The Build Show Podcast

Matt sits down with Lydia, aka @drywallshorty, to talk about essential tips for bidding drywall projects. The conversation, aimed at builders and contractors, covers drywall specifications, the importance of choosing the right materials, and best practices for achieving high-quality results. Lydia emphasizes the need for early discussions with drywall contractors about drywall thickness (1/2” vs. 5/8”), as this affects both pricing and the quality of the final job, particularly in custom homes. 5/8” drywall is preferred for smoother ceilings and better soundproofing.Lydia also highlights the significant differences between drywall manufacturers and advises against using cheap materials, which often increase labor costs. The podcast explores the importance of selecting appropriate corner beads (metal, vinyl, or paper-faced) based on framing quality.They also focus on the different levels of drywall finish, from Level 0 to Level 5, with Level 5 providing a perfectly smooth surface ideal for homes with raking light, dark colors, or high-sheen paints. Lydia stresses that quality drywall work is crucial to a home’s overall appearance and value, as poorly finished drywall can detract from high-end finishes.The episode wraps up with practical tips, including walking job sites before bidding and requesting samples for texture and corner beads. Find Lydia on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/lydiacrowderYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrywallShortyInstagram: @drywallshortyFacebook: facebook.com/drywallshortyTikTok: @drywallshortyFind Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

Matt and Steve sit down to talk about the newest installment in the Build Science™ series, Build Science™ 201 . The conversation covers the importance of both Build Science™ 101 & 201 as educational tools for builders, architects, and contractors, emphasizing how these can help improve the understanding and application of advanced building techniques.They reflect on their experience in the field, sharing how they've learned over the years by educating themselves and seeking guidance from mentors, such as Joe Lstiburek, a building science expert. Steve, for instance, worked closely with Joe at Building Science Corporation, where he gained deep insight into construction techniques, especially concerning water mitigation, flashing, and the control of building layers.Matt and Steve discuss how Build Science series provides quizzes and certificates to validate knowledge, making it a valuable tool for training teams. Overall, they stress lifelong learning in the building profession, the importance of understanding building science, and the value of sharing knowledge within the construction community.Resources:Build Science™ 101: https://buildshownetwork.com/bsn-series/build-science-101Build Science™ 201: https://buildshownetwork.com/bsn-series/build-science-201Building Science Corporation: https://buildingscience.com/Find Steve on the Web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczekInstagram: @stevenbaczekarchitectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

Matt welcomes Justin Pratt from Builders’ FirstSource to delve into the future of construction operations, focusing on how builders can adapt to advancements in digital tools. They discuss the integration of digital modeling, like 3D Revit, into construction workflows. This technology allows builders to optimize projects by reducing waste, detecting conflicts, and improving operational efficiency. Justin shares insights on how digital twins and home configurators can streamline the building process, offering tools that integrate structural, architectural, and trades components seamlessly. Builders FirstSource has innovative solutions that cater to both custom and mid-level builders, ensuring smoother project management from pre-construction to completion. The discussion also covers the rise of digital home configuration experiences for customers, enabling you to visualize future homes much like you can configure a car online.For builders, these tools not only improve operational efficiency but also enhance customer satisfaction by providing accurate visual representations, reducing on-site problems, and cutting costs. Matt and Justin emphasize the value of embracing digital transformation in the construction industry, positioning builders to be future-ready by 2035.Resources:MyBLDR.comHome Plan LibraryRevit 3D ModelingLanthorn.aiFind Justin on the Web:Instagram: @justinpratt3LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-p-86a7568/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

Matt is joined by Scott Reynolds, co-founder and CEO of UpCodes, a company that helps builders, architects, tradespeople, and more navigate the complex space of building codes. Their conversation centers around how technology can streamline and improve the building process, with a focus on integrating building codes and standards into digital tools. Scott discusses his company's efforts to create a digital platform that captures industry knowledge and makes it easily accessible to builders and designers, ensuring compliance and improving decision-making during construction. He emphasizes the importance of documenting conversations and decisions for future reference, especially with the rise of remote work. Scott also touches on future developments like expanding product catalogs and closing the gap between building requirements and practical installations. Find Scott & UpCodes on the Web:Website: https://up.codes/X (formerly known as Twitter): @upcodesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upcodesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/upcodes/Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-reynolds/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

Live from the ROCKWOOL Studio, Matt is joined by fellow Build Show Expert, CJ Nielsen to talk smart electrical systems. They cover key topics, including future-proofing a home’s electrical systems, the benefits of an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) for better indoor air quality, and smart panels like the Span system for efficient energy management. CJ emphasizes the importance of setting up temporary infrastructure on job sites and highlights how to effectively future-proof homes by using modern electrical solutions such as low-voltage DC systems and spider boxes for temporary power. They also showcase Vosker trail cameras for jobsite security, and Matt shares insights on the installation of smart solutions for energy-efficient homes.Find CJ on the Web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/cjnielsenInstagram: @cncelectricFind Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

