PODCAST · education
Building With BuildHer
by BuildHer Collective
Rebeka Morgan from BuildHer Collective chat about all things building and renovating and everyday people making their mark in the building industry.
Episodes
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The Bank Pulled Our Loan After We Knocked the House Down
Dianne Kovacevic and her husband Dave spent years getting ready before they bought a single site. He refused a limited builder's licence and spent a year on slabs and foundations to earn the unlimited one. She completed a diploma in contract drafting and estimation. Only then did they go looking...
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Size, Materials, Labour: How Elise Weavers Keeps Her Third Reno on Budget
Elise Weavers is back for renovation number three: a single fronted Melbourne terrace on 370 square metres, nearly done and already home. In this episode, Elise and Rebeka unpack the three levers Elise pulls to control cost on every project: the size of the build, the materials she chooses, and…
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Would You Do This Deal? Assessing a Live Site With My Boys
Most of us think a feasibility is a spreadsheet. It isn't. It's a decision-making tool, and the thinking behind the numbers is what tells you what to put in them. In this solo episode Rebeka takes you behind the scenes as she helps her two boys, Liam and Ben, assess a live site for their first...
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Trust the Numbers, Trust Yourself: Louise Woodcroft on Renovating Through Uncertainty
We'd all like to believe we make property decisions with a calculator. The truth is messier. Doubt, second-guessing, and a market that never sits still all get a vote. In this episode Rebeka sits down with Louise Woodcroft to talk about what it actually takes to make the hard calls in property…
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Just Because You Can Doesn't Mean You Should: Using AI Without Losing Your Voice (with Rhiannon Lee)
Everyone's either terrified of AI or shouting that you're behind. This episode is neither. Rebeka sits down with Rhiannon Lee - founder of Oleander and Finch and one of the design industry's clearest voices on AI - for the most honest conversation we've had about using these tools without losing...
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Colour, Mood and Buyer Psychology with Cat Brown of Arch Melbourne
We spend so much time obsessing over layouts, floorplans, stone selections and budgets… but what if the thing that actually stops people in their tracks is something far less obvious? In this episode of Building With BuildHer, Rebeka sits down with Cat Brown from Arch Melbourne to unpack the…
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The Flip That Gave Lauren the Confidence to Quit Her Job
What happens when a highly organised project manager, three young kids, and a slightly terrifying leap-of-faith moment collide? You get one very impressive first property flip. In this episode of Building With BuildHer, Rebeka sits down with DevelopHer Lauren McKenna to unpack her first…
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From 30% to 54% ROI: How Zerin Is Scaling Smarter with Every Project
If you’ve ever wondered whether you can actually turn a profit in this market, this episode is your proof that you can. We're joined by DevelopHer Zerin who has just wrapped up her second project in under 12 months, delivering a 54% ROI (yes, you read that right) - and she breaks down exactly how...
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From Data to Decision: Where AI Helps in Property Development (and Where It Doesn’t)
Think AI is the shortcut to smarter property development? It is… just not in the way you might expect. In this episode, Rebeka walks through how she is using AI in real time across projects, from scanning markets and spotting opportunities, to testing ideas and streamlining day-to-day operations....
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Understanding the Role of Brokers in Real Estate Financing
If you have ever thought a broker was just there to tell you “how much you can borrow”… this episode might just change the way you think about playing the property game. In this conversation, we cover the real role of a loan broker when you are renovating, building or developing for profit - and...
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Using Media as a Market Guide
If you have ever found yourself deep in the Instagram rabbit hole saving kitchens, bathrooms and tiles like a woman possessed… this episode is for you. Rebeka and BuildHer Collective’s Head of Design, Rebecca, chat about how to use media as a market guide without letting the pretty pictures take...
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Don't Buy Until You Can Defend the Deal
Buying a property to renovate or develop for profit is not a time to rely on “good vibes” - it's about whether the deal actually stacks up. And in this episode of Building with BuildHer, Rebeka covers exactly that: how to properly assess a property before you commit, so you are making strategic...
