Podcast · Business

The Build Show Podcast

by Matt Risinger · English · Business

Follow Matt Risinger on the Build Show Podcast as he discusses Building Science, Craftsmanship, & Best Practices for Building & Remodeling. Matt is a Builder who specializes in Architect Driven & Fine Craftsmanship Work.

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 38 min
Latest: 9 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026 · 36 min

Board Insulation Below Grade: Foam, Polyiso, and Mineral Wool

In part two of their insulation series on the Build Show podcast, Matt Risinger, Founder, The Build Show and Travis Brungardt dig into board insulation, with a focus on basements and foundations. They compare rigid foam, polyiso, and mineral wool boards, covering water management, vapor-open assemblies, and thermal continuity. The conversation weighs interior against exterior placement below grade, including pest pressure, inspection access, and drainage. They also cover insulating slabs, offsetting joints in multiple layers, and how compressibility and labor affect installation. Durability…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S7 · E5 · 2 Oct 2026 · 38 min
Fibrous Insulation Deep Dive
Matt Risinger sits down with builder Travis Brungardt on the Build Show podcast to dig into fibrous insulation, meaning any non-foam product that traps air between fibers. They start with fiberglass batts and blown-in loose fill, then move to cellulose and wood fiber, and they cover how installation quality and air movement affect real-world performance. The conversation looks at attics and walls, wind washing, settling, and the difference between rated and long-term R-value. They also touch on less common options like denim batts and blown-in blanket systems. The episode works as a…
S7 · E4 · 25 Sep 2026 · 30 min
What Matt Risinger & Jake Bruton Learned Building Their Own Homes
In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger and special guest Jake Bruton discuss lessons they’ve learned from building homes for their own families and how those experiences have influenced their approach to clients. They talk about communicating plans more clearly, using 3D models and physical mockups to help clients understand spaces, and setting realistic expectations around construction schedules. The conversation also explores HVAC design, comfort, zoning, ventilation rates, and the importance of monitoring indoor air quality in high-performance homes. Matt and Jake share…
S7 · E3 · 18 Sep 2026 · 38 min
At Build Show Live with Digs
Matt Risinger sits down with the digs.com team at Build Show Live to unpack a new partnership shaping how custom and production builders document construction. The conversation traces digs.com's evolution into an AI-powered platform that captures takeoffs, diagramming, and selections, then converts that data into a 3D digital twin for homeowners—often compared to a "Carfax for homes." Talk turns to the newly launched Build HD standard, a durability-focused building certification addressing water intrusion and construction defects, and how it integrates with an upcoming AI tool trained on…
S7 · E2 · 11 Sep 2026 · 49 min
Top 10 Dumb Things To Do in the South
On this episode of the Build Show Podcast, host Matt Risinger talks with architect Steve Baczek and builder Mark Willie about Joe Lstiburek's well-known list, "Top 10 Dumb Things to Do in the South." The three work through building science missteps common to hot, humid climates — vented attics, duct leakage, vapor barriers in the wrong place, painted brick, and carpet over concrete slabs — explaining why practices that work fine up north can cause moisture problems and mold growth in Texas. Risinger draws on his own remodeling experience, describing how negative air pressure and impermeable…
S7 · E1 · 4 Sep 2026 · 46 min
Why Mold Lawsuits Are Coming Back for Homebuilders
Matt Risinger examines the growing number of mold-related lawsuits involving homebuilders and connects today’s problems to changes in building practices and energy efficiency. He explains how tighter homes, oversized HVAC systems, poor moisture control, vented attics, and inadequate air sealing can contribute to elevated indoor humidity and condensation. Risinger also discusses lessons learned from earlier building failures involving bulk water and flashing, along with practical approaches for builders and homeowners to identify moisture problems. The discussion covers HVAC design,…
S6 · E228 · 7 Aug 2026 · 19 min
What To Expect At Build Show LIVE 2026
Build Show Live returns for its third annual event in San Antonio, Texas, bringing together builders, architects, engineers, and construction professionals for three days of in-depth education, hands-on learning, and networking focused on building better homes. From business strategy and project management to advanced building science, AI tools, high-end custom homes, and foundational training for new builders, the event offers specialized learning tracks led by experienced builders and industry experts. Attendees can explore dozens of classroom sessions, connect with leading manufacturers,…
S6 · E227 · 31 Jul 2026 · 27 min
