The Building Sciology Poddie

Mechanical engineer Sonia Holzheimer joins host Jess Kismet to explore why designing HVAC systems for tropical climates like Far North Queensland requires a completely different playbook than standard southern building codes. Sonia breaks down the crucial differences between air conditioning and true dehumidification, revealing how modern inverter technology and energy-efficiency measures can inadvertently lead to severe indoor moisture traps and mould. From advocating for indoor dew point regulation over dry bulb temperature to inspiring the next generation through her project Cool Engineers , this episode offers a vital deep dive into the realities of tropical building science. What We Cover in This Episode Tropical vs. Southern Building Codes: Why extreme moisture loads in regions like Far North Queensland break standard Australian design rules. Air Conditioners vs. Dehumidifiers: How energy-efficient inverter split systems fail to manage humidity, and why dedicated dehumidification is necessary. Dew Point vs. Relative Humidity: Why relative humidity is a misleading metric for indoor air quality, and why regulating dew point prevents mould growth. Envelope and HVAC Integration: How early collaboration between designers and mechanical engineers secures vapor barrier placement, roof space sealing, and positive building pressurization. Elevating the Engineering Profession: Sonia Holzheimer’s Cool Engineers initiative to demystify engineering, inspire local talent, and drive higher building performance standards. Find the show notes on the ⁠⁠ ⁠website.⁠⁠⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠⁠ ⁠Enduro Builders⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠ ⁠Climasure⁠⁠⁠ Join the mailing list ⁠⁠ ⁠here⁠⁠⁠ !

In this episode of the Building Sciology Poddie, host Jess Kismet sits down with Alex Kessler, translational scientist and founder of The Healthy Home Guide . After developing severe Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) from toxic mould exposure in his own home, Alex turned his scientific background toward environmental consulting to help others navigate complex chronic illnesses, allergies, and indoor air pollution. Alex breaks down common misconceptions around standard HEPA filtration, explains why high clean air delivery rates (CADR) matter more than standard efficiency percentages, and introduces the benefits of MERV-13 filtration. The conversation covers how to accurately monitor indoor air quality, affordable DIY fresh-air ventilation options for renters, and proper small particle cleaning techniques that avoid triggering toxic mould defenses. What we cover in this episode: Prioritize CADR over HEPA ratings: High-airflow MERV-13 filters drop room particle levels faster, quieter, and with less energy than restrictive H13 HEPA units. Track particle counts, not mass: Standard PM2.5 mass monitors miss lightweight mould fragments and toxins - use a particle counter for an accurate picture of indoor air. Dilute indoor air with fresh air: Purifiers trap particles, but continuous fresh air dilutes toxins. Renters can build a simple DIY window-mounted ERV to bring in filtered, tempered air. Remove mould, don't try to kill it: Bleach, vinegar, and essential oils stress mold, causing it to release defensive mycotoxins. Physically lift particles using plain soap, water, and microfiber. Air quality is one piece of the puzzle: Full recovery requires pairing clean air with nervous system regulation, circadian alignment, anti-inflammatory nutrition, and zero alcohol. Find the show notes on the ⁠ ⁠website.⁠⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠ ⁠Enduro Builders⁠⁠ and ⁠ ⁠Climasure⁠⁠ Join the mailing list ⁠ ⁠here⁠⁠ !

Ben Walsham (founder of Arkata) returns to the show to unpack the chaotic rollout of NCC 2025, the reality of high-performance design in volume building, and why building physics hit differently in tropical climates. From AI-driven workflow automation to deep-dive window frame science, this episode cuts through regulatory confusion to focus on building healthier, higher-performing homes. What We Cover in This Episode The NCC 2025 Maze & State Rollouts: Decoding the staggered adoption timelines across Australia, the logic behind the national pause leading into 2029, and why jumping straight to NCC 2025 makes strategic sense for Class 1 residential builds over NCC 2022. Passive House Goes Mainstream: Insights from the Thrive Passive House conference, including how major volume builders are finding the ~2 ACH airtightness sweet spot and proving that solar orientation beats expensive product specs every time. Tropical Building Physics & Mass Traps: Calling in from Malaysia, Ben breaks down how heavy uninsulated blockwork converts homes into thermal batteries that radiate heat all night, and what modern construction must relearn from traditional vernacular architecture. AI Beyond the Chatbot: Moving past conversational AI and using code-executing agents (like Claude Code) to automate tedious design workflows—turning a 30-minute window schedule task into a 5-minute background execution. The Math of Window Frame Fractions: Why dividing windows into small sections with extra mullions tanks your U-values, and how minimalist picture-frame layouts dramatically improve real-world energy ratings. Find the show notes on the ⁠website.⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠Enduro Builders⁠ and ⁠Climasure⁠ Join the mailing list ⁠here⁠ !

