The HODCAST - Building Conversations

Season One Finale.In this episode of The Hodcast, Sam La Roche sits down with Tyler Butt — a fast-rising entrepreneur with over 4 million followers across Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.But this conversation isn’t about social media.It’s about something far more important:Why everyday life feels harder than it should.From building a brand at a young age to helping millions simplify their routines, Tyler has built his platform around one core idea:Simple systems beat motivation every time.In this episode, we explore:• Why people struggle with something as basic as feeding themselves • The hidden reasons behind overwhelm and inconsistency • How to remove decision fatigue from your day • What it takes to build something from nothing • And how small daily habits shape your entire lifePractical, honest, and immediately useful.The biggest guest.The biggest conversation.The perfect way to close Season One. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people don’t choose their life. They inherit it.In this episode of The Hodcast, Sam La Roche sits down with Will Polston to explore why so many people feel stuck, even when they’re doing everything “right”.From identity and belief systems to high performance and burnout, this conversation goes beyond typical self-development advice and asks a harder question:Are you building a life that’s truly yours?A powerful episode on clarity, alignment, and what it really takes to change direction.Find Will at https://www.willpolston.com/Buy his best selling book at https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1781337284 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when kindness becomes a professional standard, not just a personal choice?In Conversation 50 of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Carmel Saulbrey, Founder of The Kindness Code, shares her experience leading therapeutic children’s homes and working with young people who have experienced trauma.This is a conversation about courage, leadership and what it really takes to support people in the most challenging circumstances.We discuss • Building resilience through difficult experiences • What trauma looks like in young people • The role of kindness in leadership • Why traditional leadership models often fall short • Creating The Kindness Code training platform • How systems and culture can be reshaped through trainingA powerful and thought provoking conversation about people, care and the impact we leave behind.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #CarmelSaulbrey #Kindness #Leadership #TraumaInformedCare #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to take real pride in your work?In Conversation 49 of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Timmy Mercer, Hod carrier for over 4 decades, shares his experience as a hod carrier and what it means to build a reputation through consistency, discipline and graft, Hard Graft!This episode explores the value of roles that are often overlooked and the people who quietly set the standard on site.We discuss • The role of a hod carrier and why it matters • Reliability, standards and work ethic • What separates good from great on site • The identity of the working man • How construction culture is changing • Pride, reputation and long term meaning in workA grounded and powerful conversation about doing things properly and building a life through honest work.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #TimmyMercer #Construction #WorkEthic #Brickwork #Leadership #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to design a life you can actually live?In this episode of The Hodcast, Patrick Whitlock sits down with Sam La Roche to talk about his journey as a bricklayer, trainer, father and gay man working in construction.For years Patrick felt he had to hide a part of himself in order to fit into the culture of building sites. In this conversation he reflects on the pressure that creates and what happens when someone finally decides to stop living a life that only feels manageable.We discuss • Construction culture and mental health • The experience of being a gay bricklayer • The emotional cost of hiding identity • Career pressure and overcompensating • Redesigning life to align with who you really are • What psychological safety on site should look likeA thoughtful and deeply human conversation about identity, courage and building a life that actually fits.Hosted by Sam La RocheSponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #PatrickWhitlock #ConstructionCulture #MentalHealth #Brickwork #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How much do you really know about the bricks around you?In Conversation 47 of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Max McClean of Camtech Building Products Ltd and Marc van Rijn of Caprice Baksteen share the story behind one of the most important materials in construction.From sourcing clay in the rivers of the Netherlands to producing bricks at incredible scale, this episode explores the craft, engineering and tradition behind high quality brickmaking.We discuss • The origin of the clay used in premium bricks • The scale of modern brick production • Why Caprice Baksteen bricks are known for quality • The relationship between manufacturers and bricklayers • The future of brickwork in constructionA fascinating conversation for anyone interested in how buildings are truly made.