Spray Foam Insulation Pt 2 Myths Busted
Matt Risinger continues his deep dive into spray foam insulation, part two, sorting the genuine benefits from the marketing hype. He unpacks common myths—claims that foam pays for itself, blocks sound, or solves every building problem—and explains why cavity insulation alone doesn't guarantee air sealing. He covers the real risks of open cell foam in humid attics, addresses whether spray foam is banned in Europe (it isn't, though regulations are tightening), and shares practical hybrid approaches combining closed cell foam with other insulation types for cost and performance balance
S6 · E226 · 24 Jul 2026 · 41 min
The Future of Home Building: AI, Digital Twins & Smarter Workflows
Matt Risinger is joined by Ryan and Ty from Digs to explore practical ways artificial intelligence is improving residential construction. Rather than focusing on AI hype, the conversation centers on how builders can use connected project data, digital twins, and construction-specific tools to streamline estimating, organize documentation, simplify homeowner handoffs, and improve warranty support. The discussion also looks at how better information management can strengthen the client experience, support long-term home maintenance, and create lasting value for builders and homeowners alike.
S6 · E225 · 17 Jul 2026 · 27 min
Spray Foam Insulation Hype vs Reality
Matt Risinger takes a balanced, evidence-based look at spray foam insulation, separating common misconceptions from practical building science. He compares open-cell and closed-cell spray foam, explains where each performs best, and discusses topics including air sealing, vapor control, indoor air quality, installation risks, and long-term durability. Matt also explores how spray foam compares with fiberglass, mineral wool, and other insulation options, while outlining situations where hybrid insulation assemblies make more sense. Rather than promoting or dismissing spray foam, he focuses on…
S6 · E224 · 10 Jul 2026 · 32 min
Building Science 101: Understanding Vapor Control
Matt Risinger explores one of the most misunderstood topics in building science: vapor control. Sponsored by Huber Engineered Woods, the episode explains why managing moisture is less about stopping vapor and more about preventing condensation inside building assemblies. Using a replay from the Building Science 101 series with Steve Baczek, Matt breaks down how vapor moves through walls, roofs, and floors, why climate and material selection matter, and how builders can make smarter decisions about vapor retarders and air barriers. The conversation focuses on practical building science…
S5 · E226 · 3 Jul 2026 · 33 min
Three Keys To Winning In The GC Business | The Build Podcast Friday Flashback
Happy 4th of July Build Show Friends! This week, we’re throwing it back to one of the greatest hits of Season 5. Matt will be back next week with an all-new episode. Enjoy! —— Matt goes solo this week to share hard-earned wisdom from his 30-year construction. He outlines three foundational principles that have shaped his success—and helped him recover from serious setbacks. 1. Understand Building Science Matt emphasizes the importance of knowing how climate, materials, and design affect building durability. Lessons from Portland’s mold crises taught him that “if it can’t dry, it’s going to…
S6 · E223 · 26 Jun 2026 · 46 min
The Perfect Wall? What Builders Need to Know About Mineral Wool
Matt Risinger sits down with James Bourget and Dan Edelman to explore exterior insulation, with a focus on mineral wool and stone wool assemblies for high-performance homes. The conversation looks at how continuous exterior insulation affects durability, moisture management, vapor permeability, fire resilience, insect resistance, and long-term building performance. James shares building science insights from his work with RDH, while Dan discusses practical installation methods, material characteristics, and real-world applications across different climate zones. Matt, James, and Dan also…
S6 · E222 · 19 Jun 2026 · 33 min
Why Every Custom Builder Needs a Building Science Consultant
On this episode of the Build Show podcast, host Matt Risinger sits down with James from RDH Building Science to unpack what a building science consultant actually does. Rather than focusing on litigation and failure investigation, the conversation centers on bringing consultants in early to prevent problems before they start. They cover building enclosures as systems, condensation and dew point analysis, climate-specific design strategies, and how risk management benefits both builders and homeowners. The discussion also touches on wildfire-resistant window testing, including tempered glass…
S6 · E221 · 12 Jun 2026 · 37 min
Why Building to Code Isn't Enough — The Build HD Standard Explained
On this episode of the Build Show podcast, host Matt Risinger sits down with Jim Gunn of South Pass Design Build in San Antonio, Texas — the builder behind the Build Show's live tour house. The conversation centers on the newly developed Build HD standard, a streamlined framework that builds on code to prioritize water management, air control, structural performance, and durability. Jim explains how the standard helps translate complex building science into clear expectations for trades and design decisions, from mechanical room placement to monopoly framing using Huber ZIP System sheathing.…
