Building Doors with Lauren Karan

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Paul Rhoden, a seasoned infrastructure leader, podcaster, and consultant with over 30 years of experience across the UK and Australia. Paul is the founder of Vulpra Contractors and the host of the Construction Matters podcast, where he champions the human side of construction.Paul shares why he believes the industry’s greatest asset is its people, and how authentic, vulnerable leadership can transform project cultures. From his early days in the Royal Navy to leading major infrastructure projects, Paul opens up about his journey through grief, burnout, and purpose. He offers powerful insights on male allyship, the importance of listening to your supply chain, and why sometimes the best way to save a failing project is to simply stop and ask for help.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Leadership and Vulnerability:Why authentic leadership means admitting you don’t have all the answers.How leaders can create psychological safety by being vulnerable first.The power of “stopping” a project to reset culture and solve underlying problems.Male Allyship and Gender Diversity:Practical ways men can use their influence to amplify women’s voices in meetings and on-site.Why true allyship is about everyday behaviors, not just policies.Paul’s personal motivation: his mother’s strength and his three daughters.Mental Health and Psychosocial Safety:The link between purpose, retirement, and wellbeing in construction.How burnout and “rust-out” affect the industry, and what leaders can do about it.The importance of self-care for those who spend their lives helping others.Project Culture and Supply Chain:Why paying subcontractors fairly builds loyalty, innovation, and better outcomes.Moving from a “master-servant” dynamic to genuine business partnerships.The value of listening to everyone from the plant operator to the cleaner for breakthrough ideas.Key Quotes from Paul Rhoden:“If you’re willing to turn up and have a go and ask for help, you get help. For me, it’s the power of human relationships.”“We’re great at building bridges and roads. We need to get better at building people.”“When I look at a social media post or a brochure, that reveals intent. But sites reveal design.”“Don’t worry about position and power. It’ll chase you when you’re ready and you may not want it.”About Our Guest:Paul Rhoden is a civil infrastructure leader with more than three decades of experience delivering complex projects across the UK and Australia. A passionate advocate for mental health, gender equity, and authentic leadership, Paul now runs his own consultancy, Vulpra Contractors, and hosts the Construction Matters podcast, where he continues to shift the conversation toward the people who make the industry possible.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Paul on LinkedIn and listen to his podcast Construction Matters.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with James Gleeson, civil engineer and co-founder of Marvel Engineers, to unpack what productivity really means in infrastructure and what it takes to build a resilient specialist consultancy.James shares his journey from tech drawing at school to launching Marvel Engineers after walking away from corporate burnout. Together, they explore the realities of starting a business with no blueprint, the risks of niching too narrowly, and the lessons learned from navigating market slowdowns in government-funded infrastructureThe conversation dives deep into procurement systems, panel arrangements, and the hidden cost of endless tendering. James challenges the industry to rethink how we engage consultants if we’re serious about delivering major infrastructure ahead of 2032.If you’re building a business or leading through market uncertainty, this episode will show you how to stay nimble, structure for growth, and rethink productivity to build long-term resilience.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Productivity in Infrastructure:Why current procurement processes may be slowing deliveryThe real cost of panel prequalification and repeated tenderingHow simplifying engagement could unlock speed and efficiencyBuilding and Pivoting a Consultancy:The risks of concentration in government-funded workWhy diversification doesn’t mean abandoning your nicheHow structure and clarity create momentum in a growing businessLeadership and Resilience:Why having a strong business partner mattersHow to lead through market slowdowns without losing composureThe importance of support networks in sustaining long-term growthHiring and CultureWhat makes a “rounded consultant” in a small businessWhy communication and accountability matter more than everHow intentional onboarding shapes culture from day oneKey Quotes from James Gleeson:“There’s no guideline or standard on how to create a business. It’s a blank canvas.”“If we’re serious about productivity, we need to rethink how we engage industry.”