Podcast · Tech & Science

The Building Sciology Poddie

by Jess Kismet · English · Tech & Science

I help builders, architects and home owners create the most comfortable, healthy buildings possible. When you know better, you can do better.

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 57 min
Latest: 11 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

11 Oct 2026 · 57 minNew

#51 | Breathing Room: The Case for Safer Air with Plum Stone

In this eye-opening episode, host Jess Kismet speaks with Plum Stone, founder of the Safer Air Project, who brings a health policy and lived-experience lens to indoor air quality. Plum redefines clean air as a fundamental accessibility and equity issue, exposing the severe health impacts that poor indoor environments have on vulnerable populations in schools and workplaces. From classroom CO2 spikes to national performance standards, this discussion highlights why we must stop treating clean air as an afterthought and start engineering safer shared spaces for everyone. Find the show notes on…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S2 · E18 · 27 Sep 2026 · 40 min
#50 | Outdoor Air Isn't Fresh Air: AIRAH IAQ 2026 Wrap Up with Sean Maxwell
Fresh off the AIRAH Indoor Air Quality Conference in Cairns, host Jess Kismet sits down with building science expert Sean Maxwell to unpack essential insights on ventilation, enclosure physics, and moisture control. Together, they discuss wisdom from industry legend Joe Lstiburek, why immediate regulatory action on continuous apartment ventilation beats waiting for perfection, and the necessity of external continuous insulation to protect building envelopes. The conversation challenges traditional HVAC design habits by demonstrating why outdoor air isn't always clean air and advocating for…
S2 · E18 · 13 Sep 2026 · 59 min
#49 | Dew Points, Tropical Climates and Mould with Sonia Holzheimer
Mechanical engineer Sonia Holzheimer joins host Jess Kismet to explore why designing HVAC systems for tropical climates like Far North Queensland requires a completely different playbook than standard southern building codes. Sonia breaks down the crucial differences between air conditioning and true dehumidification, revealing how modern inverter technology and energy-efficiency measures can inadvertently lead to severe indoor moisture traps and mould. From advocating for indoor dew point regulation over dry bulb temperature to inspiring the next generation through her project Cool…
S2 · E17 · 30 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 20 min
#48 | Air Purifiers and the Science of Healthy Indoor Air with Alex Kessler
In this episode of the Building Sciology Poddie, host Jess Kismet sits down with Alex Kessler, translational scientist and founder of The Healthy Home Guide . After developing severe Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) from toxic mould exposure in his own home, Alex turned his scientific background toward environmental consulting to help others navigate complex chronic illnesses, allergies, and indoor air pollution. Alex breaks down common misconceptions around standard HEPA filtration, explains why high clean air delivery rates (CADR) matter more than standard efficiency…
S2 · E16 · 16 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
#47 | NCC 2025, Passive House and AI with Ben Walsham
Ben Walsham (founder of Arkata) returns to the show to unpack the chaotic rollout of NCC 2025, the reality of high-performance design in volume building, and why building physics hit differently in tropical climates. From AI-driven workflow automation to deep-dive window frame science, this episode cuts through regulatory confusion to focus on building healthier, higher-performing homes. What We Cover in This Episode The NCC 2025 Maze & State Rollouts: Decoding the staggered adoption timelines across Australia, the logic behind the national pause leading into 2029, and why jumping straight…
S2 · E15 · 2 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 33 min
#46 | Design, Testing & Remediation: The Truth About Mould with Bryan Jepsen
In this episode of The Building Sciology Poddie , host Jess Kismet sits down with Bryan Jepsen - Indoor Environmental Consultant, President of the Indoor Air Quality Association of Australia (IAQAA), and founder of Keystone Environmental and Oceanic Laboratory Initiative. Together, they pull back the plasterboard to expose what’s really making our buildings - and the people inside them - unwell. From operating rooms to modern home builds, Bryan shares science-backed insights into fungal biology, architectural traps, and what true remediation actually looks like. What You’ll Learn in This…
S2 · E16 · 26 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 14 min
#45 | BONUS Air vs. Vapour: The Moisture Mistakes in Modern Builds with Dr John Straube
Why do we expect our cars to have perfect temperature control, yet tolerate drafty, mould-prone homes that cost ten times as much? In this episode, host Jess Kismet sits down with world-renowned building science expert Dr. John Straube to demystify climate-responsive construction. From the extreme winters of Canada to the humid tropics of Australia, John breaks down why our buildings fail, how terminology confusion is causing massive jobsite errors, and what it actually takes to build durable, comfortable, and healthy homes. Find the full show notes including links on the ⁠⁠website⁠⁠ Thank…
S2 · E15 · 19 Jul 2026 · 48 min
#44 | High Risk to High Performance with Mitch Chan