In this episode of The Building Sciology Poddie , host Jess Kismet sits down with Bryan Jepsen - Indoor Environmental Consultant, President of the Indoor Air Quality Association of Australia (IAQAA), and founder of Keystone Environmental and Oceanic Laboratory Initiative. Together, they pull back the plasterboard to expose what’s really making our buildings - and the people inside them - unwell. From operating rooms to modern home builds, Bryan shares science-backed insights into fungal biology, architectural traps, and what true remediation actually looks like. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The "Mould Triangle": The 3 essential elements mould needs to survive—and how breaking just one starves it of opportunity. Architectural Traps & Slab Moisture: How modern design choices, sealed wall systems, and rushed builds inadvertently trap water. Mould vs. Bacteria: Understanding the indoor microbiome and why mould is tougher (and more resilient) than you think. The Fogging Myth Exposed: Why aerosol "quick fixes" rarely solve surface mould—and the safety risks involved. Testing & Standards: The truth about DIY test kits (ERMI/HERTSMI), laboratory testing, and the rollout of Australia's new AS-IICRC S500 & S520 remediation standards. Episode Takeaway: You can't eradicate mould from the planet, but you can control the environment. Learn how to rob mould of its opportunity and create healthier spaces to live and breathe in. Find the full show notes including links on the ⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠End⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠uro Builders⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Climasure⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Jess here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Mailing list⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Don't forget to follow the show wherever you get your podcasts!

Why do we expect our cars to have perfect temperature control, yet tolerate drafty, mould-prone homes that cost ten times as much? In this episode, host Jess Kismet sits down with world-renowned building science expert Dr. John Straube to demystify climate-responsive construction. From the extreme winters of Canada to the humid tropics of Australia, John breaks down why our buildings fail, how terminology confusion is causing massive jobsite errors, and what it actually takes to build durable, comfortable, and healthy homes. Find the full show notes including links on the ⁠⁠website⁠⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠End⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠uro Builders⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Climasure⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Jess here: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Mailing list⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Don't forget to follow the show wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode, Jess Kismet interviews Mitch Chan, founder of Agathe Builders, who shares his journey in the building industry, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and the integration of healthy building practices. Mitch discusses his commitment to building biology, the challenges of educating clients about building standards, and the significance of using high-performing materials. The conversation also touches on the risks associated with traditional building practices, the necessity of pre-construction processes, and the future of building standards in Australia. Find the full show notes including links on the ⁠website⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠⁠ ⁠End⁠⁠ ⁠⁠uro Builders⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠ ⁠Climasure⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Jess here: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Mailing list⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Don't forget to follow the show wherever you get your podcasts!