“We’re not a big cruise ship. We can pivot quickly, but we’re exposed.”About Our Guest:James Gleeson is a civil engineer and co-founder of Marvel Engineers, a specialist consultancy focused on transport infrastructure and government projects. Passionate about productivity reform and collaborative delivery, James is building a nimble business grounded in structure, accountability, and strong relationships.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with James on LinkedIn and share your takeaways.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with award-winning engineer and author Felicity Furey to unpack the powerful ideas behind her upcoming book and her mission to transform the engineering profession from the inside out.Felicity shares how engineering’s DNA, inherited from the Industrial Revolution, has shaped the way we design, solve problems, and even unintentionally overlook the people those designs impact. She reveals why modern engineering must go beyond efficiency and output, and instead reconnect with values like well-being, community connection, and legacy.Through personal stories of burnout, motherhood, and rediscovering purpose, Felicity shows why engineers are not just technical problem solvers. They are inventors, creators, and community shapers whose decisions influence how society feels, moves, and thrives. Whether you are an engineer, a leader, or someone passionate about the future of our cities, this episode will challenge you to rethink what is possible.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Engineering’s Hidden Values and Blind Spots:Why engineering still operates from industrial era assumptions.How designing for the “average” person creates safety and wellbeing gaps.The surprising ways that road design, seatbelts, vaccines, and even signage can unintentionally exclude people.Shifting From Efficiency to Human Impact:How reframing engineering around people, place, and legacy leads to better design.Examples from around the world where small, thoughtful changes created enormous community benefits.Why nature-connected, stress-reducing infrastructure must become standard.Diversity, Purpose, and the Future Workforce:Why engineering has a marketing problem and how creativity genuinely belongs in the field.What attracts young people, especially girls, to engineering today?The real reasons women struggle to stay in the industry and what actually works to fix it.Leadership, Wellbeing, and Cognitive LoadFelicity’s personal journey through burnout and complex PTSD, and how it reshaped her work.Why engineers cannot design for human wellbeing when they are overwhelmed themselves.How workplaces can rethink schedules, meeting structures, and expectations to support better thinking and better results.Legacy and the Next GenerationThe seven generational question that inspired Felicity’s book: “What Did You Do Once You Knew?Why engineering is entering an era where maintenance, stewardship, and long-term thinking matter more than ever.How small values-based shifts in design can create massive change over time.Key Quotes from Felicity Furey:“Engineers are superheroes. We can change the planet.""Everything we do as an engineer is for people, and often we are not actually meeting them.""What if we designed infrastructure that actually calms us down?"“Purpose is one of the most powerful ways to attract and keep people in engineering.”“What did you do once you knew? That question keeps me going.”About Our Guest:Felicity Furey is an award-winning engineer, entrepreneur, and speaker recognised for her leadership in engineering, diversity, and the future of infrastructure. With 18 years in the industry, Felicity has led major projects, launched national programs, advised organisations on gender equity, and is now reshaping how engineers think about values, legacy, and human-centered design. Her upcoming book explores how rewriting even 1% of the industry's mindset can have a profound impact on communities and the planet.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Felicity on LinkedIn and visit felicityfurey.com for updates on her book and podcastStay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Stuart Cook, a multi-award-winning engineering leader who stepped into major leadership roles early, including managing a 400 million infrastructure program in his late 30s. Stuart opens up about career-defining opportunities, overcoming imposter syndrome, mentoring future engineers, and why the human element matters just as much as technical excellence.Stuart also shares his personal journey from following his grandfather on construction sites to raising three boys and rediscovering fishing. His honesty about insecurity, leadership missteps, and the pressure to be everything to everyone offers rare insight into what real growth looks like in the engineering and construction sectors.Whether you are an emerging engineer, an experienced leader, or someone fascinated by the future of infrastructure, this conversation will encourage you to rethink how you lead, collaborate, adapt, and build a meaningful career.