Episodes

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Sally Stannard, the Director General of Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads. Sally’s journey from a farm in New South Wales to leading one of the most ambitious transport reform agendas in Australia is one of grit, curiosity, and transformation. In this powerful conversation, Sally reveals her insights into the importance of leadership, inclusivity, and how women are breaking barriers in the traditionally male-do...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan chats with Erik Vandenberg, a seasoned leader with a fascinating journey from technical expert to executive in the energy sector. Erik’s career spans diverse roles in aircraft maintenance, oil and gas, and now, executive leadership in energy transitions. Erik reveals his insights into leadership evolution, the power of emotional intelligence, and the rapid changes in the energy industry. From navigating mergers and organizational change to ma...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Michael Terry, a construction leader whose career journey has taken him from dreaming of becoming a vet to running his own business to senior leadership roles on both the contracting and client side. Michael shares candid insights into work ethic, ownership, and the importance of systems in building successful projects, as well as how to transition from “110% worker” to leader and mentor. Michael’s story highlights resilience, ...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan talks with Matthew Mackey, a no-nonsense leader with 27 years in construction across the UK and Australia. Matt shares real-world insights on leadership, emotional intelligence, and navigating burnout in an industry that often overlooks people skills. He opens up about a six-week “disaster stint” in contracting, the power of simplifying complex ideas, and why kindness is essential, not optional, for long-term success. Matt challenges the myth...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Josh Yates, co-founder of Landy Group, a company that’s reimagining leadership in construction through relationships, trust, and community. Josh shares how he went from corporate loyalty to co-founding a people-first business with multiple arms and a clear social purpose. He opens up about navigating financial risk, arbitration, and the emotional challenges of leadership, while staying anchored in humility and impact. From team...

In this episode ofBuilding Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Michael Furey, leadership coach, former sales leader, and founder of We Aspire, to unpack why construction leadership needs a radical reframe. From being demoted in his first management job to building programs that train Australia’s future leaders, Michael shares how lived experience, failure, and values-led development are transforming how we build capability across the industry. Drawing parallels between professional sport an...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan chats with Luke Crouch, a former air traffic controller who made a bold leap into construction project management. Luke’s unconventional career, from managing McDonald’s to directing airspace and now leading infrastructure projects, challenges traditional ideas about how talent enters the construction industry. He opens up about the risks of changing careers, including taking a pay cut and starting over, all in pursuit of a more fulfilling pa...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan welcomes Domenic De Fazio, a seasoned executive whose career journey from project manager to CEO is marked by conviction, courage, and consistency. Domenic shares the raw truth about navigating leadership without compromising your values, and what happens when the traditional leadership "suit" no longer fits who you are. From making the leap into executive roles to managing board dynamics and driving a values-based culture, this is a mastercla...

In this episode of Building Doors , host Lauren Karan sits down with Harley Whaikawa, Director at Minerva Group, whose journey from the military to civil engineering and into consultancy leadership is anything but traditional. From cold calls and rejection to becoming a respected voice in fire engineering and a force on LinkedIn, Harley shares the lessons he’s learned about authenticity, leadership, and playing the long game. Whether you’re a graduate seeking your first role or a business own...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Jock Macfarlane, a leader in environmental and sustainability practices within the construction industry. Jock shares his insights on why Australia’s construction sector is lagging in sustainability and how technological innovation can be the key to bridging the gap. Jock, a respected leader known for his authentic leadership style and dedication to diversity, also shares personal stories of career growth, finding balance, and ...

In this episode of Building Doors , host Lauren Karan welcomes the remarkable Radmila Desic, a carpenter turned national changemaker and Order of Australia Medal recipient, to explore what it truly takes to reshape an industry and build a legacy that lasts. Radmila’s story spans continents, generations, and industries, from her humble beginnings in Montenegro to becoming a leading voice for women in construction. As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympics, Radmila shares a bold vision: empowe...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Monica Bradley, board advisor, impact strategist, and systems thinker, to explore the radical mindset shifts needed to thrive in today’s construction and infrastructure landscape. With a career that spans continents, industries, and boardrooms, Monica brings unmatched insight into how leaders can adapt, innovate, and build for the future, not just repeat the past. From designing buildings that can float to redefining value beyo...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Lana Johnston—executive HR strategist, leadership consultant, and founder of Ageing Connect—to unpack a deeply human conversation around aging workforces, career transitions, and the urgent need for intentional connection in our personal and professional lives. With decades of experience at the crossroads of people strategy and organizational change, Lana brings fresh insight into the emotional and structural challenges facing ...

