Your Project Shepherd Construction Podcast

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...

Join host Curtis Lawson in this conversation with Andrew Fisher and Derek Schuppenhauer of Home Elevator of Texas. This comprehensive discussion explores the nuanced world of residential elevators, from financial considerations and strategic planning for new construction to the sophisticated process of integrating elevators into existing homes. In this discussion, Derek and Andrew share various elevator designs while emphasizing cr...

In this solo episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson, founder of Shepherd Construction Advisors, shares the powerful “why” behind this show. Drawing from decades of experience in Houston's custom homebuilding scene, Curtis explains how Owner’s Representatives can prevent construction disasters before they happen. He dives into common mistakes homeowners and builders make, the rising need for project oversig...

Celebrate 100 episodes of the Your Project Shepherd podcast! Host Curtis Lawson turns the tables and gets interviewed by frequent guests Jeremy McFarland (Brickmoon Design), Toner Kersting (Toner Home Performance), and Matt Sneller (Sneller Custom Homes). They delve into Curtis's journey from band geek and failed pizza shop owner to successful Houston custom home builder. Explore insights on the construction industry, the impor...

In this episode, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Sonora Storm, Del Westmoreland, and Matthew Reibenstein of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA). Together, they dive into the benefits of GHBA membership, from professional networking and continuing education to advocacy, ethics, and community impact. Whether you’re a builder, associate, or homeowner, learn why GHBA is shaping the future of Houston’s residential construc...

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Brian Marshall (Sales Associate) and Tad Horsley (Owner/Master Electrician) of US Power Pros to uncover the truth about home backup generators. With growing power grid instability in Texas, backup power is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Brian and Tad share critical insights on generator placement, code compliance, load calculations, and why cutting co...

Hiring the right subcontractors is crucial to delivering high-quality construction projects. In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson explores how builders can elevate their projects by working with subcontractors who grow alongside them. He breaks down two common pitfalls—sticking with subs who aren't scaling up and cutting costs at the expense of quality. Curtis also shares real-world insights on setting ...

Unlock the future of homebuilding with Brian McCarthy, CEO of RIoT Technologies, on the Your Project Shepherd podcast! Discover how integrating smart home IoT isn't just about gadgets, but about enhancing resilience, slashing builder risk, and cutting warranty costs. Brian discusses bridging the gap between proptech and construction, tackling challenges like post-closing tech blindness, leak detection nightmares, and indoor air qua...

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson dives into the sunk cost fallacy—a mindset that traps people in bad investments, whether in relationships, careers, or home construction projects. Curtis shares real-life stories of homeowners who stuck with failing builders, wasting time and money instead of cutting their losses. He also explores how this psychological trap affects business owners, hiring decisions,...

Illuminate your projects with expert insights! Join Curtis Lawson and Martin Sunday of Martin Sunday Designs as they delve into the transformative power of professional lighting design. Discover how to elevate residential spaces beyond basic electrical plans, understanding the nuances of LED technology, layering light, and the crucial final adjustments. Learn why early collaboration with a lighting designer is essential, saving you...

Dive into the future of home comfort with Ken Nelson, Group Sales Manager at Panasonic IAQ, on this episode of Your Project Shepherd. Discover how the revolutionary OASYS system is transforming residential HVAC. We explore the critical need for tight building envelopes, managed ventilation, and superior indoor air quality in today's homes. Learn how OASYS, with its innovative design and data-driven approach, provides predictable co...

🎙️Your Project Shepherd Construction Podcast EP 92: Blueprints for Scaling to Luxury Home Building: Luxury Meets Luxury with our guest Greg East, COO Winfrey Design Build, with Curtis Lawson

✨ Dive into the world of luxury home building! With extensive experience in high-end residential construction, Greg East shares invaluable insights on managing premium projects, cultivating client relationships, and differentiating in the lux...

As populations grow and water demands increase, rainwater harvesting and water reuse systems are becoming increasingly important for sustainability and resilience. In this episode, Zach Gavos, owner of Droplet Resources, shares his expertise on designing, installing, and maintaining systems that collect rainwater for irrigation, potable use, and detention.

Zach discusses the critical role of water reuse, how these systems can meet...