In this episode, Jess Kismet interviews Mitch Chan, founder of Agathe Builders, who shares his journey in the building industry, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and the integration of healthy building practices. Mitch discusses his commitment to building biology, the challenges of educating clients about building standards, and the significance of using high-performing materials. The conversation also touches on the risks associated with traditional building practices, the necessity of pre-construction processes, and the future of building standards in Australia. Find the…
S2 · E14 · 5 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 25 min
#43 | Stop Guessing, Start Measuring: Smart Tech for Healthier Homes with Clarence Mcalister and Sean Buchanan
In this conversation, Jess Kismet hosts Clarence McAllister and Sean Buchanan, who discuss their experiences and insights from monitoring building performance through sensor data.. They explore the importance of understanding moisture and humidity issues in both new and existing builds, emphasising the role of technology in improving quality assurance and risk management in the construction industry. The discussion highlights real-world case studies, the need for standardised monitoring practices, and the impact of climate on building performance. In this conversation, the speakers delve…
S2 · E13 · 21 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
#42 | The Building Forensics Playbook with Kohta Ueno
In this episode, Jess sits down with building science legend Kohta Ueno, Principal of Building Science Corp, to dive into the messy, fascinating world of building forensics. From "drinking from a fire hose" at MIT to chasing phantom odours through suspended ceilings, Kohta shares his boots-on-the-ground wisdom regarding building failures, safe mass wall retrofits, the raging debate over roof ventilation, and the future of high-performance construction. Find the show notes on the ⁠we bsite.⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠End uro Builders⁠ and ⁠Climasure⁠ Join the mailing list ⁠here⁠ ! Don't…
S2 · E14 · 7 Jun 2026 · 49 min
#41 | Building Physics for the Soul with Alex Slater
In this episode of the podcast, Jess sits down with Alex Slater, co-director of Building Physics Australia and Shared Space Architecture. While Alex is a master of the complex, numbers-heavy Passive House Planning Package (PHPP), his true superpower is looking past the data to find the human being at the center of the project. From comparing home health and human health, to breaking down the structural differences between NatHERS and Passive House, Alex shares why building a home is a deeply psychological journey. If you’ve ever felt trapped by rigid building codes or felt that modern design…
S2 · E14 · 31 May 2026 · 1 hr 23 min
#40 | BONUS Why Beautiful Buildings Last Longer with Chris Laumer-Giddons
In this episode of the Building Sciology Poddie , host Jess Kismet welcomes Chris Laumer-Giddens, co-founder of LG Squared in Atlanta, Georgia. Chris has become a leading voice in high-performance building. He refuses to compromise on aesthetics while executing airtight, flawlessly engineered structures and whether tackling new luxury builds or complex historic renovations, his boots-on-the-ground technical consulting bridges the gap between beautiful architecture and real-world construction. In this Episode: Zero leakage house construction Use of WUFI Passive for energy modelling…
S2 · E13 · 24 May 2026 · 55 min
#39 | The Performance Gap and De-Risking Your Build with Michael Drage
What happens when a top-tier corporate finance expert gets fed up with the investment world and decides to retrain in sustainable building design? You get a refreshing, zero-nonsense look at how badly the Australian housing market is currently failing us - and how we can fix it. This week, Jess sits down with Michael Drage, the award-winning designer behind Reimagined Habitat. Michael treats building science less like an ideological crusade and more like a smart investment strategy: it’s all about research, precision, and de-risking the build. If you’re tired of the "marketing spin" around…
S2 · E12 · 17 May 2026 · 51 min
#38 | BONUS Revolutionising Building Knowledge with Tools™ — An Interview with Jerry Tyrrell
Discover how innovative app Tools™ is transforming the construction industry by simplifying access to building codes, standards, and craftsmanship techniques. Jess Kismet interviews industry veteran Jerry Tyrrell about the app’s design, impact, and future potential to elevate building quality worldwide. Special Offer: Use code JESS20 for a discount on Tools™ and explore the app’s features - expires Nov 4 2026 Download the app on the App Store here and the Play Store here Thanks to Jerry for sharing his insights and vision for a smarter, better-built future. Find the full show notes here…
S2 · E11 · 10 May 2026 · 41 min
#37 | How High Performance Building Knowledge Changes Everything with Karina Rafailov
In today’s rapidly changing world, the way we build our homes plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Join me as I chat with Karina Rafailov, a Blue Mountains designer and founder of Earthy Haus. We chat about sustainable architecture and community education, shedding light on how better informed choices can lead to much healthier living environments! Find the full show notes here Connect with Jess here: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Mailing list Thank you to our sponsors: ⁠Enduro Builders⁠ ⁠Climasure
S2 · E10 · 3 May 2026 · 1 hr 21 min
#36 | BONUS The Science Within the Working Drawings with Steve Baczek Architect
