Your Project Shepherd Construction Podcast

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd , we dive into the world of LED tape lighting with Jake Briolat from ProLuxe by American Lighting and Patrick Szymkowiak of Datasmart / Duncan Security . Learn where LED tape lighting works best, what mistakes to avoid, and how smart planning transforms ordinary homes into showstoppers. From kitchens and closets to floating shelves and pool decks, we cover...

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson shares expert strategies for finding, managing, and retaining high-quality subcontractors in the residential construction industry. Whether you're a homebuilder, remodeler, or general contractor, you'll learn how to build lasting trade relationships, prevent slippage, structure fair payment terms, and streamline your process...

What makes modern homes so much harder to build? In this episode of Your Project Shepherd , Curtis Lawson sits down with architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to reveal why clean lines, flush finishes, and minimalism demand maximum precision. From foundation tolerances to flush baseboards, flat roofs to custom cabinetry, this episode dives into the hidden costs,...

Building a modern home sounds simple—until it’s not. In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd Podcast , Curtis Lawson is joined by architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to explore the real-world complexities of custom modern home construction. Discover how tight tolerances, framing precision, foundation planning, and high-end finishes impact cost and perform...

Foundation issues are more common than you think—especially in Houston. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd , Curtis Lawson sits down with Jake Gottfried and Sonora Storm of Lincoln Jacob Construction to unpack everything pros need to know about foundation repair, soil movement, drainage problems, and why skipping gutters is a costly mistake. From cracked walls and sticky doors to sewer line...

Join host Curtis Lawson in this conversation with Andrew Fisher and Derek Schuppenhauer of Home Elevator of Texas. This comprehensive discussion explores the nuanced world of residential elevators, from financial considerations and strategic planning for new construction to the sophisticated process of integrating elevators into existing homes. In this discussion, Derek and Andrew share various el...

In this solo episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson, founder of Shepherd Construction Advisors, shares the powerful “why” behind this show. Drawing from decades of experience in Houston's custom homebuilding scene, Curtis explains how Owner’s Representatives can prevent construction disasters before they happen. He dives into common mistakes homeowners and builders make,...

Celebrate 100 episodes of the Your Project Shepherd podcast! Host Curtis Lawson turns the tables and gets interviewed by frequent guests Jeremy McFarland (Brickmoon Design), Toner Kersting (Toner Home Performance), and Matt Sneller (Sneller Custom Homes). They delve into Curtis's journey from band geek and failed pizza shop owner to successful Houston custom home builder. Explore insights on t...

In this episode, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Sonora Storm , Del Westmoreland , and Matthew Reibenstein of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) . Together, they dive into the benefits of GHBA membership, from professional networking and continuing education to advocacy, ethics, and community impact. Whether you’re a builder, associate, or homeowner, learn why GHBA is shaping the fu...

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Brian Marshall (Sales Associate) and Tad Horsley (Owner/Master Electrician) of US Power Pros to uncover the truth about home backup generators. With growing power grid instability in Texas, backup power is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Brian and Tad share critical insights on generator placement, code compliance, lo...

Hiring the right subcontractors is crucial to delivering high-quality construction projects. In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson explores how builders can elevate their projects by working with subcontractors who grow alongside them. He breaks down two common pitfalls—sticking with subs who aren't scaling up and cutting costs at the expense of quality. Curtis also sha...

Unlock the future of homebuilding with Brian McCarthy, CEO of RIoT Technologies, on the Your Project Shepherd podcast! Discover how integrating smart home IoT isn't just about gadgets, but about enhancing resilience, slashing builder risk, and cutting warranty costs. Brian discusses bridging the gap between proptech and construction, tackling challenges like post-closing tech blindness, leak detec...

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson dives into the sunk cost fallacy—a mindset that traps people in bad investments, whether in relationships, careers, or home construction projects. Curtis shares real-life stories of homeowners who stuck with failing builders, wasting time and money instead of cutting their losses. He also explores how this psychological trap affects...

