In this episode, Greg Wilkes sits down with John Eastwood, founder of a high-end residential building company operating in London’s prime and super-prime market.

John shares an honest account of what it really takes to move from steady but fragile growth into a controlled, multi-million-pound business. From nearly running out of work while self-funding his own home build, to becoming a go-to contractor for £2m–£4m projects, this conversation unpacks the mindset shifts, systems, and decisions that changed everything.

🔹 Key topics:

✅ The danger of a shallow pipeline — how relying on a handful of architects nearly stalled the business, and why consistent outreach matters even when things feel “fine”.

✅ Why building your own house can expose cracks in the business — cash flow pressure, stress, and the wake-up call it creates.

✅ Winning bigger work without racing harder — why scaling project value is often smarter than scaling volume.

✅ Positioning and proposals that convert — how changing the way prices were presented dramatically improved win rates, without being the cheapest.

✅ Stepping off the tools properly — the real impact of hiring a project manager and building a leadership layer that protects quality and sanity.

✅ Systems that protect profit — tracking jobs properly, spotting issues early, and why knowing your numbers weekly changes decision-making.

✅ Software at the right stage — lessons from using Buildertrend, Procore, and PlanRadar, and when these tools actually make sense.

This is a grounded, real-world episode for builders who want fewer jobs, better clients, stronger margins, and a business that doesn’t rely on them firefighting every day.

If you’re serious about moving into higher-value work and building something sustainable, John’s story will hit home.

Instagram: @Karringtons_ltd

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-eastwood-b97597243/?originalSubdomain=uk

https://www.karringtons.co.uk/

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes is joined by Richard Woods, former finalist on The Apprentice, marketing agency founder, and someone who’s seen both sides of the fence — from scaling a marketing business to running a trades company under real pressure.

Richard shares the unfiltered reality of growth, visibility, and leadership. From life inside the Apprentice boardroom to Christmas Day boiler breakdowns, this conversation exposes what business owners don’t see until they’re in it — and what actually matters if you want a business that works without owning you.

🔹 Key topics:

✅ Building profile and leverage — how Richard used visibility, positioning, and a clear message to create opportunity long after TV fame faded.

✅ The harsh reality of trades businesses — why small, high-volume work is brutally hard to scale, and how recalls, clients, and cash flow quietly drain energy and profit.

✅ Growth without control is dangerous — what happens when you can generate leads but don’t have systems, structure, or margins to support them.

✅ Marketing that actually converts — why LinkedIn is still one of the most underused platforms for builders, especially when targeting architects, developers, and commercial work.

✅ AI and the future of construction businesses — what will get disrupted, what won’t, and why builders who understand marketing and systems will pull further ahead.

✅ Practical LinkedIn plays — daily actions builders can take to build relationships, authority, and inbound opportunities without spending on ads.

This is a straight-talking episode for builders who want better work, fewer headaches, and a business that doesn’t collapse the moment they step away.

If you care about control, visibility, and building something that lasts, this one’s worth your time.

www.linkedinForBreakfast.com
www.sprintva.co

Biography

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes is joined by Felicity (Sydney Builder Chick) and Aileen Andrews, two women who are not just working in construction; they’re actively reshaping what leadership, culture, and opportunity look like across the industry.

From apprenticeships and site leadership to business ownership and mindset, this conversation cuts through stereotypes and gets honest about what it really takes to succeed in construction as a woman — and why the industry desperately needs more of it.

🔹 Key topics:

✅ Breaking into construction — Felicity’s journey from school-based construction to carpentry and a builder’s licence at just 22, and Aileen’s transition from teaching and corporate project management into high-end construction and development.

✅ Confidence on site & unconscious bias — how age, gender, and experience intersect on site, how to earn respect without shouting, and why confidence and competence beat confrontation every time.

✅ Leadership that actually works — coaching vs commanding, setting standards without ego, and why great leaders create safety, clarity, and accountability — not fear.

✅ Mental health & wellbeing in construction — why “toughing it out” is outdated, how small actions on site make a big difference, and why work should be a safe place to speak up.

✅ Why women are an untapped advantage — from organisation and process thinking to communication and client relationships, this episode highlights why mixed leadership teams build stronger businesses.

✅ Fixing the pipeline problem — what schools, employers, and government are getting wrong about apprenticeships, and how better support could unlock the next generation of talent.