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Leadership and Career Growth:How Stuart landed a design manager role decades ahead of the norm.Why building core technical skills is essential before chasing leadership titles.The truth about imposter syndrome and why even top leaders still feel it.Why the best leaders stop doing everything and start empowering others.Mentoring the Next Generation:Why mentoring only works when the mentee wants it.How organic, intentional mentorship shaped Stuart’s entire career.Why knowledge transfer matters now more than ever as senior engineers retire.Sustainability and Industry Challenges:Why red tape, not people, is strangling productivity in infrastructure.Stuart’s frustration with sustainability points that waste resources.The gap between practical sustainability and bureaucratic sustainability.How industry expectations must evolve to truly support net zero goals.Collaboration and Team CultureWhy collaborative outcomes depend on people, not contract structures.How simple rituals like weekly coffees and birthday celebrations build trust.The surprising importance of emotional intelligence for engineers.What it takes to unify SMEs, contractors, clients, and stakeholders.Personal Growth and LegacyWhy becoming a father shifted Stuart’s definition of legacy.How family, surfing, and fishing keep him grounded.Why being a good dad matters more than being a well-known engineer.Key Quotes from Stuart Cook:“I still feel deeply inadequate and insecure in my position, but you have just got to work to your strengths.”“You cannot mentor someone into success unless they want to be mentored.”“Some of the most collaborative projects I have seen were not collaborative contracts. They were collaborative people.”“We spend so much time chasing sustainability points instead of investing in real sustainable outcomes.”“Legacy does not matter to me as much now. Being a good dad and a good mate matters more.”About Our Guest:Stuart Cook is an award-winning engineering leader known for delivering major infrastructure programs, mentoring emerging engineers, and championing emotionally intelligent leadership in a traditionally technical field. From the Ipswich Motorway upgrade to the Coomera Connector South project, Stuart has built a career grounded in curiosity, humility, and passion for developing people.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn to follow his work and insights.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Ashley Stewart, Project Director at Turner & Townsend, whose global experience across major events, construction, and program delivery gives her an extraordinary 360-degree perspective on Queensland’s future. From starting on construction sites in Scotland at 18 to shaping the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and delivering Canada’s Pan Am Games, Ashley brings a rare blend of lived experience and strategic insight.Together, Lauren and Ashley explore the state’s biggest challenges, from housing shortages to capability gaps to the cultural shifts reshaping the workforce. As the 2032 Olympics fast approaches, what will it truly take for Queensland to build a workforce ready for the world stage?Grounded, honest, and deeply human, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone navigating growth, leadership, or the emotional weight of relocating a family across continents.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Realities of Migration and Major Events:Why relocating a family is far more complex and emotionally taxing than people assumeThe hidden financial layers of international migration (shipping, customs, housing, credit history, vehicles, schools)How Ashley’s experience across Glasgow 2014 and Toronto Pan Am Games informs her predictions for Brisbane 2032Why Brisbane is a different test case compared to London or LA due to city size, growth rate, and resource constraintsQueensland’s Housing and Infrastructure Challenge:Why housing shortages could become one of the biggest barriers to workforce growthHow policy, zoning, approvals, and red tape shape development timelinesWhy large-scale master planned communities may be essentialThe ripple effects: schools, healthcare, roads, and the infrastructure needed to support incoming workers and familiesHow the cost of living and interstate migration are reshaping South East QueenslandWorkforce Capability, Skills, and Diversity:Why Queensland faces unique skill shortages heading into the Olympic decadeHow long procurement cycles awarding work years ahead affect workforce planningThe alarming 12% decline in women in construction over the past yearThe role flexibility, culture, and workplace systems play in retaining women“You can’t be what you can’t see”: why visible role models matterHow technology, hybrid work, and outcome-based management can close capability gapsLeadership, Flexibility, and the Future of Work:Why flexibility is not one size fits all, and why organisations must redefine itThe dangers of “flexibility but” policiesHow trust, autonomy, and outcome-focused leadership strengthen cultureThe double-edged sword of remote work: freedom