The Build Show Podcast

Building Consensus Episode 102: The majority of new home built in America this year will be constructed as speculative projects by a wide margin. Profit margins on custom homes tend to be more substantial while spec builders rely on higher speed, lower costs and greater volume to make the smaller margins more profitable. While both our hosts are known for pursuing high performance and extreme durability through building science, they differ greatly on whether or not it makes sense to build spec homes, and they discuss their individual experiences that led to those views. Brandon explains the unfortunate reality of the uninformed buyer and both hosts lament the lack of market support to align the value of better built home details with initial costs. Operational costs and health impacts being summarily dismissed in the home pricing equation have led to a race to the bottom, and the impacts to our economy and environment reflect that. This episode seeks to answer, “does it make sense to build spec homes”?Find Travis & Brandon on the WebTravis’ Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/travisbrungardtTravis’ Instagram: @catalystbuiltTravis’ Website: https://www.catalystbuilt.com/ Brandon’s Instagram: @joneshomeskc 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.

Guess who’s back for part two? If you guessed Erika Bonfanti, then you’re right! Erika returns to continue lively conversation with Matt. This week, they discuss the pros and cons of various building materials, expressing a preference for non-conventional wood structural houses despite acknowledging the benefits of concrete and block for thermal performance. Matt and Erika delve into the effectiveness of 3D printed concrete enclosures, stressing the importance of proper sealing and weatherproofing for durability. The conversation highlights the significance of hiring envelope consultants to avoid costly mistakes, with the host sharing a personal anecdote about the consequences of prioritizing cost over expertise. Erika offers insights into the role of consultants and advises on budgeting for their services. Overall, it's a dynamic discussion that combines practical advice with engaging anecdotes, encouraging listeners to prioritize quality and expertise in construction endeavors.Find Erika on the Web:Instagram: @erika_structureWebsite: https://www.actonpc.com/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 stay in the know. 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.

Introducing “Building Consensus,” a brand-new podcast series from Build Show Expert Travis Brungardt and fellow Kansas City Builder Brandon Jones. From controversy to consensus, this podcast addresses fundamental building issues as well as building science nuance through discussions with industry experts. With each episode Travis and Brandon will seek to arrive at a common understanding, despite their dissimilar approaches or opposing views that reflect their unique experiences. It’s a pursuit of that mythical beast “best practice” through some good-natured ribbing and spirited debate. Hopefully, Travis & Brandon will reach common ground despite the different paths they tread.Episode #101: Who Do I Think You Are?Rather than just your typical resume read-off, the guys thought it might be more fun to introduce each other with some overly creative, perhaps dubious back stories. This episode gives Travis and Brandon the opportunity to pick at one another a bit before revealing the accurate versions of their paths into the building trades. With the silliness out of the way we learn who these guys really are, what they do, and then get some insight into why they so often view building problems from opposing perspectives.Find Travis & Brandon on the WebTravis’ Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/travisbrungardtTravis’ Instagram: @catalystbuiltTravis’ Website: https://www.catalystbuilt.com/ Brandon’s Instagram: @joneshomeskc 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 dives into the intricacies of exterior enclosures with Erika Bonfanti, Associate Principle at Austin-based Engineering Consulting firm Acton Partners. They touch on Erica's specialized role in construction investigation and consulting and reflect on their mutual Pittsburgh roots. From detailing the challenges in construction projects to emphasizing the need for educational client approaches, they cover it all. The discussion expands to past experiences with exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) and the evolution of construction practices, stressing the importance of continuous exterior barriers. Wrapping up, they tease a potential part two, promising to explore common construction mistakes, mold control tips, and hypothetical industry changes.Find Erika on the Web:Instagram: @erika_structureWebsite: https://www.actonpc.com/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 stay in the know. 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 takes the podcast outdoors (only metaphorically) to delve into landscaping with Sara Bendrick, a top California-based contractor. Together, they explore the vital link between builders and landscapers, trends like drought-tolerant lawns, and the rise of battery-powered tools.Matt and Sara focus on the shift towards reducing traditional lawns in favor of drought-tolerant alternatives, concerns about the environmental impact of artificial turf, and emerging trends in landscaping technology, particularly the adoption of battery-powered equipment. Sara highlights the importance of balancing personal lifestyle choices with environmental considerations and offers insights into how landscaping trends often start on the coasts and gradually spread across the country.Find Sara on the Web:Instagram: @sarabendrickTikTok: @sarabendrickYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sarabendrick1828Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sara.B.BendrickWebsite: https://sarabendrick.com/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 stay in the know. 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.