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Curious About Design? Here’s What No One Tells You First
We’re back with our first 'Building with Buildher' episode of 2026 and if the new year has you reassessing your direction or daydreaming about design, you’re not alone. Rebeka and Rebecca unpack one of the most common questions they hear from women: “What should I actually study if I’m interested...
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The 3 Things Stopping Women From Getting Started (That Really Shouldn't)
After speaking with 172 women (yes… one hundred and seventy-two!) about their dreams of renovating and developing, Rebeka has spotted the same three roadblocks popping up again and again, and none of them are dealbreakers as they may feel. Most of the women she spoke to weren’t lacking ability -...
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Different Paths, Same Goal: Profiting from Property Your Way
There’s no one-size-fits-all way to play the property game, and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting. In this episode, Rebeka talks about how different strategies suit different people, depending on where you’re at in life, how much time you’ve got, and what you’re aiming for. From…
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Options Analysis: The Secret to Smarter, More Profitable Projects
Before you jump into your next renovation, extension, or development, have you actually run the numbers? And not just on what you think you should do with a property, but have you stacked it up against a number of different options? In this episode, Rebeka breaks down how she approaches every...
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From Project to Payoff: Finding Your Profitable Path
And, we’re back! After a little podcasting pause (because sometimes you’ve got to build instead of just talk about building), Rebeka returns with an insight-packed episode that’s all about unlocking your pathway to profit. Over the past few months, she’s had over 100 conversations with incredible...
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Volume Building with Vision: Leanne's Lessons in Creating a Home That’s Personal, Functional, and Full of Potential
In this episode, we sit down with DevelopHer Leanne Barbaro to unpack the journey of building her family home through a volume builder — and the gold is in the lessons learned. We talk through how volume building offers cost efficiencies but requires savvy planning to avoid cookie-cutter…
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Design Smarter, Not Pricier – Where to Spend (and Where to Save)
Let’s face it—your Pinterest board might have champagne taste, but your project budget is the reality check you need to consider. In this episode, Rebeka and BHC's Head of Interiors Rebecca, dive into the heart of what it really means to design smarter, not pricier. The key? Understanding the…
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Tapware Talk 101: Durability, Quality, and Longevity with ABI Interiors
This week, we dive deep into the world of tapware with Rhys Beal from ABI Interiors—unpacking how this once purely functional hardware has evolved into a style statement and investment decision all on its own. You’ll get the inside scoop on how tapware has transformed over the years, moving…
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Beyond the Lens: The Secret to Picture-Perfect Real Estate with Spacecraft Media
You’ve put your heart (and plenty of hard-earned money) into creating a beautiful home. But when it comes time to sell, it’s not just about showcasing the finishes, the fixtures, or the floor plan—it’s about selling a lifestyle. Cheyne Toomey of Spacecraft Media joins us in this episode to share...
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Flow to Fortune: The Feng Shui Formula for Property Success with Kelly McCloskey
In this episode, we chat with Kelly McCloskey from The Feng Shui Girl, a passionate expert in Feng Shui, uncovering how this ancient Chinese art of harmonising energy in spaces can directly influence your well-being, and even, property value. You'll get insights on how incorporating Feng Shui…
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How to Elevate your Lighting Game with About Space
Lighting is one of those things that, when done right, you don’t even notice it, it just feels right—but when done wrong, it's so obvious and uncomfortable. Enter the importance of lighting design! In this episode, we chat with Jodie Meier from About Space, who shares why good lighting is about...
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Designing Moments – Why Form Comes Before Colour
Ever walked into a home that just feels right? It’s not just about colour or finishes—it’s about the moments built into the design. In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Papas, Head of Interior Design at BuildHer Collective, to talk about the importance of shaping a home’s form before even...
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From Wrecked to Remarkable: Roxy's Cost-Savvy Home Rebuild
When a devastating storm left DevelopHer Roxy’s home in ruins, she faced the daunting task of rebuilding—not just her house, but her entire approach to home design. In this episode, Roxy shares how she turned a challenging situation into an opportunity to build smarter, proving that a beautiful,...
