Your Project Shepherd Construction Podcast

Are you using the right contract for your building projects in Texas?

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with three industry leaders to unpack the value, structure, and legal protection behind TAB Contracts:

• Frances Blake – General Counsel & VP of Regulatory Affairs, Texas Association of Builders

• Adam Aschmann – Senior Vice President & General Counsel, Tilson Homes

• Donald Shelton – Attorney/Shareholder, Bush Rudnicki Shelton, PC

TAB (Texas Association of Builders) contracts are specifically written for residential construction in Texas — and they’re designed to protect builders operating under Texas law.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Why TAB contracts exist and how they differ from generic templates

• Common contract mistakes that expose builders to unnecessary legal risk

• How properly structured agreements protect both builders and homeowners

• The role contracts play in dispute prevention and risk management

• Why professional builders should treat contracts as a strategic tool — not just paperwork

If you're a custom home builder, remodeler, or residential contractor in Texas, this episode will help you better understand how to protect your business and operate more professionally.

Contracts aren’t just legal documents — they set expectations, define relationships, and can determine whether a project ends in success or in court.

Listen in and learn why TAB contracts may be one of the most important investments you make in your business.

Three years. Over 100 episodes. Countless conversations about building better.

In this special anniversary episode, Curtis Lawson reflects on why Your Project Shepherd was started in the first place — and why the mission matters more now than ever.

After 21+ years building custom homes and stepping into failing projects, Curtis saw the same patterns over and over again:

• Homeowners who didn’t know how to hire the right builder

• Contracts structured incorrectly

• Payments mishandled

• Projects where trust was assumed instead of earned

• Clients stuck in bad situations because of sunk cost and fear

That’s why Shepherd Construction Advisors — and eventually this podcast — were born.

This episode isn’t just a look back. It’s a reminder of what this platform is really about:

✔ Educating homeowners so they can build smarter
✔ Helping builders elevate professionalism
✔ Creating better communication between teams
✔ Reducing stress, mistakes, and preventable disasters

If you’re a homeowner planning a custom build or major remodel…
If you’re a builder trying to run a more disciplined, process-driven company…
If you’re an architect or designer who wants smoother projects…

This episode will re-ground you in what truly matters in residential construction.

After three years, the mission hasn’t changed:
Better planning. Better communication. Better projects.

📘 From Vision to Completion by David Herzog: https://a.co/d/02jNQQt4

🏗 Learn more about Herzog Homes: https://www.herzoghomes.com/Whether you’re building your own home or running a construction business, smarter homes don’t start with products—they start with better decisions.In this episode of The Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson is joined by David Herzog, CEO of Herzog Homes and author of the bestselling book "From Vision to Completion", to unpack what actually leads to successful, lower-stress, higher-quality homebuilding outcomes.This conversation is designed for:1. Homeowners across the U.S. planning a custom home or major remodel2. Builders and remodelers who want better clients, smoother projects, and stronger reputations3. Construction professionals interested in best practices, process, and long-term performanceDavid shares decades of experience building homes and leading teams, including:-Why most homebuilding stress comes from misunderstanding the process-How homeowners and builders can align vision, budget, and expectations early-The role education plays in smarter, higher-performing homes-Why communication and process matter more than any single product or trend-How builders can create better experiences without burning out their teamsIf you care about building smarter homes, improving outcomes for clients, or running a more professional construction business, this episode will change how you think about the homebuilding process.

Learn more about the Panasonic OASYS system: https://oasys.na.panasonic.comFollow Panasonic IAQ on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panasoniciaq/One year after completion, the Panasonic OASYS concept home has been fully lived in, monitored, tested, and analyzed—and the results are in.In this episode of The Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson is joined by Ken Nelson, Group Sales Manager for Panasonic IAQ, to break down what builders can actually learn from a full year of real-world performance data from the OASYS home in Houston, Texas.This is not a showroom demo or a lab test. This home has experienced occupancy, vacancy, extreme heat, high humidity, system adjustments, and even intentional stress-testing—all while collecting temperature, humidity, and air quality data throughout the house.Key builder takeaways from this conversation include:1. Why continuous air movement outperforms traditional HVAC cycling2. How OASYS achieved consistent temperatures within 1–2 degrees room to room3. What the data revealed about moisture management in a tight envelope4. The real-world performance of ERVs in hot, humid climates5. Why small “cost savings” during construction can lead to major warranty risks6. What surprised Panasonic most after a full year of operationIf you’re a builder thinking about tighter envelopes, indoor air quality, moisture risk, or long-term durability—not just first-cost decisions—this 1-year retrospective offers practical insights you can apply to your own projects.