vs. the pressure of being “always on”Why leaders must build sustainable systems, not rely on individuals to “push through” burnoutThe Mental Load, Comparison Trap, and Redefining SuccessWhy so many professionals, especially women, feel overwhelmed post-COVIDHow social media distorts expectations around careers, parenting, homes, and successWhy intentionally protecting your inner circle changes everythingThe importance of letting go of comparison and building connections aligned with your valuesHow community groups like NAWIC and industry bodies build confidence, belonging, and supportCommunity, Networking, and BelongingWhy meaningful networking is about depth, not quantityHow newcomers to Queensland can build a professional community from scratchThe power of reaching out to new arrivals, women returning from maternity leave, and early-career professionalsWhy smaller events often spark richer, more authentic connectionsThe role of committees, advocacy groups, and industry organisations in shaping the future of constructionKey Quotes from Ashley Stewart:“I want to be able to push open doors that people thought were closed and hold them open for others to walk through behind me.”“If I had known how hard relocating with a family would be, I’m not sure I would’ve done it.”“Queensland is such an attractive place to live, but that makes housing one of our biggest challenges.”“Flexibility can’t be ‘flexibility but’, it has to be tailored to the individual.”“You can’t be what you can’t see. Visible role models matter.”“Sometimes you walk into your home and your kids run to you, and that’s the moment that makes everything feel worth it.”About Our Guest:Ashley Stewart is a Project Director at Turner & Townsend, with a career spanning major global events including the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and Toronto’s Pan Am Games, alongside significant roles in construction, program delivery, and infrastructure. With deep experience across Scotland, Canada, and now Queensland, Ashley brings a unique lens to workforce capability, housing challenges, and the human realities behind major development cycles. Passionate about women in construction, flexibility, and leadership, Ashley is committed to opening doors and building pathways for future generations.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn and follow Turner & Townsend’s workStay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Ryza Garbacz, the second-generation Managing Director of NEACH, a leading Australian steel fabrication and manufacturing company. From humble beginnings in a small Noosa workshop, NEACH has evolved into a powerhouse supplier for some of the nation’s most complex infrastructure projects, championing regional capability and sovereign manufacturing.Ryza shares his journey from sweeping floors in his family’s factory to managing major tier-one projects across Australia, before returning to transform his family’s 50-year-old business. He reflects on lessons in leadership, authenticity, and the power of building loyalty through developing homegrown talent.The conversation explores data-driven decision-making, transparent communication, and creating a culture that thrives through change. Ryza also unpacks the resurgence of trades, the transition ahead for Australian manufacturing, and the importance of sustainable growth. He leaves listeners with an inspiring message about legacy, purpose, and building a business that endures beyond yourself.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Leadership and Legacy:How Ryza transformed his family’s business into a sustainable, future-focused manufacturer.Why true legacy means building something that thrives without you.Lessons from 50 years of continuous operation and what it takes to survive in a changing economy.Career Growth and Authentic Leadership:How working on large infrastructure projects built the foundations for authentic, people-first leadership.The power of humility, likeability, and transparency in advancing your career.Why trusting your gut and having hard conversations are essential leadership skills.Building and Retaining Talent:How to create loyalty and long-term retention through homegrown apprenticeship programs.Why investing in people early builds a stronger culture and business resilience.Insights into tackling the trade shortage and inspiring the next generation of skilled workers.Data, Decisions, and Sustainable Growth:How to use data to make smart, strategic decisions that keep your business alive and thriving.The importance of measuring everything and knowing your numbers “to the cent.”Why not all growth is good growth. Understanding sustainable scaling in construction and manufacturing.Resilience, Balance, and HappinessRyza’s personal journey from a high-paying corporate career to rebuilding a family business for purpose and lifestyle.Why choosing happiness, family, and nature over constant hustle leads to real success.The value of staying human in an increasingly automated, AI-driven world.Key Quotes from Ryza Garbacz “Authenticity in how you deal with people is everything; it creates loyalty and trust.”