This is an honest, inspiring conversation for women considering construction, men leading teams, and business owners who want a stronger culture, better people, and a future-proof industry.

If you care about leadership, mindset, and building something better, this episode is essential listening.

https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.instagram.com/sydneybuilderchick/%3Fhl%3Den&sa=U&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwim-r699PiQAxWZdvUHHSwZBj4QFnoECAwQAQ&usg=AOvVaw2hiHujeBkwO-1e0vtk42kG

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aileen-andrews-andrewsconstruction/?originalSubdomain=uk

https://www.instagram.com/andrews_constructionltd/

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes sits down with hormone educator Dave Lee to make testosterone practical for builders and business owners — how it affects stress, decision-making and day-to-day performance, and when TRT helps (and when it doesn’t).

🔹 Key topics:

✅ Symptoms & testing done right — why “normal range” can still feel awful, what comprehensive bloods should include, and Dave’s “pop the bonnet” approach to finding root causes before touching hormones.

✅ TRT isn’t a silver bullet — it lays the foundation, but habits build the house. Expect side effects if you try to “supercharge the engine” without learning to drive.

✅ Why younger men are struggling — from puberty-era obesity to endocrine disruptors (plastics, pesticides), the modern environment is hitting male hormones hard.

✅ Performance & stress resilience — how optimised testosterone and DHT support reward processing, buffer stress (via GABA pathways), and help you show up as a steadier leader under pressure.

✅ Mindfulness that actually works — eight weeks of daily practice measurably strengthens focus (prefrontal cortex) and quiets the brain’s stress alarm (amygdala) — a high-ROI tool for owners in the thick of it.

If you’re running low on energy, battling poor sleep or motivation, or just feel “off”, this episode gives you a clear, no-nonsense roadmap: dial in habits, get proper labs, and make smart decisions about TRT with the right specialist. Tune in and take notes. Your health is a growth lever.

Business Masterclass TRT Academy: https://youtu.be/WjzcF74OneU

Join the TRT Academy: https://tr.ee/G24u_jEIIx
Book a Coaching session: https://tr.ee/MP-bUXjG6N
Website: https://tr.ee/KSQz0LlPY5

E-books: https://linktr.ee/imdavelee

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/daveleecoaching

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@imdavelee

Partner Clinics

Primal Zone AUS: http://www.primalzone.com.au

Marek Health: http://www.marekhealth.com/davelee

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes sits down with fire engineer Andrea White to make Part B practical for builders and developers, so you can design once, build once, and get signed off first time.

🔹 Key topics:

✅ Part B made simple — what B1–B5 actually mean on a live job (escape, linings, structure, external spread, fire-service access)
✅ When to involve a fire engineer — planning, Gateway checks, and avoiding redraws at RIBA 3/4
✅ Open-plan layouts that pass — workable routes for ground-floor kitchens, loft conversions and flats over shops
✅ Compartmentation done right — doorsets, cavity barriers, fire-stopping, and the photo evidence building control expects
✅ Detection, alarms and sprinklers — myths busted (no, they don’t all go off at once) and where systems make or break approval
✅ Smoke control basics — AOVs vs. manual vents, protected stairs and keeping travel distances sensible
✅ Regulation 38 handover packs — what must be in your client’s fire information at completion
✅ Common pitfalls — the details that trigger refusals, redesigns and costly delays (and how to avoid them)

If you’ve ever had plans knocked back, juggled contradictory advice, or burned time on late-stage fire fixes, Andrea’s guidance will help you plan earlier, de-risk your design, and move through building control with confidence. Tune in and take notes—this episode could save you weeks and thousands.

LinkedIn profile: Andrea White | LinkedIn

Website: www.awfire.co.uk

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes sits down with Raine Gerber, CEO of Quantum Contract Solutions and a subcontractor-turned-contracts expert, who has reviewed over 7,000 agreements to unpack why delivery alone won’t protect your profit, and how to negotiate contracts that actually work for you.

