Wired to Build

By Nick CaravellaBusiness Entrepreneurship

Wired to Build episodes

March 13, 2025Guest Introduction: Chris Hussey
Welcome to Wired to Build, a data-driven, technology-focused podcast exploring how owners and operators use technology to manage the full life cycle of their projects. In this guest introduction episode, we sit down with Chris Hussey, VP of Sales at Transform XD, to explore his journey into the world of digital twins. From his early days working with Audi’s Le Mans racing team to pioneering AI-driven predictive maintenance for buildings, Chris brings a unique perspective on how data-driven modeling is reshaping industries far beyond construction.
Tune in to hear about Chris’s career evolution, the future of digital twins, and why if you’re not digitally twinning your assets in 2025, you might be putting your job at risk. This is just the beginning—our deep dive into the applications of digital twins will be dropping in the next episode, so stay tuned!Key Takeaways
What is a digital twin? A digital model of an asset that integrates real-time data for simulation, monitoring, and maintenance.
The origins of digital twins: From NASA in the 1960s to Audi’s Le Mans racing and beyond.
The data challenge: Why garbage in, garbage out is the ultimate hurdle for digital twin adoption.
The AI future: How predictive maintenance and AI-driven insights will define the next generation of digital twins.
23 min
February 27, 2025 Paperless Builders: The Why, What, and How of Construction Technology with Hamzah Shanbari
In this episode of Wired to Build, we sit down with Hamzah Shanbari, Director of Innovation at Haskell and author of Paperless Builders: The Why, What, and How of Construction Technology. We dive deep into the evolving landscape of construction technology, exploring how digital transformation can streamline workflows, improve collaboration, and drive efficiency. Hamzah shares insights from his book, discussing the biggest roadblocks to innovation, the critical role of people in technology adoption, and how companies can embrace failure as a necessary step toward progress.
From rethinking paper-based processes to leveraging AI in construction, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons for anyone navigating the challenges of digital transformation in the built environment.
🔹 Why change in construction is hard—but necessary
🔹 The Builder’s Framework for implementing new technology
🔹 How to overcome fear of failure and drive adoption
🔹 The future of AI, automation, and digital twins in construction
🔹 Practical steps companies can take to innovate today
Don't miss this engaging discussion on what it really takes to go paperless, digital, and future-ready in construction.
47 min
February 13, 2025Guest Introduction - Hamzah Shanbari (Paperless Builders, Haskell)
Episode Summary
In this episode of Wired to Build, we sit down with Hamzah Shanbari, Director of Innovation at Haskell and author of Paperless Builders: The Why, What, and How of Construction Technology. Hamzah shares his journey from growing up with a construction site next door to becoming a leader in construction innovation, highlighting his passion for digital transformation and the role of BIM, data strategy, and collaboration in reshaping the industry.
We explore the inspiration behind his book, how technology can empower construction teams, and why a paperless approach is crucial for efficiency, accuracy, and project success. Hamzah’s deep industry insights, combined with his hands-on experience, provide a roadmap for those looking to navigate the future of construction technology. If you’re a builder, owner, or designer looking to maximize data-driven decision-making, this episode is for you.
And stay tuned—our next episode will dive even deeper into the people side of digital transformation and what it takes to truly drive change in the industry.
Key Takeaways
Innovation is for everyone. Hamzah’s book was written to help small and mid-sized GCs and trade partners without dedicated innovation teams embrace construction technology.
Data, not just 3D models. The real value in BIM lies in the information behind the models, helping teams collaborate, reduce risk, and close the feedback loop between design and execution.
Tech is ready—you just need to embrace it. Many solutions for scheduling, coordination, and automation are already available. The challenge is not the technology itself but getting the industry to adopt it.
Failure is a necessity in innovation. At Haskell, the leadership supports a culture of experimentation, where failure is seen as a step toward meaningful progress.
Construction needs better communication. One of the biggest barriers to efficiency isn’t the technology—it’s ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and working toward a common goal.
Episode Chapter Outline
[00:00] Introduction – Meet Hamzah Shanbari, Nick’s excitement for his book, and the goal of today’s conversation
[04:30] From the Site Next Door to Construction Innovation – Hamzah’s early inspiration and career journey.
[12:15] The Birth of Paperless Builders – Why Hamzah wrote the book and what he hopes readers will take from it.
[18:30] Technology and the Future of Construction – BIM, digital twins, and closing the information loop between design and execution.
[27:00] Haskell’s Innovation Culture – How the company fosters experimentation and a “fail fast, learn faster” mentality.
[33:45] Final Thoughts – What the industry needs to focus on and why collaboration is the key to success.
[38:00] Preview of Part 2 – Next episode will cover the human side of digital transformation.
30 min
January 30, 2025Reaching our Resolutions with Dr. Laura Gallaher
In this episode of Wired to Build, host Nick and Christy continue their insightful conversation with Dr. Laura Gallaher of Gallaher Edge. Together, they dive into the psychology of change and how leaders and organizations can better navigate transitions by fostering self-awareness, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.
Key topics include:
Why self-acceptance is the foundation for effective change.