Most builders don’t fail because they’re bad at construction — they fail because no one ever taught them how to run a business.

In this episode of The Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson is joined by Kurt Hegetschweiler, international builder coach and author of Million Dollar Builder 2.0, to unpack why so many builders stay busy, stressed, and underpaid despite years of experience.

Kurt shares hard-earned insights from coaching thousands of builders worldwide, breaking down the leadership, financial, and systems mistakes that quietly erode profit and create burnout.

This conversation is especially relevant for custom home builders, remodelers, and residential contractors who want better margins, stronger cash flow, and more control over their businesses.

What You'll Learn in this Episode

• Why your construction business will never outgrow your leadership

• The hidden cost of free estimates and rushed pricing

• The difference between markup, margin, and real profitability

• Why chasing more work often creates more problems

• How pre-construction systems prevent downstream chaos

• Why specialization leads to consistency and higher margins

• The mindset shift required to move from tradesperson to business owner

About the Guest

Kurt Hegetschweiler is an international construction business coach and the author of Million Dollar Builder 2.0. He helps builders implement proven systems that improve profit, cash flow, workflow, and leadership — without working longer hours.

Who This Episode is For

• Residential homebuilders

• Custom home builders and remodelers

• Contractors transitioning from trades to ownership

• Builders stuck at the same revenue year after year

• Owners experiencing stress, burnout, or financial unpredictability

Running a construction business isn’t just about building houses—it’s about ownership, discipline, and making decisions when nobody’s coming to save you.

In this episode of The Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with longtime friend and custom homebuilder Chris Ferqueron for an honest, builder-to-builder conversation about what it actually takes to survive—and succeed—in construction.

Chris shares his journey from running pizza shops that never shut down, to finding stability, pride, and long-term fulfillment in building homes. Along the way, he breaks down the real lessons most builders only learn the hard way: why fear can be a powerful motivator, how organization becomes a competitive advantage, and why simply doing what you say you’re going to do separates great builders from everyone else.

This episode isn’t theory or hype. It’s a real conversation about:

• Why ownership mindset matters more than talent

• How discipline and execution drive long-term success

• What production builders actually track—and why it matters

• Why many builders fail when they move into higher-end work

• How trust, organization, and follow-through shape client experience

• Why building homes is personal—and why that responsibility matters

If you’re a homebuilder, remodeler, or construction business owner who feels the weight of responsibility every day, this episode will resonate. It’s about survival, growth, craftsmanship, and choosing to build a business—and a life—you can stand behind.

One year after the California Palisades wildfires, the rebuilding is still unfolding—and the lessons for builders are just beginning to surface.

In this episode, Curtis Lawson sits down with Los Angeles builder Chris Ferqueron to reflect on the fires, the aftermath, and how major disasters permanently change the homebuilding industry. From evolving building codes to shifting expectations around resilience, this conversation explores what builders need to understand before the next disaster hits.

You’ll hear practical, real-world insights on:

• How disasters drive building code changes

• Why risk is often underestimated in residential construction

• What resilient design really means beyond compliance

• The challenges of rebuilding in post-disaster environments

• How builders can better protect clients—and themselves—long term

This episode is for builders, remodelers, and construction professionals who want to think beyond short-term fixes and understand the bigger picture of building in a world where extreme events are becoming more common.

Jobsite theft and liability are real challenges for builders — but smart security can make all the difference. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis sits down with Alan Martinez, Director of Business Development at Datasmart Home Technologies and Duncan Security, to discuss innovative ways to protect your projects. Alan shares how solar-powered camera systems help builders prevent theft, reduce liability, and bring peace of mind to every jobsite. From real-life incidents to proactive risk management strategies, this episode offers must-know insights for anyone in the construction industry.

Prefab architect Rame Hruska, co-founder of Intexture Architects and Aura Dwellings and Hospitality, joins host Curtis Lawson to demystify ADUs and modular homes — what they are, how they’re built, and why they’re reshaping construction timelines and quality standards. Rame breaks down inspections (state vs. city), MEP coordination, WUI fire-zone and coastal windstorm requirements, and how factory precision cuts waste and boosts consistency. Learn how Intexture integrates design and manufacturing to deliver high-end modular ADUs and custom homes efficiently. A must-listen for builders, designers, and architects exploring off-site innovation.

