Shows
Thrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 67 ‘We’re Sitting on a Giant Thermal Battery’ – Karen Spenley Talks Ground Source Heat PumpsSend us a textThe UK’s untapped thermal battery and ground source heat pumps could transform sustainable heating and cooling for the future. In this episode of Thrive in Construction, Darren sits down with Karen Spenley, the UK Country Manager for Celsius Energy, to discuss the role of geothermal energy in the UK's energy transition. Karen dives into how shallow geothermal systems and ground source heat pumps can significantly reduce energy consumption, decarbonise heating and cooling, and create sustainable solutions for large-scale projects like schools, hospitals, and industrial facilities.Karen also shares insights on th...2025-05-0829 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 66 You Have a Teaspoon of Plastic in Your Brain – Here's How It Got ThereSend us a textIt may sound unbelievable, but this week we’re diving into the shocking reality that you could have a teaspoon of plastic in your brain at any given moment. In this episode of Thrive in Construction, Darren sits down with Chaline Church to explore the powerful connection between building materials and human health. Chaline, a passionate advocate for sustainable design, shares her journey from architecture to pioneering the use of Cradle to Cradle (C2C) certified materials in construction. They dive into the growing need for healthier, non-toxic materials in both commercial and re...2025-05-0130 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 65 28% of Materials Reused in a Real Estate Project: Ground-breaking Construction SustainabilitySend us a textTina Paillet is a leader in sustainable real estate and circular economy practices. In this insightful conversation on the Thrive in Construction Podcast, Tina shares her unique journey from studying architecture to founding a groundbreaking business focused on reusing building materials.Tina discusses her work in the construction and real estate industries, including how she is helping reshape the way we think about demolition and reuse through futures trading of construction materials. She also highlights a successful collaboration with British Land, where 28% of materials from a building strip-out were repurposed, setting...2025-04-2427 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 64 ‘There’s No Such Thing as Waste – Just Resources Waiting to Be Reused’ | What Is A Circular EconomySend us a textSustainability expert and architect Duncan Baker-Brown discusses innovative approaches to sustainable construction and the circular economy on this episode of the Thrive In Construction podcast. Duncan shares insights from his groundbreaking project, the Brighton Waste House, a teaching facility built using 55 tons of discarded materials, which not only meets passive house standards but also serves as a beacon for sustainable design. Duncan explores the impact of construction waste, which accounts for over 60% of the UK's total waste, and the urgent need to rethink how we use and reuse materials in the b...2025-04-1733 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 63 Passivhaus vs Standard Homes: The Hidden Health Benefits ExplainedSend us a textDiscover how Passivhaus is reshaping the standard of affordable housing in the UK and why it's more achievable than many think. In this episode of the Thrive in Construction Podcast, Darren sits down with Emma Osmunden, a trailblazer in sustainable housing, to explore her journey pioneering Passivhaus developments in the UK. With over 15 years of experience, Emma shares how she went from initial scepticism to leading the delivery of some of the country’s first certified Passivhaus social homes. Emma reveals the challenges she faced navigating local government, her creative strategies to...2025-04-1022 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 62 40% of the UK’s Carbon Emissions Come from Construction – Here’s How To Fix ItSend us a textHow to Tackle Greenwashing in Construction with Charlie Martin. In this episode of Thrive in Construction, Darren sits down with Charlie Martin, co-founder of The Responsible Edge podcast and a leading voice in sustainable marketing within the built environment.Charlie shares how organisations can avoid greenwashing through responsible storytelling and practical frameworks. From marketing clumsiness to courageous leadership, he dives deep into the realities of sustainability, green claims policies, and why authenticity matters more than ever in today's construction industry.Charlie also discusses the journey behind launching his podcast...2025-04-0329 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 61 "We Built a House in 7 Days - and It’s Made of Straw!" | Modular Construction ExplainedSend us a textIn this episode of the Thrive in Construction Podcast, we dive deep into the future of sustainable construction with Paul Lynch from EcoCocon - a company leading the charge in modular, bio-based building solutions using straw wall panels.Discover how modular construction is revolutionising the way we build homes — from two-day builds to large-scale developments like social housing and apartment blocks. Paul shares how