Building Sustainably artwork

Building Sustainably

50 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 7 ratings

Join host Tim O’Brien to discuss Green Building Practices, Innovative Designs, & Renewable Technologies. Plus learn more about sustainability in the building industry and communities through the eyes of a homebuilder. We look at Sustainability from four different perspectives and will provide insights you can take back to your life and business: The Homebuilding Industry, Our Community, Our Homes, Our Employees.

Home & Garden Leisure Science home building home new home home construction green building sustainability high performance home energy efficiency homes new homes
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

Breaking Barriers with Charis Homes

December 16, 2022 18:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MB

In this episode, host Tim O'Brien is joined by founder and president of Charis Homes, Glenna Wilson, to discuss High Performance Homes and breaking barriers to entry for women in the home building and construction industries. For more information about Charis Homes, visit www.charishomes.com

Smart Home Technology with Digitek Digital

October 07, 2022 19:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MB

In this episode, Tim O’Brien is joined by owner of Digitek Digital, Dave Mihalovic, to discuss home automation and how new homeowners can optimize their smart home technology. Dave provides insights on what to do and what to avoid as it relates to the technology in your new home.  

Using Avid Ratings to Improve the Customer Experience

September 23, 2022 20:00 - 14 minutes - 9.93 MB

In this episode, Tim O’Brien talks about our process for surveying customers throughout their new home journey, including design, construction, and customer care. Through the use of third-party surveys from Avid Ratings, which is a comprehensive customer experience surveying platform, we have consistently improved on our commitment to deliver extraordinary experiences to our customers. 

Moving Toward a Positive Impact on Energy Use and Climate Change

September 09, 2022 17:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien speaks with the Director of the Dane County of Energy and Climate Change, Kathy Kuntz, about their mission to design and implement collaborate initiatives that accelerate change and yield substantive results for energy use and climate change in Dane County and beyond. For more information, visit https://daneclimateaction.org/

AeroBarrier's Innovative Home Sealing Technology

August 26, 2022 15:00 - 22 minutes - 15.6 MB

In this episode of the Building Sustainably Podcast, Tim O’Brien meets with the National Director of AeroBarrier, Paul Springer, to discuss the innovative way in which AeroSeal's innovative home sealing product aims to benefit both new and existing homes. Tim and Paul talk through the application process and the benefits of creating an airtight home. For more information, visit aeroseal.com/aerobarrier/

What Is Geothermal Energy & How Can We Use It?

August 12, 2022 16:00 - 21 minutes - 14.8 MB

 In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O'Brien talks about the importance and benefits of using geothermal energy in homes. Geothermal energy is a renewable resource that is naturally produced in the earth’s core. By utilizing this energy source, you can reduce your energy costs, improve the comfort of your home, and extend the useful life of your equipment.

A Community-Driven Approach to Housing

July 08, 2022 20:00 - 27 minutes - 18.9 MB

In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O'Brien is joined by Melissa Songco, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity, to discuss their story and efforts to help the Waukesha community. Habitat for Humanity has been building affordable housing for families for many years. Being a non-profit organization, Songco talks about how they benefit from the love and support within the community.

Leadership and Core Values Within a Growing Organization

June 24, 2022 19:00 - 35 minutes - 24.5 MB

In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O’Brien is joined by Ryan Hanna, Executive Vice President of Dave Jones, Inc, to discuss the advantages of building strong relationships with your coworkers, business partners, customers, and the community. They also dive into the significance of having a strong company culture, as well as the benefits of apprenticeship programs for high schools and universities to assist students in transitioning into the trades.

Homebuilder Collaboration Through Builder 20 Clubs

June 10, 2022 16:00 - 36 minutes - 24.9 MB

 In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O'Brien is joined by Rachel Flint, Vice President of Hubbell Homes in Des Moines, Iowa, to discuss the advantages of participating in the Builder 20 Group through the National Home Builders Association. This diverse group of homebuilders across the country meets to discuss every aspect of their businesses. Through these transparent peer conversations and site visits, builders can gain insights and apply new processes and ideas to t...