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Colour Outside the Lines: Creating Meaningful Spaces with Pip Brett
In this fun episode with Pip Brett, founder of JUMBLED, we dive into all things interior design, art, and her exciting latest project, a renovated bank turned luxury short-stay accommodation in Malong NSW named Sona. She opens up about her creative process, how she plays with colour, and why...
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Room to Grow: Phasing Your Renovation Like a Pro
In this episode, we dive into the art of renovating in phases—smart, strategic, and family-focused! Join us as we sit down with Anna Crawford, an incredible BuildHer and DevelopHer who has been part of our community for six years, and who we believe has mastered the balance of juggling a growing...
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Mastering Natural Stone with Shaun from RMS Traders
In this episode, we sit down with Shaun Palkhiwala from RMS Traders to talk about one of our favourite materials - natural stone! As someone who grew up in the family business, Shaun has a wealth of knowledge on the beauty and durability of natural stone, and he offers insightful tips on how to...
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From Pinterest to Practical: The Art of Designing Spaces That Work with Rebecca Papas
In this episode, Rebeka welcomes listeners back to the podcast for 2025 and introduces a new series of design chats she will regularly host with BuildHer Collective’s Head of Interiors, Rebecca Papas. Rebeka and Rebecca dive into what they believe are the fundamentals of interior design, focusing...
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Being Bold, Taking Risks and Finding Your Own Personal Style with Nickolas Gurtler
We're excited to be joined by Nickolas Gurtler in today's episode - an award-winning Interior Designer who has fast become renowned for his bold and luxurious style. Nickolas' journey didn’t start with blueprints and fabric swatches—it began in the fast-paced, visually rich world of…
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A Celebration of March Studio - Making Architecture, Material & Process
In this episode, Rebeka sits down with Fleur Watson and Anne-Laure Cavigneaux to chat about the incredible new book, March Studio: Making Architecture, Material and Process. A collaboration between RMIT and Thames & Hudson, this monograph dives deep into March Studio's unique approach to design,...
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Let There Be Light: Designing Spaces That Shine with Danielle from Lights Lights Lights
In this chat, Rebeka sits down with Danielle, a talented friend and lighting designer from Lights, Lights, Lights and covers why getting a lighting designer involved early in your build or reno is such a game-changer. Think of it as weaving lighting seamlessly into your home's architecture—it's...
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Mastering Window Furnishings with Evan Montero from DIY Blinds and Home Pro
Evan Montero from DIY Blinds and Home Pro is no stranger to the BHC community and today he and Rebeka explore the art of designing and installing window furnishings, from selecting the perfect fabric or material, to planning architectural features that create a seamless, luxurious look. Evan…
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The Emotion and Science of Selecting and Hanging Art with Kerry Armstrong
In this episode we are joined by Kerry Armstrong, a self-taught and widely celebrated Abstract Expressionist and artist – and the visionary behind the Studio Gallery Group! She opens up about her inspiring journey, from a high-stress notable corporate career and a life changing health-diagnosis…
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More Than Meets the Eye: The Process Behind Well-Designed Homes with Larritt-Evans
This week we have interior designer Claire Larritt-Evans of Larritt-Evans join us for a chat! She shares her insights on what an interior designer really brings to a home project, from planning, designing, and carefully detailing the interiors of a house, whether it's working independently or...
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Bringing Heart, Soul and Personal Flair into Renovation
In this episode, Rebeka chats with Steph Bailey, one of our DevelopHers who's just completed and put her latest beautiful project, 'Fontayne', on the market! Having come from a background in digital and tech, Steph explains how being exposed to property and design from a young age through her...
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More Than Blueprints: How an Architect Can Shape Your Building Journey
In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Bryant from Bryant Alsop Architects who breaks down the process of hiring an architect and how important it is to find the right fit between you, your architect, and your builder. Sarah also gives us a peek into the range of services her firm offers, from...
