Built Different by HIA

Ready for a role reversal? In this episode, our co-host Simon switches sides of the mic to share his journey into the construction industry. At 31, Simon swapped spreadsheets for power tools to become a mature-age apprentice carpenter.   Join Ryan and Simon as they dive into the joys of becoming a tradie, chasing dreams, and the importance of 'sponge mode' in learning.   Explore what it takes to get a builder's license in QLD, the realities of a mature-age apprenticeship, and the crucial role of communication skills onsite.   Ready to build your dreams? Let's gooo! Follow us on Instagram @builtdifferentaustralia Follow Simon: @simon.mee89  This episode is proudly sponsored by Ramset. Manufacturer and supplier to the Australian construction industry for over 70 years. Started in Australia. Still in Australia. Staying in Australia.  Visit ramset.com.au today.

Meet Oliver Saunders, a seasoned electrician and successful business owner of Saunders Electrical Group for over 6 years. Teetering on burnout, and working +15-hour days, he realised there had to be a better way to run his business. Join Oliver, Simon, and Ryan as they discuss his entry into electrical work, the grind of early career stages, and the pivotal moment he decided to get a business coach.   They also explore the balancing act of running a business and maintaining a healthy family life, the reality of near burnout, and the art of time blocking.  Plus, they shine a light on the different skills required for being on the tools vs running and owning a business, as well as Oliver's advice if you're considering starting your own venture.  Ready to spark your entrepreneurial spirit? Let's gooo! Follow us on Instagram @builtdifferentaustralia Follow Oliver: @oliverjsaunders  Follow Saunders Electrical: @saunderselectrical This episode is proudly sponsored by Ramset. Manufacturer and supplier to the Australian construction industry for over 70 years. Started in Australia. Still in Australia. Staying in Australia.  Visit ramset.com.au today.

Is it time to rethink that meat pie and choccy milk every smoko break? Sometimes, being a successful tradie means taking care of your body and giving it everything it needs to excel on site, day in and day out.   Featuring Mackenzie Baker, a qualified nutritional coach who knows a thing or two about fuelling the body, tune in with Simon and Ryan as they discuss whether a meat pie is indeed the best smoko snack and explore small changes you can make that can lead to a healthier life.    Hear why an all-or-nothing mentality and strict dieting doesn't work, how to balance and flex your food intake, and what to expect when you're eating right (hint: it's not just about weight loss or gain).   This episode guarantees you to walk away with practical tools for fuelling your body right, so you can rock up to the worksite feeling your very best. Press play!   📸 Follow us on Instagram @builtdifferentaustralia Follow Mackenzie: @mackenziebaker_ Got a topic you'd like covered in the show? DM us!  This episode is proudly sponsored by Ramset. Manufacturer and supplier to the Australian construction industry for over 70 years. Started in Australia. Still in Australia. Staying in Australia.  Visit ramset.com.au today.

In this episode, we're joined by the phenomenal Beth Merceica of Blue Eco homes in NSW, the hardworking 4th-year apprentice who was just crowned 2023 HIA Australian Apprentice of the Year. Hear about their inspiring journey of changing careers, discovering passion in building and construction, and what it feels like to win such a prestigious title.   You'll also discover what it takes to build a passive house, the challenges of constructing a 7-star house, and the innovations that drive sustainable building. Plus, learn about Blue Eco Homes' pre-fabrication system and finding fulfilment with volunteer work in third-world countries.   Ready to redefine the future of building? Strap yourself in for an ep that will show you what it takes to become a rising star in the industry. 🎥 Watch on YouTube @builtdifferentaustralia  📸 Follow us on Instagram @builtdifferentaustralia Follow Beth: @chickenchippybuilds Follow Blue Eco Homes: @blueecohomes Got a topic you'd like covered in the show? Join the Tradie & Apprentice Q+A group or DM us!  This episode is proudly sponsored by Ramset. Manufacturer and supplier to the Australian construction industry for over 70 years. Started in Australia. Still in Australia. Staying in Australia.  Visit ramset.com.au today.

In this episode, we're joined by Darren Brown, aka @AussieDeckingChippie, a once 'terrible apprentice' turned qualified chippy. With the right mindset and determination, he turned his fortunes around to become a decking master, now running a successful decking business with three teams.  Listen in as Darren, Simon, and Ryan dive into the benefits of carving out a niche in a big industry, the lessons learned from launching a business twice, and the dangers of scaling too fast. They also delve into the importance of understanding the materials you work with, and take a trip down memory lane with Ramset's old J20 concrete nailgun and how the new Frameboss XPM is an absolute time-saver on site.  Find out how Darren 'nailed it' to become the AussieDeckingChippie. 🎥 Watch on YouTube @builtdifferentaustralia  📸 Follow us on Instagram @builtdifferentaustralia Follow Darren: @aussiedeckingchippie Got a topic you'd like covered in the show? Join the Tradie & Apprentice Q+A group or DM us!  This episode is proudly sponsored by Ramset. Manufacturer and supplier to the Australian construction industry for over 70 years. Started in Australia. Still in Australia. Staying in Australia.  Visit ramset.com.au today.