The Build Show Podcast

Matt Risinger sits down with Bill Graber and Steve Rogers of The Energy Conservatory to explore how diagnostic testing informs high-performance construction. The conversation centers on blower door testing, pressure mapping, and airflow measurement as tools to verify airtightness and identify leakage pathways. They discuss how builders and energy raters use data to refine building enclosures, improve indoor air quality, and coordinate HVAC system performance. The group also touches on evolving codes, training, and the growing expectation for measurable results in residential construction. 

Huge thanks to our podcast episode Huber Engineered Woods.  Learn more at: https://www.huberwood.com

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Matt Risinger hosts a conversation with Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser of Tru Tech Tools, focusing on how testing and measurement shape modern building performance. The discussion centers on blower door testing, airflow diagnostics, and the growing role of data in verifying airtightness and system performance. They explore how builders and HVAC professionals use tools to identify leakage, improve indoor air quality, and fine-tune mechanical systems. The conversation also touches on training, evolving standards, and the shift toward performance-based construction, with practical insights into integrating diagnostics into everyday building workflows. Episode sponsor Pella is recognized for supporting the podcast.

Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Pella.  Learn more at: https://www.pella.com/

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.
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https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/
https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

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Matt Risinger sits down with Jacob Racusin of New Frameworks to unpack how straw-based construction fits into modern high-performance building. Racusin reframes “straw bale” as a panelized wall system using straw and wood fiber as insulation within airtight assemblies, emphasizing durability, moisture management, and prefabrication. The conversation moves from the history of straw construction to its evolution into factory-built panels that meet passive house–level performance. They discuss cost, scalability, and shifting from custom design-build to standardized housing solutions, positioning bio-based materials as part of a broader strategy for energy efficiency, resilience, and streamlined construction. 

A big thank you to episode sponsor Huber Engineered Woods for supporting the Build Show podcast. 

Learn more at: https://www.huberwood.com

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.
https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork
https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/
https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

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Matt Risinger centers the conversation on blower door testing with Building Scientist Sam Myers from RetroTec, exploring how it functions as a practical tool for measuring and improving air tightness in residential construction. Myers outlines design choices that influence results, including keeping mechanical systems inside the conditioned envelope and minimizing major air leakage pathways. The discussion covers blower door equipment, typical costs, and training options, while emphasizing the value of builders owning and operating their own systems. Risinger frames testing as a hands-on method to diagnose air leakage, compare performance across projects, and refine construction practices in real time. This Build Podcast Episode is sponsored by Enerlux Windows & Doors. Learn more at: https://enerluxwindows.com

 

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https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/
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Matt Risinger reflects on the stress that difficult clients bring to custom home building, sharing early-career assumptions that other builders had it easier before realizing challenging projects are common across the industry. He frames client relationships as central to project success, emphasizing the importance of pre-qualifying prospects, aligning on budget, and identifying decision-makers early. Risinger outlines how clear communication, documented processes, and upfront expectations—especially around contracts and pricing models—help avoid conflict. He also underscores recognizing red flags, from resistance to fees to excessive contract changes, and treating the builder-client relationship as a long-term partnership built on trust, respect, and shared expectations. Thank you to this Build Show episode sponsor – Bosch.

http://www.bosch-homecomfort.us/

Socials:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/boschhomecomfort-us/
https://www.instagram.com/boschhomecomfort_us/
https://www.facebook.com/BoschHomeComfortUS/
https://www.youtube.com/@BoschHomeComfortUS
https://twitter.com/BoschHC_US

 

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.
https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork
https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/
https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

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