🔹 Key topics

✅ Lessons from losing a business — how a single hidden clause strangled cashflow and shut the doors on an otherwise profitable company
✅ The “standard contract” myth — why they’re almost always amended and how to spot risk-shifting tweaks
✅ The big five red flags — payment terms, termination rights, uncapped liability, liquidated damages without caps, and rolling warranties
✅ Negotiating without losing the job — focusing on your top 10 risks, trading clauses for price adjustments, and why pushback builds respect
✅ Post-signature discipline — embedding compliance from day one, capturing a watertight body of evidence, and avoiding costly disputes
✅ Dispute resolution that works — suspension clauses, internal resolution meetings with senior decision-makers, and using third parties to remove emotion
✅ Cashflow levers — shortening payment terms, defining “approval,” securing mobilisation/materials deposits, and structuring milestone payments
✅ Why early engagement pays — the benefits of having a fractional commercial team on your side before you ever sign

If you’ve ever signed a contract you didn’t fully understand, been stung by surprise clauses, or struggled to get paid on time, Raine’s playbook shows exactly how to protect your business, negotiate from strength, and keep cash flow healthy. Tune in and take notes. This episode could save you six figures.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quantumcsfb/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quantumcsig/
X: https://x.com/quantumcsx
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@quantumcstiktok
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@constructionsecrets
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/quantum-contract-solutions/

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes welcomes Rachael Keeble, a project-management trainer, chartered builder & BuiltWell founder for a frank look at what turns an “OK” project manager into the calm, profit-driving linchpin every growing construction firm needs.

🔹 Key topics

✅ “Peace & purpose” project management – why PMs burn out and how Rachael’s framework puts them back in control
✅ The founder skills-gap audit – slow down, list what you’re bad at and hire the opposite
✅ Values first, CV second – write job ads that spell out your culture so A-players self-select
✅ Generalist vs specialist – when you really need a PM and when you actually need a commercial lead or legal advisor
✅ On-boarding that sticks – 10-minute daily check-ins, four-week road-maps and clear KPIs beat the sink-or-swim approach
✅ What to look for on a CV – up-to-date CPD, broad early experience, concise communication
✅ Training that matters – leadership & soft-skills now trump scheduling software as AI eats routine tasks
✅ Keeping PMs happy – quarterly growth chats, ownership of systems and a lived-out values culture
✅ Rachael’s quick wins for owners – daily huddles, shared dashboards, and the courage to cut mis-hires fast

If you’re juggling projects yourself, drowning in admin or wondering why your last PM hire fizzled, Rachael’s playbook shows exactly how to recruit, embed and grow a project-management powerhouse who frees you to scale. Tune in and steal the tactics.

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/rachaelkeeble

Free monthly newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7041030428866002944

Website: http://www.builtwellpm.com

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@builtwellprojectmanagement?si=c4KepT9_r5XFhoS4

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator

In this episode, Greg Wilkes sits down with Dr Gretchen Gagel — 40-year veteran, board adviser and founder of the Women Thriving in Construction Institute — to unpack the talent shortage crippling the industry and show exactly how getting more women on site (and in the C-suite) accelerates profit, safety and culture for everyone.

🔹 Key topics covered

✅ The numbers that matter – from China’s 16 % female workforce to Indonesia’s 1.6 %, plus why the UK & Australia are moving the needle with government-backed culture standards
✅ Unconscious bias & dominant culture – practical ways to spot the hidden habits that stop women applying (and drive good men away too)
✅ Quick wins on site – flushing loos, correctly-sized PPE and split shifts that turn “death, dirt & divorce” job sites into professional workplaces
✅ Recruitment that works – the 53 % female school-build project and how to write ads that attract skilled women without lowering the bar
✅ Retention & progression – mentors, sponsors and quarterly one-to-ones that create a 99 % engagement score and fuel 2× revenue growth
✅ Leadership superpowers – why mixed-gender teams literally score higher IQ points and the neuroscience of the 12-lane female “super-highway” brain
✅ Small-builder playbook – define your values, keep every coaching meeting, publish the dashboard and watch performance lift across the board
✅ Gretchen’s big vision – scaling the best grassroots programmes worldwide through the Women Thriving in Construction Institute

If you’re struggling to find good trades, juggling half-staffed projects or just want a happier, higher-performing crew, this conversation hands you the blueprint. Tune in, challenge the bias and build a construction business where everyone thrives. 🎧👷‍♀️👷

Gretchen Gagel One Sheet

Gretchen Gagel Book Summary

https://developcoaching.co.uk

For more episode please visit:
https://developcoaching.co.uk/construction-podcast/

If you'd like to discuss fast-tracking your results, book in a free call - https://www.developcoaching.co.uk/schedule/

If you'd like help growing your business join my private Facebook group - https://m.facebook.com/groups/constructiontradesaccelerator