#074 - Chris Barber - How Chris Turned an Idea from the Pub into a Startup
In today’s episode of Bricks & Bytes, we have Chris Barber, Co-Founder of C-Link and Prosper
In this episode, we dive into the realities of starting a business, lessons learned by Chris along the way, the Project Bank Account campaign, the early days of C-Link, and much more!
Tune in to find out about:
The importance of having a technical co-founder when building a software company
Why communicating your vision clearly is key to scaling your team
How bootstrapping for years forces smarter marketing with limited resources
If you enjoy today’s episode, leave us a comment. And don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!
----------------------------------------
Chris Barber | Co-Founder of C-Link and Prosper
----------------------------------------
Today’s Sponsor: beta – Construction and technology network platform
– connecting the tech industry with traditional construction partners.
Check www.the-beta.com
----------------------------------------
Timestamps:
(00:00:00 - 00:02:34 ) - Intro
(00:02:34 - 00:08:27 ) - Introduction to C-Link and Prosper,
(00:08:27 - 00:15:18) - Project Bank Account Campaign
(00:15:18 - 00:21:12) - What would Chris do differently when starting out C-Link in 2024
(00:21:12 - 00:32:24) - Vision of C-Link
(00:32:24 - 00:35:09) - Outro
read more
Bricks & Bytes
#075 - How the Next Wave of AI will Reshape Construction with Hugh Seaton
In today’s episode of Bricks & Bytes, we have Hugh Seaton, CEO at The Link.
In this episode, we learn about large language models, how AI like ChatGPT can transform construction, the risks involved in the usage of AI, the importance of hiring people for attitude over ability, and much more!
Tune in to find out about:
How ChatGPT can automate up to 15-20% of field paperwork in construction
AI risks like generating false information require humans to keep in the loop for now to check outputs.
Hiring for attitude over ability results in engaged employees who grow into roles as companies and tech evolve.
If you enjoy today’s episode, leave us a comment. And don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!
----------------------------------------
Hugh Seaton | CEO at The Link
----------------------------------------
Today’s Sponsor: beta – Construction and technology network platform
– connecting the tech industry with traditional construction partners.
Check www.the-beta.com
----------------------------------------
Timestamps:
(00:00:00 - 00:04:40) - Outro
(00:04:40 - 00:12:15) - Rise of the AI Wave
(00:12:15 - 00:23:50) - Deep Dive into 'The Link'
(00:23:50 - 00:29:22) - Effective Techniques for Hiring Competent Team Members
(00:29:22 - 00:32:20) - Analysis of the Construction Industry in China
(00:32:20 - 00:34:29) - Outro
read more
Bricks & Bytes
#032 - John Orr - Designing for a Sustainable Future: Insights from Academia
What is academia's role in ensuring the industry is fit for the future?
On today's podcast, we have John Orr - Professor of Structural Engineering At Cambridge University.
As a top-tier university ranked in the world's top 5, Cambridge is a powerhouse of knowledge, and we are privileged to have John share his expertise with us.
In this episode, we discuss:
Why interdisciplinary education can help solve complex problems
The future of design for structures
Collaboration and its importance in both innovation and climate change
How to become a Cambridge University Professor
---------------------------------------
John Orr
Professor of Structural Engineering. Chartered engineer, academic, industrial consultant in embodied carbon. Aiming to transform real estate and construction.
---------------------------------------
Today's Sponsor: Beta Construction and technology network platform - connecting the tech industry with traditional partners.
Check www.the-beta.com
---------------------------------------
Timestamps:
(00:00:00-00:01:50) - An Exciting Introduction and a Word from Our Sponsor
(00:01:50-00:03:46) - From PhD to Cambridge Professor: John Orr's Journey in Structural Engineering
(00:03:46-00:04:42) - Why Now is the Perfect Time to Be in Structural Engineering
(00:04:42-00:06:51) - What Makes Cambridge-Trained Engineers Stand Out from the Rest?