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #Brickmaking #Brickwork #ConstructionIndustry #CapriceBaksteen #Camtech #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do we genuinely prepare students with special educational needs for the workplace?In this episode of The Hodcast, Michelle Belsey, Careers Curriculum Lead and Teacher at Castledon School Academy Trust, joins Sam La Roche for one of the most uplifting conversations we have had.Michelle works directly with students with special educational needs, building confidence, employability skills and real world readiness. This is not about theory. It is about practical integration and long term opportunity.We explore • Supporting SEN students into meaningful employment • Building confidence and independence • What inclusive workplaces actually look like • How employers can integrate diverse needs successfully • The difference between token diversity and true inclusion • Why some of the most overlooked students can become incredible employeesThis episode is about unlocking potential, widening opportunity and redefining what success looks like.If you care about education, leadership, inclusion or the future workforce, this conversation will resonate.Hosted by Sam La RocheSponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #MichelleBelsey #SEN #SpecialEducationalNeeds #WorkplaceInclusion #Education #Diversity #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to start building a serious business at 20 years old?In Conversation 45 of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Naud Van Rijn shares his journey from passion for combat sports to founding Capra Core, a performance focused combat sports brand.We discuss • The discipline martial arts builds • Starting a company at a young age • Building identity through sport • Leadership and responsibility early in life • Why mindset matters more than ageA grounded conversation about youth, ambition and creating something that reflects who you are.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry StainesBuy Capra Core apparel at www.capracore.com#TheHodcast #NaudVanRijn #CapraCore #YoungEntrepreneur #CombatSports #Mindset #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There was a time when culture was built in rooms, not feeds.Before everything became content.Stu Whiffen joins Sam La Roche to reflect on representing a generation of cultural operators who worked before social media shaped how we create, share and consume.Stu’s journey spans musician, club promoter, promoter at The Pink Toothbrush in Rayleigh, founder of Pod Bible, host of Off The Beat & Track, and his work with Explore Modular.He has helped shape music scenes, podcast culture and now operates within modern construction. Few people move between worlds like that while keeping credibility intact.We talk about• Stu's Early life• The rise of podcast culture and founding Pod Bible• Running grassroots venues in a changing world• How famous people are just ordinary people put on pedestals• The difference between attention and authenticity• Why some people build platforms while others chase themThis is a conversation about longevity, identity and doing the work before anyone is watching.Hosted by Sam La RocheSponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #StuWhiffen #PodBible #ExploreModular #MusicCulture #Podcasting #Leadership #togetherwecanFind Stu in all these places and more!https://podbiblemag.comThe MMA Fanshow Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/5eIcTOTNLtoKP3xmZlRU21?si=75132efb72e74ef9Off the Beat and Track - https://shows.acast.com/offthebeatandtrackHardcore Listings Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/2KYr2UbR0VucEUlMD95NpD?si=dd24c21799ca46eb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why does social media feel more hostile, divided, and polarised than ever?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Charles Arthur explores how social media platforms shape behaviour and why division is not an accident, but a by product of how these systems are designed.Charles Arthur is an experienced journalist and author, best known for his work covering technology and its impact on society. As the former technology editor at The Guardian and the author of Social Warming, he brings a rare combination of technical understanding and social insight.We discuss• How social media platforms reward outrage and conflict• Why nuance struggles to survive online• The psychological effects of algorithm driven content• What Social Warming reveals about our digital habits• How awareness can reduce the pull of tribal thinkingThis is a calm, thoughtful conversation for anyone who wants to better understand the forces shaping online behaviour and public debate.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #CharlesArthur #SocialWarming #SocialMedia #Technology #Polarisation #DigitalWellbeing #TogetherWeCanBuy Charles' Book Social Warming - https://amzn.eu/d/0aM2i0lIRead Charles' Blog The Overspill - https://theoverspill.blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can lessons from motorsport improve the way we build?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, George Blundell, Managing Director of Explore Modular, shares how racing shaped his thinking around precision, preparation and performance.We talk about• Why by working together we achieve more• Parallels between motorsport and modular construction• Leadership under pressure• What construction can learn from high performance industriesA grounded conversation about quality, consistency and the future of building.