequences of creating a carbon-neutral built environment? 🚧
• How do renewable energy initiatives and housing solutions factor into the broader social impact of decarbonisation? 🏡

Key Takeaways:

✅ Understanding the unintended consequences of Decarbonisation within the built environment
✅ Urban experiments often reveal hidden challenges and unintended impacts.
✅ Inclusivity is critical for sustainable urban planning and housing solutions.
✅ Housing should be viewed as essential social infrastructure, not just a commodity.
✅ Australia has room to improve housing standards compared to global leaders.
✅ Collaboration and understanding local contexts are vital for successful sustainability initiatives.

📚 Want to explore these ideas further? Grab a copy of Post Carbon Inclusion on Amazon or at your favourite bookstore, or check out this article about the book and topic!

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instag

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome to the first episode of Season 4 of The Building Talks Podcast!

This week, I’m chatting with Mick Hawes, a high-performance business coach specialising in the construction industry. As a bestselling author and former elite sports coach with Tennis Australia, Mick brings a unique perspective on achieving success in both business and life.

We dive into practical strategies for boosting productivity, profitability, and time management while building stronger, more effective teams. Mick also shares his insights on mindset, trust-building, and the power of daily performance rituals to help you take your career to the next level—whether you’re leading a business or working your way up. Mick’s Builders Business Blackbelt system is designed to create business success, but his advice is equally valuable for anyone striving to improve and grow in their professional life.

Key takeaways from this episode:

✅ Mindset is the foundation of performance and success.
✅ Mentoring and coaching can fast-track growth.
✅ Small daily habits can drive long-term improvement.
✅ Trust and empathy strengthen team and client relationships.
✅ Asking smart questions is a game-changer for communication.
✅ Profit management and strategy ensure business sustainability.
✅ The PPR framework—Preparation, Performance, and Recovery—boosts success in any role.

🤔 Why tune in?

Mick’s advice goes beyond construction—this episode is packed with relatable tips for anyone looking to improve their career, manage challenges, and create more time for what matters most.

Don't miss this first episode of Season 4 with actionable insights to elevate your professional and personal success. Hit play now! 🎧

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

#ConstructionIndustry #BusinessSuccess #MindsetMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #BuildersBusiness #HighPerformance #TimeManagement #TeamBuilding #CoachingForSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #ProductivityTips #ConstructionLeadership #CareerGrowth #ProfitableBusiness #PersonalDevelopment #BuildingSuccess #ConstructionCoaching #WorkSmarter #ProfessionalGrowth #SuccessMindset

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to The Building Talks podcast so you don't miss any updates.

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome to the final episode of the How to BE a Property Developer Series on The Building Talks Podcast!

In this wrap-up episode, Steve Chandler and I tackle the big question: What’s next? If you’ve been following along and are eager to dip your toes into property development, this episode is your guide to taking those all-important first steps.

We chat about:

✅ Property development as a learned skill that requires the right understanding and support.
✅ How to ease into property development with small, manageable projects.
✅ Turning your learning into action by taking on that all-important first project.
✅ Smart ways to manage time and navigate the often-lengthy development process.
✅ Financial tips, including structuring projects to maximise tax benefits and finding the right funding.
✅ Why mistakes on your first project are actually valuable lessons for future success.
✅ The power of networking, mentorship, and continuous learning to support your journey.
✅ Choosing the right mentor or educator to guide and elevate your development path.
✅ How property development can lead to financial freedom and personal fulfilment.

Steve and I break down practical, straightforward steps for starting out, highlighting the skills, mindset, and strategies needed to get going. Think of this episode as your springboard into the world of property development.

This might be the final chapter of the How to BE a Property Developer series, but The Building Talks Podcast is far from over! Stay tuned for more insightful conversations to inspire and guide your journey in the built environment.

Tune in now and take your first step towards property development success!

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to The Building Talks podcast so you don't miss any updates.

Also, if you're considering a journey towards becoming a Property Developer, Steve is the go-to guy in this space - reach out to him at:

www.propertydevelopmentinstitute.com

#propertydevelopment #risks #financialstrategies #startingsmall #funding #learningresources #propertyrenovation #developerjourney #investment #realestate

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome to the penultimate episode of The Building Talks Podcast for the How to BE a Property Developer Series! This week, Steve Chandler and I explore the all-important topic of delivery in property development—breaking it down into pre-construction design, risk management, and navigating the construction phase.

In this episode, we dive into:

✅ Delivery as both a design and construction process.
✅ The critical roles architects and engineers play in the development process.
✅ Engaging consultants early and setting up the right contracts.
✅ Understanding different types of building contracts and when to use them.
✅ Smart contract strategies to de-risk projects and manage risk allocation.
✅ Choosing the right builder to ensure seamless delivery.
✅ Shifting your mindset to view costs as investments, not expenses.
✅ Legal considerations and consultancy agreements that protect your interests.
✅ Peer reviews and dispute resolution strategies to maintain quality and save money.

Steve shares practical advice on optimising project outcomes, managing risks, and building success—valuable insights for developers at every stage.

Tune in now and take your property development game to the next level!

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to The Building Talks podcast so you don't miss any updates.

Also, if you're considering a journey towards becoming a Property Developer, Steve is the go-to guy in this space - reach out to him at:

www.propertydevelopmentinstitute.com

#construction #delivery #designphase #consultancyagreements #legalconsiderations #investmentmindset #builders #buildingcontracts #architects #disputeresolution #qualityassurance #costpluscontracts

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au

Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!

Hey, Legends! Welcome to the final episode of The Building Talks Podcast Season 3! I’m Martin Preece, and I’m thrilled to close this season with an inspiring conversation featuring George Abraham, Managing Director of Hickory —one of Australia’s most innovative construction companies.

George shares his journey from starting without industry connections to becoming a leader in the construction space. We chat about his approach to fostering innovation, building a strong company culture, and staying adaptable in a constantly evolving industry. He also offers practical advice on career growth, managing feedback, and creating a workplace that supports open communication and big ideas.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• A strong company culture doesn’t happen overnight—it takes time and leadership.
• Building relationships and communication are at the heart of success.
• Patience, self-improvement, and clear goals are key to advancing your career.
• Innovation isn’t just about products—it’s about smarter ways of working.
• The right timing and adaptability can make or break career opportunities.

It’s a perfect way to end the season, packed with practical insights for anyone in the built environment. As we head into the holidays, I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎄🎉

Season 4 kicks off in early 2025—stay tuned for updates, and make sure to follow us so you don’t miss a thing! 🎧

Tune in to this inspiring finale and explore the future of construction with us!

Hope you enjoy the podcast!

The Building Talks Podcast is brought to you by Building Environs Recruitment - providing recruitment solutions to the property, construction, and related industries, here in Melbourne and Southeast Queensland. For an overview of our service, visit:

www.buildingenvirons.com.au

Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to The Building Talks podcast so you don't miss any updates.

The views and information shared in this podcast are for general purposes only and do not constitute legal or professional advice. Neither the host nor guests are providing specific guidance. Please seek professional advice before taking any action based on the content of this podcast.

Contact The Building Talks Podcast

• Follow us on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram
• Visit us on our website
• Email us at info@buildingenvirons.com.au