In this conversation, Jess Kismet hosts Clarence McAllister and Sean Buchanan, who discuss their experiences and insights from monitoring building performance through sensor data.. They explore the importance of understanding moisture and humidity issues in both new and existing builds, emphasising the role of technology in improving quality assurance and risk management in the construction industry. The discussion highlights real-world case studies, the need for standardised monitoring practices, and the impact of climate on building performance. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of monitoring air quality and humidity in buildings, discussing the implications for health and safety. They explore various tools and technologies available for homeowners and builders to assess and manage indoor air quality, particularly in relation to mould prevention and overall building health. The discussion emphasises the need for data collection and analysis to inform building practices and improve living conditions. Find the full show notes including links on the website Thank you to our sponsors ⁠ ⁠End⁠ ⁠uro Builders⁠⁠ and ⁠ ⁠Climasure⁠⁠ Connect with Jess here: ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Mailing list⁠⁠ ⁠ Don't forget to follow the show wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode, Jess sits down with building science legend Kohta Ueno, Principal of Building Science Corp, to dive into the messy, fascinating world of building forensics. From "drinking from a fire hose" at MIT to chasing phantom odours through suspended ceilings, Kohta shares his boots-on-the-ground wisdom regarding building failures, safe mass wall retrofits, the raging debate over roof ventilation, and the future of high-performance construction. Find the show notes on the ⁠we bsite.⁠ Thank you to our sponsors ⁠End uro Builders⁠ and ⁠Climasure⁠ Join the mailing list ⁠here⁠ ! Don't forget to follow the show wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode of the podcast, Jess sits down with Alex Slater, co-director of Building Physics Australia and Shared Space Architecture. While Alex is a master of the complex, numbers-heavy Passive House Planning Package (PHPP), his true superpower is looking past the data to find the human being at the center of the project. From comparing home health and human health, to breaking down the structural differences between NatHERS and Passive House, Alex shares why building a home is a deeply psychological journey. If you’ve ever felt trapped by rigid building codes or felt that modern design lacks a soul, this conversation will completely shift your perspective on what a healthy home can be. Full show notes can be found here Connect with Jess here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Mailing list⁠⁠⁠ Thank you to our sponsors: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Enduro Builders⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Climasure ⁠⁠

In this episode of the Building Sciology Poddie , host Jess Kismet welcomes Chris Laumer-Giddens, co-founder of LG Squared in Atlanta, Georgia. Chris has become a leading voice in high-performance building. He refuses to compromise on aesthetics while executing airtight, flawlessly engineered structures and whether tackling new luxury builds or complex historic renovations, his boots-on-the-ground technical consulting bridges the gap between beautiful architecture and real-world construction. In this Episode: ​Zero leakage house construction ​Use of WUFI Passive for energy modelling ​Innovative insulation and air sealing techniques Innovative slab foundation techniques ​Building science and durability ​The importance of kindness and sharing in architectureFind the full show notes here Connect with Jess here: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Mailing list⁠⁠ Thank you to our sponsors: ⁠⁠⁠Enduro Builders⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Climasure

What happens when a top-tier corporate finance expert gets fed up with the investment world and decides to retrain in sustainable building design? You get a refreshing, zero-nonsense look at how badly the Australian housing market is currently failing us - and how we can fix it. This week, Jess sits down with Michael Drage, the award-winning designer behind Reimagined Habitat. Michael treats building science less like an ideological crusade and more like a smart investment strategy: it’s all about research, precision, and de-risking the build. If you’re tired of the "marketing spin" around 7-star energy upgrades and want to understand how a house actually functions for your health and wallet, this episode is a must-listen. Find the full show notes here Connect with Jess here: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Mailing list⁠⁠ Thank you to our sponsors: ⁠⁠⁠Enduro Builders⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Climasure ⁠

Discover how innovative app Tools™ is transforming the construction industry by simplifying access to building codes, standards, and craftsmanship techniques. Jess Kismet interviews industry veteran Jerry Tyrrell about the app’s design, impact, and future potential to elevate building quality worldwide. Special Offer: Use code JESS20 for a discount on Tools™ and explore the app’s features - expires Nov 4 2026 Download the app on the App Store here and the Play Store here Thanks to Jerry for sharing his insights and vision for a smarter, better-built future. Find the full show notes here Connect with Jess here: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Mailing list⁠ Thank you to our sponsors: ⁠⁠Enduro Builders⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Climasure

In today’s rapidly changing world, the way we build our homes plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Join me as I chat with Karina Rafailov, a Blue Mountains designer and founder of Earthy Haus. We chat about sustainable architecture and community education, shedding light on how better informed choices can lead to much healthier living environments! Find the full show notes here Connect with Jess here: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Mailing list Thank you to our sponsors: ⁠Enduro Builders⁠ ⁠Climasure