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #GeorgeBlundell #ExploreModular #MMC #ModularConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Hodcast, I am joined by Clare Friel, Managing Director of Friel Marketing, for a wide-ranging conversation about marketing, AI, leadership, and legacy in a digital and construction-led world.We talk about how people and businesses really behave online, not how they intend to. Clare shares her perspective on authenticity without virtue signalling, how leaders should decide when to speak publicly and when to stay quiet, and why clarity and standards matter more than ever as AI reshapes how work is done.We also explore women in construction and leadership. What is still misunderstood, the pressure that comes with visibility, and why real cultural change only happens when behaviour changes, not when policies are written.The conversation then moves into performance and growth. How do you define high performance when metrics are easy to track but meaning is harder to measure? How do you balance pace with depth in a world that rewards immediacy? And what responsibility comes with having a voice when digital footprints last far longer than intentions?We close by stepping back from careers and platforms to ask the deeper question. When titles and metrics are stripped away, what does a good life actually look like, and what is non-negotiable if you want to avoid the regrets of the living?The Hodcast is a podcast about the work of becoming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is construction overlooking one of the most skilled and disciplined talent pools available?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Will Draper, founder of Military to Masonry, explains why ex military personnel are ideally suited to construction and how better pathways could transform both the industry and the lives of service leavers.We talk about• The transferable skills veterans bring to construction• The realities of transitioning out of the military• How Military to Masonry creates clear routes into the trade• What construction employers need to understand• Why purpose, structure and teamwork matter after serviceA thoughtful and practical conversation about recruitment, responsibility and building a workforce that values experience and character.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #WillDraper #MilitaryToMasonry #Veterans #ConstructionCareers #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exclusive for Hodcast listeners!www.authenticbrew.com Our listeners gets a 10% discount throughout January if they use ‘AR10’ at checkout!For more from Andy Ramage go to the links below!www.andyramage.comwww.coachbusiness.schoolWhat if high performance is not about doing more, but removing what is holding you back?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Andy Ramage shares how taking a break from alcohol can improve sleep, clarity, relationships and overall performance in everyday life.This is not about perfection or elite sport. It is about practical changes that help normal people feel better, think clearer and live with more intention.We explore• The benefits of taking a break from alcohol• Why sleep is the foundation of performance• How alcohol affects stress, mood and decision making• The connection between wellbeing and family life• How to build sustainable habits that actually lastA thoughtful and accessible conversation for anyone curious about improving their health, focus and quality of life.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #AndyRamage #AlcoholFree #Wellbeing #Sleep #Performance #Lifestyle #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you move from running a business to shaping an industry?In the first episode of the new year, Sam La Roche sits down with Garry Staines to reflect on the progress made since his last appearance on The Hodcast and how new initiatives have reshaped his approach to leadership, training and influence.Garry shares insight into• Building Site Ready Solutions and new training pathways• The importance of mentoring and long term thinking• What it means to become a person of influence• How leadership evolves as responsibility grows• Why real change requires action, not opinionThis conversation sets the tone for the year ahead. Practical, reflective and focused on creating lasting impact.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #GarryStaines #ConstructionLeadership #Training #Mentoring #Influence #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special episode of The Hodcast brings together some of the most powerful moments from conversations recorded throughout 2025.Hosted by Sam La Roche, this highlights episode features clips from• Charlie Collison• Cllr Jessica Power• Lee Marley• Richard "Greeny" Green• Bob NosedaTogether, these voices reflect the themes that shaped the year. Training, leadership, skills, regeneration, resilience and the future of construction.Whether you are listening for the first time or returning to revisit the moments that stood out, this episode captures why honest conversation still matters.A reflection on a year of conversations worth having.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #ConstructionPodcast #Leadership #Training #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What actually keeps young people engaged in training and work, and why do so many systems fail them?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Martyn Price MBE shares his experience of building employability and training models that focus on people first, not just outcomes.We talk about• Why dropout rates remain high• The role of relationships in employability• What makes pre employment programmes effective• How industry and training providers can work together• What leaders need to change if they want better resultsA grounded and insightful conversation about creating pathways that work for young people and the industries that need them.