Level Up with Duayne Pearce

What happens when collaboration and construction unite? You get an enlightening conversation, insightful strategies, and a deep dive into the world of sustainable, efficient, and green building. Join me as I chat with David from Ecowise Homes and Anthony from Outlier Studios about their unique journey of successful collaboration and how they've transformed their building projects from ordinary to extraordinary. We explore their methods to connect with designers, assess potential clients, and manage the pre-construction consultation process.

We also dig into the fascinating concept of creating a mini marriage between client and builder that transcends the design stage. Listen in as we discuss the invaluable power of open communication, transparency, and the importance of creating healthier indoor environments. David and Anthony share their personal experiences, shedding light on the use of prefabrication, the advantages of having a ventilated roof space versus a ventilated cavity, and the significance of moisture control in roof cavities.

In a twist, we take a moment to touch on the concept of personal development and the impact of mental health in the construction industry. We explore how mindfulness, exercise, and time spent in nature can create a healthier mental environment and ultimately lead to more successful projects. Wrapping up our insightful discussion, we delve into the future of building with a look at smaller, sustainable homes, prefabrication construction, and navigating price increases in the midst of a pandemic. Don't miss this captivating conversation packed with industry insights and expert advice.

Outlier Studio:
outlierstudio.com.au

Ecowise Homes:
ecowisehomes.com.au

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Ever wondered how a determined apprentice can transition to managing a team of 40 carpenters? Meet Charbel Rahme; successful entrepreneur, mentor, and owner of Aria Carpentry and Construction. Charbel shares an incredible journey of resilience, determination, and success as he builds not only structures, but a life that has stood the test of time. His story, filled with hurdles, pivotal roles, and the process of establishing his business from its foundational stage, is sure to inspire you.

Diving deep into the heart of running a carpentry business, Charbel highlights the practical side of his work. Learn about the complexities of putting together a job scope, running the numbers, handing out contracts, and dealing with price surges. Growing a business is no walk in the park, and Charbel lays bare the challenges in communication, on-site problem-solving, and managing construction projects. But that's not all, he also shares the importance of fostering a team culture based on mutual respect and how it has contributed to the growth and success of his business.

Join us as we explore a range of topics from the importance of self-sufficiency among staff, the growth within a team, the value of individual character understanding, to the essentiality of communication. Charbels insights on managing multiple teams, staying organised, and ensuring everyone is learning and growing are invaluable. Whether you're in the construction industry or not, there's plenty to learn from Charbels experiences and strategies. Tune in and experience the journey of a man who is not just about building structures, but about building lives and success.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Imagine embarking on a powerful journey from apprentice carpenter to builder, experiencing both the thrill of growth and the struggle of overcoming hurdles. That's the compelling narrative Zach from Surge Construction shares with us, shedding light on his remarkable transformation within the building industry. He illustrates the importance of nurturing a good work ethic, acknowledging his stepfather's teachings as instrumental in shaping his career. Zach also discusses the daunting prediction of matching his turnover from the last year or two in just the next five months.

Venturing into the nitty-gritty of running a business, we delve into the necessity of a robust accounting system, the importance of understanding numbers, tracking costs, and the Aussie version of the profit-first method. Our conversation extends to the challenges of keeping abreast with new building regulations and the significance of networking with other builders. Zach candidly shares his strategy of navigating through the pandemic and his experiences in maintaining consistent work flow.

Closing on a note of balance, we discuss the art of managing a balanced work-life schedule and fostering healthy interactions with team members. Zach narrates his experience of leveraging social media to build relationships with clients and showcases the diverse projects Surge Construction has undertaken. His tale stands as a beacon of inspiration for those in the building industry, offering valuable insights into running a successful business. Tune in to relish this enlightening journey and discover more about Zach's future ambitions.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a prospering business in the construction industry? Buckle up, as today we have with us Kim from CRA Constructions who unwraps her compelling journey into the world of plastering. As a powerhouse female in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Kim is not just breaking barriers but also setting new benchmarks. 