Total Quality Management in Construction: A Review of the Journey (Part 3)

May 27, 2022 15:00 - 27 minutes - 18.9 MB

In the final part of this three-part episode, Tim finishes his conversation with president of TrueNorth Development, Scott Sedam, as they break down principles of lean construction as it relates to total quality within the homebuilding industry.

Total Quality Management in Construction: A Review of the Journey (Part 2)

May 13, 2022 18:00 - 24 minutes - 17 MB

In part two of this three-part episode, Tim O’Brien continues his conversation with president of TrueNorth Development, Scott Sedam, as they discuss how the Total Quality Management (TQM) model has had an effect on the homebuilding industry through programs such as the National Housing Quality Awards. 

Total Quality Management in Construction: A Review of the Journey (Part 1)

April 28, 2022 20:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MB

In this part one of this three part episode, Tim O’Brien is joined by president of TrueNorth Development, Scott Sedam, to discuss the history of the Total Quality Management (TQM) model, and how companies were able to improve products, process, and profits through a focus on quality. 

Total Quality Management in Construction: A Review of the Journey

April 28, 2022 20:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MB

In this part one of this three part episode, Tim O’Brien is joined by president of TrueNorth Development, Scott Sedam, to discuss the history of the Total Quality Management (TQM) model, and how companies were able to improve products, process, and profits through a focus on quality. 

The McKenzie Regional Workforce Center

April 15, 2022 17:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by our very own, Danny Lowery, President of our Madison division, to discuss the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center. Danny explains how the project was conceived, how he first got involved, and the commitment by the Boys and Girls Club to develop a new, diverse generation of skilled tradespeople throughout the Madison area and beyond. For more information, click here.

A Work-From-Home Space That Won’t Break Your Budget

April 01, 2022 19:00 - 16 minutes - 11.5 MB

It should be no surprise that this trend is elevating the home office from an amenity to a must-have. A new home is a chance to create an office that's functional and useful—a space you will look forward to stepping into each morning. In this episode, Tim O'Brien highlights some important things to consider when creating a work-from-home space within your budget.

Which Home Building Process Is Right For You?

March 04, 2022 18:00 - 27 minutes - 18.6 MB

 In this episode, Tim explores the three different home building processes, which include Production, Semi-Custom, and Custom. Tim explains that although one is not necessarily better than the other, it’s important to think about the pros and cons of each to determine which process is right for you and your family. 

Designing A New Home Plan

February 18, 2022 21:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MB

In this episode, Tim is joined by our Lead Home Designer, Andrew Elder, to discuss the process of creating new home plans. Andrew details how a plan goes from a prototype to a finished home plan and explains his thoughts on several elements that go into designing a new home. 

Housing Market 2021 Recap & 2022 Outlook

February 04, 2022 22:00 - 14 minutes - 9.89 MB

In this episode, Tim O’Brien details the challenges faced by the home building industry in 2021 such as supply chain issues, building material costs, and labor shortages and how those challenges will potentially continue through 2022. Tim also summarizes a 2022 market outlook from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) as interest rates are projected to increase, and housing affordability remains low. 

The National Housing Quality Award - A Symbol of Excellence

January 07, 2022 21:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MB

In this episode, Tim O’Brien is joined by Tom Gillespie to discuss the National Housing Quality Award and its impact on homebuilders across the country. Tim and Tom go through how the award was created, as well as delve into the rigorous application and extensive criteria in which applicants are judged on each year.

Consumer Insights Customer Satisfaction

December 03, 2021 18:00 - 34 minutes - 24 MB

In this episode, Tim is joined by Vice President of Customer Success and Sales at Avid Ratings, Zach Buehl, to discuss the importance of third-party surveys for homebuilders. Zach explains how the data collected from Avid Surveys is used by companies to gather consumer insights on all aspects of their business, including products, processes, and people.

