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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 Climasure Enduro Builders

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 without compromising structural integrity. Useful Links ⁠Laros website⁠ A little info o the 1/3 2/3 rule SIP Framing | What You Need To Know Before You Build... - ASIRI Design Social Media - Follow here ⁠Building Sciology⁠ ⁠ Sponsors ⁠Climasure⁠ ⁠Enduro Builders⁠ ⁠Sign up to the Building Sciology Mailing list here! Show notes can be found here

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 significant long-term issues. Our discussion also highlights the Aqua Tower case study as a cautionary tale about thermal bridging and the importance of considering building physics in design. Useful Links Laros website Aqua Tower Chicago - Buildingscience.com Sustainable House Day Mouldy frames in Adelaide Social Media - Follow here Building Sciology Sponsors Climasure Enduro Builders Sign up to the Building Sciology Mailing list here! Show notes can be found here

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 improve outcomes. Useful links JT Certification Services - Mount Gambier - website Robe Passive House- Instagram Sean Maxwell - ATTMA Aus and NZ Scheme Manager - W: https://www.bcta.group/attma/attma-anz/  E: [email protected] What does a building surveyor do? - “The report found building surveyors were more than seven times more likely to have their registrations cancelled than any other class of building practitioner.” Mouldy frames in Adelaide - Instagram post Australian College of Environmental Studies - do you want to become a building biologist? What is NatHERS SA’s building code paused for 10 years National Building Code Pause until 2029 The TikTok Inspector - TikTok account Shine Hub - smart affordable solar and battery solutions Social Media Links Building Sciology Cimasure (sponsor) Enduro Builders (sponsor) Show notes can be found here

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 and please leave a 5 star review and follow along if you enjoyed the content. Cheers! Useful Links Zara D’Cotta - Healthy Materials Master Mind CIRS Explained Purchase an ERMI test - $459 - $500 Understanding the WELL Building Standard WELL Standard - Residential Green Star Homes Roadmap to becoming a WELL AP Waters Co Ace Bio+ jug Well Verti shower filter Natural v Synthetic furniture - how fast they burn Social Media Links Building Sciology Instagram Climasure Instagram Enduro Builders Facebook Show notes can be found here

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 Retrofit post Victorian Gov insulation scheme 2025 Botched insulation scheme - BBC BRANZ - “Roof space moisture - it’s complicated” Aussie warm roof v European warm roof Parka Wrap- external insulation system Mouldy townhouses in Adelaide - instagram post Scoping Study into Condensation - has building code recommendations for 2019/2022/2025 Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings - DCCEEW Building Sciology Climasure Enduro Builders Show notes can be found here

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 crises. Useful Links Article read in the introduction - Horror $9m early Christmas present for 33 apartment owners What is the Leaky Building Crisis - NZ? Rottenomics - The Story of New Zealand’s Leaky Buildings Disaster - buy on Amazon Articles relevant to this interview The Age - 20th February 20199 News - 20th February, 2019The Project - 12th March, 2019The Age - 15th October, 2019Chris Crewther MP - statement to Parliament 10th December 2024Frankston Cladding - 9 News FacebookSix-year-old apartment block full of leaks, cracks, mould Builders to blame for bad cladding will now be chased through courtsCombustible cladding removal costs and uncertainties causing anxiety in building owners - ABC News'We can’t afford this': Home owners bear brunt of cladding crisisApartment owners fear for 'suicidal' neighbours as combustible cladding crisis takes its toll$500 bill final nail in the coffin for struggling homeownerCladding Crisis - The ProjectDay two and still no answer from the Minister for Planning.Fed up Frankston South home owners are pleading for help to fix their apartment building wrapped in dangerous combustible cladding.Chris Crewther MP - Again in Parliament I urged the Labor Government’s Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny to support the desperate residentsHome owners left high and dry while their building crumbles around themSocial Media Links Building Sciology - Better Buildings to Live and Breathe In Climasure - Better Buildings and Peace of Mind Enduro Builders - We build award winning high performing, energy efficient and Passivhaus homes Visit the website for a full transcript

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 importance of critical thinking in evaluating standards to the human tendency to defend familiar ways of building, this episode takes a thoughtful look at how emotion, history, and science intersect in the pursuit of better buildings. Useful Links What is Passive House Who is Dr Wolfgang Feist? Who is Fridtjof Nansen? Bo Adamon - Lund University - Co-creator of Passive House The World's First Passive House - Darmstadt - Kranichstein, Germany Who is Amory Lovins? Who is Kara Rosemeier Who is Ole Fanger The Camel - a living air conditioner Social Media Links Building Sciology Instagram Enduro Builders Instagram Climasure Instagram Show notes can be found here

In this episode of the Building Sciology Poddie, I am joined by Dr. Tim Law, a building scientist and architectural forensic investigator. We discuss the challenges of building science, focusing on issues like condensation, mould, and the impact of building codes on health and safety. Dr. Law shares insights from his career, emphasising the importance of understanding the technical aspects of building design and the need for collaboration across disciplines. Useful Links Introduction to Architectural Science - The basis of sustainable design - Steven V Szokolay What is Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome CSIRO House Energy Efficiency Inspections Project 2015 CSIRO Air Infiltration of New Dwellings 2024 ASHRAE 241 - Control of Infectious Aerosols IICRC - Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification ANSI/IICRC S500 - Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration ANSI/IICRC S520 - Standard for Professional Mold Remediation ABCB and UTAS Scoping Study of Condensation in Residential Buildings What is CIRS - Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Breaking Bad - series about cooking Meth! Haha highly recommended AS3740 2021 Waterproofing BPC - Building and Plumbing Commission ABCB Building Confidence Report The Defect Evasion Playbook - Dr Tim Law The Screwtape Letters AS4654 External Waterproofing Episode #12 - Condensation, Roof Ventilation and Building Science with Clarence Macalister AS3500 - Plumbing and Drainage Social Media Links Building Sciology Climasure Enduro Builders Websites Climasure Enduro Builders Show notes can be found here

