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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. He reflects on the need for continuous improvement, the fast-paced nature of renovations, and the benefits of running a lean operation with a strong team culture.

We also discuss the value of clear systems, achieving tangible results, and maintaining a pragmatic, ego-free approach to tackling any renovation challenge.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

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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 detail when managing contract variations to avoid potential pitfalls and the unexpected challenges that can arise from being overly accommodating in the construction industry.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

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. 

We sat down with Adam to discuss the crucial role of effective marketing in their growth, the importance of implementing robust systems to ensure efficiency, and how this allows them to 'buy back time' and focus on strategic initiatives. We also explore the value of building a strong and collaborative team, their commitment to adding significant value to both builders and clients and the often-overlooked reality that 'it's not free money' when it comes to running a successful business.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

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 functional homes.

In this episode, we sat down with Matt to discuss his journey building Totara Construction, the importance of teamwork, the lessons learned from growing up in a rural environment, and the strategies for building momentum in a competitive industry. We also delve into his experiences working overseas, the challenges and rewards of slow growth, the critical aspects of team building, and his philosophy on hiring and managing talent – 'hire slow, fire fast.' Matt also shares his insights on cultivating a positive work culture and the importance of balancing professional success with making time for family.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

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 absolutely avoid.

Caitlin generously shares her insights on how companies and employers can truly champion their apprentices, fostering a supportive and productive learning environment. But it's not all hard hats and hammers! We're also getting real about the 'war stories' that come with life on the construction sites.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

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, Mel and Justin returned to their passion for crafting high-quality residential builds.

In this episode, we sat down with Mel to discuss his journey building DC Build, the challenges of working with family, the lessons learned from significant financial setbacks, the importance of meticulously checking contracts, and the insights gained from appearing on The Block NZ. We also delve into the necessity of having hard conversations, trusting your gut instincts, the impact of business mentorship, breaking negative momentum, and the power of effective goal setting, all contributing to building a lasting legacy.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

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, including three appearances on Deloitte's Fast 50 list. Originally starting with humble beginnings, they have expanded into a national force, focusing on efficient systems and client delivery.

In this episode, we sat down with Dave to discuss his journey from early entrepreneurial ventures to leading a national construction firm, the challenges they faced on their initial projects, the importance of implementing robust systems early on, and their innovative approach to incorporating a sports physiologist into their business structure.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

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 explore the highs and lows of running a lean construction operation, the realities of building in rugged, hard-to-reach environments, and what it takes to stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry. We also dive into the tough lessons of business—sometimes you win, sometimes you lose—and how adaptability is key to long-term success.

If you're interested in smart, scalable building solutions and what it takes to thrive in New Zealand’s most challenging landscapes, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

Nick Smith founded Smith Construction, a leading Northland construction company specialising in exceptional architectural homes. They are renowned for designing and building extraordinary properties in Mangawhai, Te Arai, Langs Beach, and Waipu, focusing on quality and distinction. 

In this episode, we sat down with Nick to discuss his extensive experience in the construction industry, his transition from Auckland to Northland, his approach to creating high-end architectural residences, his insights from appearing on Grand Designs NZ, and the critical importance of understanding construction contracts.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...

Send us a text

Warwick Allen is the director of Glass Vice, an innovative New Zealand-owned company specializing in Glass & Aluminium balustrades, pool fencing, floating platforms, Aluminium Screens/shrouds/sliders & building-related products. Glass Vice is known for their customer service and innovative patented product range including the world-famous double friction that gives them an industry edge.

In this episode, we sat down with Warwick and chatted about how his upbringing influenced his career, the secret in hiring staff, and how blind trust can damage a business.

Social Links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/betterbuilderpodcast

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@betterbuilderpodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/betterbuilderstudio

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-builder-podcast

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/betterbuilderpodcast

Better Builder is hosted by Brad Visser. Brad is the CEO and founder of Gro, a builder centric agency that helps custom home builders attract higher quality projects.

Brad’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betterbradvisser

Gro’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gro.agency

Gro’s Offer https://builder.groagency.co/vsl

Disclaimer
This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any inform...