The Build Show Podcast

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt welcomes Brent Hull, master craftsman, author, and historic millwork expert, for a fascinating discussion on what it means to build with timeless quality. Together, they dive into the art of blending tradition with modern construction practices, exploring why authenticity, proportion, and design integrity matter more than ever in today’s building culture. Brent shares stories from his decades of experience restoring and replicating historic details, offering insight into how builders and architects can elevate their work by studying classical design principles. Matt and Brent also reflect on the value of craftsmanship in an industry often driven by speed and efficiency, reminding listeners why beauty and durability should never be sacrificed. Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Arclin. Learn more at: https://www.Firepoint.Arclin.comFollow Brent on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hullmillwork_hullhomes/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt and Brent dive into the fascinating Italian Revival project—an extraordinary 120-year-old mansion in Fort Worth. Together, they explore the craftsmanship, history, and challenges of restoring this landmark home, originally built with commercial-grade masonry and even a bank vault inside. Brent shares insights on durability, traditional building methods, and how to honor the home’s legacy while bringing it to modern standards. The conversation also highlights lessons from past remodels, the importance of air gaps and masonry techniques, and how today’s builders can create structures that last generations. Plus, Matt and Brent preview Build Show Live, where attendees will get a behind-the-scenes tour of this stunning restoration.  Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Aquor Water Systems. Learn more at: https://www.aquorwatersystems.comFollow Brent on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hullmillwork_hullhomes/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In This Episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger continues his conversation with second-generation builder Peter Scott in part two of their discussion. This time, the focus shifts to the Build Show Live House in Dallas, where Peter walks through the framing process, building science details, and new systems being implemented in the project. From first-time experiences with monopoly framing to exterior insulation, HVAC strategies, and the upcoming Build Show Live event, Matt and Peter dig into the technical side of what makes this showcase home unique.Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Huber.  Find out more at:  https://www.huberwood.comFollow Peter on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimscottandsons/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt welcomes second-generation builder Peter Scott to share the story of his family’s 50-year-old company, Jim Scott & Sons. Peter reflects on growing up around construction, lessons he carried over from the service industry, and how he’s shaping the business with a focus on client experience, architect partnerships, and female leadership on his team. This episode also previews his role building this year’s Build Show Live House in Dallas and what attendees can expect at the upcoming event. Huge thanks to Pella for sponsoring today’s episode! If you’re curious to see what they offer—doors, windows, warranties, the works—check out the link below.https://www.pella.com/Follow Peter on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimscottandsons/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, host Matt Risinger introduces a new face to the Build Show Network: Chicago-based builder and design expert Michael Conneely of Greenside Design Build. Known to many by his Instagram handle long before his first name, Mike has built a reputation for clean, modern design and high-performance homes in the Chicago suburbs. In this candid conversation, Matt and Mike unpack Mike’s journey from early influences to becoming a respected force in the design-build space. They discuss the challenges of working in the Midwest, lessons learned from years of refining both process and craft, and how social media helped amplify his voice in the building community. If you're curious about the mindset and methods behind modern, detail-driven construction, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the industry's sharpest builders. Engaging, insightful, and loaded with practical wisdom—this one’s not to be missed.Huge thanks to our episode sponsor Viewrail.Learn more at: https://www.viewrail.com/Follow Michael on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/greenside_design_build/?hl=enResources: https://www.greensidedesignbuild.com/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, host Matt Risinger sits down with longtime friend, builder, and former collaborator Jordan Smith to trace the origins of their professional journey. Before launching his own design-build firm, Jordan worked alongside Matt on a range of projects that helped shape their shared approach to building science and craftsmanship. In this candid conversation, the two revisit their earliest jobs together, reflect on the evolution of their working relationship, and discuss the lessons Jordan learned as he stepped out to lead his own company, Smith House Co. From navigating hard money loans on spec builds to building trust with clients through quality and communication, this episode is full of real-world insights for builders at any stage in their career. Thoughtful, grounded, and packed with hard-earned wisdom, it’s a must-listen for anyone forging their own path in the construction industry. Huge thanks to our episode sponsors Pella and Huber.  Learn more at: https://www.pella.com/ and https://www.huberwood.comJordan's Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jordansmithbuilds/Resources: https://smithhouseco.com Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this insightful episode of the Build Show Podcast, host Matt Risinger sits down with Stephanie Dailey—longtime colleague, project manager, and now remote collaborator—to explore what it really takes to build a remote career in the construction industry. Stephanie shares her unconventional path from jobsite coordination in Austin to managing high-performance builds from hundreds of miles away. With candid stories about burnout, family priorities, and the pursuit of flexibility, Matt and Stephanie talk about redefining success in a traditionally hands-on field. From the power of trust and communication to the evolving role of women in construction, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for builders, business owners, and anyone navigating career shifts in a digital age. Real, reflective, and refreshingly honest, this episode is a must-listen for those rethinking how and where meaningful work gets done. Matt's Resources: https://jobsitecodes.com/https://stevendailey.com/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast,  our host Matt Risinger sits down with builder, educator, and longtime friend Jordan Smith for a deep dive into one of the most important questions in residential construction today: how do you build high-performance homes without blowing the budget? Drawing from Jordan’s real-world experience and his recent video series, the two break down what “attainable high performance” really looks like—focusing on the four key “knobs” builders can turn to control cost: size, complexity, finishes, and labor. Along the way, Matt and Jordan share building science insights, trip stories from their time in Switzerland, and practical advice for designing details that matter more than materials. Whether you’re building custom homes, spec houses, or just trying to make smart choices on a budget, this episode is packed with the kind of wisdom that helps good builders get even better. Huge thanks to our episode sponsors  Pella and Santa Fe. Learn more at: https://www.pella.com/ and https://thermastor.com/our-brands/santa-fe/  Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger sits down with Matthew Cooper, COO of PEG, and Justin Pratt from Builders FirstSource to discuss how preplanned MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) design is transforming residential construction. Drawing from Matt’s own ultra-tight .50 ACH Risinger Build, the conversation highlights how digital tools—like Revit and advanced modeling—are making HVAC layouts, material coordination, and on-site execution faster and more precise. With PEG supporting MEP planning for over 50,000 homes annually, the lessons shared scale from high-volume production to regional and custom builds. From clash detection and smarter truss integration to improved energy code compliance and construction speed, this episode is packed with insights for builders looking to modernize their process. To learn more about how PEG can support your projects, contact Matthew Cooper at solutions@pegenv.com. Huge thanks to our episode sponsors, Arclin and Huber. Learn more at: https://www.Firepoint.Arclin.com and https://www.huberwood.comFind Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://buildshownetwork.com/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger sits down with South Dakota builder Josh Stange—featured in the premiere of Building Across America—to dive deep into what it really takes to build high-performance homes in rural America. A true one-man show, Josh not only designs, frames, and insulates his projects but recently shocked the team with a .18 ACH50 blower door result—before mechanicals. Together, Matt and Josh explore the details behind this incredible feat, from innovative Zip System ceiling air barriers to cost challenges with skeptical clients. Whether you’re building in big cities or small towns, this episode is a must-listen for pros seeking durability, craftsmanship, and airtight performance without the big crew. Insightful, technical, and surprisingly relatable—this story will change how you see "small" builders. Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://buildshownetwork.com/ Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.