The Take Off - The Quantity Surveying Podcast

Join hosts Mick Donaghy and Patrick McGrath for a fascinating discussion on the influx of overseas construction professionals to Australia. In this episode, you'll discover: Why construction professionals from India, China, Sri Lanka, and South Africa are setting their sights on Australia. The unique hurdles immigrants face in the job search, including the preference for local experience. The impo...

Throwback Thursday! We revisit a fantastic conversation with construction veteran Lee Lambert!   This episode dives deep into the dynamic shifts reshaping the industry ️ and equips you with the tools to thrive. Discover: Uncover the latest trends and challenges facing construction professionals. Learn how to measure success beyond short-term gains and build a long-term vision. Explore the importan...

Don't miss this insider's guide to breaking into these high-growth markets. The construction industry is a global game, and navigating it can be a challenge. In this episode, we speak with Patrick McGrath, who shares his insights on working across key markets like North America, New Zealand, UK & Ireland.* Discover: 🚀The unique demands and specializations of each market. 🚀The booming...

Join us on The Take Off Podcast for an insightful conversation with Fiona Doherty, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor with over 30 years of experience. In this episode, we delve into the world of construction leadership, exploring the key factors that contribute to building successful and high-performing teams. Fiona shares her valuable insights on: The importance of trust and open communication: Disco...

Summary In this episode, Mick Donaghy interviews Rob Devillier, a director and owner of Pivot IQ, a consultancy specializing in claims, contracts, and commercial services in various sectors. Rob shares his journey as a director, commercial expert, and quantity surveyor. He discusses: his background in the QS industry, his reasons for getting involved, and his experience in the mining industry. His...

We are back!!! Mick and Pat discuss various topics including: their sleep patterns, military construction industry house prices and barbershops. Also, they talk about whats going on with the CFMEU and its alleged involvement in underground crime Definitely one not to miss!

 The secret for running a business adaptability, client focus, and sheer grit Julian Hemms, Managing Partner of Robbins Wood Partners, shares his inspiring 30-year journey - from office junior to regional commercial manager and director. Julian dives deep into the diverse world of quantity surveying, highlighting the: Variety and fulfillment that comes from being involved in the entire constructio...

Ever wonder how to navigate the exciting world of international construction careers, or get the inside scoop on hot-button industry topics? This episode of The Take Off Podcast is your roadmap to success! Join host Mick Donaghy as he dives deep into your most frequently asked questions: Living the Dream Abroad: Considering a construction career in Australia, New Zealand, or beyond? Mick unveils t...

This episode of The Take Off Podcast is your one-stop shop for communication best practices! We've compiled the most insightful and actionable advice from our expert guests, all focused on helping you communicate more effectively. In this episode, you'll learn: The golden rules of clear communication: Master the art of getting your point across, no matter the audience. Active listening tec...

From Immigrant Family to Construction Leader: Damien U In this inspiring episode of The Take Off Podcast, we meet Damien Ussia, a builder, and developer who shares his remarkable journey. Damien's story takes us from his roots in an immigrant family to his rise as a successful leader in the construction industry. He emphasizes the value of hands-on experience and offers unique insights into th...

Navigating the Evolving Construction Landscape with Patrick McGrath Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Patrick McGrath, Associate Director at GEDON™, as we delve into the current state of the construction industry. In this episode, we explore: Market shifts and challenges: Get insights into the changing dynamics of the construction industry, including regional variations in activity a...

What does a career in Cost Management look like? 🧐 This episode of The Take Off Podcast is your roadmap to success! 🏆 We chat with Paul Johnson, founder of Alto Cost Management, who shares his inspiring journey through the construction industry. From the fascinating world of quantity surveying to the challenges and rewards of starting his own business, Paul offers valuable insights for anyone co...

Building Revolution: Danny Assabgy on Sustainable Construction  🏆Danny isn't just building homes, he's building a better way.😉 A brand-new episode of The Take-Off Podcast is here! In this one, we explore the challenges of the traditional construction model and see different ways to start transforming the industry. In this episode, Danny the CEO of Build Buddy  dives deep into: 🎯His pass...

