Building Doors with Lauren Karan

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with James Gleeson, civil engineer and co-founder of Marvel Engineers, to unpack what productivity really means in infrastructure and what it takes to build a resilient specialist consultancy.

James shares his journey from tech drawing at school to launching Marvel Engineers after walking away from corporate burnout. Together, they explore the realities of starting a business with no blueprint, the risks of niching too narrowly, and the lessons learned from navigating market slowdowns in government-funded infrastructure

The conversation dives deep into procurement systems, panel...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Ben Schnitzerling, founder of Red Fox Advisory, a Queensland-based civil and structural engineering consultancy delivering support across the full project lifecycle, from early planning and design through construction, contract administration, technical due diligence, and dispute avoidance. Red Fox helps clients navigate risk, protect value, and deliver practical, buildable infrastructure solutions.

From nailing floors for his builder father as a kid to certifying major infrastructure projects just two years out of university, Ben’s career has been shaped by doing the uncomfortable. Today, he’s on a...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with award-winning engineer and author Felicity Furey to unpack the powerful ideas behind her upcoming book and her mission to transform the engineering profession from the inside out.

Felicity shares how engineering’s DNA, inherited from the Industrial Revolution, has shaped the way we design, solve problems, and even unintentionally overlook the people those designs impact. She reveals why modern engineering must go beyond efficiency and output, and instead reconnect with values like well-being, community connection, and legacy.

Through personal stories of burnout, mo...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Mark Simister, a globally experienced program leader who has spent three decades reshaping how infrastructure is delivered. From London’s crumbling water network to disaster recovery in Queensland and Christchurch, and ultimately transforming Sydney Water into one of the world’s top-performing programs, Mark’s story proves that collaboration is not a buzzword. It is a system that works when leaders are brave enough to implement it.

Mark opens up about his unconventional journey from the British Army to hydrogeology to major program delivery. He shares...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Stuart Cook, a multi-award-winning engineering leader who stepped into major leadership roles early, including managing a 400 million infrastructure program in his late 30s. Stuart opens up about career-defining opportunities, overcoming imposter syndrome, mentoring future engineers, and why the human element matters just as much as technical excellence.

Stuart also shares his personal journey from following his grandfather on construction sites to raising three boys and rediscovering fishing. His honesty about insecurity, leadership missteps, and the pressure to be everything to everyone offers rare insight into...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Dr. Sean Brady, a forensic engineer, safety expert, and founder of Brady Heywood Consulting. Known for leading the landmark Brady Review into fatal mining accidents, Sean breaks down why our current approach to safety is fundamentally flawed and how the way we design systems, reward behavior, and report incidents can quietly create the very risks we think we are preventing.

Sean shares what he discovered while investigating major failures across mining, aviation, health, and engineering, and why so many organizations unknowingly encourage silence, hide near...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Ashley Stewart, Project Director at Turner & Townsend, whose global experience across major events, construction, and program delivery gives her an extraordinary 360-degree perspective on Queensland’s future. From starting on construction sites in Scotland at 18 to shaping the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and delivering Canada’s Pan Am Games, Ashley brings a rare blend of lived experience and strategic insight.

Together, Lauren and Ashley explore the state’s biggest challenges, from housing shortages to capability gaps to the cultural shifts reshaping the workforce. As the 2032 Olympics fast a...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Nick Mair, founder of Pack Mentality Group and a rising voice for men’s mental health across construction, mining, and FIFO workforces. Nick opens up about his near-fatal mental health crisis, the moment Lifeline saved his life, and how that experience inspired him to build a movement centered around community, connection, and giving men a safe space to speak without judgment.

Nick unpacks the hidden struggles workers face in high-pressure, male-dominated industries, from isolation and fatigue to identity shifts and societal expectations. Whether you le...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Ryza Garbacz, the second-generation Managing Director of NEACH, a leading Australian steel fabrication and manufacturing company. From humble beginnings in a small Noosa workshop, NEACH has evolved into a powerhouse supplier for some of the nation’s most complex infrastructure projects, championing regional capability and sovereign manufacturing.

Ryza shares his journey from sweeping floors in his family’s factory to managing major tier-one projects across Australia, before returning to transform his family’s 50-year-old business. He reflects on lessons in leadership, authenticity, and the power...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Paul Rojas, a commercial litigation lawyer and founder of ConstructSupport Australia. Paul pulls back the curtain on the silent crisis gripping the construction industry: record-high insolvencies. With years of experience working with builders, liquidators, and directors in the midst of legal storms, Paul provides a stark look at the realities of cash flow strain, contract breaches, and the domino effect that can topple even established companies.

