Better Builder Podcast

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This week on the Better Builder podcast we sit down with Jake Woods, founder of Calibre Homes. Jake came up as a boat builder, spent nearly two decades on superyachts, then came home and built Calibre into a respected Auckland renovation company. He gets into precision on the tools, why trust is everything, and his push to fix the apprenticeship pathway with Builders Academy.

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This week we sit down with Jarrett Howe from Frontline Project Management, on-site at a bespoke Auckland home he built with architect Jason Bailey of Hoxha Bailey. Jarrett and his partner Ernie run a small operation that takes on big things, from one-off homes to projects worth tens of millions.

He gets into why getting the builder in early is a game-changer, how his open-book system shows clients where every dollar goes, and why so many busy building companies still go under. He also shares his own story, from learning his...

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This week we sit down with Jason Bailey of Hoxha Bailey Architects, who flew in from the Sunshine Coast for the chat. Over 30 years designing Auckland homes, Jason shares his story and the lessons behind it.

He takes us from a creative Auckland childhood and an arts degree into architecture, and the leap of starting a practice from scratch with no clients. Along the way he gets into the pros and cons of a business partnership, the art of pulling a real brief out of a client, and...

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This week, we welcome Ben Kevey-Maiden, founder of New Wave Construction, to the Better Builder podcast as we sit down on location in St Luke's, Auckland, inside the striking little commercial building he built off the side of his family's car wash. Ben has built a reputation across Auckland for bringing complex, high-end architectural designs to life, with a craftsman's eye for detail and finish.

In this episode, Ben pulls back the curtain on the technical reality of the build, from setting footings into solid basalt rock to...

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This week on the Better Builder podcast, we sit down with Ben Lloyd from Lloyd Hartley Architects, on location at a small St Luke's office he designed in the corner of a busy Auckland car wash. Ben shares what it really takes to run a small architecture practice, how he guides clients through a stressful once-in-a-lifetime build, why holding firm on budget matters, and why early builder involvement is a game-changer for keeping projects on time and on budget.

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Lawrence is a second-year building apprentice from Tauranga who joins Brad for an honest chat about life on the tools. He breaks down how the apprenticeship actually works: the trainer visits, the night classes, the book work, and the mistakes along the way. They cover site culture, the first-year learning curve, why he chose the trades, and what makes a good apprentice. Plus a rapid-fire round on tools, energy drinks, rugby and more.

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This week on the Better Builder podcast, we sit down with Matt Garlick, founder of Supreme Builders NZ, to talk about what it actually takes to execute high-end architectural construction in some of the most remote, awkward locations across the Bay of Islands. Originally a carpenter from Kent, UK, Matt moved to New Zealand at age 22 and has spent the last two decades cutting his teeth on complex, regional builds.

In this episode, Matt pulls back the curtain on the brutal logistical challenges of island building—including the extreme management required to...

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Architect Paul joins the Better Builder podcast for our second outdoor episode of the season, sitting down on location to discuss the brutal realities of building on an island. From navigating the nightmare logistics of ferry-bound concrete trucks and winter storms to making 2,600 boat trips over the water, Paul pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to project manage a build isolated from the mainland.⁠

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Charlie is a 19-year-old, third-year building apprentice from Auckland who joins Brad for an honest chat about life on the tools. From a school work-experience day on a commercial site to choosing residential building over sparky or plumbing work, Charlie breaks down how the apprenticeship actually works — the training, the book work, the pay structure, and the mistakes (and injuries) along the way. They talk site culture, staying motivated through winter, ignoring the "get rich quick" hype on social media, and what it takes to be a good apprentice. Plus a rapid-fire round on...

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For our second outdoor episode of the Better Builder podcast, we are on location in Mangawhai with architect Tim Dorrington, founder of Dorrington Atcheson Architects. Tim sits down to share the realities of running a modern practice, his mid-century design philosophies, and how a close shorthand with local builders creates a massive competitive advantage for clients.  

We dive deep into how early builder collaboration keeps complex, seven-figure residential projects strictly on budget, the art of reading micro-expressions to figure out how a client actually lives, and his disruptive "Pocket House" and "B...