S6 · E220 · 5 Jun 2026 · 40 min
The Origin Series: Jim Gunn, Architect/Builder of Southpass Design | Build
In this episode of the Origin Series, Matt Risinger sits down with architect and builder Jim Gunn of SouthPass Design | Build to explore the path that led him into the design-build world. Gunn reflects on growing up around engineering and construction, his winding route through college, architecture school, and early career experiences, and how those influences shaped his approach to residential design and building. The conversation examines the relationship between architects, builders, and homeowners, highlighting the advantages of integrating design and construction under one roof.…
S6 · E219 · 29 May 2026 · 36 min
Inspections and Codes, What Do You Really Need?
Matt Risinger sits down with Jordan Smith of Smith House Co. to discuss the evolving role of inspections, permitting, and building codes in custom residential construction. Smith explains how code compliance impacts everything from framing and mechanical systems to scheduling and client expectations, especially as energy codes and inspection requirements become more demanding. The conversation explores the relationship between builders and inspectors, the importance of documentation and communication on site, and how experienced builders navigate gray areas between minimum code standards and…
S6 · E218 · 22 May 2026 · 49 min
Cheapest Good Mechanicals
In this episode of the Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger sits down with Jordan Smith to work through the full spectrum of residential HVAC mechanical systems — from the bare minimum to the over-engineered. The conversation moves quickly from what not to do (single-stage compressors with flex duct in unconditioned attics) to what actually performs: separate air handlers per floor, dedicated dehumidification, and ERV systems for continuous fresh air. For two-story homes, both agree that zone dampers are a dead end and that two independent systems are the only real solution. The middle-ground…
S6 · E217 · 15 May 2026 · 35 min
The 5 Principles of a Healthy Home
Matt Risinger welcomes Kristof Irwin of Positive Energy for a deep discussion on the relationship between HVAC design, moisture management, and high-performance construction. Irwin explains how modern homes require a systems-based approach, where airtight enclosures, ventilation, and properly sized mechanical equipment all work together to improve comfort and indoor air quality. The conversation also covers humidity control, energy modeling, and the growing need for testing and verification as building standards evolve. Matt and Kristof discuss how builders, architects, and HVAC…
S6 · E216 · 8 May 2026 · 35 min
Energy Efficiency - I Do Not Think That Word Means What You Think It Does
Matt Risinger sits down with Kristof Irwin of Positive Energy to discuss how mechanical systems, enclosure design, and building science work together in high-performance homes. Irwin explains how HVAC design impacts comfort, humidity control, indoor air quality, and long-term durability, especially in challenging climates. The conversation explores right-sizing equipment, balancing ventilation with airtight construction, and using data-driven testing to verify performance. They also touch on homeowner expectations, evolving energy standards, and the importance of integrating architects,…
S6 · E215 · 1 May 2026 · 40 min
Rethinking Insulation for Modern Homes
Matt Risinger talks with Jason Todd of TimberHP about the growing role of wood fiber insulation in high-performance construction. Todd explains how wood-based insulation products fit into modern wall assemblies, offering vapor-open performance, thermal control, and compatibility with airtight building strategies. The discussion covers manufacturing, supply chain challenges, and how these materials compare to foam and mineral wool in durability and environmental impact. They also touch on prefabrication, evolving building codes, and the shift toward low-carbon materials in residential…
S6 · E214 · 24 Apr 2026 · 49 min
The Science Behind Air Leakage Testing
Matt Risinger sits down with Bill Graber and Steve Rogers of The Energy Conservatory to explore how diagnostic testing informs high-performance construction. The conversation centers on blower door testing, pressure mapping, and airflow measurement as tools to verify airtightness and identify leakage pathways. They discuss how builders and energy raters use data to refine building enclosures, improve indoor air quality, and coordinate HVAC system performance. The group also touches on evolving codes, training, and the growing expectation for measurable results in residential construction.
S6 · E213 · 17 Apr 2026 · 44 min
The Tools Behind High-Performance Homes
