In the fast-evolving world of construction, staying abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and regulatory changes is crucial for professionals in the field. Podcasts have emerged as a valuable and entertaining resource for continuous learning, offering insights, advice, and discussions on a wide range of topics relevant to the construction industry. For those based in the UK or interested in British construction practices, there are several podcasts that stand out for their quality, relevance, and ability to engage listeners.
Here are the top 7 British construction podcasts you should listen to in 2024:
The BESA Podcast focuses on important questions within the building engineering services and construction sectors. It features in-depth discussions with leading industry figures about the state of the industry and anticipated changes. The series aims to shed light on topics that will impact businesses and careers in this uncertain world.
A notable episode from this series is "Mission Zero - Step by Step" with Chris Skidmore OBE, the first episode in their Net Zero Series in collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric. This episode, aired on 19th May 2023, features Chris Skidmore, the Chair of Independent Government Review on Net Zero, discussing his "Mission Zero" review that proposed 129 recommendations for fostering a prosperous UK "green economy." These recommendations span from speeding up decisions around low-carbon heating, and enhancing energy efficiency in buildings, to accelerating the integration of renewable power generation into the national electricity grid.
Key topics covered in this episode include the adaptation of building services to meet net zero objectives, the anticipated economic benefits and reduced energy cost disparities between electricity and gas, addressing the skills shortage as a significant barrier to achieving net zero, the potential for one trillion of inward investment focusing on net zero by the end of the decade, and the importance of integrating the net zero agenda with safety standards to ensure compliance.
These episodes highlight the podcast's commitment to discuss in-depth the challenges and opportunities within the building engineering sector, especially in the context of sustainability and the net zero transition. For more details, you can explore the episodes here.
The ASFP podcast "Sparking Interest" is part of a broader initiative aimed at delving into various aspects of the fire protection sector. The podcast invites industry specialists to share their insights on the sector, discuss recent industry affairs, and cover a wide range of topics related to fire protection. It spans across themes such as government, business, marketing, and natural sciences, providing a comprehensive look at the industry from multiple angles.
One notable episode features an interview with Neville White, the Business Development Director for Fire Protection, who discusses the critical role of distributors in the passive fire sector. The conversation highlights the importance of distributors in the supply chain, emphasising early engagement and the building of relationships with customers on specified products. White details the distributor's role in ensuring timely product supply, offering complete project solutions, and providing technical expertise, guidance, and in-depth product knowledge. Following the Grenfell tragedy and other fire-related disasters, there's a strong focus on working together to improve industry standards and building safety, with a particular emphasis on the necessity for ongoing learning, training, and knowledge building within the sectors.
For those interested in the fire protection industry or seeking to gain insights from leading experts, the "Sparking Interest" podcast can be found here.
The Built Environment Innovation Podcast, known as "Accelerate to Zero," focuses on transformative ideas and innovations within the built environment, emphasising sustainability and the drive towards decarbonisation by 2045. The podcast aims to inspire listeners by showcasing the changing landscape of the industry towards a more sustainable and efficient future. It features discussions on various topics, including digital transformation, cultural change, sustainable building, and advanced manufacturing techniques, as well as equity, diversity, and inclusion within the construction sector.
Episodes cover a range of subjects from promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in construction, exploring the use of artificial intelligence and digital twins in the industry, to specific projects and initiatives aimed at improving the built environment's sustainability. For example, one episode discusses the role of AI and machine learning in solving engineering and manufacturing problems, while another focuses on the impact of immersive technologies on work and learning.
One notable episode is titled "Lead, Collaborate, Innovate," part of the Built Environment Innovation Podcast series. In this episode, the focus shifts to addressing the unprecedented challenges the built environment is facing, such as Brexit, Covid-19, and climate change. Andy Outram, the Chairman of the Board for CSIC and Lead Real Estate Director for Scotland at Turner & Townsend, engages in a profound discussion with Stephen to navigate through these challenges. They explore avenues for ushering in a new era via digital transformation, cultural change, sustainable building, and the application of advanced manufacturing techniques. This episode aims to enlighten listeners on the innovative strides being made within the built environment and construction industry to overcome contemporary challenges and push towards a sustainable future.
For those interested in the evolving landscape of the built environment and how innovation can lead to a sustainable future, "Accelerate to Zero" provides valuable discussions and insights. More information and episodes are available through various podcast platforms, like Spotify and YouTube.
The Building Brum podcast is a platform where Conor Nolan, the Programme Director, engages in discussions with a diverse range of professionals from the construction and built environment sectors. These guests include developers, contractors, architects, planners, business development managers, and many other experts who play a crucial role in shaping the built environment. The podcast delves into developments across various regions, focusing on the latest trends and innovations within the industry. It's sponsored by several notable companies, including ScanTech Digital, known for their expertise in reality capture and point cloud modelling; Solus, a leading supplier of commercial floor and wall tiles; and Sunbelt Rentals, the largest provider of equipment hire in the UK, boasting over 200,000 items of equipment.