“True legacy is building something that can survive without you.”“Data doesn’t lie. If you don’t know your numbers, you can’t run your business.”“Don’t chase growth for the sake of it. Growth has to be meaningful.”“I chose happiness, and that was the best business decision I ever made.”About Our Guest:Ryza Garbacz is the Managing Director of NEACH, a second-generation Australian manufacturing company based on the Sunshine Coast. With a background in civil engineering and a decade working on major infrastructure projects across the country, Ryza brings a unique blend of hands-on experience, commercial acumen, and deep commitment to regional manufacturing. Under his leadership, NEACH has become a trusted partner in sovereign supply and sustainable growth across Australia’s construction sector.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Ryza Garbacz on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and insights on the future of Australian manufacturing.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Scott Clements, Managing Director of Inertia Engineering, whose story is one of resilience, innovation, and leadership in an ever-evolving construction industry. Scott shares how he built his company from the ground up, navigated economic downturns, and even doubled in size during COVID, proving that adaptability is the ultimate advantage. He and Lauren dig into how AI and design automation are transforming civil engineering, cutting project timelines in half while freeing teams to focus on creativity and problem-solving.They also explore the realities of leadership, how to protect culture as you grow, hire the right people, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. From tackling labor shortages to reimagining the government’s role in driving productivity, this episode is packed with fresh insights and inspiration for leaders ready to embrace change and keep building, no matter what challenges lie ahead.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Resilience and Leadership:How Scott’s business grew through global crises like the GFC and COVIDWhy resilience and adaptability are key traits in engineering leadershipThe mindset needed to lead through uncertainty and growthAI and the Future of Engineering:How AI and automation are transforming design and project deliveryWhy communication and creativity will be the most valuable future skillsThe importance of learning to “interrogate” AI rather than fear itHow new technology partnerships are revolutionizing civil engineeringCulture and People:The secrets to maintaining company culture through rapid growthWhy hiring great people (not “mini-mes”) accelerates business successBuilding leadership teams that value diversity, autonomy, and trustIndustry Insights and Government’s Role:How Australia’s construction industry can boost productivity and innovationWhy government and industry collaboration is vital for addressing skills shortagesThe role of immigration and training in solving the labor crisisPersonal Lessons and Balance:Scott’s belief that energy, fitness, and family are key to sustainable leadershipThe legacy he hopes to leave for his team and the engineering industryKey Quotes from Scott Clements“In the new age of AI, the things that will matter most are communication and creativity.”“Culture doesn’t have to fade as you grow; it just has to evolve.”“If we don’t become more productive, we’ll all keep paying more for everything we build.”“AI won’t replace engineers, but engineers who use AI will replace those who don’t.”About Our GuestScott Clements is the Managing Director of Inertia Engineering, a leading civil engineering consultancy known for embracing innovation and sustainability. With over 20 years of experience, Scott has built a reputation as a forward-thinking leader who integrates technology, creativity, and culture to deliver impactful engineering solutions. From pioneering AI partnerships to mentoring future leaders, Scott is shaping the next generation of engineering excellence.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Scott on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan chats with Erik Vandenberg, a seasoned leader with a fascinating journey from technical expert to executive in the energy sector. Erik’s career spans diverse roles in aircraft maintenance, oil and gas, and now, executive leadership in energy transitions. Erik reveals his insights into leadership evolution, the power of emotional intelligence, and the rapid changes in the energy industry.From navigating mergers and organizational change to making high-stakes decisions in critical environments, Erik’s journey offers valuable lessons on how to lead through uncertainty and drive meaningful progress. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting in your career, this episode provides actionable insights for anyone looking to thrive in complex industries.