The Christmas break is one of the only times builders get real space to think.

Sites slow down. Phones quieten. And for a brief moment, you can step back from the day-to-day and look at how your business actually runs.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, we sit down with ScaleUp Smart to unpack the DAD Framework — Delete, Automate, Delegate — a simple, practical way for builders to reduce overload, protect margin, and set their business up better for the year ahead.

We talk through:

• Why most builders feel busy all year but still feel stuck
• Why deleting work comes before hiring or outsourcing
• What should be automated before adding people
• How to delegate properly without creating more stress
• The BOD model (Building, Operational, Day-to-Day) to decide what stays local and what can be supported offshore

This isn’t about working harder next year.

It’s about using the Christmas break to gain clarity, remove friction, and come back in January knowing exactly where your time creates the most value.

A practical episode for builders who want to build a better business — not just a busier one.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron sits down with Phil from GJ Gardner Homes Brisbane North to unpack a real construction journey — from starting an apprenticeship in 2008 to becoming a franchise owner alongside business partner Chris McNeil.

Phil shares how a strong sporting background shaped his discipline as a builder, why customer experience matters more than perfect builds, and how trust, transparency, and leadership underpin long-term success in construction. The conversation covers partnerships, franchise life, acreage building trends in Brisbane’s outer north, and the small one-percent decisions that separate average builders from great ones.

This is an honest, grounded discussion about what it really takes to build a sustainable business, earn five-star reviews, and leave a lasting reputation in the industry.

If you’re a builder, apprentice, or business owner wondering what “good” actually looks like in practice — this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Good Builder Podcast, Aaron continues the conversation with Phil from GJ Gardner Homes Brisbane North, diving deeper into what it takes to build a strong, sustainable building business — not just great homes.

Phil opens up about partnership dynamics with co-owner Chris McNeil, how clear roles and trust underpin their success, and why customer experience has become the backbone of their operation. From slab parties and transparent leadership to handling mistakes with compassion, this episode lays out what five-star building businesses actually do differently.

The discussion also explores acreage building trends across Brisbane’s outer north, knockdown rebuild demand, franchise life, and why builders who focus on people — clients, staff, and partners — consistently outperform those who don’t.

If you want a practical blueprint for building trust, strong partnerships, and a reputation that lasts, this episode is worth your time