The importance of psychological safety in building high-performing teams.

How organizations can balance individual and collective interests during change initiatives.

Practical strategies for leaders to support their teams through periods of uncertainty.
Dr. Gallaher shares practical tools and perspectives to help teams align around shared goals while respecting individual interests and emotions. Whether you're a leader, team member, or industry professional, this episode offers a refreshing look at how to embrace change and thrive in a dynamic environment.
Want more from Dr. Laura?
Read her book: "The Missing Links: Launching a High Perfoming Company Culture"

Take the Self Acceptance Quiz

Visit her website
44 min
January 16, 2025Guest Introduction - Dr. Laura Gallaher (Gallaher Edge)
Welcome to Season Two of Wired to Build!
This year, we're changing the format to get you even more incredible content and to give you more time with our guests to gain you more insights.
Our monthly episodes will now release will now have a companion episode that focuses in on our guest and how they became an expert on the topic for our discussion.
Today, we'll be interviewing Dr. Laura Gallaher of
Gallaher Edge. Dr. Laura brings a background and passion for helping high-achievers unlock the power of radical self-acceptance and leverages her expertise in organizational psychology to help companies enact the change they are trying to create.
This Intro episode will focus in on getting to know Dr. Laura and her story that ranges from companies like NASA and Disney and how to be true to yourself and the people you work with to build top class teams.
How does this tie to construction? Change is something we deal with every day as new practices, approaches, and digital initiatives reshape the way we work.
Join us for this first introduction episode and get excited for our discussion on Reaching our Resolutions in 2025. Don't forget to subscribe to stay in the loop for all upcoming episodes!
Want more from Dr. Laura Gallaher?
Read her book: ⁠"The Missing Links: Launching a High Performing Company Culture"⁠⁠

Take the Self Acceptance Quiz

Visit her ⁠⁠website
37 min
December 26, 2024Groundbreaking with Kris Lengieza and Trends for 2025
Summary
In this episode of Wired to Build, Nick Caravella and Christy Hunt discuss the transformative role of technology in the construction industry, focusing on mental health, data management, and the evolution of partnerships. They welcome Kris Lengieza from Procore Technologies, who shares insights from his 15 years in construction and his journey into technology. The conversation explores how data transparency can mitigate risks, the impact of project delivery methodologies, and the importance of becoming data-driven. Tune in to wrap up 2024 with some exciting conversation and a peek into the trends for 2025.
Key Takeaways:
How technology is improving decision making in construction and helping us get back to the work we enjoy.

Exploring why the construction industry faces mental health risk and how important it is to "Get Construction Talking"

Make construction cool again with robots and laser beams.

Learn what Kris has on his forecast for 2025 takeaways.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
01:45 The Role of Technology in Construction
05:05 Chris's Journey in Construction and Technology
09:42 Evolution of Partnerships in Construction Technology
13:03 Mitigating Risk through Data Transparency
17:12 Impact of Project Delivery Methodologies
19:58 Becoming Data-Driven in Construction
22:12 Leveraging AI for Better Insights
25:51 Augmenting Jobs with AI
28:31 Improving Communication in Construction
31:34 Attracting the Next Generation to Construction
36:22 Embracing Technology and New Perspectives
41:41 Collaboration for Successful Project Delivery
47:14 Overcoming Barriers to Innovation
53:26 The Power of Construction Podcast and Future Trends

Want more? Check out Procore's newest podcast "The Power of Construction"
1 hr 3 min
November 28, 2024Building Beyond the BIM Bubble
Summary:
In this episode of Wired to Build, Nick Caravella sits down with Bill Allen, founder of EvolveLab, to explore how AI and BIM are reshaping the architecture and construction landscape. From the advent of tools like Veras and Glyph to the broader implications of AI-driven design, Nick and Bill dive deep into the opportunities and challenges of leveraging technology to streamline workflows, improve collaboration, and unlock creativity. They discuss:
The shift from drawing-centric to model-centric design.