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Emotional Intelligence & LeadershipHow emotional intelligence and curiosity shaped Erik’s leadership success and enabled him to manage teams through mergers and cultural shifts.Navigating Energy TransitionsErik shares how the energy sector is evolving and how businesses need to adapt to sustainability and technology shifts, including AI and decarbonization.Leadership ChallengesFrom technical expert to strategic leader: the skills and mindset Erik adopted to lead across diverse disciplines and industries.Lessons from the FieldReal-world insights into managing high-stakes projects in oil and gas, including a terrifying near-miss in commissioning gas turbines.The Role of AI in Leadership & BusinessHow AI is changing industries, but also the concerns it raises about workforce development and cognitive abilities for the next generation.Key Quotes from Erik Vandenberg"The skillset you need as a leader in technical industries is vastly different from being a problem-solving SME.""It’s a transition of emotional intelligence, not just retaining information. As leaders, you need to learn how to lead people, not just manage projects.""The energy transition isn’t a cliff. It’s a mix of solutions. Nuclear, gas, renewables, AI, all are part of the puzzle.""Leadership is about doing the right thing, having the right conversations, and making tough decisions, even when it’s uncomfortable."About Our GuestErik Vandenberg is a leadership expert with extensive experience in mechanical engineering, oil and gas, and the energy sector. Currently focused on leading growth during the energy transition, Erik’s career spans technical, operational, and strategic roles. Passionate about mentoring, he continues to navigate complex projects, always seeking the next challenge. Erik advocates for the importance of combining technical expertise with emotional intelligence in leadership.About Your HostLauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with engineers, contractors, and leaders in construction and infrastructure.Connect with Erik Vandenberg on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan talks with Matthew Mackey, a no-nonsense leader with 27 years in construction across the UK and Australia. Matt shares real-world insights on leadership, emotional intelligence, and navigating burnout in an industry that often overlooks people skills. He opens up about a six-week “disaster stint” in contracting, the power of simplifying complex ideas, and why kindness is essential, not optional, for long-term success.Matt challenges the myth of linear career paths and calls for leaders who admit mistakes and prioritize psychological safety. He also highlights how his networking group, Property Leaders Brisbane, supports professionals across Australia’s construction landscape.Whether you're early in your career or leading a team, this episode offers practical wisdom and a refreshing perspective. Real leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about creating environments where people can truly thrive.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Leadership That ConnectsWhy technical expertise doesn’t equal leadershipThe missing human skills: storytelling, empathy, and being "just a good human"Why EQ not just KPIs is the future-proof skillChanging a Stuck IndustryWhy innovation in construction starts with people, not just AI or procurement modelsHow legacy processes, rigid hierarchies, and ego block real progressThe myth of “the honest tradie” and the undervaluing of consultants in AustraliaCulture, Kindness, and the Cost of SilenceWhat “no-blame culture” really looks like and how it failsThe hidden damage caused by promoting toxic top performersCreating safe spaces for mistakes, feedback, and actual changeFrom Panic to PurposeMatt’s six-week contracting experiment and the lesson he’ll never forgetThe power of gut instinct and what happens when you ignore itWhy trusting your intuition is often smarter than following the titleBuilding Networks That LastThe origin of Property Leaders Brisbane and its grassroots missionWhy Matt stopped networking for work and started connecting peopleHow a side project became a platform for industry-wide impactKey Quotes from Matthew Mackey:“If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a hell no.”“Leadership would be easy if it weren’t for the people.”“We’ve built a whole industry of people talking about leadership. That tells you how big the gap really is.”“You don’t have to manage people to be valuable. We need other paths.”“I don’t want credit, I just want to grease the wheels for change.”About Our Guest:Matthew Mackey is a senior construction and infrastructure leader with over 27 years of experience across the UK and Australian markets. Known for his honest, often humorous take on leadership and systems, Matt is committed to transforming how we work, not just what we build. He’s the founder of Property Leaders Brisbane and co-host of The Shovel podcast.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Matthew Mackay on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey, and check out his podcast, The Shovel Podcast.Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.

