Podcasts about Passive house

Hello! This is Episode 416. This is Way #16 of the ‘44 Ways to Create Your Sustainable Home’ series, and we’re continuing through Section Four: Modelling and Measuring Your Sustainability. Way #16 is: Use Other Options to Model Your Design Before You Build. In the last episode, I talked about NatHERS energy modelling and why it can be so valuable as a design tool rather than simply using it as a late-stage compliance exercise. In this episode, I want to explore that further, because the required modelling tool for your region may not be all that’s available to you. And for projects where you’re aiming for high performance, it may also not always be the most comprehensive one. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/416] Think of this as a set of tools that help you understand how your home will perform before you build it, so you can make better decisions with your money while change is still cheap. That’s it. Some tools are required legally, such as NatHERS in Australia. Others are optional, available as another measure, data source or audit process. I also want to address something that comes up a lot in the Undercover Architect community: the idea that NatHERS and Passive House are in competition, and that you have to be in one camp or the other. It really doesn’t need to be that way. Think of it as a spectrum. And so, in this episode, I take you through Passive House modelling and what you can learn from it even if you’re not pursuing Passive House certification, how this modelling approach might give you a more complete picture of your home’s performance, and how to think about the Passive House principles themselves as a design framework, separate from the question of certification. I also share some other valuable modelling tools that may assist you in your project, whether you’re renovating or building new. As always, if you'd like to access a full transcript of this episode and links to any resources I mention, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/416. Now, let's dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/416 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my signature online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Quotes from the episode:  "Net zero wasn't the goal—it was the outcome of making hundreds of good building science decisions."     "One tiny installation mistake destroyed an entire refrigerant system. Details matter."     "The biggest lesson isn't that net zero works. It's that building science works."    Bill Spohn turns the microphone on himself for a candid look at what he learned by designing, building, and living in his own all-electric, net-zero home. Rather than advocating for Passive House, electrification, or solar as ends in themselves, Bill explains how those decisions emerged from a much simpler goal: creating a comfortable, healthy, quiet home that would serve his family well for decades.     Drawing on years of experience in HVAC instrumentation and building science, Bill shares the real-world successes, surprises, and setbacks that came with the project. He discusses why modular construction became the right fit, how careful modeling justified a surprisingly small two-ton cold-climate heat pump for a 4,000-square-foot conditioned home, and why airtightness, continuous insulation, and thoughtful solar orientation mattered more than oversized equipment.     The episode also explores the challenges that don't appear in glossy case studies. Bill recounts a cracked flare fitting that destroyed an entire heat pump refrigerant circuit, elusive zoning control issues, leaky high-performance windows, unexpected ventilation quirks, radon mitigation, drilling multiple wells over abandoned coal mines, and adapting to unforeseen site conditions. Throughout each story, measurements—not assumptions—led to the solutions.     Bill explains how monitoring electrical consumption, indoor air quality, solar production, and system performance has allowed him to verify what is actually happening instead of relying on opinions. He also reflects on what he would absolutely repeat, what he would change if starting over, and why successful high-performance homes depend on hundreds of well-executed details rather than any single technology.     Whether you're an HVAC contractor, building performance professional, or homeowner considering a high-performance home, this episode is a practical reminder that building science isn't about chasing trends—it's about making informed decisions that deliver comfort, durability, efficiency, and measurable results.    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billspohn/  Website: www.SpohnHome.com   Videos of Spohn Home:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_vqJbscA-U&pp=ygUJc3B  https://youtu.be/tIou30sSodM?si=QjMIGlVmIWv1h34s  https://www.youtube.com/live/mct8V5esSGY?si=ArA3Iy1Z7JKRgKc1    This episode was recorded in August 2026. 

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Mary James is joined by UK-based architects Dominic O'Riordan and Alan Budden, both Passive House designers who opened their homes for the UK's Passive House Open Days during a record-breaking heat wave. Dominic and Alan discuss how their buildings performed under extreme heat, the shading strategies they wish they'd fought harder for at planning stage, and why attitudes toward mechanical cooling in the UK are shifting fast after decades of treating air conditioning as unnecessary.  EcoDesign Consultants: https://www.ecodesignconsultants.co.uk/Article mentioned by Zack: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/01/opinion/heat-wave-europe-america.html?unlocked_article_code=1.xlA.5iqJ._hKPg0bjq_M_&smid=url-shareJoin us on the Reimagine Buildings Collective: https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