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson shares the story of the home that nearly broke his business — and the mental health lessons every builder and homeowner can learn from it. Curtis breaks down the hidden costs of poor systems, “slippage,” and burnout in construction, then outlines five transformative steps: preconstruction agreements, transparency, strong processes, communication, and empathy. Whether you’re a builder, architect, or homeowner, this episode offers real-world insights to protect your profits and your peace of mind.

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson unpacks the hidden costs of construction that no budget accounts for: stress, burnout, and anxiety. Curtis explores how builders face unreliable trades, constant financial pressure, and client demands—while homeowners ride an emotional roller coaster from excitement to regret. These challenges aren’t separate—they’re two sides of the same coin. If you’re a builder, architect, or homeowner, this episode shines a light on why projects derail and why trust often breaks down. Tune in as Curtis sets the stage for practical solutions in the next episode.

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why “winging it” in construction is a recipe for disaster. Using a luxury fence in River Oaks, TX as an example, Curtis unpacks the hidden risks of vague plans, poor alignment, and lack of detail in design. He explains how homeowners, builders, and architects can prevent disputes, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure projects stay on track. From pre-construction planning to selecting the right builder, this episode delivers actionable insights for anyone in residential construction. Learn how details protect your project—and your reputation.

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Dan Bawden, owner of Legal Eagle Contractors and a nationally recognized expert in Universal Design. They explore how smart, adaptable design goes beyond ADA standards to create homes that work for everyone—today and in the future. From zero-step entries and intuitive kitchens to safe, stylish bathrooms and elevator-ready layouts, Dan shares practical tips that add value, safety, and beauty to any project. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or designer, this episode will change how you think about remodeling and new construction.

In this short but powerful episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a real-world lesson every builder, architect, and designer needs to hear: “stick to your process and win more projects”. In this episode, Curtis shares how his process saved a client from making a costly mistake. From bid comparisons to educating homeowners on scope and budget, this episode shows how consistency builds trust and credibility. Whether you’re a builder or design professional, these insights will help you win better clients and avoid painful missteps.

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Brinn Miracle, owner of Architangent, to explore the intersection of branding, architecture, and design. Brinn shares how the “Why of Design” helps business owners and design professionals uncover their deeper purpose, clarify their niche, and create spaces that tell authentic stories. From connecting emotionally with clients to building long-term brand equity, this conversation is packed with insights for builders, architects, and designers looking to differentiate themselves and attract the right clients. Discover why branding must come before design.

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Chris Bolio of Alair Homes to unpack why preconstruction agreements are the hidden key to successful builds. Chris explains how investing in planning upfront saves homeowners, architects, and builders from costly mistakes, scope surprises, and broken trust down the road. From budgeting and timelines to uncovering hidden “gotchas,” Chris shares real-world lessons that reshape how professionals approach construction projects. If you’re a builder, remodeler, architect, or homeowner looking to avoid budget blowouts and create smoother projects, this episode is packed with insights you can’t afford to miss.

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson shares a hard-earned $3M lesson about the dangers of breaking your own process. Curtis opens up about losing a luxury home renovation project — and how skipping key steps, rushing timelines, and letting others take control can cost more than just revenue. You’ll learn why sticking to a proven pre-construction process is critical, how to spot red flags early, and the costly risks of bending to client or partner pressure. Perfect for builders, remodelers, and business leaders looking to protect profit and reputation in high-stakes projects.

In this solo episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Francis Ramos, Media & Marketing Manager at Crafted Custom Homes and Podcast producer, shares a step-by-step guide to getting started with social media marketing for builders and designers. Discover why social media is more than just trends—it’s a powerful, free marketing tool that works while you sleep. Francis breaks down platform choices, how to post without being a "content creator," and how to build trust with clients online. Whether you're overwhelmed or unsure where to start, this episode gives you the confidence to grow your business through authentic, consistent content.

Most builders lose leads not because of bad work—but because of bad words. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Lauren Jefferson, co-founder of FocusCopy, to uncover how strategic messaging can transform your entire client journey. From fixing broken communication systems to using storytelling to build trust, Lauren shares the exact framework builders need to attract better clients, boost referrals, and stop ghosting in its tracks. If you're tired of feeling invisible online or losing clients after the first call, this conversation is your playbook for better copy and better conversions.