Total Quality Management

November 19, 2021 20:00 - 40 minutes - 28.1 MB

In this episode, Tim O’Brien explains the TQM (total quality management) approach as a management system for a customer-focused organization that involves all employees in continual improvement. It uses strategy, data, and effective communications to integrate the quality discipline into the culture and activities of the organization. Tim explores the history of this approach, and how we implement it into Tim O’Brien Homes to deliver value to our employees, Trade Partners, and customers. 

HGTV & Pinterest from a Homebuilder's Point of View

November 05, 2021 20:00 - 32 minutes - 22.1 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by our Director of Sales, Pete Lange, to discuss the impact of platforms like HGTV and Pinterest on homebuyer expectations. Tim and Pete explore the benefits and challenges that these present when homebuyers are choosing finishes for their new home. 

Financing Your New Home Construcion Project

October 22, 2021 16:00 - 17 minutes - 11.8 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by AVP Senior Mortgage Loan Officer at Associated Bank, Jackie Portz, to discuss the construction loan process and some common misconceptions about home financing. 

Sustainability Through The Consumer's Eyes with Suzanne Shelton (Part 2)

October 08, 2021 18:00 - 30 minutes - 20.9 MB

In the second part of this two-part episode, Tim O'Brien continues his conversation with President and CEO of Shelton Group, Suzanne Shelton, to discuss how consumers view sustainability within the homebuilding industry and beyond. 

Sustainability Through The Consumer's Eyes with Suzanne Shelton (Part 1)

September 24, 2021 19:00 - 19 minutes - 13.4 MB

In this two part episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by President and CEO of Shelton Group, Suzanne Shelton, to discuss how consumers view sustainability within the homebuilding industry and beyond. Suzanne highlights data her team has collected through years of research and focus groups, which indicates a shift in consumer sentiment toward sustainability over the past few years. 

Weather Resistant Barriers & Sustainable New Home Products

September 10, 2021 21:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MB

In this episode, Hallmark Building Supplies Business Development Manager, Linda Heipp, joins Tim O'Brien to discuss the benefits of Tyvek Homewrap, and what makes this particular product one of the most important things that goes into building a home. Linda also highlights some other innovative and sustainable new home products. 

The Core Values of Tim O'Brien Homes

August 27, 2021 20:00 - 36 minutes - 25.5 MB

In this episode, Tim talks through the importance of defining core values within an organization and how those values can contribute to a positive company culture. Tim delves into each one of 7 core values of Tim O'Brien Homes, and explains how they were developed. 

EEBA Summit & Sustainable National Housing Trends with Aaron Smith

August 13, 2021 20:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by CEO of the Energy and Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA), Aaron Smith, to discuss the  community of over 50,000 builders and their stakeholders across North America that are truly the early adopters and innovators in driving sustainable transformation of the homebuilding industry. 

The History of Tim O'Brien Homes

July 30, 2021 20:00 - 44 minutes - 30.8 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien takes us back through the history of Tim O'Brien Homes and how the company was started. Tim talks about some of the challenges that he faced, how he identified a way to separate from other homebuilders in the area, and much more!

Developing New Communities with Sustainability in Mind

July 16, 2021 20:00 - 38 minutes - 26.7 MB

 In this episode, Tim O'Brien talks with  Steve DeCleene  of Neumann Developments about sustainable land development. Tim and Steve also discuss a variety of topics including lack of available land in desirable areas, building relationships with municipalities, and upcoming developments in Southeastern Wisconsin. 

Tim O'Brien's Top Home Options Most People Don't Think About

July 02, 2021 19:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien provides insights into some home options that people often don't think about until after they move into their new home. Tim draws from his experiences building his own personal homes to talk through some things that homebuyers should think about when choosing their options and finishes. This includes things like laundry room location, future finished basement considerations, and much more.

Our 'Build On Your Lot' Program

June 18, 2021 19:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien talks through the Tim O'Brien Homes 'Build On Your Lot' program, which affords homebuyers with the same attention to detail, construction standards, green building practices and outstanding service as those who purchase a home in one of our established neighborhoods. 

