Founders’ stories aren’t just about “starting a business”—they’re about building something that lasts.

In this episode of the Build Insite Podcast, we sit down with Jesse & B'ashae from J Vella Builders to unpack the real journey behind a growing building company—how they split responsibilities on site vs operations, the systems that keep projects moving, and what it takes to lead a team while keeping clients informed and happy.

What you’ll learn

How founders split roles (on-site vs back-office) without stepping on each other’s toes

Early lessons that shaped quality, culture, and client communication

The systems and workflows that reduce chaos and keep projects on schedule

Pricing, estimating, and margin thinking as you scale

Marketing that actually wins work (referrals, brand, and being present online)

What’s next for the business and where they’re placing their bets

00:00 – Intro & guest welcome

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The theory's one thing. Making it work on site? That's where it gets interesting.

In part two with Ben Walsham from Arkata, we get into the nitty-gritty of energy-efficient building—the stuff that separates good intentions from homes that actually perform. Ben walks us through a high-performance passive solar project in cold climate conditions, breaking down the real challenges: slab insulation that works, achieving proper airtightness, and delivering thermal comfort that homeowners can feel.

What you'll get from this episode:

Perfect for builders, architects, and anyone who wants homes that perform as well as they look.

Chapters:

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this episode of the Build Insite podcast, Luke and Dean sit down with Ben Walsham, founder of Arkata, an energy efficiency consultancy specialising in residential projects.

Ben shares his journey from architecture to energy consulting, revealing why early engagement in the building process is crucial for long-term project success. The conversation explores the impact of seven-star NatHERS ratings, whole-of-home assessments, and how the NCC 2022 updates are reshaping the industry.

You’ll also hear Ben’s perspective on:

Packed with practical advice and forward-thinking strategies, this episode is a must-listen for builders, designers, and homeowners who want to stay ahead of the curve in sustainable construction.

Chapters:

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

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In this continuation of our chat with Andrew George from Lou Projects, we dig deeper into what it takes to grow a thriving construction business in today’s high-performance building landscape.

Andrew opens up about the real-world challenges he's facing, from balancing innovation with efficiency, to scaling a team that’s equipped for passive house principles and energy-efficient builds. He also shares the story behind building Lou Projects' brand-new hub and office space—a game-changer for team collaboration and culture.

This episode is packed with practical tips for builders, including the importance of early project collaboration, professional development, and staying ahead with modern construction techniques. Whether you're a solo operator or managing a growing team, Andrew’s insights will help elevate your business.

Chapters:

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this episode of the Build Insite Podcast, Luke and Dean sit down with Andrew George, founder of Lou Projects, a high-end residential builder based on the Central Coast. From working across different trades to leading a fast-growing building company, Andrew shares his journey, his values, and the systems that have helped him build more than just homes he’s building a culture.

The episode tackles the modern builder’s reality: more admin, complex communication, and rising expectations. Andrew unpacks how pre-construction consulting, strong team mindset, and continuous learning can ease the pressure while still delivering high-quality work.

A standout segment is Andrew’s deep dive into Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) its sustainability benefits, technical challenges, and the way it’s reshaping residential construction. There’s also practical advice on handling client variations, scaling with intention, and why transparency in marketing matters more than ever.

If you're a builder aiming to lead with clarity, culture, and craftsmanship, this episode is a must-listen.

Chapters:

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this insightful follow-up episode of the Build Insite Podcast, Luke and Dean reconnect with master builder and Build Show Network founder Matt Risinger to dig deeper into the global shift toward smarter, science-led construction.

Matt opens up about some of the toughest lessons from his early years—especially the legal challenges that ultimately pushed him to build better, safer homes. From airtightness and moisture management to insulation, client communication, and pre-construction strategy, the trio explores what it really takes to raise the bar in residential construction.

They also reflect on the growing role of mentorship, the power of builder communities, and why continuous education is the most underrated tool in a builder’s arsenal.

Whether you’re managing a job site or mapping out future builds, this episode offers real-world advice, battle-tested strategies, and a vision for building homes that last.

Chapters:

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this special episode of the Build Insite Podcast, we are joined by none other than Matt Risinger—master builder, educator, and founder of the Build Show Network—live from Austin, Texas.

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

In this episode of the Build Insite Podcast, we continue to explore with Ryan Gazzard, the founding director of My Virtual Team, and talk about the evolving workforce model transforming residential construction.

Ryan shares practical, step-by-step strategies for successfully integrating virtual assistants—from recruitment and vetting, to onboarding and long-term team culture. We bust common outsourcing myths, dive into the structural benefits of hybrid teams, and explore how AI may influence recruitment in the near future.

Whether you’re a custom builder, PM, or business owner, this episode is packed with actionable advice and forward-thinking insight to help you build a high-performing team... without burning out.

Chapters:

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.