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #MartynPriceMBE #Employability #SkillsGap #ConstructionCareers #YouthDevelopment #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rupert Bates joins Sam La Roche to discuss the future of house building in the UK, what leaders are really talking about, and how media, industry and education must align to inspire the next generation.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TogetherWeCanShow House Media - https://www.showhouse.co.uk/WhatHouse? Awards - https://www.whathouse.com/awards/BBQ Magazine - https://www.thebbqmag.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is construction struggling to attract young people, and what do we need to change to fix it?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Dan Edwards, Founder of Constructed Pathways, shares what he has learned from working directly with young people, schools and industry leaders.We discuss📉 Why many young people do not see construction as a real opportunity🎓 How education and industry have lost connection👷 What employers can do to attract and retain new talent🧱 How Constructed Pathways is helping rebuild the talent pipeline🌍 What it will take to close the skills gap for goodA practical and honest conversation for educators, employers and anyone invested in the future of the construction sector.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #DanEdwards #ConstructedPathways #SkillsGap #Education #ConstructionCareers #Apprenticeships #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you attract people who are not ready to buy, commit or make a decision?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Jill Willis, Founder of Attract & Engage, explains why the answer lies in stronger storytelling, better communication and a clearer understanding of the 95 percent who are not yet ready to take action.We talk about:📰 The influence of her journalism background🏗️ What construction can learn from consumer brands🎓 The value of connecting businesses, schools and communities📣 How to market construction to the next generation👷 What needs to change to close the skills gapA thought provoking conversation for leaders, educators and anyone shaping the future of the industry.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #JillWillis #ConstructionMarketing #Storytelling #SkillsGap #FutureWorkforce #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when someone hits rock bottom and chooses to climb their way back up?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Logan Price, Degree Apprentice, Mental Health Ambassador and advocate for innovation and sustainability in construction, opens up about his journey through mental health struggles and recovery.We explore:How he faced suicidal thoughts and rebuilt his mindsetHis climb of Mont Blanc to heal and raise awareness for mental healthThe role construction played in finding purpose and belongingHow AI, sustainability and young people can change the future of the industryA powerful conversation about resilience, hope and finding purpose through pain.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #LoganPrice #MentalHealth #SuicideAwareness #Construction #Inspiration #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Sam La Roche talks with Mark Imray about the real state of UK construction. Mark started as an apprentice and worked his way up to construction director and beyond, giving him a lifetime of insight into how the industry works. They explore what the sector needs in 2025, why mentoring matters, what apprentices are facing on site and how strong leaders can shape the future.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is the construction industry struggling to attract and keep people, and what can we do to fix it?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Andy Stevens, founder of The Build Network UK, talks openly about the challenges that are stopping people from joining the industry and what needs to change.We cover:👷 The barriers to bringing new people into construction💬 When and how recruitment should really begin📉 The lack of oversight and accountability in the sector🏗️ Why collaboration and communication are key to real changeThis is an honest conversation about the future of construction and the people trying to make it better.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #AndyStevens #BuildNetworkUK #Construction #Recruitment #SkillsGap #Leadership #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can failure be the foundation for future success?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Nick Brasier, Construction Director at Stonebond, shares how the lessons learned through failure have shaped his leadership and approach to building teams in construction.We talk about:👷 How challenges and setbacks became turning points💬 Why good leaders learn more from mistakes than victories🏗️ How experience and reflection create better outcomes on site🌍 Why resilience and humility are key to long-term successA powerful and honest conversation about leadership, learning and the value of failure in building better people and projects.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #NickBrasier #Stonebond #Construction #Leadership #Failure #Success #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does true regeneration look like beyond the headlines?