Paul shares hard-won wisdom on why proactive legal counsel is not an expense, but a critical investment in...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Scott Clements, Managing Director of Inertia Engineering, whose story is one of resilience, innovation, and leadership in an ever-evolving construction industry. 

Scott shares how he built his company from the ground up, navigated economic downturns, and even doubled in size during COVID, proving that adaptability is the ultimate advantage. He and Lauren dig into how AI and design automation are transforming civil engineering, cutting project timelines in half while freeing teams to focus on creativity and problem-solving.

They also explore the realities o...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Sally Stannard, the Director General of Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads. Sally’s journey from a farm in New South Wales to leading one of the most ambitious transport reform agendas in Australia is one of grit, curiosity, and transformation. In this powerful conversation, Sally reveals her insights into the importance of leadership, inclusivity, and how women are breaking barriers in the traditionally male-dominated infrastructure sector.

From the challenges of starting in a country town to leading large-scale infrastructure projects, Sally shares her...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan chats with Erik Vandenberg, a seasoned leader with a fascinating journey from technical expert to executive in the energy sector. Erik’s career spans diverse roles in aircraft maintenance, oil and gas, and now, executive leadership in energy transitions. Erik reveals his insights into leadership evolution, the power of emotional intelligence, and the rapid changes in the energy industry.

From navigating mergers and organizational change to making high-stakes decisions in critical environments, Erik’s journey offers valuable lessons on how to lead through uncertainty and driv...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Michael Terry, a construction leader whose career journey has taken him from dreaming of becoming a vet to running his own business to senior leadership roles on both the contracting and client side. Michael shares candid insights into work ethic, ownership, and the importance of systems in building successful projects, as well as how to transition from “110% worker” to leader and mentor.

Michael’s story highlights resilience, entrepreneurial drive, and the value of mentoring the next generation. From early struggles at school to shaping communities throug...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan talks with Matthew Mackey, a no-nonsense leader with 27 years in construction across the UK and Australia. Matt shares real-world insights on leadership, emotional intelligence, and navigating burnout in an industry that often overlooks people skills. He opens up about a six-week “disaster stint” in contracting, the power of simplifying complex ideas, and why kindness is essential, not optional, for long-term success.

Matt challenges the myth of linear career paths and calls for leaders who admit mistakes and prioritize psychological safety. He also highlights how his networking group, Prop...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Josh Yates, co-founder of Landy Group, a company that’s reimagining leadership in construction through relationships, trust, and community. Josh shares how he went from corporate loyalty to co-founding a people-first business with multiple arms and a clear social purpose. He opens up about navigating financial risk, arbitration, and the emotional challenges of leadership, while staying anchored in humility and impact.

From team culture to legacy-building, this conversation is packed with real talk on what it takes to lead with heart. Whether you're starting ou...

In this episode ofBuilding Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Michael Furey, leadership coach, former sales leader, and founder of We Aspire, to unpack why construction leadership needs a radical reframe. From being demoted in his first management job to building programs that train Australia’s future leaders, Michael shares how lived experience, failure, and values-led development are transforming how we build capability across the industry.

Drawing parallels between professional sport and construction, Michael reveals why project leaders aren’t just managing jobs, they’re living a lifestyle, often with unsustainable expectations. He breaks down why au...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan chats with Luke Crouch, a former air traffic controller who made a bold leap into construction project management. Luke’s unconventional career, from managing McDonald’s to directing airspace and now leading infrastructure projects, challenges traditional ideas about how talent enters the construction industry.

He opens up about the risks of changing careers, including taking a pay cut and starting over, all in pursuit of a more fulfilling path. Luke shares how persistence, adaptability, and values-driven leadership helped him stand out in a competitive market and buil...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan welcomes Domenic De Fazio, a seasoned executive whose career journey from project manager to CEO is marked by conviction, courage, and consistency. Domenic shares the raw truth about navigating leadership without compromising your values, and what happens when the traditional leadership "suit" no longer fits who you are. From making the leap into executive roles to managing board dynamics and driving a values-based culture, this is a masterclass in real-world leadership.

Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned professional rethinking your next move, this episode unpacks...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Harley Whaikawa, Director at Minerva Group, whose journey from the military to civil engineering and into consultancy leadership is anything but traditional. From cold calls and rejection to becoming a respected voice in fire engineering and a force on LinkedIn, Harley shares the lessons he’s learned about authenticity, leadership, and playing the long game.