Changing Community Habits and Sustainability with Waukesha County Green Team

June 04, 2021 21:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MB

In this episode, Tim is joined by Laura Loucks, who is a board member on the Waukesha County Green Team, which is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote environmental and economic sustainability in Waukesha County communities through education, communication, and local action. Tim and Laura discuss ways in which community members can get involved including educational forums, networking events, and projects that help to conserve Waukesha County resources and to build a sustainab...

U.S. DOE Housing Innovation Awards Recognize Top Industry Leaders with Joe Nebbia

May 21, 2021 21:00 - 38 minutes - 26.8 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Joe Nebbia who is a Technical Consultant for the U.S. Department of Energy and Operations Director for its Zero Energy Ready Home Program. Tim and Joe discuss the Housing Innovation Awards and the rigorous application process, which is designed to recognize innovative homebuilders across the country that strive for excellence in High Performance home building practices. 

Post-COVID Housing Boom Creates Supply Chain Challenges for Homebuilders

April 30, 2021 20:00 - 26 minutes - 18 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien delves into the history of the housing industry supply chain and discusses the challenges it has faced as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, including labor force shortages and manufacturing halts. Tim highlights the importance of creating positive builder-supplier relationships in order to mitigate disruptions in the building process and tells homebuyers what to expect when building a new home in the current market conditions.

Choosing The Right Homebuilder

April 16, 2021 14:00 - 21 minutes - 14.6 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien talks through some things to think about as you start your new home search. Tim discusses the importance of asking your builder the right questions when choosing to build or buy a new construction home and highlights the benefits of choosing a High Performance homebuilder backed by a proven process and established industry certifications. For more resources on this topic and to download our guide to choosing the right homebuilder, visit info.timobrienhomes.com/l...

What is the HERS Index and Why Should I Care? Featuring Ryan Meres

April 02, 2021 17:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by  the Program Director of  RESNET, Ryan Meres, to discuss the meaning of The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, and why new home buyers should better understand how and why this Index is calculated.  Ryan Meres has 15 years of experience in energy and water efficiency, energy policy and building energy codes and has worked at the Federal, state, and local level. As the Program Director for the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET), Ryan ...

Designing Products for the Future of Water Conservation with Kohler Co.

March 18, 2021 20:00 - 44 minutes - 30.6 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Senior Environmental Project Engineer at Kohler, Olivia Fritz, to discuss ways in which Kohler's focus on water conservation and environmental design can contribute to the homebuilding industry's push toward sustainability. For more information about Kohler's commitment to sustainability and Design For Environment program, visit www.kohlercompany.com/sustainability/

Frequently Asked Questions When Buying A Home

March 05, 2021 20:00 - 54 minutes - 37.2 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by our Director of Sales and his long-time colleague and friend, Pete Lange. Pete began his career in the homebuilding industry in 1990 and continued until 2009, serving  in roles ranging from Customer Service Manager to Production Manager to Vice President of Sales. He then followed his passion for teaching and music, teaching Band and Choir from 2009 to 2017. Pete  Re-entered homebuilding and joining Tim O’Brien Homes in 2016 and  continues teaching S...

The Tim O'Brien Homes Warranty Process

February 19, 2021 20:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien discusses each phase of the Tim O'Brien Homes Warranty Process from the Pre-Move-In Orientation and beyond. Tim details some of our standard and manufacturer warranties and highlights ways in which our Customer Care team strives to educate homeowners on how to care for their home to ensure lasting value.   

The US D.O.E. Zero Energy Ready Home Program with Sam Bowles

February 05, 2021 19:00 - 46 minutes - 32.2 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Marketing and Research Analyst at Newport Partners, Sam Bowles, to discuss the U.S. D.O.E. Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) Program. This program recognizes home the top 1% percent of home builders in the country meeting the extraordinary levels of excellence in energy and performance specified in the national program requirements. Sam highlights the history and goals of the program, as well as the ways in which  every certified Zero Energy Ready Home...