In our conversation, Kim takes us on a deep dive into the nitty-gritty of running a plastering business. She schools us on strategies that have helped her juggle multiple jobs, keep her business afloat even during industry slowdowns, and the art of adapting wages according to employee value. But it's not all just about the business; Kim stresses the importance of respecting the delicate balance between work and home life, particularly in a family business. She shares their policy of ensuring work-life balance for their employees, fostering a culture that promotes personal and professional growth.

Ever thought of the potential pitfalls of a business partnership? Kim's got you covered. She offers sage advice on how to navigate through the complexities of a business partnership, stressing the importance of self-belief, especially when things go haywire. All in all, this episode is your backstage pass into the real-world experiences, triumphs, and challenges of running a successful construction business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur in the construction world, this episode is a treasure trove of insights you certainly don't want to miss out on!

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Get ready to be inspired by a master builder and entrepreneur, Chris from CMA Homes, as he shares his 15-year journey in the home building industry, from building his first house to managing a booming business that scales up to 300 homes a year. His story is a testament to hard work, quality workmanship, and a relentless drive for excellence, attributes that have propelled his business to a turnover of 92 million and a dynamic team of 45. What sets him apart in this highly competitive market? You'll find out. 

Chris doesn't just talk about building houses; he shares insights into creating a successful business and his unique approach to quality control, client management, and standing out from the competition. Hear about his personal experiences that have shaped his perspective on life and business, including life-changing journeys like Breathless Expeditions. If you're a builder or a budding entrepreneur, this is an episode you don't want to miss. 

It's not all about the bricks and mortar. Chris delves into the less tangible aspects of his journey, like maintaining balance, managing stress, and learning from others. He talks about his strategies for finding work-life balance, the importance of transparency in business, and how the toughest challenges have been his most valuable teachers. Whether you're in the building industry or simply a fan of inspiring success stories, this conversation with Chris is full of invaluable nuggets. Get ready to be inspired.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Imagine transforming perceived weaknesses into your greatest strengths. That's exactly what we uncover in our conversation with the award-winning designer, Adrian Ramsey. This episode reframes dyslexia and ADHD, often regarded as hindrances, into gifts that drive creativity and innovation.

We delve into Adrian's unique design process, from the magic of design to the art of land whispering. Adrian reveals how these processes have helped him connect deeply with his clients, resulting in emotionally nurturing homes, not just buildings. We also discuss the power of managing expectations, practising gratitude daily, and taking responsibility for personal growth. 

Towards the end, we take a hard look at the importance of effective communication between builders and architects, a crucial factor in the business aspect of design. We explore how Adrian has successfully utilized this to achieve excellence in his work. Lastly, Adrian shares his unique insights from his travels and how they've inspired his architectural designs. This episode is packed with insights that will force you to rethink your approach to design, dyslexia, ADHD, and personal growth.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Have you ever wondered how to strike an effective balance between your professional and personal lives? Our guest today, Dean from Backman Builders is here to share his journey and how he's tackled this very challenge with his brother Darren. In their 12-year journey from apprentices to successful builders, they've discovered that the mantra of 'Family First' has been instrumental in fostering both their work and family life. They prioritise clear and effective communication, allowing them to take necessary time off for their families without sacrificing their business relationships.

Navigating the transition from apprentice to builder can be a tricky path filled with obstacles. Hear how Dean faced these difficulties in their early years and came out stronger and ready to set up Backman Builders with his brother. The key? Relationship building. They realised that to avoid costly mistakes and work with the best designers and clients, they needed to cultivate and sustain robust relationships within the industry.

Get ready to discover more about the rewarding journey of personal growth through business. Learn how Dean managed to embrace failure, find his passion, and boost his self-confidence along the way. It's not all about business, though. Dean also offers  insights on sustainable living and transitioning to life on the farm with his four daughters and wife. 