(00:06:51-00:09:42) - How to Make Structural Engineering More Attractive and Accessible
(00:09:42-00:11:31) - The Role of Structural Engineering in Reducing Carbon Emissions
(00:11:31-00:13:12) - Strategies to Improve Structural Engineering's Sustainability Impact
(00:13:12-00:17:46) - Tackling the Thorny Issue of PI Insurance in Structural Engineering
(00:17:46-00:19:45) - A Glimpse into the Future of Construction
(00:19:45-00:23:25) - The Revolutionary ACORN Project and its Integration with Robotics
(00:23:25-00:24:52) - Predicting the Most Significant Developments in Structural Engineering's Future
(00:24:52-00:26:19) - John Orr's Vision for the Future of Construction
(00:26:19-00:27:34) - Balancing Academia and Practical Applications in Structural Engineering
(00:27:34-00:29:32) - Understanding the Impact of Part Z in Structural Engineering
(00:29:32-00:30:04) - Insights into the Fascinating Work of Part Z
(00:30:04-00:31:23) - The Potential Effects of Part Z on Structural Engineering
(00:31:23-00:32:15) - John Orr's Key Message on Structural Engineering's Role in Building a Sustainable Future
(00:32:15-00:34:15) - Navigating the Intersection of Individual Action and Regulatory Frameworks
(00:34:15-00:38:11) - How to Become a Cambridge Professor in Structural Engineering
(00:38:11-00:39:07) - John Orr's Diverse Range of Hobbies and Interests
(00:39:07-00:39:31) - Get to Know John Orr a Little Better
(00:39:31-00:39:48) - A Memorable Outro and Final Thoughts.
read more
Bricks & Bytes
#042 - Erin Khan - Bridging the Gap: Effective Strategies for Adopting Construction Tech
Tune in to today's episode with Erin Khan, founder of Erin Khan Consulting. Discover effective technology implementation strategies, from starting small to building communities and raising awareness. Gain valuable insights for aligning tech solutions with the construction industry's needs.
In this episode, we uncover :
- Balance innovation and standardization for employee well-being.
- Start small, gain buy-in before scaling technology.
- Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Involve stakeholders to manage risks effectively.
- Seek enthusiastic advocates for tech adoption
- Tailor solutions to unique team requirements.
If you're finding value in our podcast, we kindly request you to share your feedback by leaving a review. Your support enables us to attract incredible guests and deliver the finest and most enlightening content on technology in the built world.
-------------------------------
Erin Khan, Construction Technology Expert, Erin Khan Consulting
-------------------------------------------
Today's Sponsor: beta - Construction and technology network platform
- connecting the tech industry with traditional partners.
Check www.the-beta.com
------------------------------------------
Timestamps:
Retrofitting Yellow Machines: The $250,000 Labor Cost Savings in Construction
Are robots taking over construction sites? The future of "yellow machines" might surprise you.
In today's episode of Bricks, Bucks and Bytes, we got to learn about Teleo, a startup retrofitting heavy machinery for remote operation and semi-autonomous functionality.
We also explored the intriguing case of ServiceTitan's IPO plans, shedding light on the complex dynamics of venture capital and founder equity.
Additionally, we delved into the challenges and opportunities in automating construction equipment across various environments.
Tune in to find out about:
✅ The battle between full autonomy and teleoperation in construction robotics
✅ Why retrofitting existing machinery could be a game-changer
✅ How controlled vs. uncontrolled environments impact automation adoption
✅ The potential pitfalls of aggressive venture funding for founders
Listen now on Spotify to stay ahead of the curve in construction tech innovation.
-----
Chapters
00:00 Exploring the Robotics Space
03:02 Teleoperation vs. Full Autonomy
05:58 Applications in High-Risk Environments
08:55 Market Dynamics and Venture Backability
12:03 OEMs vs. Startups in Innovation
14:59 The Future of Autonomous Machinery
17:54 Service Titan's Path to IPO
31:09 The Russian Roulette of Venture Capital
34:41 Conflicts of Interest in Business Decisions
39:12 The Cost of Venture Capital
41:51 Understanding IPOs and Profitability
44:04 Economic Predictions and Their Implications
52:57 The State of Construction Technology in Europe
read more
Bricks, Buck$ And Bytes
What We Learned After a Year of Talking to Construction Tech's Biggest Names
"Follow the money to grow, follow your passion to build. While US construction tech startups have raised $30B, India's $1B investment is yielding better returns."