One notable episode of the Building Brum podcast titled "Modern methods of construction | The enabler, not the outcome," features Jamie Hillier and Ellie Jenkins from Akerlof Partners. They explore the impact of modern construction methods on enhancing economic growth, productivity, and achieving superior outcomes within the construction sector. With a focus on value-based decision-making, Jenkins, as the industry lead for the Construction Innovation Hub Value Toolkit, shares insights on optimising social, environmental, and economic benefits through innovative construction practices.
For more podcast episodes, look here.
The Digital Construction Conversations podcast, hosted by NBS, is aimed at exploring the trends and technologies impacting the construction industry. Launched in 2021, it features conversations with inspirational industry leaders about a wide array of subjects, including sustainability, regulations, and change management. The podcast delves into various topics through interviews with guests who share insights from their inspiring work and careers, offering essential knowledge into the evolving landscape of the construction industry and its implications for professionals.
Each episode tackles key issues and innovations in the field. For example, discussions have covered the role of information management in BIM, the evolution of data-centric processes according to ISO 19650, the importance of documentation, the value of digital engineering in budgeting, exploring 4D and 5D information production, and learning new software platforms. The benefits of real-world project experience and the potential solutions offered by technologies like virtual reality and holographic projection to current industry inefficiencies are also highlighted. Moreover, episodes have included conversations about the importance of soft socio-technical skills, the acceleration of digital skills across the supply chain, blockchain applications in construction, and the potential of the next generation of digital leaders.
Hosted by Paul Swaddle, Head of Technical Solutions at NBS, the podcast aims to simplify complex subjects related to digital construction and help people understand the field's nuances. Swaddle, an architect, author, speaker, and consultant, has delivered over 1000 hours of training and consultancy on NBS platforms and process improvement. His role facilitates insightful discussions that bridge technical know-how with practical applications in the industry.
For those interested in the evolving field of construction, particularly in the realm of digital transformation, the Digital Construction Conversations podcast can be found here.
The Constructive Voices podcast, initiated in April 2021, focuses on inspiring change within the construction industry, highlighting the crucial intersection between biodiversity, climate change, and the built environment. It aims to educate industry professionals that the path forward extends beyond traditional practices, advocating for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach.
Hosted by Peter Finn, a television builder with extensive construction experience, and complemented by the investigative journalism of Henry McDonald, the podcast offers a unique blend of practical insights and in-depth analysis. They explore a range of topics, from sustainable practices and green building innovations to the importance of biodiversity and female engineers in the construction sector. Recent episodes have covered diverse themes such as urban design, the revolutionary Cemfree cement for greener future construction, AI's role in water management to combat climate change, and the importance of mental health within the industry.
By bringing together experts from various fields, including the World Meteorological Organisation and the World Green Building Council, Constructive Voices serves as a global communications channel and educational resource, which can be accessed here.
And last but not least, we have MIDFIX’s very own podcast - M&E Drop-In - a podcast tailored for professionals seeking insights into the intricate world of Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) engineering and construction.
M&E Drop-In's aim is to provide a comprehensive platform where industry experts, practitioners, and enthusiasts alike can delve into technical solutions, compliance protocols, and industry best practices within the M&E sector. The podcast explores topics ranging from mastering anchor and fixing installations to dissecting building standards, and from navigating data management challenges to staying abreast of the latest advancements in the construction industry. Each episode is crafted to equip professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in their profession and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of M&E engineering and construction.
Episode 5, "Mastering Workmanship and Building Standards in the Construction Industry," features Paul McSoley, a Chartered Engineer and Technical Compliance Director, discussing new regulations, construction products, workmanship, and fire safety nuances. McSoley emphasises the importance of understanding both the design and practical installation aspects of construction projects, the impact of regulations like the 2022 Building Safety Act, and the significance of collaboration among professionals to achieve compliance and competence.
In Episode 4, "Unravelling the ‘Golden Thread’: Navigating Data Management in the Construction Industry," Phil Thompson, an expert in information management within product data systems, discusses the importance of the 'Golden Thread' in the context of the Grenfell Tragedy. This concept represents a collaborative effort to align information seamlessly across different stakeholders, emphasising the importance of unique identifiers like barcodes and the Global Trade ID number (GTIN) in the construction industry. The episode also touches on the distinctions between digitisation and digitalisation, the necessity of machine-readable data, and the challenges of adopting the Golden Thread.
The podcast serves as a resource for professionals in the field, helping them stay informed and updated on the latest developments within the M&E sector. It can be accessed here or through the link below:
In conclusion, the construction industry is at a critical point of transformation, where embracing sustainability, technological innovation, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement are non-negotiable for success. As professionals navigate the complexities of regulatory changes, environmental challenges, and the digital revolution, the importance of accessing diverse and in-depth knowledge cannot be overstated. The insights and discussions shared by industry leaders and experts in these podcasts play a crucial role in shaping the future of construction, guiding professionals through the nuances of modern practices, and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. By staying informed and engaged with the latest trends and technologies, construction professionals are better equipped to contribute to a more efficient, sustainable, and safe built environment.