EcoCocon’s prefabricated straw wall panels are not only fast and efficient but also commercially viable at scale.We explore how offsite construction, pre-assembly, and circ...2025-03-2726 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 60 Inside the Timber Roadmap: How the UK Plans to Build Better, Faster and GreenerSend us a textIn this episode of the Thrive in Construction podcast, Darren is joined by Andrew Carpenter to explore how timber construction can play a vital role in helping the UK achieve its Net Zero targets by 2050. Andrew is Secretary for the UK Government’s Timber in Construction Roadmap Implementation Programme and Chief Executive of the Structural Timber Association. He shares expert insights into why the construction industry must rethink its reliance on carbon-heavy materials like concrete and steel and shift towards more sustainable alternatives such as timber. He breaks down the environmental, eco...2025-03-2044 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 59 The Silent Killer: Why Air Quality Matters in Your Home and WorkplaceSend us a textIn this week's episode of Thrive in Construction, Darren is joined by Simon Jones, Air Quality expert. Together, they explore the long-term impact of air pollution, particularly how poor indoor air quality can affect our health, from hidden chemicals to mould. Simon shares his extensive knowledge on the subject, discussing how air pollution is often overlooked and its critical role in creating healthier environments, whether in homes, workplaces, or schools.They also dive into the importance of proper ventilation in the built environment, how we can improve air quality in spaces...2025-03-1355 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 58 Most People Get Leadership Wrong – Here’s What Actually Makes a Great LeaderSend us a textThis week Darren sits down with Stephen Shedletzky, leadership expert and author of Speak Up Culture, to uncover the essential qualities of great leaders, how to foster a culture of open communication, and why decisiveness, compassion, and confidence are must-have traits for leadership success. He also delves into lessons that can be taken from large corporations and utilised in your company to create an environment where employees thrive. Stephen Shedletzky is a leadership speaker, coach, and author of Speak Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up. He has previously w...2025-02-2758 min
Typecast: Boston's New Play PodcastS4E2 - Isabelle Fereshteh Sanatdar Stevens & Brandon ZangMFA Playwriting candidates Isabelle Fereshteh Sanatdar Stevens & Brandon Zang join host Darren Evans to discuss their plays "The Fig Tree and The Phoenix and The Desire to be Reborn" and "The Recursion of a Moth." The plays are being presented in a rep festival at Boston Playwrights' Theatre in February-March 2025.This episode's sponsor: The DeStalker.2025-02-2638 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 57 “Sustainability in Construction Starts with People” – Why Diversity is the Key to InnovationSend us a textWomen in construction sustainability: breaking barriers. In this episode of the Thrive in Construction podcast, Darren sits down with Rebecca Heald, a passionate advocate for women in leadership and sustainable practices within the construction industry. Rebecca shares her journey, the challenges she faced as a woman in leadership, and why diversity and inclusion are essential for a more innovative and sustainable future in construction.They discuss:✅ The barriers women face in construction and leadership roles✅ How inclusive leadership drives better decision-making✅ The link between sustainability and diversity in the in...2025-02-2054 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 56 Part 2 of 2: We’re Throwing Money Down the Drain!” How Wastewater Heat Recovery Saves Energy & CostsSend us a textHow Wastewater Heat Recovery Can Revolutionise Energy Efficiency in Homes & Buildings. Want to slash energy costs and improve sustainability in construction? In this episode of Thrive in Construction, Darren sits down with Cameron Loggenberg, Technical Manager at ShowerSave, to discuss how wastewater heat recovery technology is changing the game.As the UK construction industry pushes towards decarbonisation, innovative solutions like this reduce energy consumption, cut costs, and make homes more affordable to run. Whether you're an architect, developer, or homeowner, this episode is packed with actionable insights!🔥 What you'll lea...2025-02-1318 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 55 Part 1 of 2 - How to Slash Your Energy Bills with Waste Water RecoverySend us a textHow waste water heat recovery can save you thousands! In this episode of Thrive in Construction, Darren sits down with Cameron Loggenberg, Technical Manager at ShowerSave, to discuss the game-changing benefits of waste water heat recovery.Cameron explains how this innovative technology can help the average household save between £200 and £300 per year on energy bills. He also dives into how waste water recovery aligns with the Future Homes Standard and integrates with other energy-saving measures like heat pumps.For those working on larger projects, Cameron shares real-world examples of ho...2025-02-0621 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 54 The Secret to Cutting Costs and Reducing Waste in Construction—Tech’s Role in the FutureSend us a textRevolutionising Construction with Technology & AIThis week on Thrive in Construction, we uncover how cutting-edge technology and AI are transforming the construction industry, solving age-old challenges, and paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future. Our guest, Chun Qing Li, shares his journey of developing innovative solutions like Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA), advanced 3D modeling, and digital twins to streamline workflows, reduce waste, and enhance transparency.