The Building Talks Podcast

Think delivery is just about building? Think again.🤔 In Episode 6 of The Building Talks Podcast of How to BE a Developer Series with @Steve Chandler, we dive into one of the most critical stages of property development: Delivery. From selecting the right builders to navigating complex construction contracts, this episode covers all the essentials to keep your project on track. 🎙️ But here’s the catch – delivery isn't just about the build – it begins with the design, which is key to avoiding costly mistakes down the road. 🔴 Watch Steve’s eye-opening clip where he reveals the Architect’s Surprise Mistake and a jaw-dropping $15,000 bill that could’ve been avoided! Download and listen to the full episode on: 👉 Spotify 👉 iTunes 👉 iHeartRadio To learn how to master the delivery phase, sidestep common pitfalls, and gain expert insights on managing contracts and selecting builders. #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #HowToBeADeveloper #ProjectDelivery #PropertyDevelopmentPodcast

Want to know the secret behind building a successful construction business? The final episode of this season's The Building Talks Podcast has the answers! Martin Preece sits down with @George Abraham, Managing Director of Hickory — the name behind many of the cranes and skyline-shaping projects across Melbourne and beyond. 🏗️ This episode is a continuation of last week, where the discussion dives even deeper into George's journey from starting with no industry connections to becoming a powerhouse leader in construction. They explore how he fosters innovation, builds a strong company culture, and stays adaptable in a constantly changing industry. George also offers valuable advice on career growth, receiving feedback, and creating a workplace that encourages open communication and big ideas. Check out this sneak peek from George as he discusses building a culture from the top down: 🎙️ “𝘊𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘨𝘺 — 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸.” It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to shape their career or business in construction. 🔥 🎧 Download and listen to the full episode on: 👉 Spotify 👉 iTunes 👉 iHeartRadio #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #CompanyCulture

Welcome back to The Building Talks Podcast, continuing our "How to Be a Property Developer" series with @Steve Chandler! In this episode, Martin and Steve tackle a crucial aspect of property development: Delivery. They discuss the delicate balance between design and construction, highlighting the importance of selecting the right builder and the risks developers face during the process. 💼🔑 Key insights include: 🔸Preconstruction & Design: Getting it right from the start is critical to aligning with your project’s goals and feasibility. 🔸The Role of Builders: How to choose the right builder and handle construction contracts. 🔸Negotiating Agreements: Steve shares his approach to negotiating terms, ensuring no conflicts arise between different parties involved in the project. 💬 Check out this short clip from Steve on negotiating reverse briefs: "I'll never sign their document. If they want me to reference their terms, it's a no-go. I’ll always ensure we’re aligned, with my terms." 🔊 Don't miss the full episode! Tune in to learn from Steve's extensive experience in the industry. 👉Download and Listen on: 🎧Spotify 🎧iTunes 🎧iHeartRadio #PropertyDevelopment #Delivevry #DevelopmentRisk #TheBuildingTalksPodcast

Here's to the final episode of Season 3 of The Building Talks Podcast! 🎉 Martin Preece is thrilled to close this season with an inspiring conversation featuring George Abraham, Managing Director of Hickory — one of Australia’s most innovative construction companies. 💡 George shares personal insights, leadership gems, and real-world lessons that can benefit anyone in construction, no matter their role or experience. 🎧 Catch this short clip where George talks about Embracing Disruption — from AI and productivity to seizing new opportunities. This season-ending episode is one of our best yet — so if you’re looking for inspiration on how to grow your career, lead with courage, or simply understand what it takes to "build smarter" in today’s market, this is a must listen. Download and listen to the full episode on: 🎙️ Spotify 🎙️ iTunes 🎙️ iHeartRadio 🙏 Thank you for tuning in all year long. We’ll be back in March 2025 with a new season of The Building Talks Podcast. Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 🎄🎉 #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #PodcastFinale #Innovation #AIInConstruction

The Grand Finale is HERE! Season 3 of The Building Talks Podcast Closes in Style! Who better to wrap it all up than one of Melbourne’s most respected construction leaders — George Abraham, Managing Director of Hickory. 🏗️ From tower cranes to commercial towers, modular builds to data centres — Hickory is a driving force in Australia’s construction industry. They lead with innovation, scale with purpose, and inspire with results. 🎙️ This episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss: ✅ 20+ Years of Experience — George's rise to Managing Director in 2018 and his journey with industry giants like Balderstone and Multiplex. ✅ Career-Defining Lessons — How to grow your career, lead with purpose, and master the art of "managing up." ✅ The Power of Innovation — Hickory’s cutting-edge approach to modular construction and off-site builds. ✅ How to Lead the Pack — Why head contractors must evolve, adapt, and embrace change to stay ahead. But that’s not all — here’s a look back at our journey so far: 📢 81 Total Episodes from Season 1 to Season 3. 🚀 Industry Giants Featured — Guests from Hickory, Multiplex, Icon, and more. 🎉 Spin-Off Series — How To Be A Property Developer with Steve Chandler. It’s been an incredible ride — and this final episode is the perfect way to close it out. 🎧 Tune in now on your favorite platform or visit our website to listen! 👉 Spotify 👉 iTunes 👉 iHeartRadio #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #Hickory #ConstructionLeadership #CareerGrowth