Part Two Now Live! 🚀 Dive Deeper into Construction Wellness with  Rob Lineker  on  The Take Off Podcast  ️ If you wonder how is it that Rob: 🏆Overcame his alcohol habits to unlock personal and professional success. 👏Increased business revenue by 30% while prioritizing his well-being. 🫱🏼‍🫲🏾Built a strong support network through the  Alc Free Life " community. 💪🏻Transitioned into coach...

Is alcohol a celebrated tradition or a hidden hurdle in the construction industry? In this episode of the Take Off Podcast, sponsored by RIB Software, we delve into a topic often overlooked:  the impact of alcohol on construction professionals . We're joined by Rob Lineker, Director of Dei One Projects and founder of Alc Free Life. Rob is on a mission to construct change by promoting diversity...

rom mining engineer in Iran to construction project planner thriving in Australia! 🇮🇷🇦🇺 Ali is a construction project planner with varied experience in projects in Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and SE Asia.  His path wasn't linear, but his dedication to planning is what paved the way for his success. Listen to the full episode and discover: A unique career switch: Ali will discuss h...

😱Can You Map Out the Journey of a Successful Infrastructure Career?*🇦🇺 This week on The Take-Off Podcast get inspired by @Andrew Marsonet, Project Director at @Acciona Construction and a passionate industry veteran. Andrew, a @University of Sydney🎓  civil engineering graduate, brings over two decades of experience to the table, having driven major projects like the M2 Upgrade and the Optus Wirel...

Retirement shouldn't be a cliff dive – it should be a smooth transition to a fulfilling next chapter! This week on The Take-Off Podcast, we're joined by our managin director Mick Donaghy to chart your course towards a secure and enjoyable retirement. In this episode, Mick unveils practical strategies to: Set SMART Retirement Goals: Discover how to define your ideal retirement lifestyle and...

Thinking of taking 🛀  your construction 🚧  career 🚌  international?**   This week on The 🤘  Take-Off  Podcast, 📻  we're thrilled to feature  **rising star 🌟⭐  Angel 👼  Iyke-Osuji, Cost Administrator at Turner & Townsend and a LinkedIn powerhouse!**  Angel,  a young  and ambitious leader from Nigeria, 🇳🇬  shares her  insightful perspective on **marketing yourself in a new country. ...

Consult or Contract? Charting Your Course with Mick Donaghy on The Take-Off Podcast! Confused about the difference between consultancy and contracting in construction? You're not alone! This week, our host sits down with industry veteran Mick Donaghy, Managing Director of GEDON™, to navigate this crucial decision. In this episode, you'll gain valuable insights on: Understanding Your Needs:...

The Pivotal Point: Peter Colacino on Construction's Turning Tides ️ This week on The Take-Off Podcast, we tackle a critical question with industry expert Peter Colacino: What is the turning point of a construction project? Peter, a renowned Project Lead at Mott MacDonald dives deep into the crucial moments that can make or break a project's success. Tune in to learn about: Identifying Key...

How is it being a lawyer within the construction industry This week on The Take-Off Podcast, we unpack the essential role construction lawyers play in ensuring a project's success. Our guest, Michelle Cirson, a seasoned construction lawyer and the director of Tricks of your Trade, dives deep into the legal complexities of the construction industry. Tune in to gain valuable insights on:y Contra...

This was one of my favourite episodes to date; David Madden, Co Founder and Director of MBM, one of the largest privately owned Quantity Surveying firms in Australia showcases how he took the business, with help from others, from 4 staff to over 100 and how they have stayed relevant and competitive in their 19 years in business. This episode is packed full of value for budding quantity surveyors,...

Why Construction Companies Are Feeling the Pinch This week on The Take-Off Podcast, we explore the current challenges facing the construction industry – a surge in company failures. Our guest, Michelle Cirson, construction lawyer and CEO of Tricks of Your Trade, provides expert analysis. Tune in to learn about: The economic factors squeezing construction companies How rising costs and labor shorta...

Wondering how to navigate a completely new market and thrive?🚀💡This week on The Take-Off Podcast, we speak with @Andrew Lowther, a highly respected leader in the construction & commercial real estate space. 🚧From University of Abertay Dundee 🎓 graduate to industry veteran: Discover Andrew's path, filled with valuable lessons and insights gained throughout his extensive career. 🚧 🧠Mas...