If you've ever wondered why Australian homes feel freezing in winter and brutal in summer, this episode makes it painfully clear. “Suppliers in Australia are still delivering single-glazed aluminium windows,” and that one sentence explains a lot about comfort, energy bills, condensation, and why so many people feel worn down inside their own homes.We sit down with Monika Rogers from Eco Sky Windows to talk high performance windows, Passive House certified systems, and what “thermally broken” actually means. We discuss U-values, why the whole window unit matters (not just the glass), and how slimline design, hardware, and airtightness change real-world performance.The conversation also goes beyond windows into indoor air quality and ventilation. Monika shares why she rates HRVs so highly, and the hosts describe what it felt like having 30 to 40 people in a sealed space that still felt fresh, clear, and comfortable. If you care about building better homes, this is a practical look at the details that actually move the needle.We finish up with the realities builders and clients need to plan for: shop drawings, lead times, shipping, and cashflow. If you've been nervous about imported high performance windows, this episode breaks down the process and shows why organisation matters more than geography.CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 Intro00:36 Meet Monika and Eco Sky Windows01:01 Thermally broken vs “thermally improved”03:00 U-values, triple glazing, and performance comparisons03:33 How window performance is calculated (whole unit vs glass only)09:00 “Passive culture shock” and why Australian homes feel so cold13:11 SIP studio build in six weeks and what that means20:00 Architects, glass-to-wall ratios, shading, and orientation24:49 Low-E coatings, argon gaps, and glazing science26:25 Slimline frames, concealed hinges, and hardware choices29:11 HRVs, fresh air, and comfort in real buildings33:16 Ordering process, drainage details, and shop drawings34:01 Lead times, shipping, and getting windows on site36:42 Cashflow, progress claims, and paying before arrival38:12 Where high performance is growing in Australia41:52 Mindful Moment: apprenticeships are a licence to learn43:19 How to contact Eco Sky WindowsOur Sponsors:Pro Clima - https://mindful-builder.captivate.fm/proclimaMEGT - https://mindful-builder.captivate.fm/megtConnect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler Welsh talks with Johann Betz, founder of Christchurch-based Offsite Design Ltd and a board member of OffsiteNZ. Johann's work focuses on helping designers, manufacturers, and builders deliver high-performance timber buildings through design-for-manufacture-and-assembly (DfMA) and offsite construction principles.  The conversation traces the history of panelized construction in New Zealand, why past attempts at large-scale prefab factories have struggled without a pipeline of designs built for manufacture and assembly, and why a shared framework for offsite delivery could improve quality, reduce risk, and make Passive House-level performance more scalable and repeatable across the industry.https://www.offsitedesign.co.nz/ https://www.osm3604.nz/Join us on the Reimagine Buildings Collective: https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, we speak with Sven Maxa, founder and co-director of Melbourne-based Maxa Design, an award-winning practice specialising in high-performance, sustainable homes and Passive House design. A Certified Passive House Designer, Sven has been at the forefront of energy-efficient residential design in Australia for more than two decades, helping demonstrate that healthy, comfortable, low-energy homes can also be beautiful and practical.Sven shares his key takeaways from the THRIVE Passive House Conference in Melbourne, reflecting on the growing momentum behind high-performance building across Australia. We discuss the significance of major volume builder Metricon's presence at the event and what it could signal for the mainstream adoption of Passive House principles in the Australian residential sector.https://www.metricon.com.au/Join us on the Reimagine Buildings Collective: https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Sarah Gudeman, mechanical engineer at BranchPattern, for a thought-provoking conversation about building science, indoor environmental quality, and why truly great buildings are designed around human outcomes—not just mechanical systems. Drawing on her expertise in sustainability, healthy buildings, and building performance, Sarah explains how air quality, thermal comfort, moisture management, daylight, acoustics, and resilience must work together to create spaces where people can genuinely thrive.The discussion explores everything from health-based and value-based sustainability to high-performance building envelopes, HVAC design, Passive House principles, glazing strategies, occupant comfort, and the evolving relationship between architecture and engineering. Sarah also shares why collaboration early in the design process is essential, how resilient buildings provide long-term business value, the hidden impact of bird-friendly design, and why the best engineering solutions often become invisible when they're working exactly as intended.It's an inspiring conversation about rethinking building performance through a human-centered lens—and a reminder that the world's greatest buildings aren't simply energy efficient or technologically advanced. They're the ones that quietly disappear into the background, creating healthy, comfortable, resilient environments that allow people to focus less on the building itself and more on living, learning, and doing their best work every day.More About Sarah GudemanSarah Gudeman is a Mechanical Engineer, Principal, and Practice Lead at BranchPattern, where she focuses on improving building performance through the lens of human health, indoor air quality, and value-driven sustainability. She's nationally recognized for translating complex engineering challenges into practical solutions that measurably improve how people feel, function, and thrive in buildings. A frequent speaker and industry volunteer, Sarah plays an active role in shaping thefuture of sustainable design. As a LEED Fellow and WELL Faculty member, her work connects carbon, energy, materials, and human well-being to create healthier, more resilient spaces.  Based in Omaha, Sarah is guided by a lifelong commitment to stewardship and a shared  mission with BranchPattern: Improving Life through Better Built Environments®.CONTACT:https://www.sarah-gudeman.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahgudeman/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1TEI5p8H06gRVGEA7AOeTg https://www.instagram.com/sarahgudeman Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