Illuminate your projects with expert insights! Join Curtis Lawson and Martin Sunday of Martin Sunday Designs as they delve into the transformative power of professional lighting design. Discover how to elevate residential spaces beyond basic electrical plans, understanding the nuances of LED technology, layering light, and the crucial final adjustments. Learn why early collaboration with a lightin...

Dive into the future of home comfort with Ken Nelson, Group Sales Manager at Panasonic IAQ, on this episode of Your Project Shepherd. Discover how the revolutionary OASYS system is transforming residential HVAC. We explore the critical need for tight building envelopes, managed ventilation, and superior indoor air quality in today's homes. Learn how OASYS, with its innovative design and data-drive...

🎙️ Your Project Shepherd Construction Podcast EP 92: Blueprints for Scaling to Luxury Home Building: Luxury Meets Luxury with our guest Greg East, COO Winfrey Design Build, with Curtis Lawson ✨ Dive into the world of luxury home building! With extensive experience in high-end residential construction, Greg East shares invaluable insights on managing premium projects, cultivating client relationsh...

As populations grow and water demands increase, rainwater harvesting and water reuse systems are becoming increasingly important for sustainability and resilience. In this episode, Zach Gavos , owner of Droplet Resources , shares his expertise on designing, installing, and maintaining systems that collect rainwater for irrigation, potable use, and detention. Zach discusses the critical role of wat...

Construction management is often a 24/7 job—late-night client emergencies, constant project updates, and unending challenges. But in 2024, technology is transforming the industry, giving builders back control of their time and operations. In this episode, Mitchell Kasselman , CEO and Co-founder of Ressio Software, joins host Curtis Lawson to discuss how AI-powered software solutions are reshaping...

"Building science is deceptively familiar - it feels like you know it, and you don't." - Toner Kersting Our favorite building scientist, Toner Kersting, returns to #YourProjectShepherd #podcast to uncover the issues with Curtis Lawson of moisture that lead to buckled floors and bloomed into something much bigger! When this 1920s bungalow's floors suddenly warped, no one expected to find what was g...

"We study the process from the beginning, we build relationships with the people at the cities." - Ramie Elizondo In this essential episode, we explore: ➡️ The value of having a permitting professional on your team ➡️ Resources and relationships that expedite approvals ➡️ Common mistakes that slow down the process ➡️ How to reduce stress and make your project outcome smoother ➡️ Project timeline a...

Your Project Shepherd Podcast: Host Curtis Lawson explores innovative housing solutions with architect Brett Zamore of Brett Zamore Design . Discover the evolution of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and flexible living spaces. This episode reveals: 🏠 The potential of ADUs in urban settings 🔧 Brett's innovative zKIT and zFAB housing solutions 🌆 Transforming city landscapes through smart design...

🎙️ Lessons Learned in Construction Project Management | Matt Sneller & Cade Slump of Sneller Custom Homes with Curtis Lawson "Success in project management comes from humility, hunger, and honesty." - Matt Sneller In this insightful episode, we explore: ➡️ The journey from newcomer to seasoned project manager ➡️ Essential skills for success in construction management ➡️ Building strong relatio...

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd , Curtis Lawson sits down with Chad Hesters , a Board Certified Master Arborist with over 20 years of experience in the tree care industry. Chad shares his wealth of knowledge on tree care, from selection and planting to maintenance and preservation, with a focus on how it relates to custom home building and property development. Key Topics: The importance...

**Continued Conversation with Curtis Lawson and David Miller from EP 83 | Beyond the Grey - Artistry of Concrete Finishes** David Miller shares his expertise on concrete flooring, exploring: * Exposed aggregate finishes * Protecting slabs during construction * Concrete's role in modernist design * Crafting unique surfaces * Maintenance tips This episode showcases the true artistry that manifes...

Host Curtis Lawson sits with David Miller (Owner of Dungan Miller Design ) to explore the artistry and science behind concrete finishing in custom home building. They discuss how mundane surfaces are transformed into works of art through innovative techniques and skilled craftsmanship. Learn about microtopping finishes, their applications, and the importance of collaboration in high-end constructi...