After countless insightful conversations, we’re wrapping up The Building Talks Podcast with a blockbuster final episode — and we’ve saved the best for last! 💥 Joining Martin Preece is George Abraham Managing Director of Hickory — a name you've seen on cranes and buildings across Melbourne and beyond 🏙️. But behind the big name is even bigger insight. 💡 What’s in store? 🔹 How to evolve your career — from managing up to mastering feedback. 🔹 Lessons from leading Hickory — the courage to innovate and set new standards. 🔹 Game-changing ideas for builders of all tiers — fresh perspectives that could shift the way you operate. This one’s not just for listening — it’s for learning, growing, and leading. 🕛 LIVE TOMORROW on the website and on your favorite podcast platform. Don’t miss it. Be there for the finale that will leave you thinking differently. #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #FinalEpisode #ConstructionIndustry #Innovation #Leadership

💡 "When we focus on long-term ownership, everything changes." In last week’s episode, we explored how Rory Hunter, founder and CEO of MODEL, is challenging traditional residential development in Australia. This week, we dive even deeper: 🔍 How Built-to-Rent redefines community, sustainability, and environmental impact. 🌱 Why thinking long-term influences design, carbon emissions, and local engagement. 📄 The inspiration behind Rory’s transformative white paper, “Tomorrow’s Too Late.” Rory’s year-long deep dive into the sector uncovered powerful insights that could reshape Australia’s approach to housing and climate initiatives. 💬 What role does sustainability play in the future of residential development? Hear Rory’s thoughts and join the conversation. 🎧 Tune in now on your favorite platform or visit our website to listen! 👉 Spotify 👉 iTunes 👉 iHeartRadio #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #BuiltToRent #Sustainability #FutureOfHousing #BuildingEnvirons #MelbourneBuiltEnvironment

In the latest episode of The Building Talks Podcast, Martin is joined once again by Steve Chandler for the How to BE a Property Developer Series, diving into the backbone of every project—Revenue. 💰 Here’s what to discover in this episode: 🔑 Understanding how revenue works—a non-negotiable for success. 🏗️ Building what people want—market demand drives profitability. 📊 Factoring in demographics—know what to build and where. 🌱 Prioritizing sustainability—it matters to buyers, even with added costs. 🚪 Planning your exit strategy early—it’s key to smooth closures. 💸 Tackling settlement hiccups—protect your cash flow. 📢 Keeping buyers informed—communication is everything. 📜 Adapting to government regulations—stay ahead of policy changes. ✏️ Sticking to design guidelines—avoid unnecessary delays. ⚠️ Managing risks—from day one to the finish line. 🎥 Sneak peek! Steve explains why property development isn’t a “get-rich-quick” scheme—it’s a career built on feasibility, cost analysis, and careful planning. 🎧 Ready to master the 4th fundamental of property development? Download and listen to the full episode on: 🎙️ Spotify 🎙️ iTunes 🎙️ iHeartRadio #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #PropertyDevelopment #RevenueMastery

This week on The Building Talks Podcast, Martin Preece is joined by @Rory Hunter, Founder and CEO of MODEL, to discuss how build-to-rent developments are paving the way for sustainable urban living. Rory’s focus on sustainability, including projects like Johnson Street and Lithgow Street, shows that environmental responsibility and business success can go hand in hand. 🎥 Check out this short clip of Rory discussing how sustainable initiatives can mitigate risk in commercial real estate. Packed with inspiration, fresh ideas, and practical advice, this episode is essential for anyone shaping the future of property development. Don't miss it! 📥 Download and listen to the full episode here: 👉 Spotify 👉 iTunes 👉 iHeartRadio #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #BuildToRent #SustainableDevelopment

Join us as we explore the extraordinary journey of Rory Hunter —entrepreneur, developer, hotelier, and the Founder & CEO of MODEL , Australia’s purpose-driven Build-to-Rent group. 🎧 In this episode, discover: ✅ From Island Dreams to Property Visionary: How Rory’s journey from creating a world-famous resort in Cambodia brought him back to Australia to revolutionize urban development. ✅ Game-Changing Projects: Australia’s largest timber-frame Build-to-Rent project on Johnson Street, Abbotsford—setting new benchmarks in design and sustainability. ✅ Sustainability Meets Innovation: Delivering net zero operations, cutting embodied carbon by 50%, achieving 10% biodiversity gains, and including affordable housing. ✅ The Future of Urban Living: Redefining what’s possible in development by balancing profitability with purpose. 🎥 Watch this short clip of Rory discussing his bold vision for Abbotsford and how modern ESD design is transforming the built environment. 📅 Don’t miss it! Download and listen to the full episode of The Building Talks Podcast with Martin Preece on: 🎙️ Spotify 🎙️ iTunes 🎙️ iHeartRadio #TheBuildingTalksPodcast #BuildToRent #PropertyDevelopment #MelbourneProjects