Whether you’re a graduate seeking your first role or a business owner navigating the digital landscape, this conversation provides a no-fluff look into building a reputation that lasts, both onli...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Jock Macfarlane, a leader in environmental and sustainability practices within the construction industry. Jock shares his insights on why Australia’s construction sector is lagging in sustainability and how technological innovation can be the key to bridging the gap. 

Jock, a respected leader known for his authentic leadership style and dedication to diversity, also shares personal stories of career growth, finding balance, and the impact of becoming a father. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your career, Jock’s story will inspire you to...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan welcomes the remarkable Radmila Desic, a carpenter turned national changemaker and Order of Australia Medal recipient, to explore what it truly takes to reshape an industry and build a legacy that lasts.

Radmila’s story spans continents, generations, and industries, from her humble beginnings in Montenegro to becoming a leading voice for women in construction. As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympics, Radmila shares a bold vision: empowering women and elite athletes to build the very stadiums they’ll one day play in.

This is a raw...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Monica Bradley, board advisor, impact strategist, and systems thinker, to explore the radical mindset shifts needed to thrive in today’s construction and infrastructure landscape.

With a career that spans continents, industries, and boardrooms, Monica brings unmatched insight into how leaders can adapt, innovate, and build for the future, not just repeat the past. From designing buildings that can float to redefining value beyond the balance sheet, Monica’s stories are as practical as they are powerful.

This episode is for the forward-thinking prof...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Lana Johnston—executive HR strategist, leadership consultant, and founder of Ageing Connect—to unpack a deeply human conversation around aging workforces, career transitions, and the urgent need for intentional connection in our personal and professional lives.

With decades of experience at the crossroads of people strategy and organizational change, Lana brings fresh insight into the emotional and structural challenges facing today’s leaders, especially as the workforce ages and generational expectations shift. From the quiet grief of retirement to the sandwich generation’s struggle to do it al...

In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Carina Nixon, an engineer and sustainability advocate, to discuss the future of engineering, the changing workforce, and why knowledge transfer is critical to success in construction.

With a background spanning renewable energy, hydrogen technology, and supply chain decarbonization, Carina is a passionate leader who believes that younger generations hold the key to industry transformation.

She’s also tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time: How do we ensure a smooth transition between an aging workforce and the next ge...

In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Alison Sherry, a powerhouse leader known for her expertise in mergers, acquisitions, leadership resilience, and Indigenous advocacy.

With a career spanning executive roles, large-scale corporate transformations, and community impact, Alison shares insights on navigating uncertain times, building resilient teams, and fostering psychological safety in leadership.

From the complexities of merging companies to the personal growth that comes from career transitions, Alison’s wisdom is invaluable for leaders, professionals, and anyone navigating change in their career or organization.

Wh...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Jon Davies, CEO of the Australian Constructors Association (ACA), to discuss how the construction industry is at a turning point. With rising costs, crippling skills shortages, and increasing pressure for sustainability, Jon explains why 2024 is the year for transformation—and how leaders, contractors, and clients can work together to drive real change.

From modern methods of construction (MMC) to flexible work practices, Jon shares bold ideas for increasing productivity, creating inclusive workplaces, and making construction a more attractive career path. Whether you’re an indu...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Natasha Roy, General Manager of Operations at John Holland Group, to discuss the high-pressure world of infrastructure delivery, the importance of honesty in leadership, and how to create a culture of trust in an industry known for its relentless demands.

With nearly 30 years of experience, Natasha has led teams through economic downturns, workforce shortages, and high-stakes project decisions. She’s a firm believer that calm, transparency, and collaboration are the keys to thriving in this space—and she’s here to share exactly how she does i...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Emma McCaughey, President of NAWIC Queensland and a highly accomplished civil engineer, to discuss leadership, advocacy, and diversity in the construction industry. Emma’s career, spanning over 15 years at CPB Contractors, highlights the power of mentorship, strategic decision-making, and fostering inclusive workplaces.

With a strong passion for increasing female participation in the industry, Emma shares invaluable insights into career growth, overcoming challenges, and reshaping the future of construction. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or considering a career pivot into construction, this episode is packed with...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Sascha Kurz, an award-winning project management and engineering professional, to discuss pivotal topics shaping the construction and infrastructure industry. 

