The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has launched an essential podcast for builders who want to run better businesses and grow with confidence – Build Up. Hosted by FMB members David Gutierrez (Nest Building Group Ltd) and Aidan Cropper (IPSUM UK Ltd), with anchor Amy Voce, this series delivers honest conversations, expert advice, and practical lessons learned on the job.
Each episode is crafted for busy builders juggling jobs, teams, and business growth-covering everything from winning work and building trust with clients, to branding, managing finances, prioritising mental health, and making connections that matter. The first two episodes are already available on all major podcast platforms, with new episodes available every two weeks.
Why Listen? Here’s an idea of what you will hear:
• Working with Clients: What Great Builders Do Differently
Want to build trust and win business? Get tips from HomeOwners Alliance and CHI Homes Ltd on setting expectations, handling tough conversations, and standing out with qualifications and endorsements. Find out how to reassure clients and deliver above and beyond-straight from those who’ve done it.
• Builder Journey: First Job to Thriving Building Business
Thinking of starting out or want to grow your business? Hear David and Aidan’s own stories, practical startup tips, and how to find your niche in the trade. Learn what’s worked for them, where they find support, and how they’ve adapted along the way.
• Managing Your Finances: How to Keep Your Cashflow Healthy
Struggling with cashflow? Listen in as Roger Brown from Bibby Financial Services joins the hosts to break down what cashflow really means, how to keep it healthy, and practical steps to chase late payments and avoid debt.
• Growing Your Business: Marketing Tips to Attract the Right Clients
Want more of the right clients? Discover marketing strategies that work, from branding to social media, and hear how Aidan and David targeted the clients that helped their businesses grow.
• Networking: How to Build Connections That Grow Your Building Business
Not sure where to start with networking? Learn from Nik Nelberg (Earl and Calam Design and Build Ltd) and the hosts as they share simple ways to build your network, collaborate, and gain valuable business know-how.
• Mental Health: Support Yourself and Your Team for a Healthier Business
Worried about stress in the trade? Join Sarah Bolton (Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity) to learn how to recognise the signs, support your team, and create a healthier workplace for everyone.
The FMB also presents Build Up: From the Basement, a companion podcast hosted by FMB Media Manager and former broadcaster Iona Stewart-Richardson. This series takes a deep dive into industry issues such as housebuilding and licensing, featuring special guests including economists and Members of Parliament, giving builders expert perspectives on the wider challenges shaping the construction sector.
Brian Berry, CEO of the FMB encourages builders to join in:
“Whether you’re a builder, a homeowner, someone working in the construction sector, or even someone who knows very little about building, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has a podcast tailored for you. With two excellent Podcasts to choose from- ranging from practical tips on starting out in the trade, managing cash flow, and growing your building business, to tackling complex, ongoing industry challenges like licensing and regulation, these podcasts provide invaluable insights. They feature honest conversations with builders, industry experts, policymakers, and campaigners who share real-world experiences, advice, and lessons learned on the job.
The Build Up podcast offers straightforward guidance on how to build strong client relationships, market your business effectively, and look after your mental health while juggling the demands of running a building business. Meanwhile, Build Up from the Basement dives deeper into critical industry issues such as licensing, featuring special guests including economists and members of parliament, giving listeners expert perspectives on the wider challenges shaping the UK construction sector.”
Both podcasts complement the FMB’s ongoing support for small and medium-sized building firms, providing tools and guidance to help them thrive in a competitive market.
Build Up is available now on the FMB website, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms.