James Turner from JTurner Constructions didn't plan to start a building business. A torn ACL and a forced shift into subbie life pushed him into it, and he built the company the way most builders do: decks, renos, extensions, then new homes.Two and a bit years ago, he was ready to pull the pin. Bad estimating, people management gaps, COVID losses, and the mental load stacked up fast. A turning point came from an unexpected place: an eight-week men's course (Rising Kings) that helped him rebuild structure through daily habits and exercise.From there, Zara D'Cotta's course sparked a new interest in the health of homes, and Future Builder gave him the systems and support to start moving toward Passive House and high-performance building.This episode is a practical look at what it really takes to transition: filtering the noise, learning the fundamentals, marketing like a human, and selling health and comfort before you ever mention acronyms.CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 Intro01:00 Meet James Turner (J Turner Constructions)02:20 How the business started: ACL injury, subbie shift08:45 Exit meeting shock + the pivot into carpentry10:10 Nearly quitting: estimating, people, COVID losses11:30 Rising Kings: structure, habits, exercise, and the mental reset17:50 Zara DCottas course: holistic homes and health19:00 Kids health trigger: carpet, dust, mould, air filtration24:00 Future Builder call: systems, assets, and direction25:15 Discovering Passive House and high-performance building34:25 Marketing advice: document the journey, be vulnerable36:10 Content that works: face to camera, education, long game39:25 Fear of failure + getting comfortable in your skin44:05 Transition risk: don't shoot yourself in the foot49:00 PHPP as an optimisation tool + right-sizing systems50:20 MEGT Mindful Moment: resilience and career pivotsOur Sponsors:Pro Clima - https://mindful-builder.captivate.fm/proclimaMEGT - https://mindful-builder.captivate.fm/megtConnect with James:Website: https://jturnerconstructions.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jturnerconstructions/Connect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/Mentioned in this episode:Proclima Sponsor

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Jay Fox talks with Nakita Reed, Senior Director for Preservation Operations at the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. Nakita discusses her new role bridging preservation, equity, and sustainability, the Action Fund's work funding projects like conserving Black modernism and stewarding sites such as Nina Simone's childhood home, and the ongoing tension between historic commissions and building owners pursuing energy retrofits. The conversation dives into practical guidance for practitioners tackling historic building and closes with a look at where the field is headed as deep energy retrofits of historic buildings become more routine.https://savingplaces.org/stories/building-performance-standardshttps://www.builtbuildings.org/dbthJoin us on the Reimagine Buildings Collective: https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Denise Martin, founder of BEO Science, for an engaging conversation about building science, Passive House design, and why healthier buildings begin with understanding the invisible forces that shape them. Drawing on her experience in Germany and New Zealand, Denise explains how air tightness, ventilation, moisture control, and energy modeling work together to create buildings that are not only more efficient, but significantly healthier and more comfortable for the people inside them.The discussion explores everything from blower door testing and thermal bridge analysis to condensation modeling, indoor air quality, overheating, and the growing importance of ventilation in modern buildings. Denise also shares why airtight buildings are often misunderstood, how poor moisture management contributes to mold and respiratory illness, and why occupant comfort can—and should—be measured just as rigorously as energy performance.It's a fascinating look at the science behind truly high-performing buildings and a reminder that the healthiest spaces aren't defined by the materials we can see—they're defined by the invisible systems that allow people to breathe easier, live more comfortably, and thrive every day.More About Denise MartinDenise Martin is a consulting Building Analyst in the residential and commercial building sectors of New Zealand and Australia and the founder of BEO Ltd. Her work spans energy efficiency and building performance modelling, hygrothermal detail analysis using WUFI, isothermal detail analysis (Flixo), and building envelope permeability testing (blower door). Denise is an Accredited Passive House Certifier, an ATTMA tester and training provider (blowerdoor).Notable projects NZ's first Passive House (Glendowie, Auckland): blower door testing support through certification.South Island's first Passive House (Wānaka): airtightness verification and performance support.Bader Ventura (Kāinga Ora): Passive House multi-residential housing support (airtightness/performance verification as required).Wellington City Library (renovation): large-scale airtightness testing, including New Zealand's first multi-fan test on a major public building.…and many projects in between: residential and commercial buildings across New Zealand and Australia, focused on comfort, moisture safety, and verified performance.CONTACT:beoscience.com https://www.youtube.com/@beo_buildingscience https://www.linkedin.com/company/beo-building-envelope-optimisation https://www.instagram.com/beo_buildingscience/ https://www.facebook.com/BEObuildingscience Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