💡 Key topics include:How AI and technology are bridging the gap between architects, engineers, and contractors.The power of...2025-01-3039 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 53 The Silent Risks in Construction: Are Our Buildings Safe Enough?Send us a textIn this compelling episode of Thrive in Construction, Darren sits down with Neil Weeks, CEO of ARC Building Solutions, to tackle one of the most critical issues facing the industry today: fire safety in construction. ARC specialises in cavity fire barriers and cavity closers, making Neil a leading voice on the subject. Together, they explore the devastating impacts of fires, not only on structures but also on entire communities and the construction sector as a whole. Reflecting on tragedies like Grenfell, Neil and Darren discuss the evolution of fire safety measures and the...2025-01-2347 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 52 The Truth About Sustainability: What The Industry Won't Tell You - Martin Reveals AllSend us a textJoin us this week on Thrive in Construction as Darren sits down to discuss the future of construction with Martin Hurn, the Event Director of Futurebuild. In this insightful episode, Martin shares his expertise on inspiring the next generation of construction professionals and provides invaluable tips on how to maximise your experience as an exhibitor at Futurebuild.Martin also discusses the rapidly evolving construction industry and how it’s clear that a rebrand is essential to attract and engage the next generation. He dives deep into the need fo...2025-01-1646 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 51 Bricklaying Pays More Than You Think! Carl Harris Reveals Lucrative Career PathsSend us a textJoin us on this episode of Thrive in Construction as we sit down with Carl Harris, the Managing Director of Harris Brick Safety Systems and the visionary behind the award-winning 'Brick Bud.' Carl opens up about a harrowing on-site accident where a collapsing wall nearly cost him his life. He sheds light on the alarming underreporting of incidents in the construction industry and stresses the importance of safety protocols. Additionally, Carl offers invaluable insights into the lucrative opportunities in bricklaying, explaining how young professionals can enter the industry and potentially e...2025-01-0932 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 50 From Regulations to Sustainability: Construction Insights for 2025Send us a textGet ready for an exciting year ahead as we explore the future of construction on the Thrive in Construction podcast! 🚀 In this episode, we’ll be sharing the key topics you can look forward to in 2025, including:✅ Continuing Professional Development (CPD)✅ The latest in home energy models✅ Changes in construction regulations✅ Inspiring stories from incredible guests✅ Insights into sustainable goals✅ Perspectives from guests across the pond in America 🇺🇸Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the industry, this is your go-to podcast for staying...2025-01-0218 min
Building Design, Prime TimeE77. Bridging the gap between designers, clients and professionals during the design process with Darren Evans and Chris KnierimIn this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, were on location in Hobart for the Building Designers, Association of Australia Trade night as part of the annual national conference held for building designers. Featured is a discussion about one of the biggest challenges, bridging the knowledge gap among contractors and professionals. Join Amelia and Frank who invited special guests Chris Knierim the CEO of the Building Designers Association of Australia (BDAA) and Darren Evans the President of the BDAA. Darren and Chris into the importance of education and accountability in delivering better outcomes fo...2024-12-2728 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 48 What Is Embodied Carbon? The Key to Sustainable Construction ExplainedSend us a textIn this episode of Thrive in Construction, we dive deep into the world of embodied carbon and its critical role in transforming the construction industry. Join us as we speak with Mirko Farnetani, a leading sustainability expert, who shares his insights on what embodied carbon is and why it’s vital to the future of building design.Discover how embodied carbon impacts every stage of a building’s lifecycle—from manufacturing and transportation to construction, maintenance, and eventual demolition. Mirko highlights the importance of addressing these emissions to reduce the environmental impact...2024-12-1937 