This week’s episode of The Build Show Podcast features a dynamic conversation between Matt and marketing expert David Meerman Scott, whose influence shaped Matt's career. Matt recalls learning invaluable marketing tips from David early on, which he implemented and launched what eventually became The Build Show. They discuss the importance of aligning marketing with consumer behavior, emphasizing the power of content creation.David dives into the connection between neuroscience and fandom, highlighting how humans crave the safety and comfort of like-minded tribes; he illustrates the sense of community that comes with shared interests.The conversation further explores the neuroscience behind building connections through video content, discussing concepts like tribalism, proximity, and mirror neurons. David explains how these factors deepen human bonds and make viewers feel immersed in what they watch.Tune in for Matt and David’s advice for building a strong online presence and creating engaging content.Resources:New Marketing Mastery CoursesUse code buildshow for 25% off through the end of June 2024Fanocracy by David Meerman Scott & Reiko ScottThe New Rules of Marketing & PR by David Meerman ScottFind David on the Web:Instagram: @dmscottX (formerly known as Twitter): @dmscottLInkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmeermanscott/Website: https://www.davidmeermanscott.com/Blog: https://www.davidmeermanscott.com/blogFind 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 stay in the know. 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.

This week’s episode is extra special because it accompanies the launch of Build Original Series The Risinger Build. Matt sits down with his business partner and co-builder Tim Hill and in-house architect Chelsea Scharbach to talk about, you guessed it, The Risinger Build. For the first time ever, Matt and The Build Show are going to document a full build from foundation to finishes. Not only are they taking viewers along on this journey, Matt, Tim, and Chelsea are determined to create a top-notch home on a reasonable budget – a challenge they're excited to tackle. The Risinger team delve into the intricacies of balancing quality and cost, discussing material selections, streamlined design choices, and labor efficiency strategies. With a commitment to sharing their knowledge, the team plans to make project details available on the bldrplan.com platform, offering insights and inspiration to fellow builders. Tune in to follow the journey fueled by passion, pragmatism, and a shared dedication to advancing construction practices while keeping an eye on the bottom line.Resources:The Risinger Build: https://buildshownetwork.com/bsn-series/risingerbuildThe Risinger Build Project Details: https://bldrplan.com/products/build-show-austin-2024Builders FirstSource Digital Tools: https://www.bldr.com/digital-toolsFind 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 stay in the know. 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.

Hot Water Expert Gary Klein shares efficient plumbing strategies with Matt, discussing water waste reduction, modernizing codes for water-saving fixtures, and collaboration between architects and plumbers. They highlight preventive measures like floor drains and innovative solutions such as placing water heaters in semi-conditioned attics.

This week on The Build Show Podcast, Matt revisits the reason he grew so passionate about building science: mold. Guest Cristina Greenfield recounts her family's ordeal with mold and its impact on their health, shedding light on the need for awareness and preventive measures. They delve into the specifics of mold proliferation, emphasizing the role of HVAC systems and proper insulation.Cristina underscores the importance of education and proactive measures in maintaining a healthy home environment, advocating for effective communication and risk management in construction projects. They discuss practical advice for consumers and builders alike, stressing the significance of aligning goals and understanding risk profiles.Both Cristina and Matt highlight the value of continuous learning and transparent sharing of information to ensure the creation of practical, durable, and healthy homes. Check out the resources below:Resources:Build Science 101Building Science Fight Club: https://www.buildingsciencefightclub.com/Building Biology Institute: https://buildingbiologyinstitute.org/Healthy Home: Prescriptions for a Healthy House by Paula Baker-LaporteBuild Show LIVEFind Cristina on the web:Instagram: @conscioushealthyhomeTikTok: @conscioushealthyhomeFacebook: Conscious Healthy HomeWebsite: https://www.conscioushealthyhome.com/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 stay in the know. 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.

This week, Matt welcomes Mark Bowe (Host of Barnwood Builders), particularly known for his expertise in revitalizing centuries-old buildings while preserving their historical essence. Mark shares his journey from disassembling barns to founding his own business, overcoming hurdles like finding buyers and navigating the industry's intricacies. Since he founded his company in 1995, Mark and his crew have reclaimed more than 500 pioneer-era structures.They dive into the fine balance between traditional and modern construction methods, and Mark highlights the challenges in meeting evolving building codes and regulations. The conversation shifts to the development of a revolutionary house prototype with an R200 insulation rating achieved through unconventional vacuum-sealed wall construction. (Mark and his team just received a patent on the project). Matt and Mark discuss potential benefits of such a design, including enhanced energy efficiency and durability in extreme weather conditions.Tune in to get to know Mark Bowe and learn his favorite species of wood to reuse in his restoration projects (spoiler: it’s not what you’d expect).Find Mark Bowe on the web:Instagram: @mark_bowe and @barnwood_buildersX (formerly known as Twitter): @MarkBoweFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkBoweTV/Website: https://www.markbowe.com/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/ 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.