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This week, we welcome back a returning favourite to the Better Builder podcast as we sit down on location in Mangawhai with Nick Smith, founder of Smith Construction. Nick has built an incredible reputation across Greater Northland for executing complex, high-end architectural homes.

In this episode, Nick pulls back the curtain on the business reality of scaling to 15 staff, the mental hurdles of stepping off the tools, and how he turned a steep, intimidating "ugly duckling" forestry site into a seven-figure architectural masterpiece. He also shares critical insights on navigating harsh...

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In this episode, Andrew joins us fresh off a lecture tour in the US to discuss his incredible career and what it takes to design world-class structures. From winning a major national housing award three times early in his career to running a premium 25-person practice, Andrew pulls back the curtain on the real relationship between architects, clients, and builders.  

We dive deep into why New Zealand is an architect's ultimate playground, how Patterson Associates uses a "reverse brief" to guarantee project success, the future of AI in a...

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This month on BBA, we chat with Luka Noad, a third-year building apprentice with Builders Academy NZ. After leaving school in Year 12 and cold-emailing over 50 companies to land his first role, Luka knows better than most how hard it is to break into the trades.

In this episode, Luka talks about the reality of getting your first apprenticeship, what separates good apprentices from bad ones, and why he's tuning out the "escape the trades" noise on social media.

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This month on BBA, we chat with Adrian Ferguson, a 23-year-old building apprentice who transitioned from plumbing to high-end residential construction. Based on the North Shore and nearing qualification through Builders Academy, Adrian highlights the benefits of frequent assessments and a strong connection with his mentor to accelerate his career.  

In this episode, Adrian discusses why his generation is choosing tangible trades over digital "crypto" dreams and the importance of an outdoor "hustle mentality". He shares insights on avoiding the "broom" stage, the value of artisan finishing work, and his strategy f...

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How do you balance early fatherhood, a growing business, and architectural excellence? Rory Burnett, founder of RB Builds, joins us to share his journey from farm life to business owner.

Beyond his own story, Rory dives into the importance of giving back to the trade. We discuss his star apprentice, Aidan, and how the support system at Builders Academy is changing the game. Learn why frequent six-week check-ins are the secret to fast-tracking an apprentice’s journey and mastering the craft.

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This month, we sit down with Sam Paauwe, Massey High School Building Academy Prefect, to discuss the fast track to a building career. Sam explains how the Building Academy helped him gain nearly a quarter of his apprenticeship credits by building Kāinga Ora houses. He emphasises that the academy acts as a critical support system, giving students who struggled academically a chance to excel in a practical field they genuinely love. Listen as he shares his confidence on site and challenges builders to hire based on genuine motivation, not just academic background.

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As 2025 draws to a close, Brad is joined by Dan (Producer of Better Builder) to reflect on a landmark year. From the adrenaline of the podcast tour to the prestigious Better Builder Awards, they dive deep into the highs, the lows, and everything in between that defined the year for the community."

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This special compilation episode features the best business insights from our recent Brisbane Builder Tour, highlighting five of the city's top custom builders: Seb Toscano, Charlie Mylne, Jarryd Duffy, Matt Grieve, and Caleb Adams. Hear how leaders stress the critical importance of setting firm boundaries with clients and maintaining a 12-14% net profit margin to avoid financial burnout. Jarryd Duffy and Matt Grieve detail how rigorous systems provide unparalleled project control and quality, including the implementation of a 4-day work week. Caleb Adams shares his powerful perspective on building mental fortitude, defining success...

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This week, we sit down with Jeremy Chapman, founder of JCA STUDIO, an award-winning Auckland-based practice committed to authentic and considered design. Drawing on his diverse background as a builder and furniture designer, Jeremy passionately argues that architectural plans are a graphic, artistic process that fundamentally dictates a house's final outcome. He dives into the complexity hidden within simplicity and why precision is non-negotiable when creating refined, trim-less spaces, and critiques how profit-driven development often results in poor quality, urging the industry to prioritise beautiful design that truly benefits the community.