In this episode ofBuilding Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Michael Furey, leadership coach, former sales leader, and founder of We Aspire, to unpack why construction leadership needs a radical reframe. From being demoted in his first management job to building programs that train Australia’s future leaders, Michael shares how lived experience, failure, and values-led development are transforming how we build capability across the industry.Drawing parallels between professional sport and construction, Michael reveals why project leaders aren’t just managing jobs, they’re living a lifestyle, often with unsustainable expectations. He breaks down why authoritarian leadership is crumbling, why skills shortages are pushing values misalignment to the brink, and how even small changes (like asking your boss’s boss what they need) can kickstart massive personal and cultural shifts.Whether you're an aspiring leader or shaping policy at the top, this conversation is packed with real talk, practical insight, and a refreshing reminder that leadership isn't about knowing it all, it's about caring enough to learn.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Career Transitions & Personal Growth:Why Michael’s leadership journey began with burnout and a demotion, and how that changed his approach forever.The story of a junior leader who paid $8K out of pocket for training, and what it reveals about ambition, ROI, and the hunger for change.Why “fake it till you make it” sometimes works, and when it absolutely doesn’t.Real Leadership Development:The lie school teaches us about failure, and how it cripples leadership growth later in life.Why “being too nice” might be your greatest leadership asset.The missing piece in most corporate training: identity, belief, and emotional foundations.Why asking “What’s your boss’ boss’ intent?” could be your secret weapon.Industry-Specific Challenges:How construction mimics professional sport, and why that’s burning out both junior and senior leaders.Why leading in construction is 80% emotional intelligence, 20% technical ability.The unsustainable reality of six-day project weeks and how Capital Group redesigned the model.How the industry’s lack of trust is undermining leadership and learning.Future Thinking & System Shifts:Why expecting engineers to suddenly become innovators is a flawed strategy.How firms like Capital Group are proving courage (not comfort) drives lasting change.What the rise of AI and tech outsiders means for traditional leadership pathways.Key Quotes from Michael Furey:“Being technically good doesn’t mean you’re people-good.”“If you’re too nice to be a leader, we probably need more of you in leadership.”“Failure isn’t the end. It’s where the real learning begins.”“The biggest lie? That ‘it’s the thought that counts.’ Action always matters more.”“We train project leaders like it’s a job, but it’s actually a lifestyle, more like a professional sport.”“Sometimes I spelled ‘strengths’ wrong while teaching strengths, and that became the lesson.”“Don’t wait for your company to develop you. The ROI on personal investment is exponential.”“The leaders who stand out are the ones who understand what their boss’ boss is trying to do.”About Our Guest:Michael Furey is the founder of We Aspire, a leadership development firm focused on the construction and infrastructure sectors. A former sales manager turned coach, Michael blends lived experience, deep vulnerability, and industry insight to help emerging and senior leaders navigate real-world leadership. His new book, Shifting Foundations, captures insights from over 20 leaders across the sector—and is available for free via We Aspire.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone passionate about construction, leadership, or meaningful workConnect with Michael Furey on LinkedInDownload his free book Shifting Foundations via WeAspireStay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thank you for listening! Remember: The best leaders aren’t waiting for doors to open, they’re building them.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan welcomes Domenic De Fazio, a seasoned executive whose career journey from project manager to CEO is marked by conviction, courage, and consistency. Domenic shares the raw truth about navigating leadership without compromising your values, and what happens when the traditional leadership "suit" no longer fits who you are. From making the leap into executive roles to managing board dynamics and driving a values-based culture, this is a masterclass in real-world leadership.Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned professional rethinking your next move, this episode unpacks what it means to lead with empathy, build trust, and influence without manipulation, even in complex corporate environments.