Your Project Shepherd Construction Podcast

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson unpacks the hidden costs of construction that no budget accounts for: stress, burnout, and anxiety. Curtis explores how builders face unreliable trades, constant financial pressure, and client demands—while homeowners ride an emotional roller coaster from excitement to regret. These challenges aren’t separate—they’re two sides of the same coin. If you’re a builder, a...

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why “winging it” in construction is a recipe for disaster. Using a luxury fence in River Oaks, TX as an example, Curtis unpacks the hidden risks of vague plans, poor alignment, and lack of detail in design. He explains how homeowners, builders, and architects can prevent disputes, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure projects stay on track. From pre-construction p...

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Dan Bawden, owner of Legal Eagle Contractors and a nationally recognized expert in Universal Design. They explore how smart, adaptable design goes beyond ADA standards to create homes that work for everyone—today and in the future. From zero-step entries and intuitive kitchens to safe, stylish bathrooms and elevator-ready layouts, Dan shares pra...

In this short but powerful episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a real-world lesson every builder, architect, and designer needs to hear: “stick to your process and win more projects”. In this episode, Curtis shares how his process saved a client from making a costly mistake. From bid comparisons to educating homeowners on scope and budget, this episode shows how consistency builds trust and credibilit...

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Brinn Miracle, owner of Architangent, to explore the intersection of branding, architecture, and design. Brinn shares how the “Why of Design” helps business owners and design professionals uncover their deeper purpose, clarify their niche, and create spaces that tell authentic stories. From connecting emotionally with clients to building long-term br...

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Chris Bolio of Alair Homes to unpack why preconstruction agreements are the hidden key to successful builds. Chris explains how investing in planning upfront saves homeowners, architects, and builders from costly mistakes, scope surprises, and broken trust down the road. From budgeting and timelines to uncovering hidden “gotchas,” Chris shares real-w...

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a hard-earned $3M lesson about the dangers of breaking your own process. Curtis opens up about losing a luxury home renovation project — and how skipping key steps, rushing timelines, and letting others take control can cost more than just revenue. You’ll learn why sticking to a proven pre-construction process is critical, how to spot red flags early, and th...

In this solo episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Francis Ramos, Media & Marketing Manager at Crafted Custom Homes and Podcast producer, shares a step-by-step guide to getting started with social media marketing for builders and designers. Discover why social media is more than just trends—it’s a powerful, free marketing tool that works while you sleep. Francis breaks down platform choices, how to post without being a ...

Most builders lose leads not because of bad work—but because of bad words. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Lauren Jefferson, co-founder of FocusCopy, to uncover how strategic messaging can transform your entire client journey. From fixing broken communication systems to using storytelling to build trust, Lauren shares the exact framework builders need to attract better clients, boost referrals...

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Bob Peterson—Second Vice Chairman of NAHB and founder of Associates in Building and Design. With over 40 years of experience, Bob shares the journey from building homes in Colorado to leading one of the most influential construction organizations in the U.S. Learn how to build a company that can thrive without you, the role of national advocacy, and what younger...

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, luxury homebuilder Erin Stetzer shares what it really takes to scale from small remodels to $10M+ homes—without sacrificing your family, your sanity, or your standards. Erin breaks down the critical systems, mindset shifts, and team dynamics required to deliver high-end projects. Whether you're a builder, architect, or designer, this conversation offers practical insights on project man...

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, we sit down with remodeling business coach Kyle Hunt of Remodelers On The Rise to uncover why skilled remodelers still struggle with profitability, time management, and burnout. Kyle shares proven strategies for mastering financials, sales, marketing, and leadership—so you can stop running your business in survival mode and start building with confidence. Whether you're new to remodelin...

Builders are great at building—but not always at documenting. In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why so many construction professionals struggle with paperwork, recordkeeping, and documentation—and why that puts your business at risk. From missed change orders to legal issues and frustrated clients, Curtis shares real-world insights and practical solutions. Learn how to improve your systems, use...

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, we explore the three types of “superhuman vision” every great builder needs: 3D vision, X-ray vision, and long-range vision. Learn how to visualize complex assemblies, anticipate hidden issues in remodeling, and plan ahead to avoid costly mistakes down the road. Whether you’re building new or remodeling old, this episode will help sharpen your project foresight and improve communicatio...

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, we dive into the world of LED tape lighting with Jake Briolat from ProLuxe by American Lighting and Patrick Szymkowiak of Datasmart / Duncan Security. Learn where LED tape lighting works best, what mistakes to avoid, and how smart planning transforms ordinary homes into showstoppers. From kitchens and closets to floating shelves and pool decks, we cover real-world applications that matter t...

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson shares expert strategies for finding, managing, and retaining high-quality subcontractors in the residential construction industry. Whether you're a homebuilder, remodeler, or general contractor, you'll learn how to build lasting trade relationships, prevent slippage, structure fair payment terms, and streamline your processes for better project outcomes. Cur...

What makes modern homes so much harder to build? In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to reveal why clean lines, flush finishes, and minimalism demand maximum precision. From foundation tolerances to flush baseboards, flat roofs to custom cabinetry, this episode dives into the hidden costs, planning challenges, and coordinati...

Building a modern home sounds simple—until it’s not. In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson is joined by architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to explore the real-world complexities of custom modern home construction. Discover how tight tolerances, framing precision, foundation planning, and high-end finishes impact cost and performance. If you're planning a custom ho...

Foundation issues are more common than you think—especially in Houston. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Jake Gottfried and Sonora Storm of Lincoln Jacob Construction to unpack everything pros need to know about foundation repair, soil movement, drainage problems, and why skipping gutters is a costly mistake. From cracked walls and sticky doors to sewer line red flags, learn how to spot early s...