How do you design a home that lasts centuries? Renowned architect Steve Baczek (The Build Show, Unbuild It Podcast) joins me on the show to break down the fundamentals of building science. From the "Perfect Wall" to the four critical control layers, Steve explains why "buildings needing to breathe" is a dangerous myth and how collaboration between architects and builders is the key to success. Episode Highlights: 01:10 - Steve’s journey from Building Science Corp to the Build Show. 06:54 - The 4 Control Layers: Water, Air, Vapor, and Thermal. 21:40 - The "Breathing" Myth: Why airtightness is…
S2 · E9 · 26 Apr 2026 · 53 min
#35 | Decoding EMFs and Building Biology with Zara D’Cotta
Is your home actually making you sick, or is there more to the story? In this episode, I’m joined by Zara D’Cotta, founder of The Healthy Home , to explore the intersection of traditional construction and human biology. Zara shares the personal health journey that led her to building biology and presents her case for why "sustainable" design doesn’t always equal a healthy living environment. We look at everything from the hidden trade-offs of recycled insulation to EMFs and lots more. The world of EMFs can feel overwhelming and is often met with plenty of scepticism. In this conversation,…
S2 · E8 · 12 Apr 2026 · 47 min
#34 | The Future of Construction: Systems, Science, and Professionalism with Duayne Pearce
In this episode, I chat with Duayne Pearce, a builder, industry mentor, and co-founder of Live Life Build. Duayne shares his journey from industry struggles to embracing new systems, and his vision for a more professional and sustainable building industry. We talk about industry transformation, proactive leadership, continuous education, and collaboration. His initiatives like the Level Up expo in 2025, his mentorship program and systematised workflows aim to elevate standards, attract quality clients, and promote sustainable, healthy homes. Building a better industry is a collective effort.…
S2 · E7 · 29 Mar 2026 · 57 min
#33 | Passive House: Precision, Proof, and Performance with Dr Marcus Strang
In this conversation, I had a chat with Dr Marcus Strang, a leading expert in Passive House certification. We discussed the importance of quality assurance in building, the challenges faced during the certification process, and the significance of documentation and the need for collaboration among architects, builders, and clients. We also explore the impact of climate on Passive House design, moisture management, and the future of building science in Australia. The conversation highlights the importance of education and experience in the field of sustainable design. Show notes on the…
S2 · E6 · 15 Mar 2026 · 54 min
#32 | Ticking Like a Clock: What Hidden Mould Did to My Son
We're heading back into the world of mould this week with Tracy Seymour, who spent two years and tens of thousands of dollars trying to work out why her five year old son was developing unexplained neurological tics. The answer was hidden mould in their ceiling. Rather than stopping there, Tracy turned that experience into a mission - founding Break the Mould Inspections to help other families find answers faster than she did. In this episode we talk mould inspection, remediation, and why the mould you can't see is often the most dangerous kind.Find the show notes here Building Sciology…
S2 · E4 · 1 Mar 2026 · 57 min
#31 - Concrete slabs and flooring failures with Don Consadine
In this episode, I interview Don Considine, a seasoned expert in the flooring industry, focusing on the critical aspects of flooring and concrete, particularly moisture testing. We talked about the importance of moisture testing before flooring installation, the various methods and standards involved, and the acceptable moisture levels for different types of flooring. Don shares insights on curing concrete slabs, common errors made by builders, and the distinction between waterproofing and moisture barriers. The conversation emphasises best practices for flooring installation to prevent…
S2 · E4 · 15 Feb 2026 · 57 min
#30 - How Your Home Could Be Making You Sick (And How to Fix It) with Alexx Stuart
In this conversation I interview Alexx Stewart, founder of Low Tox Life, about her personal journey with mould illness and the broader implications of indoor air quality on health. Alex shares her experiences with misdiagnosis, the challenges of navigating health issues, and the importance of creating healthy living spaces. The discussion also covers practical solutions for improving indoor air quality and emphasises the need for awareness and action in addressing mould and dampness in homes. Show notes can be found here Instagram Building Sciology Sponsors Enduro Builders Climasure Websites…
S2 · E3 · 1 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
#29 - Reimagining Buildings: Passive House, Craftsmanship & the Future of Construction
Join me as I chat with Matthew Cutler and Zach Semke about Passive House, high-performance buildings, and why building health matters more than ever. We explore the connection between design and wellbeing, the role of community in driving industry change, and the untapped opportunities within construction to deliver healthier, more resilient buildings. From craftsmanship and air quality to education, collaboration, and climate resilience, this episode offers practical insights for anyone shaping the future of the built environment. See show notes for more info Instagram Building Sciology…
S2 · E2 · 25 Jan 2026 · 27 min
#28 - Part 2 | Pretty Isn’t Enough: Building Physics That Actually Matter with Michael Kingsland