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Darren Rodwell, former Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, shares his perspective on leadership, housing, and creating opportunity in one of London’s most ambitious boroughs.We talk about:🏙️ The real challenges of regeneration and renewal💬 Balancing housing growth with community needs👷 Why construction and councils must work together🌍 What it takes to deliver lasting change for local peopleAn honest and inspiring look at leadership, regeneration and the future of local communities.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #DarrenRodwell #BarkingAndDagenham #Leadership #Regeneration #Housing #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does the construction industry really need to attract more people?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Christian Hatherall-Good of The Lee Marley Group shares his insight on the power of training, what draws people into the trade, and why investment is the key to solving the skills gap.We talk about:👷 The role of training in shaping the workforce💬 What motivates people to join construction📈 Why investment is the missing piece in the puzzle🌍 How the industry can build a more sustainable futureA grounded and forward-thinking conversation about people, opportunity and progress.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #ChristianHatherallGood #Construction #Training #Investment #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s it like starting out as a young woman in one of the most male-dominated industries in the world?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Tegan Pryor, NVQ Level 2 Bricklayer at GSQ Brickwork Ltd, shares her journey from apprentice to fully qualified bricklayer.We explore:👷 Her experiences on site as a woman in construction🧱 The importance of training, mentorship and support💬 The influence of social media and representation📈 What it means to earn respect through skill and attitudeA raw and honest conversation about training, resilience and challenging perceptions in construction.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #TeganPryor #WomenInConstruction #Bricklaying #Apprenticeships #Training #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When a life-changing accident forces you to stop, you see the industry differently.In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Justin Manley talks about his journey in construction, the accident that changed everything, and how it shaped his views on training, mentorship and the skills gap.We talk about:👷 Lessons learned from recovery and resilience💬 The culture of safety and care on construction sites🏗️ How training and mentoring can prevent future accidents📉 Why the skills gap is a people problem before it is a numbers oneAn honest, grounded conversation about growth, purpose and what it means to truly build people.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #JustinManley #Construction #SkillsGap #Resilience #Training #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do we give apprentices the tools, patience and guidance they need to succeed in construction?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Bill Guiver, Training Manager at GSQ Brickwork Ltd and an integral part of Site Ready Solutions, shares his journey from apprentice to trainer and what he has learned across three decades in the trade.Bill talks about:🧱 His earliest memories of bricklaying👷 The changes in training from the 1980s to today📉 The construction skills gap and how to bridge it💬 Why apprentices need patience and understanding to grow into valueThis is a grounded, practical conversation about what training really looks like on the ground.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #BillGuiver #Bricklaying #ConstructionTraining #Apprenticeships #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apprenticeships are the foundation of construction, but are we giving them the respect and support they deserve?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Dan Carey, Director of Core4 and host of Hard Hat Chat, shares his insights on:👷 Why apprentices matter now more than ever🧱 The culture of construction and life on site📉 The impact of the skills shortage on the industry🏗️ What construction needs to do to secure its futurePacked with straight-talking insights from one of the industry’s most passionate voices, this conversation is for anyone who cares about the future of construction.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #DanCarey #Core4 #HardHatChat #Construction #Apprenticeships #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does social value mean beyond the paperwork?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Helen Clements, Social Value Lead at Morgan Sindall, talks about what it looks like in practice on building sites.We cover:👷 The reality that 85% of construction is still men💬 Why diversity matters for stronger teams and communities🏗️ How to deliver social value that makes a lasting difference🌍 What the future of construction could look like with greater inclusionThis is about people, purpose and building an industry that serves everyone.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #HelenClements #Construction #SocialValue #DiversityInConstruction #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What can industry and education learn from each other?In Part 2 of The Hodcast with Jack Dawson, Co-Founder of SuperTrowel and Programme Manager at Hertford Regional College, host Sam La Roche dives into his story.Jack shares his journey into bricklaying, why he chose to teach, and his thoughts on how to bring colleges and the construction industry closer together.This is about building skills, passing on knowledge, and giving apprentices the best possible start in the trade.