Sascha brings over 25 years of diverse experience, making her a sought-after leader and mentor in the field.
 
Together, they explore the lessons learned from challenging projects, the importance of career-defining decisions, and how to leave a lasting legacy in a high-stakes industry.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Leadership Lessons in Engineering:

Embracing lessons learned on p...

In this episode, we are joined by Paul Kahn, a distinguished business mentor with a background at KPMG and experience assisting global and small to medium businesses. 

Leveraging his global career experience, Paul shares insights into the key mistakes small businesses make, the importance of understanding values and behaviours in action, and how to build lasting success. 

He also emphasises the significance of passion, drive, and personal motivation for business owners. 

Additionally, Paul discusses his approach to choosing business partnerships, his thoughts on the impact of professional services on SMEs, and his perspective on...

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Bradley Durkin, Founder and Director of Contrast Construction, a thriving Queensland-based construction company. With over 25 years of experience spanning commercial construction, design, and multi-residential projects, Bradley shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in the cattle industry to leading a successful business through some of the most challenging times in construction history.

Bradley dives into the values instilled by his rural upbringing, the hurdles of leadership in a hands-on trade industry, and the importance of empowering others to make decisions. From navigating supply...

In this insightful episode of Building Doors, we’re joined by Priscilla Radice, the Deputy Director General of Health Infrastructure in Queensland, as she shares her wealth of experience in leadership, collaboration, and trust-building in government and private sector organisations.

From her sociology roots to leading major health infrastructure projects, Priscilla offers practical advice on stakeholder engagement, aligning diverse teams, and embracing inclusive leadership.

Whether you're navigating large-scale project collaborations or looking for inspiration in your career path, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, Mary Camus shares her growth and leadership lessons coming from an entry-level role through to managing a national teams.

Mary shares her own personal journey of  finding the right opportunities, mentors and embracing the discomfort involved in her own personal growth. 

In this episode we discuss the emerging trends in the next generation of leadership. 

We also discuss real and practical application of modern leadership principles; from managing young, hybrid teams to integrating sustainability into business strategy. 

Mary addresses the challenges of imposter synd...

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, we dive into a transformative conversation with Richard Austin, CEO of Omni. Richard shares his journey across industries, from hospitality and insurance to construction, unpacking the values and principles that have guided him through each transition. 

He opens up about his approach to aligning with organisations that reflect his values, the importance of situational leadership, and the keys to creating a fulfilling career. We also are privileged with a deeply personal glimpse of into Richard’s family’s journey through IVF and the powerful impact of unexpected connections.

Ric...

 In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, we sit down with Lydia Gentle, a seasoned engineering professional who shares her journey of over 20 years in the industry. Discover the importance of aligning your career with personal values, the power of continuous learning, and how to navigate work-life balance. 

Lydia emphasises the significance of kindness and community involvement, both in the workplace and at home. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a change, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone eager to grow and thrive in their professional and personal life. 

Evan Black is a business coach who brings over 30 years of senior management experience, spanning roles from Sales and Marketing to CEO and Managing Director in both privately owned and billion-dollar listed companies. 

He started a career in health working as a registered nurse and then later moved into race car driving. 

This holistic experience led to a career leading companies through significant challenging times and getting hands on in leading through challenging market conditions. 

 It is through personal experience changing career paths that Evan remains a strong advocate for transferrable skills, career tran...

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, Lauren welcomes Angus Ferguson, who shares his intriguing journey from a humble upbringing in Echuca and soccer scholarship in Caulfield Grammar, to creating and selling a tech start-up for $25 million. 

Angus talks about the values instilled in him by his family, the pivotal experiences in playing soccer in the U.S., and transitioning into real estate.

 He discusses the challenges and lessons learned from founding and scaling a technology startup, including the importance of culture, hiring for fit, and fostering company values. 

Ang...

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan speaks with Andrew Chapman, a prominent figure in the construction industry and the CEO of the Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA). 

Andrew addresses the significant productivity decline in the sector over the past decade, driven by shifts from private to public sector projects and evolving regulations. He underscores the need for innovation and improved project sequencing.

 He also shares personal anecdotes and his vision for a more efficient and appealing industry. 

Andrew is a civil engineer with extensive experience across the entire pro...

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Vincent Williams, founder of Tungsten, to explore actionable strategies for enhancing productivity. 

Vincent reveals how adopting a four-day work week has reshaped his company’s culture and efficiency.

In this episode we dive into: