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For information about Tessa's upcoming presentation for MAC ASHI on May 2nd, visit: https://www.macashi.org/calendar/274 To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/KhdZxrBD9mI In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry catch up on recent projects, share insights on home inspection practices, and discuss Spectora's sale and its implications for inspectors. They explore lessons learned, industry challenges, and the importance of maintaining integrity in the home inspection field. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Takeaways The sale of Spectora raises serious questions about data ownership, privacy, and long‑term trust in inspection software. Home inspectors must weigh convenience against control—software choices directly impact business independence. Many industry controversies stem from reactive decisions made “too little, too late,” rather than proactive transparency. Strong building science fundamentals remain critical, regardless of tools or technology used. Simple field rules matter: never walk on a wet wood roof and disable features that introduce unnecessary risk. Exhaust fan performance and installation are often overlooked but have significant moisture and indoor air quality implications. Insurance constraints increasingly shape inspection practices, reports, and risk tolerance. Long‑term success comes from learning openly from mistakes, maintaining professionalism, and protecting inspector credibility. Inspection software will continue evolving, but integrity—not automation—defines quality inspections. Chapters 00:00 Podcast Reboot and Busy Lives 01:52 Upcoming Conferences and Presentations 04:58 Personal Adventures and Family Trips 07:32 Home Inspection Insights and Controversies 11:39 Insurance and Its Impact on Home Inspections 16:51 Lessons Learned from Mistakes 23:07 The Structure Tech Difference 24:13 The Importance of Exhaust Fans in Home Inspections 26:22 Tools and Techniques for Effective Home Inspections 27:52 Navigating Changes in Home Inspection Software 30:42 The Spectora Controversy: Data Privacy Concerns 36:50 Finding Grace in Business Mistakes 42:45 The Future of Home Inspection Software

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here:  https://youtu.be/U0ALmS9vUC0 In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry talk with Sophie Ashley of Energy Vanguard about her journey from hands‑on carpentry and post‑Katrina rebuilding work to becoming an HVAC designer for high‑performance homes. Sophie shares how her field experience shaped her understanding of building science and why proper load calculations, ventilation strategies, and dehumidification planning are essential for modern airtight homes. The conversation also explores the challenges of open‑cell spray foam, moisture buildup in encapsulated attics, and what builders and inspectors often overlook in new construction. Sophie breaks down heat‑pump retrofits, electrification trends, and the importance of balancing comfort, durability, and system design—offering practical, science‑based insights for anyone working with or living in high‑performance homes. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events You can check out Energy Vanguard website here: https://www.energyvanguard.com/ Takeaways Tight, high‑performance homes often require dedicated dehumidification, even in northern climates. Open‑cell spray foam allows moisture movement, which can raise attic humidity and impact roof decks. Proper HVAC design requires accurate load calculations, not rule‑of‑thumb sizing. Balanced ventilation (HRVs/ERVs) is essential in tight homes; Minnesota enforces some of the strictest standards. Retrofitting heat pumps into existing homes requires duct evaluation—it’s not a simple swap. Many builder issues stem from overlooked details: attic access leaks, duct issues, missing covers, and ceiling‑plane air leaks. Electrification is growing, but homeowners must understand system impacts and design considerations. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction 02:00 — Sophie’s Background & Career Path 05:00 — High‑Performance Building & HVAC Design 11:00 — Ventilation, ERVs & Climate Differences 15:00 — Dehumidification in Airtight Homes 17:00 — Moisture Problems with Open‑Cell Foam 22:00 — Solutions: Conditioning Attics & Diffusion Ports 26:00 — Heat Pumps, Dual‑Fuel & Proper Sizing 31:00 — Electrification Trends 38:00 — Common New‑Construction Issues 47:00 — Field Lessons & Moisture Failures 52:00 — How to Reach Sophie 53:00 — Closing Remarks