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We sit down with Craig Moller, Director at Moller Architects, to discuss the deeper meaning behind design. With three decades of experience and a passion for crafting enduring spaces, Craig shares his wisdom on creating structures that truly "resonate" with occupants. This episode is a masterclass in architectural philosophy, emphasising the crucial connection between structure, design, and materiality. Don't miss Craig's invaluable perspective on managing the delicate balance of client expectations, budget, and a builder's passion for the final, successful result.

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This week, we chat with Jeremy Brick from Studio Brick Architects, a design-led office renowned for its elegant, creative, and considered architectural solutions across all projects. Jeremy's practice is focused on delivering a comprehensive client experience, offering services from initial design through to construction observation.

In this episode, Jeremy opens up about the 'rollercoaster' of workload and the constant challenge of finding work-life balance while working the 'night shift.' He shares strategies for managing client expectations when their vision is 'bigger than their wallet,' including setting budget parameters early...

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This month, we sit down with Luke Kanuta, one of the key teachers in charge of the innovative Building Academy at Massey High School. Luke talks about how they are transforming young lives through construction. The Building Academy is a unique, one-year, full-time program that creates genuine opportunities for students by having them build a three-bedroom, 100m² house on site.  Luke shares how the academy uses purpose, mentorship, and practical experience to transform students and change the culture of the building industry.

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We are revisiting a classic episode to help secure your business and cash flow in these tough economic times. We welcome back Finn Collins, a leading barrister specialising in complex construction and property disputes. He provides actionable advice on structuring contracts to ensure you get paid what you've earned. This powerful and insightful episode is a must-listen!

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast as we sit down with Chris Tate, an Architectural Designer known for creating buildings of unique modernity and daring imagination. 

Chris shares his unconventional journey and discusses his philosophy where "less is more" is the mantra and the site's beauty is the maximum priority. We revisit his career-defining first project, the iconic "Forest House," and dive into the complexities of coastal designs like the "Bunker House." He also reveals why he prioritizes project management to ensure control over the final fit-out, and t...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast with Dan Hawke-Mills, Co-Director of Downright Construction. Dan offers a transparent look at navigating the building world, admitting he and his partner spent the first few years "winging it" and lacked fundamental business systems. He shares how his past as a competitive bodybuilder instilled the discipline and determination required to push through the current economic slowdown, even if it meant taking on smaller jobs that "hurt the ego a bit." This episode dives deep into the strategic choice of partner specialisation, with one off...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast with Joel Macreadie, Director of Macreadie Builders. Joel talks about the shock of his tough apprenticeship and the steep learning curve when he started Macreadie Builders around age 24. He reveals his leadership secrets, including leading from the front by getting on the tools, fostering team buy-in through open conversation, and the positive impact of having female builders on site. This episode provides valuable business lessons on pricing, team culture, and the entrepreneurial progression from builder to businessman.

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 Hamish gets brutally honest about the one mistake that almost broke his business: a massive fixed-price blunder on residential renovations. Learn his blueprint for strong systems, finding the right business partners, and empowering your team to scale successfully. ⁠

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This month, we're joined by Jason Goertzen, a workplace apprenticeship educator at the Builders Academy. Join us as we dive into the harsh reality of what it means to be a qualified tradesman. Jason argues that your qualification is a "minimum standard, not a finish line," and reveals the critical skill needed to succeed—not hammer skills, but "learning how to learn." He shares the proven 10-minute daily study hack that separates disciplined apprentices from those who quit, challenging the notion that the tr...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast with David Stark, Founder of Stark Building. David, an award-winning builder, shares the mindset that drives his business, where his "I'll prove you wrong" attitude pushes him to work solo and make hard work look easy. He discusses the crucial role of luck in finding a good apprenticeship, the challenge of working with less "red tape" in London, and how he channels his competitive spirit into high-intensity endurance sports like Ironman. This episode reveals the dedication, discipline, and unique challenges of running...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast with Warren Adolph, Founder of Warren Adolph Homes. With over 30 years in the industry, Warren shares the story of his incredible partnership, which began back in intermediate school, and how they built a successful, family-run business focused on quality. He speaks frankly about the immense frustration with government "help" that only adds to the "red tape" and bureaucracy faced by builders. Warren also challenges the "copout" narrative around housing affordability, arguing that compromise, sacrifice, and a strong mindset are the key to building a...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast as we sit down with Marlon Cosmas, a co-director of Reside. With decades of experience in the industry, Marlon shares his honest story of how his successful London-based company "exploded" with work, becoming an "uncontrolled monster." He discusses the chaos of rapid growth and how it led him and his business partner to sell their business and move back to New Zealand. He also opens up about the cultural differences in building between the UK and NZ and the importance of having a strong...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast as we sit down with Jono Duxfield, owner of JD Construction. Jono shares his story of leaving the family farm to become a builder and the lessons he learned working overseas. He opens up about the reality of being a "great builder" and the importance of relationships with clients and teams. This is a powerful episode about moving beyond the tools, finding a balance between work and family, and the true meaning of success.