Ep 110 | Most builders compete on price. Paul Kealey says the real cost of a new home shows up in energy bills, air quality, and your health.Paul Kealey joins Jen to talk about why a newer home isn't automatically a healthier one, and what's really driving the mold and air quality problems hiding behind so many walls. We get into passive house design, his BURDEN framework for the hidden stressors in your home, and the real, current mold story unfolding in Jen's own family right now.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler Welsh talks with Andy Marlow, director at Envirotecture and Passive House Design and Construct, for a recap of Thrive 2026 in Melbourne. Andy shares his take on the growing presence of volume builders and even a retirement living provider at the conference, the ongoing challenge of scaling prefabrication despite its clear advantages, and how ventilation and airtightness are being marketed as premium upgrades in the broader housing market. The conversation also touches on Australia's patchy policy landscape around retrofits and property incentives, new products spotted at the conference, and what's next for Envirotecture as they relaunch their pre-designed home offering.https://www.envirotecture.com.au/https://passivhausdc.com.au/Join us on the Reimagine Buildings Collective: https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Ilka Cassidy talks with Michelle Apigian, Managing Principal and ESG Director at ICON Architecture, about the moment that changed how she thinks about building design, Icon's path to becoming a high-performance practice in Massachusetts, and the unique challenges of bringing Passive House principles to occupied and existing buildings. Michelle also shares her wish list for the industry and where she believes architects have the most power to make a difference.https://www.iconarch.com/Join us on the Reimagine Buildings Collective: https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

Andrew Michler is a Santa Fe-based architect and author of Hyperlocalization of Architecture, and one of the leading practitioners of passive house design in the United States, including the first certified passive house in Colorado, which he built himself. Also checkout a great YouTube video ( and excellent channel ) walking through Andrew's Colorado Passive home. Passive house isn't a style. It's a methodology rooted in physics: rather than prescribing materials or following minimum code, it models the entire building. The insulation, airtightness, window placement, how the sun effects the warmth, even body heat from occupants, and targets aggressive performance outcomes. The result is a home that stays comfortable with a fraction of the energy a conventional house requires. In here we cover the basics of passive house from the ground up, including what separates it from traditional high efficiency build certification and passive solar design, why the "boxy German building" reputation is mostly coincidence, and how a house in Colorado stayed in the mid-60s for a week at -9°F with the heating system off. We also dig into surprising economics of passive house construction (spoiler: it's closer to conventional than you'd think), and whether you can retrofit an existing home ~ a process Andrew is actively doing on a house in Oakland. Chapters (00:00) - Revolutionizing Home Building with Physics (02:44) - Understanding Passive House Design (05:29) - The Role of Physics in Architecture (08:04) - Passive House vs. Traditional Construction (10:43) - The Benefits of Passive Design (13:32) - Real-World Applications of Passive House (16:19) - Innovative Heating Solutions in Passive Houses (19:01) - The Importance of Ventilation and Air Quality (21:34) - Cost Considerations for Passive Houses (34:33) - The Cost of Building and Energy Efficiency (36:58) - The Value of Passive Homes (41:12) - Survivability in Extreme Weather Conditions (48:32) - Retrofitting Existing Homes for Energy Efficiency (53:54) - Opportunities in Passive House Design (57:23) - Insights from Japanese Architecture (01:02:45) - The Importance of Design in Architecture

