Better Builder Podcast
Real Conversations with Successful Builders. Powered by Forté Brad sits down with experienced building business owners from around Australia and New Zealand to discuss their journey into construction, mistakes they've made along the way and how they achieved holistic success.
Episodes
This week, we sit down with Adam Harrison, a builder passionate about tackling challenging sites, finding immense satisfaction in overcoming complex construction problems. Adam's unique journey, shaped by an adventurous upbringing and a non-traditional learning path, highlights his hands-on approach. This episode delves into how his background influenced his perspective on life and work, alongside his insights in...
This week, we sit down with Don Cotterill, Director of Sanctuary 28, a Gold Coast-based builder known for providing a personal service and ensuring exceptional quality in every home. With over 30 years in the region, Don's extensive career trajectory, from an apprenticeship to General Manager at Dixon Homes, provided him with a unique "back of house" understanding of running a construction company. He f...
This week, we're joined by Troy Bannan from Bannan Construction, a company renowned for its specialized, high-end concrete work, including intricate "million-dollar staircases." Troy's immense passion and drive for the construction industry are contagious, stemming from a busy childhood and early exposure to building sites through his father (Ross). This strong family influence instilled a relentle...
This week, we chat with Luke Jackison, Founder & Director of Constrkt, a team fueled by a passion for perfection and a culture of excellence. With over 12 years of diverse industry experience across Auckland, Queenstown, and London, Luke has spearheaded high-end residential, commercial, heritage, and masonry projects. His extensive background brings a breadth of knowledge and a commitment to ensuring clients enjoy...
This week, we sit down with Gary Saraf, diving into his personal journey and the pivotal decision to risk his life savings to buy a fit-out business. From a tough upbringing, Gary shares how he turned his path around and transitioned into the commercial interiors world. He offers crucial insights on the mindset required for entrepreneurship, how to spot red flags when acquiring a business, and the immense value of hav...
This week, we are revisiting an oldie but a goodie episode. Ollie Tuck from Oliver Tuck Construction shares his wisdom in this reupload episode. If you haven’t checked out this episode yet, then it’s one to watch.
Better Builder Podcast is made possible by our partners, Forte
Forte - https://forte.co.nz/homeowners
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This week, we speak with Ben Gommers from Gommers Construction, a trusted service focused on quality and efficiency in all projects. Ben's path to building went from graphic design to the 'rollercoaster' of construction.
In this episode, Ben shares being 'thrown in the deep end' and learning to 'put his big boy pants on.' He reflects on early worries about work and his view that &apos...
This week, we chat with Bryn Williams from Tiny Pools, a Mount Maunganui company transforming backyard pools. Founded by landscapers with the belief everyone deserves a pool, they offer accessible precast concrete kit sets.
In this episode, Bryn shares Tiny Pools' incredible growth from landscaping roots to a multi-million-dollar business facing huge demand. Discover how they're tapping into a 'wave...
Welcome back to a bonus episode of Better Builder Apprentice! This month, we're joined by Tony Buchanan from Builders Academy. Join us as we delve into the realities of mentoring the next generation of builders. Tony shares his experiences navigating the work ethic of today's young apprentices, the ongoing challenge of finding reliable workers, and the inspiring presence of strong women on the building site.
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This week, we chat with Sam Newell, the founder of Build Interiors, a company where strong communication and creative solutions drive their work in interior fit-outs for clients like Sky City and Nike. Sam's journey includes a background in civil construction and high-end residential carpentry, culminating in his recognition as the 2022 Retail Design Excellence Award's Rising Star.
In this episode, Sam s...
This week, we're joined by Mike Smith from Wood Smith Building. Mike is a qualified Master Builder with over 20 years of experience in high-end architectural builds both in New Zealand and London. His leadership at Wood Smith Building emphasizes treating their team wisely and fostering long-lasting connections with clients and suppliers.
In this episode, Mike shares his insights on navigating the challenges of the...
This week's episode features Ross Faulkner from Faulkner Construction, a highly respected builder with a long history of delivering exceptional architectural homes across Auckland and Tauranga since 1981.
Join us as we explore the key challenges and solutions Ross has encountered while growing his successful business. He shares valuable perspectives on seeing the bigger picture, the importance of patience and...
This week, we chat with Chris Sweeney, co-owner of C&C Renovations and a seasoned Licensed Building Practitioner. Chris brings 12 years of global building experience, from the London Olympics to Amsterdam's historic canal houses, now delivering exceptional renovations in Auckland.
In this episode, Chris shares key lessons on documenting everything, avoiding naivety, and the power of strong partnerships. H...
We welcome back Ed Cooney, the founder and director of Iron House, for another insightful conversation. With over three decades of experience in the construction industry, Ed has worked on significant projects worldwide, most recently in Vanuatu through Luxor Homes.
In this episode, we delve into the critical importance of thoroughly understanding your business's back-end operations, the necessity of meticulous de...
Adam Beswick co-founded Next Level Joinery in 2017 with a vision to create a modern timber joinery workshop committed to delivering exceptional, sustainable timber products on time with outstanding service. Next Level Joinery prides itself on its dedicated team, modern precision machinery, and a customer-centric approach, aiming to exceed expectations and foster long-term relationships built on trust and transparency....
Matt Saathof leads Totara Construction, a family-owned Tauranga-based company inspired by the enduring strength and integrity of the Totara tree. Since 2016, Totara Construction has been dedicated to providing a personable and lasting approach to building, emphasizing excellent design without excessive expense. They are known for their commitment to working closely with clients and architects to create beautiful and f...
Welcome back to Better Builder Apprentice! In our sixth monthly bonus episode, we're joined by Caitlin, a powerhouse fourth-year apprentice who's practically breathing down the neck of qualification – just 99% to go! We're diving deep into the realities of apprenticeship, exploring the exciting career avenues that open up after qualifying, and pinpointing the common pitfalls that apprentices should abso...
Mel Riley, alongside his brother Justin, founded DC Build, a residential construction company known for translating architectural visions into reality with exceptional craftsmanship. Led by a team of Master Builders and experienced project managers, DC Build, established in 2014, focuses on creating homes that bring pride to owners, architects, and the construction team alike. After leading large commercial projects, ...
Dave Bulling leads Cook Brothers Construction, a national commercial construction powerhouse specialising in diverse and complex projects. They are recognised for their commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and a unique approach to business. Beginning with a $1.5 million apartment conversion in Dunedin, managed from their early "Tree Hut" office, Cook Brothers has achieved significant growth, incl...
Iaac Lindesay is the driving force behind Make Space Build, a company redefining modular construction in some of the most remote and challenging locations across New Zealand. From compact one-bedroom homes to expansive off-grid retreats, Make Space Build delivers high-quality, bespoke solutions with a sharp focus on efficiency, cost control, and innovative design.
In this episode, we sit down with Isaac to ex...
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