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenge of managing family and business simultaneously? My wife, Camille, co-founder of Quote Eaze, and I offer some insight into how we navigate this delicate balancing act. We share our experiences on the power of scheduling, committing to a process, and how we structure our days to optimize our time. Despite the chaos that occasionally arises, especially with everyone working from home, we've learned to prioritise and make the most of our routines.

In this lively discussion, we focus on the necessity of putting ego aside to welcome new ideas and the joy in embracing hobbies. Starting a business and working with diverse individuals is not an easy task, but it's all part of the process of personal and professional growth. Camille offers a glimpse into her newfound hobbies of beekeeping and pottery, revealing the positive impact it's had on our relationship. We also emphasize the importance of self-care and balance in our lives.

Towards the end of our conversation, we delve into the crucial role of honest communication, setting goals, and the elimination of ego when juggling work, family, and personal goals. We stress the often-underestimated role of a spouse in managing both family and business. Among our shared accomplishments, we're particularly proud of our recent purchase of a farm, a testament to our commitment to prioritize our family. We touch on the vital aspect of personal space, prioritization, and how we balance work, family, and personal goals. Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the intricacies of managing family and business.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

A truly inspiring transformation over the past year, Nathan sheds light on his passion for building, his stress hobbies, and the pivotal role his father played in his journey. His story is not just about nail and timber, but also about resilience, change, and the power of investing in oneself.

The building industry is not all sunshine and rainbows, and Nathan doesn't shy away from speaking about it. The stigma and the unseen struggles of the industry, the vulnerability of builders, and the importance of a supportive community are laid bare in this candid conversation. Nathan shares the processes of implementing efficient systems and how they have become a game-changer for him. Listen in as he speaks about the importance of quality over price, and his mantra of building good homes for good people.

So join us on this ride, hear Nathan's story, and maybe, just maybe, you'll find something to inspire your own journey.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Ever found yourself grappling with the complexities of running a successful carpentry business? Well, don't miss out on our enlightening dialogue with Corey Tomkins from Ideal Group, where he lays bare his journey through the industry. We navigate the rough seas of entrepreneurship, culture-building, and business management, drawing insights from Corey's experiences.

This episode unfolds some gritty truths about the construction business - where every wrong quote can chip away at your success. Hear about Corey's $45,000 turntable misquote blunder which was a catalyst for change within his business. We then shift focus to the essence of team dynamics, employee motivation, managing distractions at work sites, and strategic ways to bolster efficiency.

But that's not all. We also dig into the pressing need for forging solid relationships in the industry, the risks tied to working with insolvent builders, and the balancing act between quality and speed. Corey's perspective on ego, the significance of personal growth, and external support present a fascinating exploration of the trades business landscape. As we wrap up, we touch upon the cultural shift needed for team activities and the importance of physical and mental well-being. So, brace yourselves for an episode packed with practical advice, searing honesty, and invaluable lessons from Corey's personal escapades in the carpentry industry.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Ready to navigate the stormy seas of the building industry? We've got you covered! This episode is a treasure trove of expert insights on everything from conquering the toughest challenges to shaping a more sustainable future for the industry. This panel will share their experiences of weathering trials, reshaping business models, and implementing efficient systems.

Joining us are three industry maestros, Eric from VL constructions, Brett from Saltash Homes and Nathan from Newfound Building Solutions. We dissect the impact of government grants on the construction industry, providing a unique perspective on how these well-intentioned initiatives can sometimes lead to more precarious conditions. We also unravel the tales of survival in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the stark contrast between businesses that flourished and those that faltered. 

But that's not all! We dive deep into the realm of healthy and sustainable home construction, discussing banned products and the growing push towards healthier home development. We emphasise on the importance of continuous learning within the building industry and the value of being surrounded by the right people for success. We wrap up with a crucial discussion on accountability within the industry, with a focus on inspections and regulations as key tools in achieving quality control. So gear up for an enlightening dialogue, filled with valuable takeaways for your own building business!