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/eK-WIS7inMU In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry talk with Steve Rogers, President of The Energy Conservatory (TEC), about the science behind home performance and why so many HVAC systems fall short of expectations. Steve shares TEC’s journey from early prototypes to industry‑standard testing tools and explains how comfort, moisture, and efficiency issues often stem from the building envelope. The conversation dives into blower doors, airflow testing, duct leakage, furnace short‑cycling, restrictive filters, oversized systems, and the key measurements inspectors and homeowners commonly miss, offering practical insights for homeowners, inspectors, HVAC technicians, and building‑science enthusiasts alike. You can check out The Energy Conservatory website here: www.energyconservatory.com Takeaways TEC manufactures tools that measure building airtightness, duct leakage, and airflow—core metrics for diagnosing home performance issues. Blower door testing became essential because leaky houses waste energy, cause comfort issues, and contribute to attic moisture problems. Early blower door prototypes were expensive and slow; TEC revolutionized the field with affordable, efficient models. Airflow is one of the hardest HVAC metrics to measure accurately; TEC’s TruFlow Grid helps techs commission systems properly. Most furnaces and ACs are never tested for correct airflow after installation, which leads to early equipment failure and poor efficiency. High temperature rise = low airflow. This often causes the furnace to hit its high‑limit switch and shut off prematurely. Oversizing is rampant—many homes have furnaces 1.5–2× larger than needed, increasing noise, inefficiency, and comfort issues. Filter restrictions depend on pressure drop, not just MERV rating. Pleat depth and surface area matter more than the number printed on the label. 3M Filtrete filters maintain reasonable pressure drops because they add pleats as MERV levels increase. The most important starting point in energy upgrades is a blower door test, not HVAC replacement. Older homes—especially balloon‑framed houses—are extremely leaky and need targeted air‑sealing. Complicated house shapes (L‑shaped, multi‑level splits, many dormers) are typically leakier than simple rectangular designs. Many contractors still do not measure airflow or static pressure, causing repeat callbacks and inefficiency. TEC’s tools and apps help HVAC techs commission systems properly—reducing callbacks and improving system performance. Homeowners can access subsidized energy audits through utilities, often including blower door and infrared inspections. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:00 — Steve’s Background & The Origin of The Energy Conservatory 05:00 — How Blower Doors Were Invented & Early Challenges 08:00 — Engineers, Inventors & TEC’s Company Culture 11:00 — Advances in Airflow Testing: TruFlow Grid Explained 15:00 — Why Airflow Is Critical for Furnace & AC Efficiency 17:00 — Temperature Rise, High‑Limit Switches & Furnace Cycling 20:00 — Common Installation Issues & What Inspectors Should Look For 22:00 — The Truth About Furnace Filters & Pressure Drop 26:00 — Oversizing Problems & Proper Equipment Matching 31:00 — Why Most Homes Have Comfort Problems (and How to Fix Them) 35:00 — Blower Door Testing as the First Step in Home Performance 38:00 — Moisture, Attic Frost & Air Leakage Pathways 41:00 — Styles of Homes That Tend to Be Leakier 44:00 — Balloon Framing vs. Platform Framing 47:00 — Why the Industry Changes Slowly & The Role of Training 52:00 — How Homeowners Can Learn More & Access Energy Audits 53:00 — Closing Tho

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/4LmP_3WOezg In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry welcome Noah Gavik from Brothers Underground to discuss the impact of private equity on the home service industry. They explore the benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations of private equity ownership, as well as how it influences business operations, customer relationships, and overall market dynamics. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Takeaways Private equity (PE) buys service companies to generate higher, faster returns than traditional investments. PE ownership typically brings major operational changes—software, compensation, insurance, branding, and company culture. Large PE-backed companies can outspend small businesses on marketing (especially Google ads), pushing independents down in search visibility. Consolidation can create near‑monopolies in some markets, reducing consumer choice and increasing prices. Strong profit pressure often leads to aggressive or ethically questionable upselling, shifting focus away from true customer needs. Big roll‑ups can erode the personal relationships customers value, causing long‑time employees and clients to leave. PE-owned firms heavily emphasize metrics—conversion rates, revenue per call, average ticket—sometimes at the expense of service quality. Smaller companies win through trust, direct communication, craftsmanship, and community‑based referrals rather than high‑pressure sales. Huge review counts can hide negative experiences; fewer but consistent 5‑star reviews from smaller companies often reflect better service. Consumers should rely on referrals (inspectors, tradespeople, neighbors, realtors) instead of only choosing the top sponsored Google results. Selling to PE isn’t inherently bad, but owners must understand PE’s goals and be prepared for major cultural and operational changes. When interest rates rise and profits tighten, PE buying slows—but consolidation continues long-term. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:15 Understanding Private Equity 05:01 The Mechanics of Private Equity 07:33 The Impact of Private Equity on the Market 11:03 The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Private Equity 17:58 Navigating Changes Post-Acquisition 22:09 Personal Perspectives on Selling to Private Equity 26:11 The Power of Referrals in Service Industries 28:32 Private Equity's Impact on Business Operations 31:13 Sales Techniques and Customer Education 33:02 Ethics vs. Profit in Business 36:01 The Future of Small Businesses in a PE-Dominated Market 37:43 Balancing Profitability with Customer Relationships 41:16 Ethics in Sales and Customer Service 44:01 Navigating the PE Landscape for Business Owners 48:26 Building a Reliable Network for Service Providers

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/0US0bHGynQo In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry once again welcome Structure Tech’s Service Manager, Eric Houseman, for a deep dive into one of the most debated topics in home inspections: flashing and exterior water management.  Prompted by an email from fellow home inspector Chris, the discussion explores real-world challenges with flashing details, siding clearances, and the gap between best practices and industry standards. The episode highlights why these details are often overlooked, how that impacts homes, and what inspectors and homeowners should know to avoid costly hidden damage.  Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Takeaways “No damage yet” is not a valid reason to ignore improper flashing—problems can take years to surface. You often cannot confirm the absence of damage without intrusive inspection, so assumptions are risky. Even small, undersized, or poorly angled kick‑out flashings can increase water intrusion potential. Head flashing/drip caps above windows and doors are universally required by manufacturers—even if local builders claim otherwise. Context matters: overhangs, siding type, wall assembly, and home age affect how serious missing flashing is. Water‑resistant barriers and tape alone cannot replace properly installed rigid flashing. When in doubt, report the defect clearly and let the builder or homeowner decide the next steps. Home inspectors must balance clarity, liability, and real‑world practicality when writing reports. Builder and agent pushback is common—but manufacturer instructions are the ultimate authority. Good bedside manner and client communication can prevent inspectors from being labeled “deal killers.” Chapters 00:00  Intro and episode setup 00:27  Welcoming back Eric Houseman 00:56  Show sponsor: IEB 01:40  Listener Chris’s email and the topic of exterior water‑management defects 02:47  Question 1: Kick‑out flashing 05:23  Undersized or improperly angled kick‑outs 06:15  “There’s no damage—why mention it?” 08:06  When and why Structure Tech calls out inadequate kick‑outs 09:43  Real‑world builder behavior and simple fixes 11:11  How wording in reports focuses on increased potential for problems 12:10  Balancing best practice and liability 13:53  Question 2: Drip caps and head flashing 17:12  Why windows and openings universally require rigid flashing 18:37  Builder pushback: “It’s not required.” 21:07  What siding manufacturers expect (and why it matters) 24:03  Considering home age, siding type, and overhangs 25:46  A continuum of concern: stucco vs. vinyl 28:08  How Structure Tech phrases drip‑cap comments 29:12  Question 3: Z‑flashing, drainage gaps, and siding clearance 31:57  Manufacturer requirements vs. real‑world installations 32:46  Structure Tech’s canned report language 36:57  Should you mention missing kick‑outs on older homes? (Yes.) 38:48  Reuben’s personal stucco repair story 41:25  Why missing flashing matters even on pre‑1990s homes 41:43  How to respond when builders say “No other inspector reports this” 45:13  Handling pushback and the “deal killer” label 47:26  How agents affect deal perception 51:11  Improving client experience and reducing anxiety 52:59  Understanding client “pain tolerance.” 54:24  Closing thoughts and invitation for listener feedback

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/c9hch5yyc-U In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry are joined by Structure Tech’s Services Manager, Eric Houseman, for a wild home‑inspection story that starts with a simple missing bath‑fan termination and snowballs into a major discovery. What begins as routine training turns into a dramatic game of telephone between inspectors, agents, sellers, and contractors—and ends with one of the most shocking ventilation mistakes the team has ever seen: a bathroom exhaust fan tied directly into a power‑vent water heater exhaust. Along the way, the trio talked about communication pitfalls, the importance of clear reporting, the routine inspection steps that prevent safety issues, and the unexpected discoveries that even seasoned inspectors don’t see coming. It's an episode filled with lessons, surprises, and plenty of inspector banter. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Check out this link to our new favorite Combustible Gas Detector, the TPI 720b: https://amzn.to/3NgZtv7 Takeaways Clear communication during inspections is essential—verbal explanations can easily be distorted. Always wait for the published report, which is the most accurate representation of the findings. Words matter: “exhaust gas leak” is not the same as “gas leak.” Inspectors should avoid paraphrasing defects; copy the exact language from the report when relaying information. Even “routine” findings require careful verification—small details prevent major hazards. A bath fan must exhaust to the exterior, and improper venting can create serious safety risks. Creativity in home projects isn't always a good thing—especially when it involves exhaust systems and combustion appliances. When something seems off, dig deeper; sometimes the truth is hidden behind drywall. A well‑written report, complete with photos and precise language, is a home inspector’s best protection. Even experienced inspectors learn new things—sometimes in the most unexpected ways. Chapters 00:00  Introduction and Minnesota’s heavy current events 01:07  Shifting to lighter topics and home‑inspection talk 02:35  Combustible gas detectors: retiring the TIFF 8900 05:00  The new winner: TPI 270B 07:21  Show sponsor shout‑out: IEB 08:35  Reuben’s reverse osmosis saga (and user error) 11:35  Tessa’s stinky well‑water updates 13:31  Introduction to Eric’s “thrown under the bus” story 14:25  The inspection setup and counting exhaust points 16:45  The missing basement bath‑fan termination 18:14  The telephone game between clients, agents, and sellers 19:37  HVAC contractor conflicts with the findings 20:55  Re‑inspection and detective work 22:17  The shocking discovery: bath fan tied into water‑heater exhaust 23:59  Why this is dangerous: carbon monoxide risk 25:11  No apology, but valuable lessons 27:33  How communication gaps amplify issues 28:44  Importance of clear reporting and avoiding paraphrasing 30:33  Wrapping the episode; preview of next topic 31:48  Closing remarks

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/GcQUDCQAgsI In this episode, Reuben Saltzman speaks with film producer George Siegal, known for his documentary Built to Last, Buyer Beware. They explore the hidden risks of home buying, with a focus on insurance coverage, building codes, and purchasing in high-risk areas. Drawing on his background in TV news, George emphasizes how often buyers overlook critical details such as insurance limitations and local hazards. The episode serves as a cautionary discussion, encouraging prospective homeowners to ask the right questions and make informed decisions to protect their investments and families. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Check out George Siegal’s LinkedIn profile here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/ Complete this short form for access to the special offer mentioned on the show: https://pro.speakerhub.com/speaker-feedback/?qr=980babe6-74ff-48c0-b387-83ec6aa6fe38 For the long version of the film, Built to Last: movetheworldfilms.gumroad.com/l/kaywco Takeaways You have to assess your overall situation. Don't think that just because your house burned down, you don't have to still pay the mortgage. You need to understand all this stuff, and it's not fun You have to ask questions and find out as much information as you can. If someone tells you you’re being a nuisance or refuses to answer your questions, don’t buy the house. You should know what they are before you go and ask them the question. You have to dig into that a little bit. You have to become a detective when you're buying a house. If a builder ever looks at you, puffs out his chest, and says, “This house is built to code,” I wouldn’t buy it. You want an inspector who does more than just look at the plug rating and say, “Yeah, that plug’s not connected right.