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #JackDawson #Construction #Education #SkillsGap #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The SuperTrowel 2025 final caused more noise than any competition before it. Now, Jack Dawson, Co-Founder of SuperTrowel, joins The Hodcast with host Sam La Roche to share his side of the story.In this conversation we cover:🔥 How SuperTrowel became the most talked-about competition in the trade💬 The truth about the 2025 final and the controversy surrounding it👷 What comes next for bricklaying competitions and apprentices in the UKIf you have seen the headlines or the comments online, this is the full story behind them.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #SuperTrowel #JackDawson #Bricklaying #Construction #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to regeneration, who should take the lead in building Basildon?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Cllr Jessica Power, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Jobs and Skills and Social Value Manager for Skanska, talks about her belief that regeneration must start with the community itself.She shares what “Basildon, building Basildon” really means, why social value matters, and how change can be lasting when local people are the ones building it.This is a story of service, community, and leadership rooted in place.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#TheHodcast #JessicaPower #Basildon #Community #Regeneration #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When the numbers grow but the meaning fades — what’s left?In this episode of The Hodcast, hosted by Sam La Roche, Justin Walton opens up about his journey from financial success to finding deeper fulfilment. We talk about money, mindset, and why purpose matters more than profit.If you’ve ever asked yourself “What’s all this for?” — this conversation is for you.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From rural Spain to the streets of Basildon — Jenny Ibarra has made service her mission.In this heartfelt episode of The HODCAST, Jenny opens up about her journey into community work, her role at Signpost Basildon, and the real stories behind the systems we don’t often see.This is about more than support services, it’s about human connection, trust, and the quiet heroes who fight for people when nobody’s watching.🎙️ Hosted by Sam La RocheSponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#JennyIbarra #Basildon #SignpostBasildon #TheHodcast #CommunityLeadership #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Murphy is the definition of resilience.From a disciplined start in the military to building one of the UK’s best bricklaying subcontractors, Steve’s story took an unexpected turn with a devastating cancer diagnosis and the collapse of his business.In this episode of The HODCAST, hosted by Sam La Roche, Steve shares how he kept going, what cancer taught him, and how laughter and loyalty kept him afloat when life got dark.Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions and Grayson GB LtdPowered by Garry Staines#SteveMurphy #TheHodcast #ConstructionLeadership #MentalHealthInConstruction #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to build a truly inclusive community?In this episode of The HODCAST, host Sam La Roche speaks with Miriam Chalkley, founder of FLEX Community, about how her personal experiences of exclusion inspired her to create space for others.Together, they explore:🔹 The difference between being included and truly belonging🔹 Why inclusion starts with listening🔹 How FLEX is creating lasting change across workplaces and communitiesA must-listen for leaders, changemakers, and anyone passionate about building a better, more welcoming future.#TogetherWeCan | Powered by Grayson (GB) Ltd and Site Ready Solutions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perry Blake was written off — until he picked up the pen and rewrote his story.After a childhood marked by trauma and time behind bars, Perry could’ve given up. Instead, he built the 21up Movement, mentoring young people through music, mindset, and real-life experience.In this deeply personal Hodcast conversation, Perry opens up about the road he took — and why he’s so committed to helping others avoid it.🎙 Hosted by Sam La Roche🔊 Sponsored by Site Ready Solutions & Grayson GB Ltd🗓 New episodes every Tuesday at 6AM#TheHodcast #PerryBlake #21upMovement #TogetherWeCan #MentorshipMatters #RedemptionStory #YouthEmpowerment #PodcastUK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Loren Janes isn’t just an educator , she’s a builder of second chances.In this emotional and inspiring episode of The Hodcast, Loren opens up about founding Changing Futures, why she had to write her own learning materials, and how leading with heart can break cycles that textbooks never will.This is a conversation about purpose, perseverance, and rewriting what’s possible.🎙 Hosted by Sam La Roche📅 New episodes every Tuesday#TheHodcast #LorenJanes #ConversationsWorthHaving #ChangingFutures #TogetherWeCan #LeadershipWithHeart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lee Marley went from apprentice to founder of one of the UK’s biggest brickwork companies — a business now worth over £100 million.In this episode of The Hodcast, he shares the story behind that growth, and why people, passion, and purpose are just as important as profit.For anyone chasing long-term success — this conversation delivers.