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Wouldn't you want the very place you call home to be a haven of health and wellbeing? That's the question we seek to answer in this enlightening episode with Zara D'Cotta, a specialist in building biology. We pull back the curtains on the overlooked aspects of healthy home design, such as the choice of building materials, air and light quality, and potential dangers hidden in common substances. Zara brings the often forgotten University of Tasmania study on condensation and residential buildings to the forefront and alerts us about the critical changes in the National Construction Code coming into effect this October.

The episode takes a personal turn as she shares her journey of awakening to the health impacts of the materials we use in our homes, a realisation that led to a career in building biology. We navigate the murky waters of greenwashing and emphasise the importance of understanding the science behind your home's air quality. 

Zara further explains the dialogue between builders and clients centered on home design and health, highlighting the crucial role education plays in making informed decisions. The importance of thermal bridging, the electro climate, and finding the balance between client values and budget are all discussed. Wrapping up the episode is a thought-provoking segment on the power of social media for businesses and its role in attracting quality clients. 

So, tune in to this episode packed with expert advice on building not just a home, but a sanctuary for health!

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

What happens when you get an unexpected message from a stranger, a redundancy payout, and a love for barbecue? You get Barbecue Mafia, a culinary force to be reckoned with. My guest, Drew, walks us through the unique origin story of this business, which started with a casual Instagram interaction and led to the establishment of a thriving barbecue joint in Brisbane. Drew's tale is a testament to the power of taking risks, seizing opportunities, and having a passion for what you do.

During our conversation, Drew delves into the hard work and dedication that goes into the art of barbecuing. You're going to be amazed by the level of detail and precision involved in achieving that perfect brisket! He also highlights the pivotal role of quality meat in achieving barbecue success and the importance of an excellent relationship with your butcher. Oh, and did I mention that he does all this while juggling different types of meat on the grill and sipping a few beers? Yes, you heard that right!

As our chat progresses, Drew shares his ideas on expanding Barbecue Mafia into a national brand and the pride he feels when he spots people wearing their merchandise. He also gives insights into fire management and the preparation of meat before cooking. His commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of his business, from the wood he uses to the meticulous care he takes to prepare each cut of meat. So, whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or just someone who loves a good success story, this episode is brimming with inspiration and valuable lessons. 

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

What goes into a successful construction project? What if the answer lies not only in the bricks and mortar, but in the power of relationships and communication? Join me as we uncover these hidden aspects in a riveting conversation with one of Duayne's clients, Ande from Lady Lynne Grove. Together, we traverse Ande's two-year-long journey of renovating her home and how personal connections and word-of-mouth led to D Pearce Constructions. Ande's insights into the value of builder-client relationships and their role in sidestepping construction nightmares are not to be missed.

We go a layer deeper into the world of construction as Ande and Kate, from Lady Lingrove, share their experiences transitioning their focus, and highlight the importance of doing their homework. Their story is a testament to the significant role communication plays in achieving the desired outcomes and avoiding common construction pitfalls. They reveal their process of taking notes and creating meeting minutes to stay organised, and how our PAC process paid dividends for them. 

The conversation takes a surprising turn as we discuss the importance of confidence in timing and communication, and how it affects a construction project.  Ande takes us through her journey of charity work dedicated to combating these issues. We explore the challenges and victories of such an undertaking and how personal connections and communication play a role here as well. It's an episode where we learn, not just about construction, but about the power of connections and communication. So, gear up for a deep dive into the world of construction, charity, and most importantly, human connections.

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

What if we told you that the secret to a thriving construction business lies in building strong relationships and having efficient systems in place? Join us for an inspiring chat with Fraser from Allen Brothers Construction as we uncover his incredible journey with his brother, starting out as a boutique builder in Brisbane to celebrating their 10-year milestone in the industry. Fraser shares valuable insights on overcoming challenges, learning curves, and the importance of investing in their business to create stunning custom homes.