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:55 George Siegal's Background and Career Transition 03:08 Overview of the Documentary "Built to Last" 04:25 Understanding Home Buying Decisions 05:22 The Importance of Insurance Awareness 09:24 Assessing Risks in Home Locations 14:17 Building Codes and Their Implications 18:28 Navigating Insurance Challenges 22:38 The Role of Inspectors in Home Buying 30:23 Key Questions for Home Buyers

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/eVsiOW_Ynig In today’s episode, Reuben and Tessa reflect on their holiday experiences and catch up on recent home projects, sharing practical insights on everything from snowblowers to indoor air quality concerns. They dive deeper into the complexities of health issues tied to home environments and discuss water quality challenges in Tessa’s new Florida residence. Along the way, the conversation highlights the difficulties of identifying and resolving these issues while underscoring the importance of family, transitions, and new beginnings. Check this link for my power shovel demo video: https://youtube.com/shorts/FzCBk2Z1jpc?si=9iYfiCXwn88r8GD0 Takeaways Time seems to speed up as we grow older. Spending time with family is invaluable. Snowblowers can be enjoyable to use. Indoor air quality can significantly affect health. Home diagnostics can be complex and frustrating. Water quality issues can arise from various sources. It's important to investigate health symptoms thoroughly. New beginnings can bring both challenges and opportunities. Collaboration in the industry can lead to better solutions. Listening to others' experiences can provide valuable insights. Chapters 00:00 New Year Reflections and Family Time 02:51 Home Projects and Snowblower Insights 05:59 HRV Troubles and Indoor Air Quality 12:01 Mystery Health Issues and Home Diagnostics 23:37 Water Quality Concerns and Solutions 30:02 New Beginnings in Florida

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/btTlpjM1w2c In this episode, Reuben and Tessa explore practical smart home upgrades and energy-saving tools. They share hands-on experiences with infrared cameras, energy monitoring devices, and water leak prevention systems. The discussion also touches on the challenges of managing multiple smart devices and finding the right balance between convenience and simplicity. If you’ve ever wondered which gadgets are worth the investment for safety and efficiency, this episode is for you. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Takeaways Infrared cameras for mobile devices can be great backups but aren’t ideal for daily home inspections. Smart plugs with built-in energy monitoring (like TP-Link TAPO) are affordable and effective. Energy monitors help track electricity costs and optimize usage. Automatic water leak detection systems can prevent costly damage and insurance claims. Managing multiple smart devices can become overwhelming—simplicity matters. Leak prevention systems like YoLink offer peace of mind for homeowners. Investing in smart home tech should prioritize safety and efficiency over novelty. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 03:45 Infrared Camera Review: TopDon TC002C DUO 08:14 Affordable Alternatives for Android and Apple Users 09:37 Energy Monitoring Devices and Smart Plugs 14:30 Automating Energy Savings with TAPO Smart Plugs 18:00 The Reality of Managing Multiple Smart Devices 27:08 Leak Prevention Systems: Guardian vs. YoLink 32:12 Why Every Home Needs Automatic Leak Detection 35:45 Wrapping Up and Listener Invitation