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Greeny is a legend in the world of bricklaying — but what sets him apart isn’t just his skill.It’s how much he cares.In this episode of The Hodcast, Greeny opens up about why he still loves the job, why training the next generation matters so much, and how bricklaying became more than a career — it became his purpose.This one’s full of heart, honesty, and straight-up wisdom.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Thorp has trained, assessed, and inspired thousands of bricklayers — and in this episode of The Hodcast, he opens up like never before.Now retired from FE and working as an End Point Assessor for City & Guilds, Charlie shares his view on what’s working, what’s broken, and how we make sure the next generation of apprentices get the training — and belief — they deserve.We cover:– His journey from lecturer to assessor– The problem with “just passing people”– The role of mentorship in modern apprenticeships– The future of the bricklaying trade in the UKThis is a story of standards, structure, and giving people a chance to succeed the right way.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Collinson, MD of Design Spec, believes architecture has lost its way — and it’s time to rebuild from the ground up.In this episode of The Hodcast, James opens up about what’s broken in the design process, how better collaboration could transform construction, and how mergers and acquisitions can actually help the older generation pass on their businesses, skills, and knowledge to the next.We talk about:– The design-build disconnect– Collaboration between trades and architects– Creating buildings that serve people, not just policy– Legacy through smart business transitions– What leadership in construction really looks likeIf you're thinking about the future of the industry — this is the conversation.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From design failures to leadership flaws, this conversation gets to the root of what’s really going wrong — and what we can do about it.👀 Get a sneak peek of what’s coming.📅 Full episode drops Tuesday 17th June at 6AM.#TheHodcast #SpotifyPodcast #JamesCollinson #ArchitectureTruths #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #PodcastTrailer #ConversationsWorthHaving #TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lee Fuller’s journey is one of the most powerful we’ve heard on The Hodcast.From addiction and courtrooms to life on-site and eventually running his own media business, Lee shares what it really takes to turn your life around — and why he’s now helping others do the same.We talk about fatherhood, failure, second chances, and building a brand from the ground up.If you’ve ever felt stuck — this is the episode you need.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bob Noseda has spent decades shaping the UK’s construction training landscape — but in this episode, he opens up like never before.We talk honestly about:– Why full-time college courses are failing learners– The power of hands-on, site-based experience– What’s broken in the current system — and how we fix it– The urgent need for collaboration between education and industryBob’s message is clear: if we want better outcomes for young people, we need to rebuild the system from the ground up.This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in training, education, construction — or anyone who believes in building a better future.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s a crisis unfolding in our classrooms and workplaces — and it’s time we talked about it.In this episode of The Hodcast, Gary Stringer shares his powerful perspective on why the education system is letting young people down, how mental health is being ignored, and why construction could be the answer to rebuilding futures.We cover:– The hidden struggles in schools– Why teachers are losing their passion– How the construction industry is offering new hope– And the critical mental health conversations we all need to haveIf you care about young people, leadership, and building a better future — this one’s for you.#TogetherWeCan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Varsha Patel is FA Essex Coach of the Year 2024 and founder of #GirlsCanBuild — a movement proving that girls can lead, build, and break barriers on and off the pitch.In this inspiring episode of The Hodcast, Varsha shares how she’s changing lives through grassroots football and construction, coaching under-10s girls with purpose and power.We talk about:– Coaching girls in football– Empowering future builders and leaders– Winning FA Coach of the Year– Creating real change in male-dominated spacesThis episode is for anyone passionate about youth empowerment, women in leadership, and the future of sport and construction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Hodcast, Terry Farnham pulls no punches.From sacrifices made to brutal lessons learned, Terry opens up about the harsh realities of working in construction — and what it really takes to keep going when times get tough.If you’ve ever been on site, managed a crew, or just wondered what the building game is really like behind the scenes, this is the episode for you.🎙️ New episodes every Tuesday at 6am. Follow The Hodcast for more honest conversations from inside the industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.