How AI tools are making design faster, more efficient, and more accessible.

The role of digital twins and data strategies in improving outcomes for owners and operators.

The future of collaboration in a tech-driven construction industry.
Whether you're an architect, contractor, or building owner, this episode offers fresh insights into the transformative power of AI and technology in the built environment.
Key Takeaways:
Breaking the BIM Bubble:
Many professionals use BIM tools like Revit as glorified drafting tools, missing out on their potential to optimize data and automate tasks.

The real value of BIM lies in leveraging data for multi-objective optimization, such as improving daylighting or mechanical efficiency.

AI as a Design Game-Changer:
AI tools like Varus and Glyph are democratizing design, lowering the barrier to entry for complex tasks like dimensioning and documentation.

AI-driven solutions enable designers to focus on creativity while automating repetitive tasks, reducing burnout and improving quality of life.

From Models to Digital Twins:
The shift toward model-driven design is transforming how teams create, document, and communicate. Instead of creating drawings with models, teams should aim to create models that produce drawings.

Digital twins present huge opportunities for owners, helping with operational efficiency, maintenance, and data accessibility.

Collaboration and Standardization:
The industry struggles with fragmentation in data and standards, even within organizations. Shared data parameters and structures are critical for improving collaboration.

Tools like Glyph are designed to adapt to firms’ unique standards, making adoption easier and more efficient.

AI's Role in Productivity and Scale:
AI isn't replacing jobs but amplifying human capabilities. It allows teams to produce more design iterations and project throughput without sacrificing quality or burning out.

The future of AI in construction involves balancing creativity with efficiency, helping owners and designers achieve better outcomes at scale.

Adapting Lessons from Other Industries:
The gaming industry’s use of contextual geometry and procedural design offers valuable lessons for improving construction workflows, from prefabrication to design iteration.

The Future of Collaboration:
AI tools are enabling owners to be more involved in early design processes, potentially reshaping traditional architect-owner dynamics.

Collaboration will continue to evolve with AI, breaking down silos between design, construction, and operations.

Embrace AI, Stay Competitive:
AI is the new fundamental shift, akin to the advent of BIM or the internet. It’s a tool for enhancing productivity, creativity, and collaboration.

"AI won't take your job, but someone using AI might." Embracing these tools is key to staying relevant.
Chapters:
[00:00] Welcome and Introduction
[02:30] The BIM Bubble: Challenges and Opportunities
[08:45] Moving Beyond Drawings: Data-Driven Design
[15:30] AI in Action: Tools Changing the Game
[22:15] Breaking the Rules: Creative Uses of Tech
[28:45] Owners and Operators: Digital Twins in Action
[35:00] The Future of Design Collaboration
[40:00] Closing Thoughts: Staying Wired to Build
55 min
October 24, 2024Pit Stop 24: Looking Back, Moving Forward
Summary
In this special episode of Wired to Build, host Nick Caravella reflects on an exciting year in construction technology and gives listeners a sneak peek into the upcoming 2024 event season.
Joined by Christy Hunt, Director of Partnerships and Marketing at Avicado, they discuss highlights from the year, the impact of AI in construction, and insights gained from industry conferences. As they prepare for a whirlwind event season—including Autodesk University, Trimble Dimensions, and Procore Groundbreak—Nick and Christy share their thoughts on how technology is transforming data management, AI's role in business intelligence, and the importance of collaboration between industry partners. Tune in to get a pulse on what’s shaping the future of construction!
Key Takeaways
A review of 2024’s key construction technology trends, including the rise of AI and digital twins.

Insights into upcoming events like Autodesk University and the evolving role of BIM and AI in the industry.

Discussion of AI's practical applications in construction and why business intelligence and data quality matter more than ever.

