Build Podcast | Episode 155: Lessons Learned from Big Time Failures
Live from the ROCKWOOL studios, Matt talks with Brian Long to explore the challenges and advancements in the custom home building industry. They emphasize the need for higher standards in construction, including licensing for general contractors and increased education through trade schools. Their conversation highlights strategies to compete against lower-cost builders by focusing on detailed budgets, premium materials, and superior waterproofing, offering long-term value to clients.
Matt and Brian delve into the importance of proper budgeting, explaining how missing line items, such as rain screens or high-end windows, often lead to underestimated costs. They discuss cutting-edge products like Illuma Flash waterproofing systems and Brombal’s Italian-made windows, showcasing how modern innovations enhance durability, efficiency, and aesthetics. In an industry where building science evolves rapidly, these materials are crucial for creating homes that withstand environmental challenges, especially in modern architectural designs with minimal tolerance for error.
Additionally, they underscore the importance of professionalism and client education. Brian shares how he walks clients through construction details, showcasing the craftsmanship and thoughtfulness behind each element. Both Matt and Brian advocate for greater respect for tradespeople, urging builders to pursue continuous learning and excellence in their work.
Find Brian on the web:
- Instagram: @brianlongcustomhomes & @brianlongatx2024
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brianlongcustomhomes/
- Website: https://brianlongcustomhomes.com/
Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:
- Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
- Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
- TikTok: @thebuildshow
- YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
- Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/
Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallax, TX: October 16-18, 2025!
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Matt Risinger Talks Wood Fiber Insulation with Jason Todd of TimberHP </h2> <p style="margin: 0 0 18px; font-size: 16px;"> Matt Risinger talks with Jason Todd of TimberHP about the growing role of wood fiber insulation in high-performance construction. Todd explains how wood-based insulation products fit into modern wall assemblies, offering vapor-open performance, thermal control, and compatibility with airtight building strategies. </p> <p style="margin: 0 0 18px; font-size: 16px;"> The discussion covers manufacturing, supply chain challenges, and how these materials compare to foam and mineral wool in durability and environmental impact. They also touch on prefabrication, evolving building codes, and the shift toward low-carbon materials in residential construction. </p> <p style="margin: 0 0 20px; font-size: 16px;"> <strong>Episode Sponsors:</strong><br><br> <strong>Huber</strong> — <a href="https://www.huberwood.com/" style="color: #c40000; text-decoration: none;">https://www.huberwood.com/</a> | <strong>Pella</strong> — <a href="https://www.pella.com/" style="color: #c40000; text-decoration: none;">https://www.pella.com/</a> </p> <p style="margin: 0 0 10px; font-size: 16px;"> Watch full episodes of Matt on: </p> <p style="margin: 0 0 6px; font-size: 16px;"> Facebook<br> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork" style="color: #c40000; text-decoration: none;">https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork</a> </p> <p style="margin: 0 0 6px; font-size: 16px;"> Instagram<br> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/" style="color: #c40000; text-decoration: none;">https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/</a> </p> <p style="margin: 0 0 20px; font-size: 16px;"> Build Show Network<br> <a href="https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger" style="color: #c40000; text-decoration: none;">https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger</a> </p> <p style="margin-top: 24px; font-size: 16px;"> <strong>Don’t miss a single episode of Build Show content.</strong><br> Sign up for our newsletter.
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Episode 213
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Matt Risinger interviews Bernie Calcote of Melde Construction about his unconventional journey from musician to CEO, the power of company culture, and building high-end custom homes in Austin’s collaborative construction community.
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