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Bob Peterson—Second Vice Chairman of NAHB and founder of Associates in Building and Design. With over 40 years of experience, Bob shares the journey from building homes in Colorado to leading one of the most influential construction organizations in the U.S. Learn how to build a company that can thrive without you, the role of national advocacy, and what younger builders need to succeed in today’s market. If you're in residential construction, remodeling, or leadership—this episode is packed with practical, hard-earned wisdom.

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, luxury homebuilder Erin Stetzer shares what it really takes to scale from small remodels to $10M+ homes—without sacrificing your family, your sanity, or your standards. Erin breaks down the critical systems, mindset shifts, and team dynamics required to deliver high-end projects. Whether you're a builder, architect, or designer, this conversation offers practical insights on project management, trade relationships, and avoiding burnout while growing in the residential construction industry. Don’t miss Erin’s advice on how to grow with intention and lead with integrity.

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, we sit down with remodeling business coach Kyle Hunt of Remodelers On The Rise to uncover why skilled remodelers still struggle with profitability, time management, and burnout. Kyle shares proven strategies for mastering financials, sales, marketing, and leadership—so you can stop running your business in survival mode and start building with confidence. Whether you're new to remodeling or a seasoned pro, this episode delivers high-impact coaching to help you fix the holes in your business and reclaim your life.

Builders are great at building—but not always at documenting. In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson dives into why so many construction professionals struggle with paperwork, recordkeeping, and documentation—and why that puts your business at risk. From missed change orders to legal issues and frustrated clients, Curtis shares real-world insights and practical solutions. Learn how to improve your systems, use construction technology more effectively, and build better habits that protect your company. Whether you're a builder, remodeler, or project manager, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to tighten up their back-office game.

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, we explore the three types of “superhuman vision” every great builder needs: 3D vision, X-ray vision, and long-range vision. Learn how to visualize complex assemblies, anticipate hidden issues in remodeling, and plan ahead to avoid costly mistakes down the road. Whether you’re building new or remodeling old, this episode will help sharpen your project foresight and improve communication with clients, trades, and your team. Packed with real-world examples and expert advice, this is a must-listen for builders, remodelers, and project managers aiming to level up their execution.

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, we dive into the world of LED tape lighting with Jake Briolat from ProLuxe by American Lighting and Patrick Szymkowiak of Datasmart / Duncan Security. Learn where LED tape lighting works best, what mistakes to avoid, and how smart planning transforms ordinary homes into showstoppers. From kitchens and closets to floating shelves and pool decks, we cover real-world applications that matter to builders, architects, and homeowners. If you’re designing or remodeling a home, this episode is your guide to smart, modern lighting design.

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson shares expert strategies for finding, managing, and retaining high-quality subcontractors in the residential construction industry. Whether you're a homebuilder, remodeler, or general contractor, you'll learn how to build lasting trade relationships, prevent slippage, structure fair payment terms, and streamline your processes for better project outcomes. Curtis also introduces peer coaching opportunities through Remodelers on the Rise. Packed with practical advice, this episode is your playbook for running a more efficient and profitable business with dependable subs by your side.

What makes modern homes so much harder to build? In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to reveal why clean lines, flush finishes, and minimalism demand maximum precision. From foundation tolerances to flush baseboards, flat roofs to custom cabinetry, this episode dives into the hidden costs, planning challenges, and coordination headaches of high-end modern home design. If you're a homeowner, builder, or designer in the custom home space, this is the deep dive you've been waiting for.

Building a modern home sounds simple—until it’s not. In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd Podcast, Curtis Lawson is joined by architects Sam Brisendine and Julie Wright of BRIGHT Architects & Co. to explore the real-world complexities of custom modern home construction. Discover how tight tolerances, framing precision, foundation planning, and high-end finishes impact cost and performance. If you're planning a custom home, remodeling with modern design, or working in residential architecture, this episode is packed with expert tips and insights. Learn how collaborative planning leads to smoother builds—and better homes.

Foundation issues are more common than you think—especially in Houston. In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, Curtis Lawson sits down with Jake Gottfried and Sonora Storm of Lincoln Jacob Construction to unpack everything pros need to know about foundation repair, soil movement, drainage problems, and why skipping gutters is a costly mistake. From cracked walls and sticky doors to sewer line red flags, learn how to spot early signs of failure and prevent long-term damage. To our Houston homeowner community, this episode is packed with real-world insights to protect your homes.

