The Builders Coach Show

Episode 54 - The 2 Questions Every Client Is Asking Builders Right Now

Pricing mistakes are one of the biggest reasons builders are losing profit, and in some cases, going under. In this episode of The Builders Coach Show, Kurt Hegetschweiler breaks down the real issue facing the construction industry right now: pricing accuracy, margin confidence, and client communication. With rising costs, fixed-price contracts, and increasing insolvencies across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond, builders are under more pressure than ever. But here’s the truth: 👉 It’s not just the market, it’s how builders are pricing, managing risk, and communicating with clients. In this episode, we cover: - The 2 critical questions every client is now asking builders - Why pricing accuracy is more important than ever in construction - How to avoid price shock, variations, and client conflict - The real reason you should never compete on price - How to use provisional sums, buffers, and value management effectively A real-life case study of a builder dealing with a $790K quote backlash Kurt also shares insights from his Channel 7 interview and explains why builders must step up as leaders in uncertain times. If you’re a residential builder, construction business owner, or project manager, this episode will change how you approach pricing and client communication. 🎯 Want help with your numbers, pricing, or systems? Reach out: info@builderscoach.com.au

Episode 53. Chaos = Opportunity: The Mindset That Separates Builders Who Thrive From Those Who Don’t

Are builders actually going under because of the economy? Or is something else going on? In this episode of The Builders Coach Show, Kurt Hegetschweiler (fresh from his Channel 7 Weekend Sunrise appearance) and Jess Norton break down what's really driving Australia's building industry crisis and why the builders who understand their numbers are about to have the best years of their careers. They cover: ✅ The real reason builders go broke (hint: it's not the economy) ✅ The science-backed stress mindset that can add 20 years to your life ✅ Why demand is at a generational high and what that means for YOU ✅ The peak performance structure used by elite athletes, and how to apply it to your building business ✅ How to protect your margins and come out the other side of this cycle stronger Whether you're feeling the pressure right now or you're building well and want to stay ahead, this episode will give you a reality check AND a roadmap. 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode. 📩 Want to work with Kurt? Visit www.builderscoach.com 🙏 THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY GORDON DIGITAL Ready to grow? Book a Growth Session with Elly from Gordon Digital to explore the digital strategies that can help you reach your goals and get clarity on what’s working, and what isn’t, in your current marketing. 👉 Book your Growth Session here: https://app.gordondigital.com.au/widget/booking/ZL2qYG5h6RmXTiwt5Dik [https://app.gordondigital.com.au/widget/booking/ZL2qYG5h6RmXTiwt5Dik] http://www.gordondigital.com.au/ [http://www.gordondigital.com.au/] 📌 Also mentioned in this episode: "Peak Performance. Elevate Your Game, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive with the New Science of Success" By Brad Stulberg,Steve Magness #BuildersCoach #BuildingIndustry #ConstructionBusiness #BuilderMindset #AustralianBuilders #BusinessCoaching #PeakPerformance #ConstructionIndustry #BuilderLife #FuelCrisis

Episode 52 - Why Most Building Projects Go Wrong Before Construction Starts

Most building problems don’t start on site. They start before construction even begins. In this episode of The Builders Coach Show, Kurt Hegetschweiler and Jess break down the powerful principle: “Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.” Originally used by firefighters and paramedics, this mindset has huge implications for residential builders and construction company owners. Kurt shares real stories from builders he coaches and explains why rushing the pre-construction phase leads to delays, cost blowouts, difficult clients, and lost profit. You’ll learn why the most successful builders focus on value management, early builder involvement (EBI), and strong leadership with clients before construction even starts. If you're a builder or construction company owner who wants better projects, better clients, and higher profits, this episode is essential. In this episode: - Why 80–90% of construction problems start in pre-construction - The biggest mistake builders make when starting a new project - Why traditional 3-quote tender processes often fail clients - How value management and EBI create better outcomes - The leadership skill builders must develop with clients - A real case study where a builder had to rip out a kitchen three times The message is simple: Slow down the front end, and your projects run faster and smoother. Subscribe for more insights on profit, leadership, marketing and systems for residential builders. Check out our website for more info and free resources: https://builderscoach.com [https://builderscoach.com]

Episode 51 - The Slippery Slope: How Small Habits Can Make or Break a Builder’s Year

Getting back into rhythm after the holidays is harder than most builders admit. In this episode of The Builders Coach Show, Jess and Kurt talk about the real challenges of restarting momentum after Christmas — from slipping habits and low motivation to mindset traps that impact performance in business and life. You’ll hear practical insights on why goals alone don’t work, how routines and small daily actions create massive long-term results, and why emotional state plays a bigger role in business success than most construction company owners realise. Kurt also shares coaching insights from builders experiencing stress, fear, and growth — and explains why focusing on the right metrics instead of negative thinking changes everything. In this episode: - Why January momentum often stalls for builders - The power of “average days” instead of perfection - Follow your plan, not your mood - How habits outperform goal setting - Using pain and setbacks as fuel for growth - Leadership, mindset and emotional processing in business If you’re a builder or construction company owner wanting to start the year stronger — this episode is for you. 📘 Get your FREE copy of Million Dollar Builder 2.0 by sending BOOK to info@builderscoach.com.au #BuildersCoach #ConstructionBusiness #BuilderMindset #Leadership #Habits #BusinessGrowth

Episode 50 - Why Builders Are Going Bankrupt Despite High Demand (The Real Reason)

Builder insolvencies are rising at an unprecedented rate.   In Australia alone, over 3,500 builders went insolvent in 2025 — more than double the historical average. Similar trends are happening globally.   At the same time, demand for housing has never been higher.   So why are builders still going bankrupt?   In this episode of The Builders Coach Show, Kurt Hegetschweiler and Jess Norton unpack the real reasons behind the insolvency crisis affecting builders, and why many builders are struggling financially despite being fully booked.   This conversation explores the financial realities builders face, the emotional toll the industry is taking, and the critical importance of understanding your numbers.   In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why builder insolvencies have doubled despite strong demand - How many builders unknowingly operate with dangerously low margins - Why not costing supervision and project management leads to hidden losses - The impact of financial pressure on builders’ mental health and personal lives - Why education and financial clarity are essential for long-term survival   Kurt also explains how builders can regain control by understanding the financial fundamentals of their business and making informed decisions.   If you’re a residential builder or construction business owner, this episode will give you clarity on what’s happening in the industry, and what you must understand to protect your business.   To request a free copy of Million Dollar Builder 2.0: Email info@builderscoach.com.au Subject: Book   Or check out our website for more info: https://builderscoach.com/book/ [https://builderscoach.com/book/]