In this conversation, I discuss the principles of high performance building at length with Matt Risinger, focusing on the importance of durability, water management, building science education, and the cultural differences in building practices between Australia and the US. Matt shares insights from his experiences in Australia, emphasising the need for transparency and learning from mistakes in the building industry. We also explore the concept of the 'Perfect Wall' and the upcoming "Build HD" standard aimed at improving building durability and health. Click follow on your favourite podcast app to make sure you don't miss an episode and you help the show grow! Thanks so much - Jess Useful links That video - Matt has concerns Australia! Level Up conference Build Show Building Science 101, 201 and 301 Risinger Build Who is Dr Joe Lstiburek? Steel frame done properly - page 13 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to High Performance Building 02:37 Lessons from Australia: Building Communication and Practices 05:16 The Importance of Water Management in Building 08:03 Design Principles: Overhangs and Eaves in Modern Construction 10:42 Learning from Mistakes: Building Science and Durability 13:11 The Perfect Wall: A Concept for Longevity 15:42 Durability vs. Energy Efficiency in Building Practices 18:32 Identifying Common Building Mistakes 21:13 The European Influence on Building Standards 23:28 Mindset Shift: Building for Longevity 26:15 Innovations in Building Materials and Techniques 28:39 Exploring Flat Roofs and Durability 30:13 Mindset of Durability in Construction 31:44 Introducing the HD Standard 33:42 Build Show Live Conference Insights 36:00 Networking and Collaboration in the Building Industry 37:49 Building Science Education and Resources 43:57 Advice for Australian Builders 47:12 Condensation Concerns in Building 52:31 Lessons Learned in the Building Industry Show notes can be found here

In this episode, I saw down with Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect. Amelia has been empowering homeowners in the building and renovation process, and upskilling builders in their businesses. In this episode she shares her journey in architecture, the challenges homeowners face, and the importance of communication and education in the industry. The conversation covers the PAC process, managing client expectations, and the significance of moisture management in building health. Amelia emphasizes the responsibility of builders to educate homeowners and create lasting impacts on communities through their work. Useful Links Under Cover Architect Undercover Architect Podcast Live Life Build Full show notes can be found here

In this conversation, Jess Kismet and Dr. Cameron Munro delve into the intricacies of building performance, focusing on how to create comfortable, durable, and energy-efficient homes. They discuss Cameron's background in aerospace engineering and how it informs his approach to building science. The conversation covers various topics, including the importance of mechanical ventilation, the impact of renovations on comfort, moisture management, and the significance of window and roof performance in building design. Cameron emphasises the need for clear communication of building performance metrics to clients and the importance of understanding the balance between passive and active heating and cooling systems. Links Cameron Munroe on the Mindful Builder podcast - Part 1 Cameron Munroe on the Mindful Builder podcast - Part 2 Show notes can be found here

In this conversation, Jess Kismet interviews Anthony Benger, a carpenter from Melbourne who shares his personal journey with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) caused by mould exposure. The discussion explores the intersection of health and building practices, emphasizing the importance of creating healthy living environments. Anthony reflects on his experiences with chronic illness, the challenges of navigating the building industry, and the need for better education on environmental health. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding how our home environments impact our health and well-being, advocating for a shift towards healthier building practices. Links Mould illness resource list Toxic Mould Support Australia Geovital Surviving Mold - Dr Ritchie Shoemaker NSJ Enviro - David Lark Toxic Mould Support Australia Facebook group HERTSMI test Other links Advanced Diploma in Building Biology - ACES Leviticus 14:33–53 - there actually is a verse in the bible that says if a house is mouldy the priest should declare that the house should be torn down! Tools app website Tools app instagram page Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Building Psychology and Personal Journey 01:37 Navigating Chronic Illness and Its Impact on Work 07:01 The Shift from Theory to Practical Building Solutions 12:24 Building Practices and the Importance of Healthy Homes 17:20 Understanding Environmental Illness and Its Implications 22:22 A Day in the Life with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 33:51 Bridging Knowledge Gaps in the Building Industry 40:10 Connecting the Dots: Mold Illness and Home Environment 50:09 Final Thoughts on Health and Home Environment Show notes can be found here

Join Jess Kismet as she delves into the world of high-performance building envelopes with James Pinyon, Kingspan's Technical Services Manager. Discover the intricacies of insulation, thermal performance, and the evolving standards in sustainable building. From the challenges of condensation in modern constructions to the innovative solutions Kingspan is pioneering, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how buildings can be made not just code-compliant, but genuinely better to live and work in. Tune in for insights on the future of insulation and sustainable building practices. Full show notes, chapters and links can be found here

In this episode, I chat to Sean Buchanan, an incredible builder from Northern Tasmania, to explore his journey into the world of building science. Sean shares his insights on the importance of creating durable and healthy homes, the challenges faced in the industry, and his vision for the future. Tune in to learn how Sean is making a difference in the construction world and inspiring the next generation of builders. He's the cool nerd we all need in our lives! Show notes can be found here