Join host Curtis Lawson in this conversation with Andrew Fisher and Derek Schuppenhauer of Home Elevator of Texas. This comprehensive discussion explores the nuanced world of residential elevators, from financial considerations and strategic planning for new construction to the sophisticated process of integrating elevators into existing homes. In this discussion, Derek and Andrew share various elevator designs while emphasizing critical safety protocols and the foresight required for long-term accessibility planning. You can expect valuable insights on addressing unique installation challenges in coastal regions and floodplains, underscoring the importance of early collaboration with elevator specialists to ensure architectural harmony and operational excellence in your living space. If you’re looking to build your forever home, then you’ll want to listen to this episode.

In this solo episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson, founder of Shepherd Construction Advisors, shares the powerful “why” behind this show. Drawing from decades of experience in Houston's custom homebuilding scene, Curtis explains how Owner’s Representatives can prevent construction disasters before they happen. He dives into common mistakes homeowners and builders make, the rising need for project oversight, and why this role is standard in LA and NYC—but still underused in Texas. Whether you're building, designing, or rescuing a project, this episode is packed with real talk, smart strategy, and industry insight.

Celebrate 100 episodes of the Your Project Shepherd podcast! Host Curtis Lawson turns the tables and gets interviewed by frequent guests Jeremy McFarland (Brickmoon Design), Toner Kersting (Toner Home Performance), and Matt Sneller (Sneller Custom Homes). They delve into Curtis's journey from band geek and failed pizza shop owner to successful Houston custom home builder. Explore insights on the construction industry, the importance of team building, customer service, project management, homeowner maintenance, and the evolution of building costs. Gain valuable perspectives on selecting realtors, financing, inspections, and the future of home building.

In this episode, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Sonora Storm, Del Westmoreland, and Matthew Reibenstein of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA). Together, they dive into the benefits of GHBA membership, from professional networking and continuing education to advocacy, ethics, and community impact. Whether you’re a builder, associate, or homeowner, learn why GHBA is shaping the future of Houston’s residential construction. If you’ve ever wondered how builders help each other succeed—even as competitors—this episode is for you.

In this episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Brian Marshall (Sales Associate) and Tad Horsley (Owner/Master Electrician) of US Power Pros to uncover the truth about home backup generators. With growing power grid instability in Texas, backup power is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Brian and Tad share critical insights on generator placement, code compliance, load calculations, and why cutting corners can cost builders and homeowners big. Whether you’re a homebuilder, contractor, or homeowner, this episode will help you plan smarter and avoid costly mistakes. Don’t miss this conversation!

Hiring the right subcontractors is crucial to delivering high-quality construction projects. In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson explores how builders can elevate their projects by working with subcontractors who grow alongside them. He breaks down two common pitfalls—sticking with subs who aren't scaling up and cutting costs at the expense of quality. Curtis also shares real-world insights on setting expectations, avoiding costly mistakes, and ensuring top-tier craftsmanship. If you're a builder looking to refine your trade network, this episode is a must-watch!

Unlock the future of homebuilding with Brian McCarthy, CEO of RIoT Technologies, on the Your Project Shepherd podcast! Discover how integrating smart home IoT isn't just about gadgets, but about enhancing resilience, slashing builder risk, and cutting warranty costs. Brian discusses bridging the gap between proptech and construction, tackling challenges like post-closing tech blindness, leak detection nightmares, and indoor air quality in high-performance homes. Learn about predictive maintenance, the importance of monitoring the home's physical layer, and how RIoT Technologies is simplifying smart systems for builders, trades, and homeowners. Essential insights for real estate leaders and building professionals.

In this solo episode of Your Project Shepherd, host Curtis Lawson dives into the sunk cost fallacy—a mindset that traps people in bad investments, whether in relationships, careers, or home construction projects. Curtis shares real-life stories of homeowners who stuck with failing builders, wasting time and money instead of cutting their losses. He also explores how this psychological trap affects business owners, hiring decisions, and subcontractor relationships. Don’t let past investments dictate your future—learn how to recognize and break free from the sunk cost fallacy.

Dive into the future of home comfort with Ken Nelson, Group Sales Manager at Panasonic IAQ, on this episode of Your Project Shepherd. Discover how the revolutionary OASYS system is transforming residential HVAC. We explore the critical need for tight building envelopes, managed ventilation, and superior indoor air quality in today's homes. Learn how OASYS, with its innovative design and data-driven approach, provides predictable comfort and energy efficiency, addressing the challenges of varying climates like Houston. Ken shares insights on the system's redundancy, air purification, and the importance of design collaboration for successful implementation. Discover how to create a sanctuary home with OASYS.