In this episode, Fraser emphasises the role of relationships in their success, recounting their experience of taking on an early $1.25 million project and the steps they took to ensure its success. We also discuss the significance of working with invested designers and architects to bring their clients' dream homes to life. Moreover, we explore the challenges of balancing quality and cost in a competitive market and the vital role of systems and processes in managing projects seamlessly.

Lastly, we delve into the importance of building a supportive network of fellow builders to learn from, grow with, and create a thriving industry. Fraser shares how a builders breakfast group he's been attached to for the past four years has helped to foster collaboration and camaraderie within the construction community. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one half of this talented duo and learn how to elevate your own business to new heights.

If you're a builder looking to run a more profitable business go check out Duayne's other passion Live Life Build...
www.livelifebuild.com

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Ever wondered how soil testing can make or break the success of your construction project? Join us as we chat with Rick from Soil Insight, a true expert in the field of geotechnical engineering, who shares his wealth of knowledge on soil types, tools, and techniques that can save time and money in the long run. We promise this episode will open your eyes to the world beneath our feet and help you understand the crucial early stage of construction like never before.

Our conversation with Rick takes us through the importance of sub-surface drainage, the challenges builders may face during site preparation, and the key considerations for assessing a site prior to building works. Soil testing can be the deciding factor between a structurally sound house or an expensive disaster. Rick shares stories of unexpected underground surprises and emphasizes the importance of avoiding such pitfalls in the building process. Plus, we discuss some amazing new cordless tools that are revolutionizing the soil testing industry.

Lastly, we delve into the complexities of septic systems and the significance of permeability testing for acreage homes. Rick highlights geological challenges that can arise in building construction, such as subsidence, slope stability, and flooding. Don't miss out on this invaluable opportunity to learn from the best and discover how proper soil testing can help ensure the success of your next building project. So, grab your headphones and get ready to dig deep into the world of soil testing with Rick and Soil Insight!

If you're a builder looking to run a more profitable business go check out Duayne's other passion Live Life Build...
www.livelifebuild.com

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Check out Duayne's work here...
www.dpearceconstructions.com.au

Duayne chats with a group of like minded builders to tackle the hot topics that surround the building industry.

Builders Include...

Brett Fowler (Saltash Homes)
saltashhomes.com.au

Craig Stuart (Stuart Homes and Renovations)

Kyle Zanetto & Matt O'grady (Zanetto Builders)
zanettobuilders.com.au

Robby Kruyer & Dean Baldwin (Evobuilt)
evobuilt.com.au


If you're a builder looking to run a more profitable business go check out Duayne's other passion Live Life Build...
www.livelifebuild.com

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Check out Duayne's work here...
www.dpearceconstructions.com.au

Duayne chats with Craig Stuart from Stuart Homes and Renovations about his early life working on cattle stations, shaping cowboy hats and running a building business. 

Craig emphasises the importance of building great relationships with your clients and how having that solid connection can set all parties up for a successful build.

If you're a builder looking to run a more profitable business go check out Duayne's other passion Live Life Build...
www.livelifebuild.com

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Check out Duayne's work here...
www.dpearceconstructions.com.au

Duayne chats with Kyle and Matt from Zanetto Builders. A building team that flew up from Tasmania to have a chat in the shed.  

The boys leave no stone unturned as they discuss everything from mental breakdowns to personal development and everything in between. 

check out Zanetto Builders here...
critiquebc.com.au

If you're a builder looking to run a more profitable business go check out Duayne's other passion Live Life Build...
www.livelifebuild.com

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com

Check out Duayne's work here...
www.dpearceconstructions.com.au

Duayne chats with James Dobie from Critique Building and Construction on his progression into becoming one of the most sort after builders in the Melbourne building industry.

check out Critique Building and Construction  here...
critiquebc.com.au

If you're a builder looking to run a more profitable business go check out Duayne's other passion Live Life Build...
www.livelifebuild.com

Farmer to Fridge - meat directly to you. 
We want as many local farms as possible to be able to sell fresh local meat, to local consumers. 

check out more podcasts here...
https://levelupwithduaynepearce.buzzsprout.com