Matt Risinger hosts a conversation with Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser of Tru Tech Tools, focusing on how testing and measurement shape modern building performance. The discussion centers on blower door testing, airflow diagnostics, and the growing role of data in verifying airtightness and system performance. They explore how builders and HVAC professionals use tools to identify leakage, improve indoor air quality, and fine-tune mechanical systems. The conversation also touches on training, evolving standards, and the shift toward performance-based construction, with practical insights into…
S6 · E212 · 10 Apr 2026 · 45 min
Straw Bale Construction 101
Matt Risinger sits down with Jacob Racusin of New Frameworks to unpack how straw-based construction fits into modern high-performance building. Racusin reframes “straw bale” as a panelized wall system using straw and wood fiber as insulation within airtight assemblies, emphasizing durability, moisture management, and prefabrication. The conversation moves from the history of straw construction to its evolution into factory-built panels that meet passive house–level performance. They discuss cost, scalability, and shifting from custom design-build to standardized housing solutions,…
S6 · E211 · 3 Apr 2026 · 41 min
How Builders Use Blower Door Testing to Improve Airtightness
Matt Risinger centers the conversation on blower door testing with Building Scientist Sam Myers from RetroTec, exploring how it functions as a practical tool for measuring and improving air tightness in residential construction. Myers outlines design choices that influence results, including keeping mechanical systems inside the conditioned envelope and minimizing major air leakage pathways. The discussion covers blower door equipment, typical costs, and training options, while emphasizing the value of builders owning and operating their own systems. Risinger frames testing as a hands-on…
S6 · E210 · 27 Mar 2026 · 28 min
The Truth About Tough Clients and How to Spot Them Early |
Matt Risinger reflects on the stress that difficult clients bring to custom home building, sharing early-career assumptions that other builders had it easier before realizing challenging projects are common across the industry. He frames client relationships as central to project success, emphasizing the importance of pre-qualifying prospects, aligning on budget, and identifying decision-makers early. Risinger outlines how clear communication, documented processes, and upfront expectations—especially around contracts and pricing models—help avoid conflict. He also underscores recognizing red…
S6 · E209 · 20 Mar 2026 · 40 min
The Origin Series with Bernie Calcote
On the Build Show podcast's Origin Series, host Matt Risinger sits down with Bernie Calcote, president and CEO of Melde Construction — a nearly 46-year-old Austin firm known for architecturally significant custom homes and high-end remodels. Bernie's path into construction is anything but conventional: he arrived in Austin as a musician and art substitute teacher before answering a Craigslist ad for a carpenter's helper at Melde, eventually working his way to the top. The conversation covers Melde's culture-first approach, Austin's collaborative building community, and the value of long-term…
S6 · E208 · 13 Mar 2026 · 43 min
The Origin Series with Brian Long
Matt Risinger sits down with veteran custom builder Brian Long of Brian Long Custom Homes for a candid “Origin Series” conversation packed with real-world construction industry lessons—from Brian’s early days as a master carpenter and cabinet maker to building high-end custom homes in Dallas and eventually helping pioneer spray foam insulation in Austin. They break down what it really takes to succeed as a builder: developing relentless work ethic, building trust through integrity and service, finding elite subcontractors through references and jobsite quality checks, and staying hands-on to…
S6 · E207 · 6 Mar 2026 · 33 min
A Backup Water System?
Matt Risinger welcomes Aquaria’s Chris Christal to the Build Show Podcast to explore how atmospheric water generation works—turning humidity in the air into clean, potable drinking water. They dive into the technology behind the systems, real-world residential and commercial use cases, water quality benefits, costs, maintenance, and why this solution is especially compelling for builders, developers, and homeowners looking for water independence and resilience.
S6 · E206 · 27 Feb 2026 · 32 min
Top 5 Risk We Take
In this episode of The Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger breaks down the top five risks custom builders face and how to mitigate them before they turn into costly mistakes. From construction defect liability and cash flow challenges to contract issues, labor risk, and personal burnout, this episode offers real-world insight every builder should hear.

About The Build Show Podcast

The Build Show Podcast is a English business podcast from Matt Risinger. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Matt Risinger
Language: English
Category: Business
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 38 min
Latest episode: 9 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1560010348
Rights: 2021 Build Productions LLC

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