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast as we sit down with Logan. In a raw and honest conversation, he shares how a tough time in his life gave him resilience and provided "amazing lessons" for the person he is today. He also discusses why he left the plumbing trade, and his journey to find a different kind of success beyond the tools. This is a powerful episode about overcoming adversity, challenging the traditional path, and the importance of self-identity.

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On this month’s episode, we sit down with Thomas from Builders Blueprint.

Thomas shares the culture he fosters with his apprentices and highlights the importance of keeping things old school. From his early days hustling to get onto a building site, to running a company focused on legacy homes for Pasifika and Māori families, Thomas opens up about what it takes to succeed in the trade.

 He talks about the difference between today’s apprentices and the old-school approach he was brought up with, why ba...

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Catch this week's episode of the Better Builder podcast with Matt Grieve, Director of Frameology. Matt shares his story of leaving a career as a professional athlete after an injury, and how that led to him building his first house and starting his own business. He opens up about the reality of his early mistakes, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and the value of creating strong systems and processes. Matt also discusses the mental and physical toll of the industry and how he manages to find a work-life balance.<...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast as we sit down with Caleb Adams from Pilgrim Luxury Homes. In an honest conversation, Caleb shares his unconventional journey and the courage it took to start his business just before a global pandemic, and his biggest mistake—losing $1.3 million in a single year. 

He also discusses how he's scaled his business by focusing on systems and processes, building a powerful brand, and the importance of community among builders. This is a powerful episode about resilience, the value of har...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast as we sit down with Justin Horler from JBH Builders. In an honest conversation, he shares his unconventional upbringing on a remote island and how it shaped his strong work ethic and personal resilience.

He opens up about taking client feedback and project challenges personally, the importance of putting your hand up when a mistake happens, and how his career took a "turning curve" after being thrown in the deep end as a young apprentice. Justin also discusses the three pillars of...

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Join us this week on the Better Builder podcast as we sit down with Todd Miller from Ziegler Build. In a raw and honest conversation, Todd shares his unconventional journey from professional footballer and hairdresser to a successful builder.

 He opens up about the traumatic experience of losing everything in a flood, the valuable lessons he learned from that humbling event, and how it shaped his resilience. Todd also discusses the importance of a strong team environment, the power of a "jack of all trades" mindset, and why a...

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This week, we're joined by Hunter Struve, a Builders Academy apprentice who's giving us the real talk on his journey into the trades. Hunter shares his initial misconceptions about construction and the moment he realised a trade was far from the "easy way out." 

We also dive into how he's navigating the "old school" culture on site, his strategies for avoiding a bookwork backlog, and his candid advice for fellow apprentices and builders on how to keep your head in the game.

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This week, we're joined by Jarryd Duffy from Tide Constructions. With over 15 years of experience, Jarryd's passion for building began in childhood. He shares his early struggles with burnout and the pivotal moment he considered leaving the industry. Jarryd discusses overcoming ego and social media comparison, and the value of a strong team and good processes for sustainable business growth. He also reveals how a motocross accident unexpectedly led him to a crucial mentorship, teaching him the business side of construction.

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