Matt and Steve are back again this week in the ROCKWOOL studio to dive deep into advanced tech integration at The Risinger Build, focusing on future-proofing homes. Matt recounts a past mistake of installing obsolete iPad jacks, highlighting the critical need for adaptable systems to avoid expensive retrofits.Matt and Steve also explore practical tech solutions like Sonos systems for home audio and their installation experiences, along with the energy-saving use of heat-generating devices in HVAC systems. The discussion extends to advancements in building materials and practices, such as the use of Rheia duct systems, which offer enhanced airflow control and customization. They also touch on air leakage reduction, emphasizing the importance of precision and teamwork in achieving high-performance homes.Both highlight the ongoing improvements in building science, crediting both technological advancements and collaborative efforts across trades. Resources:Building Science Corporation: https://buildingscience.com/Find Steve on the Web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczekInstagram: @stevenbaczekarchitectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

Steve joins Matt live in the ROCKWOOL studio to explore cost-effective strategies for building high-performance homes. They discuss common misconceptions about homebuilding costs, particularly the misleading reliance on "cost per square foot." Additionally, they emphasize prioritizing quality over size, suggesting that a well-built smaller home can provide better long-term value.Using Steve’s Multigenerational Home on a Budget project as an example, they discuss key decisions include using UPVC triple-glazed windows, which improve insulation and reduce HVAC costs, and Bosch HVAC systems to provide efficient heating and cooling. The house also uses Huber’s ZIP R9 insulation for air-tightness, eliminating the need for costly closed-cell foam. The design keeps materials simple yet durable, opting for more affordable features like modest kitchen cabinets and a basic ERV system while maintaining good indoor air quality.Steve highlights the cultural differences in homebuilding, particularly in Europe, where permanent features like windows are prioritized over easily replaceable items like countertops. Matt & Steve’s discussion can serve as a guide for those looking to build smarter, energy-efficient homes on a budget without sacrificing long-term performance.Resources:UnBuild It Podcast: https://buildshownetwork.com/podcast/unbuildit-podcast“Not So Big House” by Sarah SusankaEnergy Vanguard: https://www.energyvanguard.com/Find Steve on the Web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczekInstagram: @stevenbaczekarchitectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

After a brief summer break, The Build Show Podcast is back! Matt talks to Danny from Breakthrough Academy about key strategies for contractors and businesses to thrive in a slower economic market. They focus on lead generation and marketing optimization, offering actionable advice to maintain a steady flow of leads even in uncertain times.Danny highlights the importance of tracking lead sources and calculating return on investment (ROI) to focus marketing efforts on high-performing channels. He also emphasizes the value of branding and networking, sharing tips on attending industry events, fostering relationships with referral partners, and leveraging social media to stay top of mind with clients.Matt and Danny explore both active and passive marketing strategies, such as door-to-door outreach, signage in local neighborhoods, and using social media for brand visibility. Additionally, Danny discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy sales pipeline, advising contractors to regularly follow up with potential clients and track “no for now” prospects who may convert later.For businesses looking to optimize their marketing strategies in a softer market, Danny suggests tools like a simple lead tracking system to measure performance and adjust marketing spend effectively. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to ensuring business growth, even in challenging economic conditions, with a strong focus on lead management, pipeline development, and ROI optimization.Resources:To help make more sense of your ROI per Lead Source, download BTA’s LEAD SOURCE DISTRIBUTION TRACKERBreakthrough AcademyContractor Quick ToolsFind Danny & Breakthrough Academy on the Web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/breakthroughacademyInstagram: @btacademy and @dkerr1127Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebreakthroughacademy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/breakthroughacademy/YouTube: @BreakthroughAcademyFind Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and 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.

Bryan & Tim Uhler, second-generation builders and business-owners, return to The Build Show Podcast. Matt and the Uhlers discuss the future of the construction industry, emphasizing technological advancements and sustainability.Matt, Bryan, and Tim consider the impact of 3D printing in construction; both Bryan and Tim are skeptical about its widespread adoption due to site-specific challenges and aesthetic preferences. They advocate for traditional wood framing, noting its sustainability and efficiency, supported by responsible forest management practices.All three builders outline the benefits of pre-assembled framing packages like Ready Frame, which streamline the building process without compromising craftsmanship.This episode underscores the importance of long-term relationships with tradespeople and inspectors, which enhances project quality and efficiency.Looking ahead, the Bryan and Tim are optimistic about the industry's future, seeing potential in blending traditional craftsmanship with new technologies. They believe social media is reshaping perceptions of construction careers, making them more appealing to younger generations. Both Matt and the Uhlers express confidence in a promising future for the construction industry, driven by passion, innovation, and sustainable practices.Find Bryan & Tim on the Web:Instagram: @pioneerbuilders & @awesomeframersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pioneerbuildersWebsite: https://pioneerbuildersonline.com/profile/Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisingerInstagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshowTikTok: @thebuildshowYouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshowWebsite: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now! 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.

Igor Trninic, co-founder of Breakthrough Academy, shares his journey from financial mismanagement in his painting business to building a successful franchise. He discusses the dire consequences of poor financial organization, such as losing key employees and unprofitable projects. Igor emphasizes the need for annual budgeting and monthly financial reviews to ensure profitability. With insights into systematic operations and profit margin management, he stresses the importance of structured support for contractors aiming for financial stability and growth.