In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Chris Bolio of Alair Homes to unpack why preconstruction agreements are the hidden key to successful builds. Chris explains how investing in planning upfront saves homeowners, architects, and builders from costly mistakes, scope surprises, and broken trust down the road. From budgeting and timelines to uncovering hidden “gotchas,” Chris shares real-world lessons that reshape how professionals approach construction...
Aug 22, 2025•44 min•Season 6Ep. 25
In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a hard-earned $3M lesson about the dangers of breaking your own process. Curtis opens up about losing a luxury home renovation project — and how skipping key steps, rushing timelines, and letting others take control can cost more than just revenue. You’ll learn why sticking to a proven pre-construction process is critical, how to spot red flags early, and the costly risks of bending to client or partner pressure. Perfect ...
Aug 15, 2025•15 min•Season 6Ep. 24
In this solo episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Francis Ramos, Media & Marketing Manager at Crafted Custom Homes and Podcast producer, shares a step-by-step guide to getting started with social media marketing for builders and designers. Discover why social media is more than just trends—it’s a powerful, free marketing tool that works while you sleep. Francis breaks down platform choices, how to post without being a "content creator," and how to build trust with clients online. Wh...
Aug 08, 2025•17 min•Season 6Ep. 23
Most builders lose leads not because of bad work—but because of bad words. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Lauren Jefferson, co-founder of FocusCopy , to uncover how strategic messaging can transform your entire client journey. From fixing broken communication systems to using storytelling to build trust, Lauren shares the exact framework builders need to attract better clients, boost referrals, and stop ghosting in its tracks. If you're tired of feeling in...
Aug 01, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 6Ep. 22
In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Bob Peterson—Second Vice Chairman of NAHB and founder of Associates in Building and Design. With over 40 years of experience, Bob shares the journey from building homes in Colorado to leading one of the most influential construction organizations in the U.S. Learn how to build a company that can thrive without you, the role of national advocacy, and what younger builders need to succeed in today’s market. If you're in residen...
Jul 25, 2025•49 min•Season 6Ep. 21
In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, luxury homebuilder Erin Stetzer shares what it really takes to scale from small remodels to $10M+ homes—without sacrificing your family, your sanity, or your standards. Erin breaks down the critical systems, mindset shifts, and team dynamics required to deliver high-end projects. Whether you're a builder, architect, or designer, this conversation offers practical insights on project management, trade relationships, and avoiding burnout while growing in t...
Jul 18, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 6Ep. 20
In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, we sit down with remodeling business coach Kyle Hunt of Remodelers On The Rise to uncover why skilled remodelers still struggle with profitability, time management, and burnout. Kyle shares proven strategies for mastering financials, sales, marketing, and leadership—so you can stop running your business in survival mode and start building with confidence. Whether you're new to remodeling or a seasoned pro, this episode delivers high-impact coaching to he...
Jul 11, 2025•55 min•Season 6Ep. 19
Builders are great at building—but not always at documenting. In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why so many construction professionals struggle with paperwork, recordkeeping, and documentation—and why that puts your business at risk. From missed change orders to legal issues and frustrated clients, Curtis shares real-world insights and practical solutions. Learn how to improve your systems, use construction technology more effectively, and build better habit...
Jul 04, 2025•29 min•Season 6Ep. 18
In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd , we explore the three types of “superhuman vision” every great builder needs: 3D vision, X-ray vision, and long-range vision. Learn how to visualize complex assemblies, anticipate hidden issues in remodeling, and plan ahead to avoid costly mistakes down the road. Whether you’re building new or remodeling old, this episode will help sharpen your project foresight and improve communication with clients, trades, and your team. Packed with real-world ex...
Jun 27, 2025•27 min•Season 6Ep. 17
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 real-world applications that matter to builders, architects, and homeowners. If you’re designing or ...
Jun 20, 2025•54 min•Season 6Ep. 16
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 processes for better project outcomes. Curtis also introduces peer coaching opportunities through Remodelers on the...
Jun 13, 2025•43 min•Season 6Ep. 15
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, planning challenges, and coordination headaches of high-end modern home design. If you're a homeown...
Jun 06, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 6Ep. 14
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 performance. If you're planning a custom home, remodeling with modern design, or working in residential arc...
May 30, 2025•32 min•Season 6Ep. 13
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 red flags, learn how to spot early signs of failure and prevent long-term damage. To our Houston hom...
May 23, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 6Ep. 12
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 elevator designs while emphasizing critical safety protocols and the foresight required for long-term ...
May 16, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 6Ep. 11
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, the rising need for project oversight, and why this role is standard in LA and NYC—but still underus...
May 09, 2025•17 min•Season 6Ep. 10
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 the construction industry, the importance of team building, customer service, project management, homeown...
May 02, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 6Ep. 9
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 future of Houston’s residential construction. If you’ve ever wondered how builders help each other suc...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 6Ep. 8
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, load calculations, and why cutting corners can cost builders and homeowners big. Whether you’re a home...
Apr 18, 2025•45 min•Season 6Ep. 7
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 shares real-world insights on setting expectations, avoiding costly mistakes, and ensuring top-tier cra...
Apr 17, 2025•16 min•Season 6Ep. 5
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 detection nightmares, and indoor air quality in high-performance homes. Learn about predictive maintenanc...
Apr 04, 2025•58 min•Season 6Ep. 4
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 business owners, hiring decisions, and subcontractor relationships. Don’t let past investments dict...
Mar 28, 2025•12 min•Season 6Ep. 3
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 lighting designer is essential, saving you time and money. From budget considerations to the latest innovat...
Mar 21, 2025•52 min•Season 6Ep. 2
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-driven approach, provides predictable comfort and energy efficiency, addressing the challenges of varying...
Mar 13, 2025•51 min•Season 6Ep. 1
🎙️ 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 relationships, and differentiating in the luxury market. Topics Covered: ➡️ Evolution from production to luxur...
Dec 14, 2024•1 hr 5 min
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 water reuse, how these systems can meet detention requirements while providing ROI, and design consider...
Nov 23, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 5Ep. 91
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 the construction industry, improving both business efficiency and quality of life for custom builder...
Nov 08, 2024•34 min•Season 5Ep. 90
"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 growing underneath. Let's just say this fun guy knows exactly what to do when your house starts sprou...
Nov 01, 2024•56 min•Season 5Ep. 89
"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 and budget impacts Ramie's expertise offers invaluable insights for builders, architects, and propert...
Oct 25, 2024•43 min
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 🔑 Balancing privacy and functionality in multi-unit properties 💡 Sustainable and efficient building...
Oct 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 5Ep. 87
