• How a $200K Mistake Changed My Approach to Building Homes Forever
    Oct 10 2025

    In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson shares the story of the home that nearly broke his business — and the mental health lessons every builder and homeowner can learn from it. Curtis breaks down the hidden costs of poor systems, “slippage,” and burnout in construction, then outlines five transformative steps: preconstruction agreements, transparency, strong processes, communication, and empathy. Whether you’re a builder, architect, or homeowner, this episode offers real-world insights to protect your profits and your peace of mind.

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    43 mins
  • Burnout vs. Anxiety: Why Builders and Homeowners Share the Same Stress
    Sep 26 2025

    In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson unpacks the hidden costs of construction that no budget accounts for: stress, burnout, and anxiety. Curtis explores how builders face unreliable trades, constant financial pressure, and client demands—while homeowners ride an emotional roller coaster from excitement to regret. These challenges aren’t separate—they’re two sides of the same coin. If you’re a builder, architect, or homeowner, this episode shines a light on why projects derail and why trust often breaks down. Tune in as Curtis sets the stage for practical solutions in the next episode.

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    16 mins
  • How Detailed Plans Prevent Disputes Between Builders and Designers
    Sep 19 2025

    In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why “winging it” in construction is a recipe for disaster. Using a luxury fence in River Oaks, TX as an example, Curtis unpacks the hidden risks of vague plans, poor alignment, and lack of detail in design. He explains how homeowners, builders, and architects can prevent disputes, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure projects stay on track. From pre-construction planning to selecting the right builder, this episode delivers actionable insights for anyone in residential construction. Learn how details protect your project—and your reputation.

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    18 mins
  • Future-Proofing Homes: The Power of Universal Design
    Sep 12 2025

    In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Dan Bawden, owner of Legal Eagle Contractors and a nationally recognized expert in Universal Design. They explore how smart, adaptable design goes beyond ADA standards to create homes that work for everyone—today and in the future. From zero-step entries and intuitive kitchens to safe, stylish bathrooms and elevator-ready layouts, Dan shares practical tips that add value, safety, and beauty to any project. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or designer, this episode will change how you think about remodeling and new construction.

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • How Sticking to Your Process Builds Trust (Even Without Winning the Job)
    Sep 5 2025

    In this short but powerful episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a real-world lesson every builder, architect, and designer needs to hear: “stick to your process and win more projects”. In this episode, Curtis shares how his process saved a client from making a costly mistake. From bid comparisons to educating homeowners on scope and budget, this episode shows how consistency builds trust and credibility. Whether you’re a builder or design professional, these insights will help you win better clients and avoid painful missteps.

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    12 mins
  • How Architects and Builders Can Stand Out in a Crowded Market
    Aug 29 2025

    In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Brinn Miracle, owner of Architangent, to explore the intersection of branding, architecture, and design. Brinn shares how the “Why of Design” helps business owners and design professionals uncover their deeper purpose, clarify their niche, and create spaces that tell authentic stories. From connecting emotionally with clients to building long-term brand equity, this conversation is packed with insights for builders, architects, and designers looking to differentiate themselves and attract the right clients. Discover why branding must come before design.

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    46 mins
  • The Real Cost of Free Bids: Why Builders Should Get Paid for Preconstruction
    Aug 22 2025

    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 projects. If you’re a builder, remodeler, architect, or homeowner looking to avoid budget blowouts and create smoother projects, this episode is packed with insights you can’t afford to miss.

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    44 mins
  • I Lost a $3M Project — Here’s Why
    Aug 15 2025

    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 for builders, remodelers, and business leaders looking to protect profit and reputation in high-stakes projects.

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    15 mins