Mindful Builder

There's something exhilarating about diving into a pool of unknowns. Whether we're reviewing plans for a new project or Ben Cooper is creating a new dish, the thrill of creation emerges from the same curiosity that pushes us beyond what we already know. In our latest conversation with Ben, the executive chef at Melbourne's iconic Chin Chin restaurant, we unearthed profound lessons on staying curious, leading teams, and blending passions with our work.  Whether you're picking up a hammer or a ladle, the drive to create, to continuously learn, and to merge personal passion with work is universal. Our chat with Ben Cooper reinforced that every industry, no matter how different, speaks the same language of curiosity and creativity at its core. LINKS: Thanks to Hip Vs Hype [https://hipvhype.com/] for having us Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod [https://www.instagram.com/themindfulbuilderpod/] Connect with Hamish: Instagram:  @sanctumhomes [https://www.instagram.com/sanctumhomes/] Website:    [https://www.yoursanctum.com.au/]www.yoursanctum.com.au/ [http://www.yoursanctum.com.au/] Connect with Matt:  Instagram: @carlandconstructions [https://www.instagram.com/carlandconstructions/] Website:   [https://www.carlandconstructions.com/]www.carlandconstructions.com/ [http://www.carlandconstructions.com/]

We've all had those moments in life that change us forever, moments where time seems to halt and priorities shift entirely. In our podcast, we found ourselves diverging from our usual discussions to talk through a very personal experience - one filled with loss, love, and resilience. This journey revolved around child loss, a topic not openly discussed, especially among men. We recognise that conversations about child loss can be triggering, and for those listening to this episode who have experienced similar losses, please know this story comes from a place of healing and understanding.  To my children, and to anyone who listens, I hope this story inspires you to take chances, to be vulnerable, and to embrace life's unpredictable beauty. Don't let fear hold you back. Lean into the love and support that surrounds you. Thank you for allowing me to share this journey. It's not easy, but it's necessary, and I hope it encourages others to also share their stories, to find healing in the hardest of places.  LINKS: Thanks to Hip Vs Hype [https://hipvhype.com/] for having us Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod [https://www.instagram.com/themindfulbuilderpod/] Connect with Hamish: Instagram:  @sanctumhomes [https://www.instagram.com/sanctumhomes/] Website:    [https://www.yoursanctum.com.au/]www.yoursanctum.com.au/ [http://www.yoursanctum.com.au/] Connect with Matt:  Instagram: @carlandconstructions [https://www.instagram.com/carlandconstructions/] Website:   [https://www.carlandconstructions.com/]www.carlandconstructions.com/ [http://www.carlandconstructions.com/]

When you think of developers, what are the descriptive words that come to mind? For so many of us, developers are synonymous with greed and arrogance. It’s an unfortunate stereotype that the construction industry is rife with.  And although developers have earned this reputation, not all are created equal. There are some diamonds in the rough and Liam Wallis happens to be one of them.  Liam Wallis is the founder of HIP V. HYPE, a group that is revolutionising sustainable development in Australia. Their mission resonates powerfully: "to leave our cities and regions in a better condition than we found them." For those interested in the future of sustainable development, this episode offers valuable insights into how thoughtful design and ethical business practices can transform our built environment. The full conversation explores detailed strategies for creating developments that serve both community needs and environmental goals. LINKS: Thanks to Hip Vs Hype [https://hipvhype.com/] for having us Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod [https://www.instagram.com/themindfulbuilderpod/] Connect with Hamish: Instagram:  @sanctumhomes [https://www.instagram.com/sanctumhomes/] Website:    [https://www.yoursanctum.com.au/]www.yoursanctum.com.au/ [http://www.yoursanctum.com.au/] Connect with Matt:  Instagram: @carlandconstructions [https://www.instagram.com/carlandconstructions/] Website:   [https://www.carlandconstructions.com/]www.carlandconstructions.com/ [http://www.carlandconstructions.com/]

Let's face it—the stereotypical image of builders often conjures up thoughts of a rugged, all-male group clocking off early to down a few pints at the local pub. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with bonding over drinks, this old paradigm doesn't necessarily cater to everyone's needs in today's society. It’s an image that fails to encapsulate the diverse talents and ideas that can propel our industry forward.  Building a positive culture in the workplace is about more than just workplace perks; it's about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated. Think about it: would you rather work in a place where every day feels like a chance to collaborate and grow, or a place where you’re just counting down the hours until the weekend? Our conversation with Kaia left us feeling inspired about the future. Building culture is not a one-time effort but an ongoing journey that evolves with the people involved. We revisited the importance of learning from our past, as illustrated when Kaia shared his formative experiences at a Steiner school, which instilled in him the values of community and individual thinking. Our takeaway? As we look to foster inclusivity and redefine what it means to "build," it’s crucial to listen and learn continually from those around us. Diversity goes beyond metrics; it’s about giving everyone a seat at the table. It's about creating an environment where every unique individual can thrive. So, whether you’re just starting your career or you’ve walked the scaffold for decades, we encourage you to think deeply and live lightly. Let’s break the mold together and build an industry that reflects the diverse world we live in. LINKS: Thanks to Hip Vs Hype [https://hipvhype.com/] for having us Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod [https://www.instagram.com/themindfulbuilderpod/] Connect with Hamish: Instagram:  @sanctumhomes [https://www.instagram.com/sanctumhomes/] Website:    [https://www.yoursanctum.com.au/]www.yoursanctum.com.au/ [http://www.yoursanctum.com.au/] Connect with Matt:  Instagram: @carlandconstructions [https://www.instagram.com/carlandconstructions/] Website:   [https://www.carlandconstructions.com/]www.carlandconstructions.com/ [http://www.carlandconstructions.com/]

Have you ever walked into a room that feels stuffy, oppressive even, and thought, "Something doesn't feel right in here"?  It's a sensation many of us experience but tend to dismiss.  What if we told you that sensation might not only be an inconvenience but a potential health risk?  Today we’re discussing air quality and ventilation, topics that are often overlooked in home construction and renovation projects. We're unpacking this critical subject with the help of Joel Seagren, the national MVHR Solutions Engineer at Fantech, who unravels the mysteries of airflow, air quality, and their importance in building homes. This conversation with Joel gave us plenty to think about and a clear path forward—embracing the inevitable journey towards healthier, more sustainable living through proper ventilation. So next time you step inside your home, consider the air you're breathing. It matters more than you might think. LINKS: Thanks to Hip Vs Hype [https://hipvhype.com/] for having us Fantech [https://www.fantech.com.au/] Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod [https://www.instagram.com/themindfulbuilderpod/] Connect with Hamish: Instagram:  @sanctumhomes [https://www.instagram.com/sanctumhomes/] Website:    [https://www.yoursanctum.com.au/]www.yoursanctum.com.au/ [http://www.yoursanctum.com.au/] Connect with Matt:  Instagram: @carlandconstructions [https://www.instagram.com/carlandconstructions/] Website:   [https://www.carlandconstructions.com/]www.carlandconstructions.com/ [http://www.carlandconstructions.com/]