How do you design a home that lasts centuries? Renowned architect Steve Baczek (The Build Show, Unbuild It Podcast) joins me on the show to break down the fundamentals of building science. From the "Perfect Wall" to the four critical control layers, Steve explains why "buildings needing to breathe" is a dangerous myth and how collaboration between architects and builders is the key to success. Episode Highlights: 01:10 - Steve’s journey from Building Science Corp to the Build Show. 06:54 - The 4 Control Layers: Water, Air, Vapor, and Thermal. 21:40 - The "Breathing" Myth: Why airtightness is non-negotiable. 38:47 - Overhangs & Eaves: The 2-to-1 rule for water management. 45:12 - The "Perfect Wall" across different climates. 53:13 - The best wall you can build on a budget. 1:13:55 - Steve’s #1 piece of advice for the next generation. Find the full show notes here Connect here: Instagram LinkedIn Mailing list Thank you to our sponsors: Enduro Builders Climasure

Is your home actually making you sick, or is there more to the story? In this episode, I’m joined by Zara D’Cotta, founder of The Healthy Home , to explore the intersection of traditional construction and human biology. Zara shares the personal health journey that led her to building biology and presents her case for why "sustainable" design doesn’t always equal a healthy living environment. We look at everything from the hidden trade-offs of recycled insulation to EMFs and lots more. The world of EMFs can feel overwhelming and is often met with plenty of scepticism. In this conversation, Zara and I discuss the gap between current building codes and research, so whether you’re a firm believer or still weighing the evidence, this episode is a deep dive into the science, the controversy, and the evolving global standards of EMFs and building biology. Find the show notes on the website. Thank you to our sponsors Enduro Builders and Climasure Join the mailing list here !

In this episode, I chat with Duayne Pearce, a builder, industry mentor, and co-founder of Live Life Build. Duayne shares his journey from industry struggles to embracing new systems, and his vision for a more professional and sustainable building industry. We talk about industry transformation, proactive leadership, continuous education, and collaboration. His initiatives like the Level Up expo in 2025, his mentorship program and systematised workflows aim to elevate standards, attract quality clients, and promote sustainable, healthy homes. Building a better industry is a collective effort. By embracing systems, education, and a passion for quality, builders can significantly improve client outcomes, personal well-being, and industry professionalism. Show notes on the website Thank you to our sponsors Enduro Builders and Climasure Join the mailing list here !

In this conversation, I had a chat with Dr Marcus Strang, a leading expert in Passive House certification. We discussed the importance of quality assurance in building, the challenges faced during the certification process, and the significance of documentation and the need for collaboration among architects, builders, and clients. We also explore the impact of climate on Passive House design, moisture management, and the future of building science in Australia. The conversation highlights the importance of education and experience in the field of sustainable design. Show notes on the website Sponsor Instagram Enduro Builders Climasure Sign up to the newsletter here

We're heading back into the world of mould this week with Tracy Seymour, who spent two years and tens of thousands of dollars trying to work out why her five year old son was developing unexplained neurological tics. The answer was hidden mould in their ceiling. Rather than stopping there, Tracy turned that experience into a mission - founding Break the Mould Inspections to help other families find answers faster than she did. In this episode we talk mould inspection, remediation, and why the mould you can't see is often the most dangerous kind.Find the show notes here Building Sciology Instagram Sponsors Climasure Instagram Enduro Builders Instagram Join the mailing list here !

In this episode, I interview Don Considine, a seasoned expert in the flooring industry, focusing on the critical aspects of flooring and concrete, particularly moisture testing. We talked about the importance of moisture testing before flooring installation, the various methods and standards involved, and the acceptable moisture levels for different types of flooring. Don shares insights on curing concrete slabs, common errors made by builders, and the distinction between waterproofing and moisture barriers. The conversation emphasises best practices for flooring installation to prevent failures and ensure longevity. Show notes can be found on the website Building Sciology Instagram Sponsors Climasure Instagram Enduro Builders Instagram Join the mailing list here !

In this conversation I interview Alexx Stewart, founder of Low Tox Life, about her personal journey with mould illness and the broader implications of indoor air quality on health. Alex shares her experiences with misdiagnosis, the challenges of navigating health issues, and the importance of creating healthy living spaces. The discussion also covers practical solutions for improving indoor air quality and emphasises the need for awareness and action in addressing mould and dampness in homes. Show notes can be found here Instagram Building Sciology Sponsors Enduro Builders Climasure Websites Enduro Builders Climasure Join the Building Sciology mailing list here !