The Tim O'Brien Homes Construction Process

January 22, 2021 19:00 - 29 minutes - 20.3 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien discusses each phase of the Tim O'Brien Homes construction process from foundation and framing to finishes and final clean. Tim details what homeowners should expect during each of the main stages of the build and explains the relationship/communication between the homeowner and Construction Manager throughout the process. www.timobrienhomes.com/building-process

Wisconsin's Focus on Energy Empowers Builders and Consumers

January 08, 2021 18:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Focus on Energy's New Home Residential Program Manager, Andy Kuc, to discuss ways in which Focus on Energy empowers the people and businesses of Wisconsin to make smart energy decisions with enduring economic benefits. Focus on Energy focusonenergy.com/ Tim O'Brien Homes www.timobrienhomes.com/ 

Broan-Nutone - A Leader in Healtheir Home Systems

December 18, 2020 18:00 - 37 minutes - 26 MB

 In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Edwin Bender and Patrick Nielsen from Broan-Nutone, the global leader in residential indoor air quality, to discuss areas of growth in the industry as well as opportunities for residential construction to continue to innovate and develop technologies to further improve fresh air ventilation systems. About Edwin Bender Edwin Bender has over 25 years of experience in the sale and marketing of commercial and DIY products. His teams have increased the...

A Breath of Fresh Air: The EPA's Commitment to Indoor Air Quality

December 04, 2020 20:00 - 35 minutes - 24.1 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Environmental Protection Specialist at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Aaron Johnson, to discuss the EPA's Indoor airPLUS program, and the increasing importance of Indoor Air Quality in our homes as it relates to our health. EPA Indoor airPLUS www.epa.gov/indoorairplus Indoor Air Quality www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq

The Power of the Sun: Where We Are and Where We Are Going with Solar

November 20, 2020 20:00 - 44 minutes - 30.6 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Vice President of Project Development at SunVest Solar, John Daugherty, to discuss the benefits of solar energy production in new home construction for both builders and consumers alike. John also highlights factors such as reduced cost, surging consumer demand, and increased government subsidies as key drivers for the rapid growth in the solar industry. SunVest Solar https://www.sunvest.com/ State Programs for Solar https://www.sunvest.com/state-...

Creating a Sustainable Workplace Culture with Chad Sanschagrin

November 06, 2020 21:00 - 1 hour - 47.1 MB

In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by international speaker, leadership and sales coaching expert, and founder of Cannonball Moments, Chad Sanschagrin, to discuss the importance of creating a sustainable workplace culture. Chad offers his unique experience and insight on developing a growth mindset and long-term success within an organization. About Chad Sanschagrin Chad began Cannonball to use the skills he gained as a top-rated sales professional for a national homebuilder to empower...

Home Design for a Climate-Changing World with Sam Rashkin

October 23, 2020 18:00 - 56 minutes - 39.1 MB

 In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Chief Architect of the Building Technologies Office in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Sam Rashkin, to discuss new home design as our environment continues to change around us. Sam highlights the importance of resilient, future-ready homes as well as how and why homebuilders should implement sustainable building practices going forward. About Sam Rashkin Sam is the author of the book titled “Retooling the U.S. Housing Industr...

Building The Future of Trades Through Hands-On Education Programs

October 09, 2020 20:00 - 49 minutes - 33.8 MB

In this episode, we're joined by Steve Olson who is the teacher of the Oconomowoc High School Building Trades class to discuss the partnership between Tim O'Brien Homes and local high schools in order to develop the future of the trade industry by giving students real, hands-on experience in homebuilding. About Steve Olson Steve has been a certified staff member at OHS since the fall of 1995.   After graduating from UW-Stout in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Education,...

Building Science Advocates: The Energy & Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA)

September 24, 2020 19:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MB

In this episode, we're joined by Gene Myers who is the owner and CEO of Thrive Home Builders in Denver, Colorado and current president of The Energy & Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA) board of directors to discuss EEBA and its commitment to provide the most trusted resources for building science information and education in the construction industry. About Gene Myers Gene is owner and CEO of Thrive Home Builders (formerly New Town Builders), Denver's leader in building green, energy ...