SPOTLIGHT MEMBER VOICES
R unning a business can feel like navigating a construction site without a blueprint: complex, unpredictable, and often isolating. That’s why the Build Up podcast helps. Builder hosts David Gutierrez and Aidan Cropper speak with experts and peers to tackle challenges and find practical solutions. Gutierrez, Director of Sutton- based Nest Building Group Ltd, says: “I enjoy being a builder host as I can give boots-on-the-ground input to the conversation, and share my experiences to help others. “Co-hosting with Aidan gives the perfect mix of views from different parts of the UK, which I think is very important for the listeners.” That mix ensures the podcast reflects the breadth of the FMB membership, from regional markets to nationwide industry. Cropper, Managing Director of IPSUM UK Ltd in Nottingham, says: “The builder guests we’ve had have such compelling stories, and their journeys often resonate with the one David and I are on. Some have sparked changes in my own business; for example, after speaking with an AI expert, I implemented some of the practices we discussed.” Regarding standout episodes, both hosts point to moments where the conversation deepened members’ understanding and offered immediate takeaways. Gutierrez recalls Working with Clients – How to Build Trust and Win Work as especially impactful. “We all seemed to gel, which made the conversation flow. It was helpful hearing what Paula Higgins, CEO
BUILDING BETTER BUSINESSES
The FMB’s Build Up podcast amplifies members’ voices and provides crucial support
The podcast’s value lies in connecting members to resources, perspectives and experiences. “It gives insight into what’s going on in our industry and what the FMB offers that perhaps members didn’t know before,” says Gutierrez. Cropper adds: “Running a business can feel isolating, especially when you don’t know what support is out there. Even if a listener takes away just one tip from an episode, it could help them avoid a major mistake.” The Build Up podcast can be found on the FMB app for members, and also on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.
at HomeOwners Alliance had to say about guiding consumers on costs. I didn’t even know that kind of support existed until that episode. There was so much to take from it – I can only imagine how helpful it will be for those tuning in.” For Cropper, the most powerful moment came during a more personal exchange. “I’d say the episode where David and I discussed our own businesses and journeys. It gave us the chance to open up – not just about successes, but about struggles like burnout, finding staff, and navigating the challenges of building a business.”
Aidan Cropper
David Gutierrez
Season two is available this autumn
● AI for builders –
Lambert Home Builds on how a retrofit focus has grown her business. ● Financing your growth – Robin Hayhurst of Property Projects Consultants Ltd on funding and investment.
Builder Awards. ● Guide to retrofit – Rachel Owens of National Retrofit Hub on how to speak with clients about retrofit. ● Getting into retrofit – Nikki Lambert of
Kulveer Singh Sanghera of City Lofts London. ● Builders’ success stories – Dorian Bowen of Project One, winners of the Kitchen Project and Large Renovation at the 2025 Cymru Master
construction coach Greg Wilkes on AI for small businesses.
● Marketing your
business – Chris Shaw of T D G Contracts Limited (EveryTrade) and
17
Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
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