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 47 Why are construction projects getting stuck, and how can we fix them?Send us a textThis week on the Thrive in Construction podcast, we are joined by Jocelyn Bentum, who provides a wealth of insight into the construction industry. Jocelyn explores key challenges in construction projects, such as poor communication, lack of alignment, and inadequate planning, and shares practical strategies to address these issues effectively. She also highlights the importance of increasing diversity in the industry and the need for more minorities to play a vital role in shaping its future.Drawing from her experiences growing up in a Ghanaian family, Jocelyn reflects on balancing career...2024-12-1238 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 46 Why Storytelling Matters in Construction: Advice for Young ProfessionalsSend us a textThis week, Darren sits down with Liz Male, founder and Managing Director of LMC, a leading PR and communications consultancy for purpose-driven organisations in construction. Together, they dive into the power of captivating storytelling and its transformative potential for the construction industry. Liz explains how highlighting the stories behind projects can inspire a new generation of talent and change how we view the built environment.In this episode, Liz offers invaluable advice for young people looking to enter the construction workforce, sharing her belief that careers, much like life, aren’t al...2024-12-0552 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 45 From Urbanism to TikTok: Empowering Women in STEM Through LeadershipSend us a textThis week on Thrive in Construction, Darren sits down with Brogan MacDonald, an innovative engineer leading the way in integrating biodiversity into design. Together, they discuss the critical role of women in STEM and how platforms like TikTok can be used to highlight their achievements and inspire the next generation.Brogan shares insights into implementing elements of nature into urbanism and modern design, exploring how reusing materials can drive sustainability in construction. The conversation dives into the impact of government and local authority policies on combating urbanism and promoting greener, more...2024-11-281h 04Thrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 44 Becoming the 'Uber of Architecture': How Resi is Paving the Way for Sustainable Design!Send us a textOn this week’s episode of the Thrive in Construction podcast Darren sits down with Mark Hood, Director of Architecture at Resi, a pioneering online architectural firm with a vision to lead as the go-to marketplace for homeowners seeking sustainable architecture solutions.Mark shares insights into Resi’s commitment to sustainable design and company growth, explaining why sustainable architecture is not only beneficial for the environment but essential for long-term success in the industry. They delve into the real-world challenges architects face when working with local authorities to implement sustainable designs and...2024-11-2146 minThrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 43 Breaking Barriers: 'Women in Property' Chair on Succeeding in ConstructionSend us a textIn this episode of Thrive in Construction, we talk to Jennifer Winyard, National Chair of Women In Property and Barratt Redrow PLC. Women In Property is an organisation dedicated to supporting women in the built environment. With over 37 years of experience, Women in Property is committed to helping women break barriers, offering networking events, and mentoring young women aspiring to enter the industry.Jennifer shares essential advice for young women interested in a career in construction and property, discussing key attributes to develop and ways to highlight their skills. We dive...2024-11-1431 min
For All The Saints With Ben HancockThe Divine Process Of Calling A Latter-day Saint Stake President - Darren Evans | 63Darren Evans is the current Stake President of the Bristol, England Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Although this role is a regional leadership role, Darren's views and comments are his own and does not necessarily constitute the official comments of the Church.I wanted to speak to Darren about the process of being called as a Stake President and to help provide a peek behind the curtain of what this responsibility entails. We've all been there at Stake Conferences when this happens and it's exciting, you can feel the Spirit working in...2024-11-111h 07Thrive In Construction with Darren EvansEp. 42 Starting a Business as a Mum in Construction: Real Talk with NaomiSend us a textIn this episode of Thrive in Construction, host Darren welcomes Naomi Thrower to discuss how living sustainably can impact both personal and professional life. Naomi shares insights on building a more authentic business, balancing work, life, and motherhood, and how organisations can better support women in the construction industry.Naomi also highlights the benefits and challenges of freelancing and starting a business as a mother, offering tips on finding purpose and staying true to one's values. Plus, she debunks the myth that individuals are powerless to drive change and...2024-11-0748 min