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/nu1GoDS3z-E In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry welcome Nate Mielke, a general contractor and remodeler. They discuss Nate's journey in the construction industry, the differences between design-build and general contracting, and the importance of building performance in remodeling projects. The conversation also touches on unique business practices that set Nate apart from other contractors, as well as valuable lessons learned from past experiences. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events You can check Nate’s website here: www.skapar.net Takeaways Nate Mielke has been in the construction industry since 1997. The design-build approach allows for better collaboration and project outcomes. Pre-construction planning is crucial for successful remodeling projects. Building performance considerations can impact client satisfaction and comfort. Nate emphasizes the importance of understanding client budgets from the start. Mistakes in contracts can lead to significant issues, including lawsuits. Value engineering helps clients achieve their desired outcomes within budget. Nate's company focuses on high-end remodeling projects, typically ranging from $200,000 to $600,000. The use of technology and AI tools is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Nate's experience highlights the need for good contracts and legal protections in contracting.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 07:17 Nate Mielke's Journey in Contracting 18:20 Understanding Design-Build vs. General Contracting 22:57 Project Scope and Examples 25:48 Cost Insights for Bathroom and Kitchen Remodels 26:48 Optimizing Space: Plumbing and Layout Considerations 27:49 Integrating Building Performance in Remodeling 30:16 Addressing Ventilation and Comfort in Remodels 32:41 Client Concerns: Health and Indoor Environment 34:16 Identifying Mold Issues in Older Homes 37:35 The Impact of Building Codes on Home Performance 38:21 Pre-Construction Planning: Setting Projects Up for Success 41:28 Leveraging Technology: AI in Construction Management 44:23 Learning from Mistakes: The Importance of Contracts

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/MpJELehhLbc In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry sit down with Rob Howard, founder of Howard Building Science, to explore how he’s tackling one of the biggest challenges in housing today: building affordable, high-performance homes. Rob shares his journey from Habitat for Humanity to creating Duke Street Cottages, a pocket neighborhood in North Carolina designed for community, energy efficiency, and resilience. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events You can check Rob’s website here: https://howardbuildingscience.com/ Takeaways Building code is the baseline, not the finish line. Pocket neighborhoods foster community and affordability. SIP panels and modular construction reduce waste and speed up builds. Zero-energy-ready homes require airtight envelopes and efficient systems. Maintenance plans in HOA dues simplify homeowner responsibilities. Financing options like on-bill programs can make upgrades attainable. Skilled labor shortages are driving innovation in factory-built housing. Monitoring humidity and ventilation is key to healthy homes. Modular homes can achieve near-SIPs performance with customization. Affordability starts with design choices and community planning. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Sponsors 01:14 – Shoutout to IEB Coaching 02:07 – Meet Rob Howard: Builder & Innovator 04:43 – From Habitat for Humanity to Howard Building Science 07:34 – Why Energy Audits Are a Hard Sell 14:03 – Duke Street Cottages: Pocket Neighborhood Concept 18:35 – Affordability and Price Points 21:26 – Building Zero-Energy-Ready Homes 24:34 – SIP Panels vs. Modular Construction 31:00 – Ventilation, Humidity, and ERVs 36:56 – Tackling Skilled Labor Shortages 40:35 – Modular Factory Advantages 44:20 – Performance Trade-Offs in Modular Homes 47:22 – Lessons Learned and Developer Interest 49:14 – How to Connect with Rob Howard 50:38 – Wrap-Up and Listener Call-Out

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/gcF3wVu0630 In this episode, Tessa Murry and Reuben Saltzman welcome Isaac Scott, a builder from Louisiana, to discuss his company, Clare Homes, and the innovative building practices they employ. Isaac shares his journey from working in the construction industry to starting his own business focused on energy-efficient and resilient homes. The conversation delves into the Fortified Home Program, which aims to enhance the resilience of homes against natural disasters, and the importance of building science in creating sustainable living environments. Isaac also discusses the challenges and learning curves faced in the construction industry, particularly in Louisiana, and how they are paving the way for better building standards. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events You can check Clare Homes’ website here: https://www.clare-homes.com/ Takeaways Isaac Scott is the co-founder of Clare Homes, focusing on energy-efficient homes. Clare Homes builds to ENERGY STAR and Fortified Roof standards. The Fortified Home Program enhances resilience against natural disasters. Building science is crucial for creating sustainable homes. Isaac emphasized the importance of community resilience in building practices. The cost of building fortified homes is often outweighed by insurance savings. Indoor air quality management is essential in high-performance homes. Isaac's journey reflects the evolution of building practices in Louisiana. The construction industry is seeing a shift towards better standards and practices. Isaac encourages collaboration among builders for community improvement. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 02:52 Meet Isaac Scott: Builder and Innovator 03:55 The Journey of Clare Homes 08:49 Building Energy Efficient Homes 14:31 What Sets Clare Homes Apart? 17:26 Understanding Fortified Certification 25:05 Cost of Building Fortified Homes 25:38 Understanding Fortified Roofing Systems 28:39 The Importance of Continuous Load Paths 31:01 The Growing Interest in Fortified Homes 33:04 Insurance Incentives for Resilient Building 34:56 Cost Considerations for Fortified Homes 37:00 Building Techniques for High Performance Homes 39:28 Air Quality and Humidity Management 45:48 The Evolution of Building Standards in Louisiana

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/6GZOqskHBwU In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry discuss Halloween chaos and a complex home inspection that pushed the limits of Structure Tech’s expertise. Reuben shares a detailed story about troubleshooting a heating system in a 100-year-old Minneapolis home, emphasizing the importance of documentation, communication, and customer support. Tessa adds insights on energy types and reflects on the challenges of winding down during a busy season. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Takeaways When dealing with heating issues, timestamped evidence can be crucial. Effective communication is key in customer support. Guiding customers through troubleshooting can lead to successful outcomes. Frustration is common among customers facing technical issues. Follow-up is important to ensure customer satisfaction. Resetting devices can often resolve common problems. Clear instructions can empower customers to solve their issues. Customer appreciation can enhance the support experience. Billing for services can be a point of discussion in customer interactions. Understanding customer emotions can improve service delivery. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Sponsors 01:14 – Sleep Struggles and WHOOP Tracker 03:36 – Halloween Party Chaos at Reuben’s House 06:57 – Shoutout to IEB Coaching 07:34 – Facebook Post from Agent Clint Kipers 09:03 – Why Structure Tech Charges More 11:25 – Target Market: Savvy Buyers & High-Integrity Agents 15:14 – Training New Inspectors 17:34 – Tessa’s Travel, Moving, and Sleep Challenges 21:13 – Human Design and Energy Types 25:29 – Complex Home Inspection Case Study 30:05 – HVAC Systems Fighting Each Other 34:06 – Boiler Error Codes and Troubleshooting 36:25 – Homeowner Call and Reset Instructions 39:22 – Why Documentation Matters 42:05 – Not All Homes Are First-Time Buyer Friendly 46:10 – Maintenance Demands and Utility Costs 47:18 – Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts 48:12 – Listener Call-Out and Upcoming Guest

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/vi0mEQemsck In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry sit down with Gene Myers, founder and CEO of Thrive Home Builders in Denver, Colorado. Gene shares his journey from land developer to one of the most forward-thinking builders in the country, known for creating high-performance, net-zero energy homes. The conversation explores the environmental impact of building materials—especially concrete—the importance of operational and embodied carbon, and how builders can balance sustainability with affordability. Gene also discusses innovative building practices, including fiberglass foundations, solar energy strategies, and the importance of building homes that serve both people and the planet. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events To check Gene's company, click here: https://thrivehomebuilders.com/ Takeaways Gene Myers transitioned from land development to home building during the savings and loan crisis. Thrive Home Builders focuses on net-zero energy homes that are resilient, healthy, and sustainable. Net-zero homes produce as much energy as they consume annually, often using solar panels and battery storage. Concrete has one of the highest carbon footprints among building materials due to its production and transportation. Fiberglass foundation panels offer a promising alternative to concrete, with lower carbon impact and faster installation. Operational carbon (energy used to run a home) typically outweighs embodied carbon (carbon from materials and construction) over a home's lifetime. Gene emphasizes a rigorous cost-benefit analysis to ensure sustainability is attainable for everyday homebuyers. Partnerships with national labs and programs like Energy Star and DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home are key to Thrive’s success. Builders should avoid “shiny new objects” unless they are cost-effective and scalable. Municipalities with climate action plans may value sustainable builders more than individual consumers. Building a strong, meaningful brand has long-term benefits and helps attract talent and opportunities. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Sponsors 01:32 – Guest Introduction: Gene Myers 03:08 – Gene’s Journey from Land Developer to Builder 04:43 – What is a Net-Zero Energy Home? 06:11 – Building Homes that Serve Communities 07:48 – Advice for Builders: Don’t Go It Alone 10:16 – Leveraging Energy Star and DOE Programs 12:11 – First Net-Zero Home and Choosing Solar Over Geothermal 13:48 – Solar Leasing Options Explained 15:45 – Balancing Sustainability with Cost 19:29 – Why Thrive Avoids Geothermal and SIPs 21:27 – The Carbon Footprint of Concrete 25:00 – Fiberglass Foundation Panels as an Alternative 28:08 – Operational vs. Embodied Carbon 31:53 – Using OneClick LCA for Carbon Calculations 33:26 – Offsetting Carbon Locally in Breckenridge 35:47 – Municipalities vs. Consumers: Who Values Sustainability More? 39:30 – What Thrive Homes Look Like

To watch a video version of this podcast, click here: https://youtu.be/qaISUXRUJrQ In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry welcome Sam Rashkin, former Chief Architect for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Technologies Office and creator of the Energy Star for Homes and Zero Energy Ready Home programs. Sam shares his journey into the housing industry, his passion for sustainable building, and his insights into why the U.S. housing market is fundamentally broken. The conversation dives deep into housing affordability, productivity challenges, regulatory barriers, and the transformative potential of advanced manufacturing in home construction. Sam also discusses the importance of purpose, resilience, and the need for a national roadmap to fix the housing crisis. Here's the link to Inspector Empire Builder: https://www.iebcoaching.com/events Check Sam's LinkedIn profile here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-rashkin-1684582/ To check his book on Amazon, click here: https://amzn.to/4nhU5nH Takeaways Sam Rashkin’s early passion for housing led him to a career in architecture and energy-efficient building. The U.S. housing market is broken due to a growing disconnect between home prices and median income. Productivity in the housing industry has declined over the past 150 years, with little innovation in construction methods. Advanced manufacturing and factory-built homes, as seen in countries like Sweden, offer a model for cost-effective, high-quality housing. Regulatory complexity and lack of a national building code hinder innovation and scalability in the U.S. Labor shortages and aging workforce are exacerbating the housing crisis. Sam advocates for a national attic upgrade program as a low-hanging fruit for energy efficiency improvements. Emotional connection and simplicity in consumer-facing metrics (e.g., star ratings for home energy scores) can drive better decision-making. Resilience and disaster preparedness must be prioritized in housing design, especially in high-risk areas. A collaborative, stakeholder-driven roadmap is essential to transform the housing industry. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Sponsors 01:35 – Guest Introduction: Sam Rashkin 04:06 – Sam’s Journey into Housing and Architecture 06:45 – The Power of Purpose and Personal Stories 11:18 – Why the U.S. Housing Market is Broken 15:48 – Housing 2.0 and the Need for Disruption 17:42 – Lack of Innovation in Home Construction 20:43 – Customization vs. Standardization in Homebuilding 23:50 – Lessons from Sweden: Factory-Built Homes 33:05 – Labor Shortages and Immigration Challenges 37:29 – The Future of Home Inspection 41:18 – Creating a National Roadmap for Housing Reform 44:07 – The Role of Building Codes and Regulation 50:11 – Insurance Costs and Resilience 55:06 – Government Programs and Hypocrisy in Efficiency 56:29 – Shifting Perspectives and Asking the Right Questions 57:51 – The Need for Change and Sam’s Call to A