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 home, remodeling with modern design, or working in residential architecture, this episode is packed with expert tips and insights. Learn how collaborative planning leads to smoother builds—and better homes.

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 signs of failure and prevent long-term damage. To our Houston homeowner community, this episode is packed with real-world insights to protect your homes.

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 critical safety protocols and the foresight required for long-term accessibility planning. You can expect valuable insights on addressing unique installation challenges in coastal regions and floodplains, underscoring the importance of early collaboration with elevator specialists to ensure architectural harmony and operational excellence in your living space. If you’re looking to build your forever home, then you’ll want to listen to this episode.

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 oversight, and why this role is standard in LA and NYC—but still underused in Texas. Whether you're building, designing, or rescuing a project, this episode is packed with real talk, smart strategy, and industry insight.

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 importance of team building, customer service, project management, homeowner maintenance, and the evolution of building costs. Gain valuable perspectives on selecting realtors, financing, inspections, and the future of home building.

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 construction. If you’ve ever wondered how builders help each other succeed—even as competitors—this episode is for you.

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 corners can cost builders and homeowners big. Whether you’re a homebuilder, contractor, or homeowner, this episode will help you plan smarter and avoid costly mistakes. Don’t miss this conversation!

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 expectations, avoiding costly mistakes, and ensuring top-tier craftsmanship. If you're a builder looking to refine your trade network, this episode is a must-watch!

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 quality in high-performance homes. Learn about predictive maintenance, the importance of monitoring the home's physical layer, and how RIoT Technologies is simplifying smart systems for builders, trades, and homeowners. Essential insights for real estate leaders and building professionals.

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, and subcontractor relationships. Don’t let past investments dictate your future—learn how to recognize and break free from the sunk cost fallacy.