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From DIY to Done-for-You: Design, Plan, and Build Your Perfect Kitchen with Kaboodle!
On this week's episode, we're joined by Cameron Gray, the National Product Training Manager at Kaboodle Kitchen! As many of you already know, Kaboodle Kitchen is a leading supplier affordable of retail kitchen products across Australia and New Zealand. Exclusively available at Bunnings, kaboodle...
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Hands-On, Hearts-In: Transforming a Heritage Home in Six Weeks!
In this episode, Rebeka sits down with BuildHer Kate Hawkins to talk about her recent renovation project in Geelong, which she impressively finished in just six weeks! Having made a bold move to uplift their family's life from New South Wales, Kate opens up about how she found the property and…
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Data Driven and Creative Solutions for Property Investment
In this episode, we welcome Kristen Jackson of Wealth House back to the podcast. Having recently completed a new project, Rebeka and Kristen talk about her innovative approach to property investment - Pre-sale Renovations. Kristen shares her experience of helping clients maximise their property...
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How Hiring a Full-Service Architect Can Make All the Difference
Welcoming Glen Chamberlain of Chamberlain Architects on the podcast this week! We cover all things architecture, but specifically, the difference hiring a full-service architect can make and the value of design integrity. Having appointed Glen and his team for our Clarke Street JV, we have had…
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The Distinction Between Editorial Styling and Decorating for Real Clients
Joining us on the podcast this week is Karin Bochnik of KB-ID, specialising in Interior Direction. She explains how Interior Direction differs from styling and how she helps developers, homeowners, and architects create visually appealing spaces that target specific buyers and showcase their work...
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The Impact of Climate Change on Property Investing and Development
In this episode we welcome Climate Scientist and DevelopHer, Dr Heather Stevens! Heather takes us into how climate change is shaping property investment and development, with a focus on fire and flood risks. She points out how crucial it is to factor in these risks when purchasing or developing...
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Landscape Synergy: How Strong Relationships Lead to Great Design
In this episode, Rebeka and Josh Arkey of JALA Studio dive into the world of landscape architecture, focusing on how important it is for designers and clients to build strong relationships. They break down the differences between landscape architects and designers, talk about why it’s so crucial…
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Navigating the Complexities of Volume Building
In this episode, we speak with Kerri-Ann Hooper from Carnelian Projects, a builder in the Hunter Valley, who shares her insights on the journey of volume building and the considerations required for knockdown-rebuilds. She talks about how crucial it is to really understand the full cost of a new...
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The Importance of Doing the Research and the Work
In this episode, Rebeka highlights the importance of doing your homework when it comes to building and renovating and how understanding the process can help you make smart, cost-effective decisions. She encourages listeners to push past their fears and take advantage of the current market in...
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Napoleon House: Site Considerations and the Impact of Intentional Design Choices
In this episode, we chat with DevelopHer Taeler Jordan of FTLO Design about her latest project, an Eltham renovation and extension named Napoleon House. We cover the importance of considering the orientation and site implications when choosing a property. She also explains how she dealt with the...
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Mixing Old and New: Creating a Personalised Aesthetic with Kelly Thompson
In this episode, we chat with Kelly Thompson - a multi-disciplinary artist, designer and stylist about her approach to interior styling and curating spaces. She covers her niche of mixing old and new, and handcrafted pieces to create a unique and personalised aesthetic. Kelly shares her process…
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Manifest House Insights: Saving Time and Money in the Structure so you can spend on the finishes
In this episode, Rebeka discusses the Jessie Street project, a joint venture for building a large family home. She explains how they have streamlined the construction process to maximize efficiency and minimize costs. Rebeka highlights examples such as using a waffle slab instead of a raft slab…
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Interior Design: Creating Beautiful Homes on a Budget with Shah de Saxe
It's easy to design whatever you want - as long as you’ve got no budget! While some homeowners have the luxury of seeing every detail of their vision come to life, most of us will need to make compromises to align with our financial parameters. Today, I’m joined by Shah de Saxe, an incredible...
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