In part 2 of my conversation with Michael Kingsland, we continue our discussion on the critical role of ventilation systems in energy-efficient buildings, focusing on the importance of proper installation and the misconceptions surrounding heat and energy recovery systems. We chat about the challenges of maintaining air quality and preventing mould in high-performance buildings, emphasising the need for a balanced approach to insulation and vapour control. Michael shares his insights with me on the evolution of building practices in Australia and the necessity of addressing energy efficiency…
S2 · E2 · 18 Jan 2026 · 57 min
#28 - Part 1 | Pretty Isn’t Enough: Building Physics That Actually Matter with Michael Kingsland
In this conversation, I interview Michael Kingsland from Laros Technologies, exploring the evolution of the company from its solar roots to its current focus on high-performance building solutions. We discuss the importance of sustainable timber sourcing, the principles of Passive House, and the critical role of air tightness and moisture management in construction. Michael emphasizes the differences between HRV and ERV ventilation systems, the need to balance budget constraints with essential building performance elements, and the common mistakes made in construction that can lead to…
S2 · E1 · 4 Jan 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
#27 - Waterproofing Fails, Compliance Gaps & the Accountability Problem with Jake Turner
In this conversation, I speak with Jake Turner, a tradie turned building surveyor and founder of JT Certification Services. We discuss Jake's journey in the construction industry, the importance of quality control, and the challenges faced in building compliance and regulations. Jake emphasises the need for better education and communication within the industry, as well as the significance of energy efficiency in building performance. The conversation highlights the role of private certifiers in streamlining processes and the necessity for collaboration among builders and certifiers to…
S1 · E26 · 21 Dec 2025 · 54 min
#26 - From Materials to Mindset: How Architecture Shapes Human Health with Pippa Lee
In this final episode of the Building Sciology Poddie for 2025, I had a great chat with architect and healthy home expert Pippa Lee of Haven Designed Healthy Homes. We discussed the importance of designing homes that support health and wellbeing, the impact of indoor environments on health, and practical tips for builders to create healthier spaces. Pippa shares her journey in architecture, her experiences in New York, and the significance of using non-toxic materials. We also explore the WELL Building Standard and the importance of water quality and filtration in homes. I hopoe you enjoy…
S1 · E25 · 14 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 21 min
#25 - Navigating Building Codes: Lessons from New Zealand and Canada with Pete Raimondo and Shawn McIsaac
In this episode, I chat with Shawn McIsaac and Peter Raimondo, of Oculus, to discuss building science, energy efficiency, and the challenges of modern construction. They explore the importance of airtightness, the risks of condensation, and the evolving building codes in New Zealand and Canada. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration between architects and builders, the role of government incentives, and the future of high-performance building. Useful links Oculus Engineering website - podcast information Oculous Engineering - You Tube Channel Oculus Engineering instagram…
S1 · E24 · 23 Nov 2025 · 46 min
#24 - Is This Australia’s Leaky Building Crisis? What Victoria’s Failures Reveal with Chris Crewther MP and Kerry Ould
In this episode of The Building Sciology Poddie, I, Jess Kismet, discuss the ongoing building crisis in Victoria with guests Kerry Auld and Chris Crewther MP. They explore the failures of the Victorian Building Authority (VBA), the impact of combustible cladding, and the struggles faced by homeowners. The conversation delves into the need for accountability in the building industry, recent legislative changes, and the establishment of the new Building and Plumbing Commission. The episode emphasises the importance of consumer protection and learning from past mistakes to prevent future…
S1 · E23 · 9 Nov 2025 · 1 hr 20 min
#23 - A Dialogue with Dr Wolfgang Feist, Founder of The Passive House Institute
In this episode, Dr. Wolfgang Feist ,founder of the Passive House Institute, joins me Jess Kismet to unpack why the Passive House standard continues to spark debate across the building world. Why does a building standard evoke such passion, loyalty, and even resistance? We explore how innovation in architecture and building science is often misunderstood, and why new ideas, like Passive House, can feel revolutionary to some and incremental to others. Wolfgang draws parallels to historical, scientific breakthroughs, reminding us that progress doesn’t always mean reinvention. From the…

About The Building Sciology Poddie

I help builders, architects and home owners create the most comfortable, healthy buildings possible. When you know better, you can do better.

The Building Sciology Poddie is a English tech & science podcast from Jess Kismet. 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: Jess Kismet
Language: English
Category: Tech & Science
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 57 min
Latest episode: 11 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1780976231
Rights: Jess Kismet

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