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Leadership & Organisational CultureWhy empathy and consistency matter more than charisma in leadershipHow to build and scale culture across teams, departments, and countriesThe art of giving feedback that’s honest, not brutalNavigating Executive RolesHow Domenic stepped into the CEO seat while staying true to himselfWhy board dynamics are often dysfunctional, and how to lead through themSkills that matter most at the GM and C-suite levelsCareer Development & SuccessionHow visibility and risk-taking can accelerate your riseThe difference between managing up and bringing people alongWhy being “seen” matters more than ever in hybrid workplacesAuthenticity & Personal LegacyThe link between personal values and professional leadershipWhy authenticity creates safety, and what that looks like in practiceHow to leave a legacy that empowers others to be their best, most honest selvesKey Quotes from Domenic De Fazio:“If getting to the top means I have to be more of a mongrel, I’m okay not getting to the top.”“Sometimes people just need time to get used to ideas. You plant the seed and let it grow.”“There’s nothing authentic about brutality. Feedback should be empathetic and honest.”“If you’re not seen, you’re not seen. Visibility matters.”“Because they worked with me, I hope people felt they could be their true selves.”About Our Guest:Domenic De Fazio is a seasoned executive and former COO who has built his career on authentic leadership, strategic risk-taking, and a deep commitment to building cultures that last. With experience across project management, operations, and executive roles across Australia and New Zealand, Domenic’s story is a blueprint for leaders who want to do more than succeed; they want to lead with purpose.About Your Host:Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers.How You Can Support the Podcast:Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership.Connect with Domenic De Fazio on LinkedIn Stay Connected:Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn.Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content.Let’s Connect:Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au.Thanks for listening! Leaders don’t wait for doors to open, they build them.

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Jock Macfarlane, a leader in environmental and sustainability practices within the construction industry. Jock shares his insights on why Australia’s construction sector is lagging in sustainability and how technological innovation can be the key to bridging the gap. Jock, a respected leader known for his authentic leadership style and dedication to diversity, also shares personal stories of career growth, finding balance, and the impact of becoming a father. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your career, Jock’s story will inspire you to think differently about leadership, sustainability, and personal growth. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Leadership in Sustainability: Why Australia’s construction industry is slow to adopt sustainability practices. How embedding sustainability into tender processes could drive change. The role of technology in reducing administrative burdens and increasing efficiency. Personal Growth and Leadership: How stepping back from a high-pressure career led Jock to a more balanced and purposeful life. Lessons on leadership and creating flexible, inclusive workplaces. The challenges and rewards of balancing career ambitions with family life. Diversity and Inclusivity: Why fostering diversity in the workplace is more than just a numbers game. Jock’s approach to building a high-performing, diverse team in the construction sector. Key Quotes from Jock Macfarlane: “If we don’t take action, our kids may not have a sustainable future.” “We need to rethink how we award contracts to encourage sustainable practices.” “Finding balance is about prioritizing what truly matters, both at work and at home.” About Our Guest: Jock Macfarlane is a passionate leader in the environmental and sustainability space within the construction industry. Known for his hands-on approach and dedication to diversity, Jock has led numerous teams to success while advocating for smarter, greener, and more inclusive industry practices. His journey from high-energy kid to national sustainability leader is a testament to the power of persistence and passion. About Your Host: Lauren Karan, founder of Karan & Co. and host of Building Doors, is dedicated to helping professionals unlock their potential. Through insightful interviews and real-life stories, Lauren empowers listeners to create opportunities and thrive in their careers. How You Can Support the Podcast: Subscribe and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Share this episode with anyone interested in sustainability and leadership. Connect with Jock on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey. Stay Connected: Follow Lauren and the Building Doors podcast on LinkedIn. Subscribe to the Building Doors newsletter for exclusive content. Let’s Connect: Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email us at reachout@buildingdoors.com.au. Thank you for listening! It’s time to stop waiting and start building.