In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Carina Nixon, an engineer and sustainability advocate, to discuss the future of engineering, the changing workforce, and why knowledge transfer is critical to success in construction. With a background spanning renewable energy, hydrogen technology, and supply chain decarbonization, Carina is a passionate leader who believes that younger generations hold the key to industry transformation. She’s also tackling one o...

In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Alison Sherry, a powerhouse leader known for her expertise in mergers, acquisitions, leadership resilience, and Indigenous advocacy. With a career spanning executive roles, large-scale corporate transformations, and community impact, Alison shares insights on navigating uncertain times, building resilient teams, and fostering psychological safety in leadership. From the complexities of merging companies to the pers...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Jon Davies, CEO of the Australian Constructors Association (ACA), to discuss how the construction industry is at a turning point. With rising costs, crippling skills shortages, and increasing pressure for sustainability, Jon explains why 2024 is the year for transformation—and how leaders, contractors, and clients can work together to drive real change. From modern methods of construction (MMC) to flexible work practices, Jon s...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Natasha Roy, General Manager of Operations at John Holland Group, to discuss the high-pressure world of infrastructure delivery, the importance of honesty in leadership, and how to create a culture of trust in an industry known for its relentless demands. With nearly 30 years of experience, Natasha has led teams through economic downturns, workforce shortages, and high-stakes project decisions. She’s a firm believer that calm, ...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Emma McCaughey, President of NAWIC Queensland and a highly accomplished civil engineer, to discuss leadership, advocacy, and diversity in the construction industry. Emma’s career, spanning over 15 years at CPB Contractors, highlights the power of mentorship, strategic decision-making, and fostering inclusive workplaces. With a strong passion for increasing female participation in the industry, Emma shares invaluable insights in...

In this episode of Building Doors, host Lauren Karan sits down with Sascha Kurz, an award-winning project management and engineering professional, to discuss pivotal topics shaping the construction and infrastructure industry. Sascha brings over 25 years of diverse experience, making her a sought-after leader and mentor in the field. Together, they explore the lessons learned from challenging projects, the importance of career-defining decisions, and how to leave a lasting legacy in a high-sta...

In this episode, we are joined by Paul Kahn, a distinguished business mentor with a background at KPMG and experience assisting global and small to medium businesses. Leveraging his global career experience, Paul shares insights into the key mistakes small businesses make, the importance of understanding values and behaviours in action, and how to build lasting success. He also emphasises the significance of passion, drive, and personal motivation for business owners. Additionally, Paul discu...

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, host Lauren Karan sits down with Bradley Durkin, Founder and Director of Contrast Construction, a thriving Queensland-based construction company. With over 25 years of experience spanning commercial construction, design, and multi-residential projects, Bradley shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in the cattle industry to leading a successful business through some of the most challenging times in construction history. Bradley dives ...

In this insightful episode of Building Doors, we’re joined by Priscilla Radice, the Deputy Director General of Health Infrastructure in Queensland, as she shares her wealth of experience in leadership, collaboration, and trust-building in government and private sector organisations. From her sociology roots to leading major health infrastructure projects, Priscilla offers practical advice on stakeholder engagement, aligning diverse teams, and embracing inclusive leadership. Whether you're navi...

In this episode of The Building Doors Podcast, Mary Camus shares her growth and leadership lessons coming from an entry-level role through to managing a national teams. Mary shares her own personal journey of finding the right opportunities, mentors and embracing the discomfort involved in her own personal growth. In this episode we discuss the emerging trends in the next generation of leadership. We also discuss real and practical application of modern leadership principles; from managing yo...

In this episode of the Building Doors Podcast, we dive into a transformative conversation with Richard Austin, CEO of Omni. Richard shares his journey across industries, from hospitality and insurance to construction, unpacking the values and principles that have guided him through each transition. He opens up about his approach to aligning with organisations that reflect his values, the importance of situational leadership, and the keys to creating a fulfilling career. We also are privileged w...