How owners and stakeholders can improve project outcomes by fostering better collaboration and leveraging data.
Chapters
[00:00] Welcome and 2024 Recap
Introduction to the episode and reflection on Avicado’s annual meeting.
[03:00] Previewing Fall Event Season
Overview of upcoming industry conferences like Autodesk University, CMAA, Procore Groundbreak, and more.
[06:30] AI in Construction: A Sober Approach
Discussion on artificial intelligence in construction and its practical applications today.
[10:15] The Importance of Data Quality
Diving into how AI relies on good data and why managing data is crucial for construction projects.
[13:45] Insights from the Avicado Pit Stop
Reflections on Avicado’s internal annual meeting and team growth.
[17:00] Partnering for Innovation
How Avicado collaborates with industry leaders to solve construction challenges and bring new technologies to clients.
[20:00] Looking Forward to Event Season
Wrapping up with thoughts on the exciting trends to watch for at upcoming conferences.
16 min
September 26, 2024Building the Future: Digital Transformation in Infrastructure and Transportation
Summary
In this episode of Wired to Build, host Nick Caravella and Christy Hunt are joined by infrastructure experts Matthew Valle and Nick Nadeau of Infrastructure Ventures and InfraTalk. Together, they dive deep into the exciting developments and challenges in digital construction, infrastructure modernization, and the future of transportation in the U.S. From the LA Olympics' infrastructure needs to the rise of AI and digital tools in the construction industry, this episode explores how technology is transforming the way we build. Learn about the latest advancements, the importance of open data systems, and how innovators are reshaping transportation for the 21st century. Tune in for a data-driven conversation that will leave you wired to build!
Takeaways
The Impact of Digital Construction: How digital tools like BIM and AI are reshaping infrastructure projects, creating more efficient workflows, and enhancing data management.

The Role of Public-Private Partnerships: How collaborations between government and private sector innovators are crucial for advancing infrastructure projects.

Funding and Modernization: Insights into the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and how it's fueling the modernization of U.S. infrastructure.

The Importance of Open Data: Learn about the push for open, interoperable data standards and their impact on construction and asset management.

Future of Transportation: What cities like Los Angeles are doing to prepare for global events like the Olympics and how transportation innovation is set to change how we move.

Chapters
[00:00] Welcome and Introduction: Nick Caravella sets the stage for today’s conversation on infrastructure and transportation.
[03:45] LA’s Olympic Infrastructure Plans: Matthew Valley and Nick Nadeau discuss the challenges Los Angeles faces ahead of the 2028 Olympics.
[10:22] The Federal Highway System & Funding: The role of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in the modernization of U.S. infrastructure.
[15:56] The Future of Digital Construction: The experts talk about the shift towards digital tools and BIM for Infrastructure.
[24:33] Everyday Counts Initiative: Highlighting how public-private partnerships are shaping the future of digital construction.
[30:45] Open Data and Interoperability: Why open data standards are critical for the success of large-scale infrastructure projects.
[39:17] Workforce Development in Construction: How innovation is linked to attracting and retaining talent in the industry.
[50:00] Closing Thoughts and What’s Next: Final thoughts on the future of infrastructure and the role of technology in building smarter, more efficient systems.
56 min
August 29, 2024Aligning Innovation with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Summary
In this episode, Nick Caravella (⁠Avicado⁠) is joined by Justin Seymour (Avicado) and Cosmin Ticu (Kahua) to discuss the role of AI in construction and operations.
Throughout the conversation, they:
explore the different terms and concepts related to AI, such as descriptive analytics, predictive analytics, machine learning, and generative AI.

emphasize the importance of data ownership and the need for organizations to centralize and digitize their data.

discuss the challenges and concerns around AI, including job displacement and the need for transparency in AI models.
The episode concludes with practical steps for organizations to become AI-ready, including assessing their current analytics capabilities and starting with business intelligence.
Takeaways
AI in construction and operations includes descriptive analytics, predictive analytics, machine learning, and generative AI.

Data ownership is crucial, and organizations should centralize and digitize their data.

Challenges and concerns around AI include job displacement and the need for transparency in AI models.

To become AI-ready, organizations should assess their current analytics capabilities, start with business intelligence, and gradually explore more advanced AI techniques.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Excitement around AI in Construction and Operations
03:20 Demystifying AI and Understanding Different Concepts
08:24 Partnerships and Overcoming the Barriers of Bad Data
15:05 Importance of Submittals and RFIs in AI Analysis
18:23 Data Ownership and Collaboration in the Construction Industry
25:02 Integrating Data and Establishing Common Ground
32:01 AI Adoption and Meeting People Where They're At
38:00 Becoming AI-Ready: Assessing Analytics Capabilities
44:09 Conclusion and One Thing to Do to Become Wired to Build
49 min

About Wired to Build

From the publisher's feed

The construction industry doesn't have an innovation problem. It has an understanding problem.

Share Wired to Build

Sign up to save your podcasts

Wired to Build

Wired to Build episodes

About Wired to Build