In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we did our November Monthly Review where we reflected on an action-packed month of content creation and exciting future plans.
We even explored fascinating market dynamics, founder insights, and geographic opportunities in construction tech.
Tune in to find out about:
✅ Our successful launch of the AI in Construction Report and first steps into monetization
✅ Highlights from our Boston trip interviewing startups at Suffolk's boost cohort
✅ Behind the scenes of the upcoming Ediphi super series releasing in January
✅ Plans for New York and San Francisco tour in 2025, plus a potential India expansion
Listen to the full episode on Spotify to hear Owen, Martin, and Patric discuss their key takeaways from November, upcoming content plans, and Patric’s take on why founders often over-obsess with product and under-obsess with distribution.
-----
Chapters
00:00 End of Year Reflections
03:01 Cultural Differences in Business Mindset
05:50 The Impact of Travel on Business
08:47 Exploring AI in Construction
12:11 The Role of Community in Innovation
14:55 Challenges in Design and Construction Software
17:52 The Disconnect Between Traditional and Startup Worlds
21:00 The Influence of Trust in Business Relationships
24:07 Venture Capitalists in Government
26:59 The Future of Governance and Innovation
32:48 Understanding Argentina's Political Landscape
35:09 The Importance of Product Distribution
40:40 Marketing Challenges in Construction Tech
43:47 Trends in AEC Technology
44:29 Talent Acquisition in the AEC Sector
46:03 Investment Trends in Construction Tech
50:34 Cultural Insights: Christmas Traditions
57:33 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
read more
Bricks, Buck$ And Bytes
156 Indian Companies Grew 20% Annually for 20 Years: What It Means for Construction Tech
Did you know that India has 156 publicly listed companies that have grown their revenue by over 20% annually for the past 20 years? That's more than the US, China, Japan, and Germany combined!
In today's episode of Bricks, Bucks and Bytes, we got to learn about the upcoming IPOs of Swiggy and BlackBuck in India, signaling a vibrant economy and thriving tech sector.
We also discovered that B2B marketplaces are flourishing in India, with BlackBuck's successful IPO setting a positive example for similar companies worldwide.
Additionally, we learned about the opening IPO window in Western markets, with companies like ServiceTitan and Klarna preparing to go public.
Tune in to find out about:
✅ The surprising growth rates of Indian companies
✅ How B2B marketplaces are thriving in India
✅ The opening IPO window in Western markets
✅ Upcoming construction tech IPOs to watch
Listen now on Spotify to gain insights into the rapidly evolving construction tech landscape and investment opportunities in India and beyond.
read more
Bricks, Buck$ And Bytes
Cintoo's $37M Series B, Reality Capture Market Growth, Partech's Investment Strategy - How Cintoo Is Revolutionizing Reality Capture in Construction
Is the construction tech market becoming more obvious? Are we on the cusp of a tech IPO boom?
In today's episode of Bricks, Bucks and Bytes, we got to learn about Cintoo's $37 million Series B funding round led by Partech, signaling growing interest in reality capture and data compression for construction sites.
We also explored the potential for a surge in tech IPOs in 2025, as evidenced by Thrive Capital's rumored $1 billion investment in Databricks at a $55 billion valuation.
Additionally, we discussed the evolving landscape of construction tech investing, where specialist knowledge becomes less critical as companies mature and become more "obvious" to generalist investors.
Tune in to find out about:
✅ The growing market for reality capture in construction
✅ How to interpret large late-stage funding rounds
✅ The potential for a tech IPO boom in 2025
✅ The changing dynamics of specialist vs. generalist investors in construction tech
Listen to the full episode on Spotify to dive deeper into these insights and more.
.avif)