“If you can't hit 0.6 ACH on a brand-new build, you probably shouldn't be building.”Let's stop tip-toeing around the reality of the Australian housing market. We are throwing up volume-built boxes and high-density apartments that are practically end-of-life before they've even seen their first winter. We sat down with Linden Thorley, architect, Passive House designer, and chair of the Australian Passive House Association Retrofit Committee.We take a look into why retrofitting the existing 9.5 million homes in Australia is the single biggest business opportunity for trades over the next decade. Linden walks us through the differences between a cosmetic renovation and a high-performance retrofit, detailing how his team utilises the PHPP (Passive House Planning Package) to model data and manage moisture, insulation, and ventilation risks case-by-case.We don't hold back on the real pain points of the industry either. We talk about the skyrocketing costs of business insurance, why Australian labour rates are fundamentally shifting project costs, and how to structure building contracts using provisional sums for airtightness so builders aren't crushed by unexpected site variations.Linden also breaks down his frustrations with legacy bank valuations that prioritise bloated 300-square-meter floor plans over highly efficient, smaller family homes.Finally, we hit the political wall: how heritage advisors and council planners are actively preventing energy efficiency upgrades, and the clever, practical drawing tricks CHAPTER MARKERS00:00 – Introduction02:08 – The Passive House Association Retrofit Committee & Playbook04:12 – Finding the Ideal Market: How Long Does the Shift Take?05:45 – Passive House as a Design-Agnostic Calculation Tool07:11 – Can a House Be Great If It Doesn't Reach Certified EnerPHit?09:00 – Retrofitting Multi-Story Blocks vs. Standard Residential10:38 – Managing Airtightness Expectations with the Builder13:36 – How to Contract for Airtightness: The Provisional Sum Solution15:21 – Dealing with Double Brick and Suspended Timber Floors16:23 – The Spray Foam Debate in Subfloors vs. Walls18:41 – The New Build Advantage vs. Retrofit Blind Spots19:16 – A Case Study: Turning a 25 ACH House into an 8 ACH Home22:27 – Threading Centralized MVHR Systems Through Bulkheads23:28 – The Necessity of the ECI Process for Architects26:16 – Why Don't We Just Knock Them All Down?27:43 – Renovation vs. Extension vs. Retrofit29:47 – Do We Overcomplicate the Carbon Conversation?31:14 – Lessons from Toronto: The 100 Macnab High-Rise Retrofit32:38 – Drawing the Line: When to Demolish an Existing Fabric37:28 – Forcing Council's Hand with Legal NCC Clauses39:34 – Is Passive House Actually a Premium-Priced Product?41:11 – Breaking Down the True Cost of Australian Site Labour44:46 – Linden's Fire Loss & Installing His Own INTELLO Membrane48:26 – Thermal Envelope vs. High-End Cabinetry53:03 – The Intensity Slump on Modern Australian Building Sites55:26 – Overheads, Insurance Hikes, and Free Market Economics57:41 – The 3-Story Walk-Up: How Codes Limit Small Footprint Living58:21 – Why Banks Hate Small Homes and Force Massive Floorplates01:01:45 – Macroeconomics, Inflation, and Building for the Top 10%01:08:37 – MEGT Mindful Moment: Harnessing the Un-Jaded Apprentice Mindset01:11:16 – Connect with Linden ThorleyLINKS:Our Sponsors:Pro Clima - https://mindful-builder.captivate.fm/proclimaMEGT - https://mindful-builder.captivate.fm/megtConnect with us on Instagram: @themindfulbuilderpodConnect with Hamish:Instagram: @sanctumhomesWebsite: www.yoursanctum.com.au/Connect with Matt: Instagram: @carlandconstructionsWebsite: www.carlandconstructions.com/Mentioned in this episode:Proclima Sponsor

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Jay Fox talks with Mikhail Haramati, NRDC's state industrial decarbonization lead, about her path from California energy efficiency programs and policy work at UC Berkeley and LBNL, through the California Energy Commission and NYSERDA, to her current focus on embodied carbon in building materials.They discuss the scale of the problem (cement and concrete alone account for about 8% of global emissions) and state-level policy momentum like Buy Clean initiatives and New York's Executive Order 22, which mandates EPDs and sets GWP limits for key materials. The conversation covers pathways to decarbonization—reuse and deconstruction, steel's reliance on recycled scrap and hydrogen-ready direct reduced iron, lower-clinker concrete mixes and SCMs, and mass timber—along with practical first steps for designers and policymakers: better data, smarter specs, and the right incentives and financing tools.https://www.nrdc.org/bio/mikhail-haramatihttps://collective.reimaginebuildings.comhttps://www.nyserda.ny.gov/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this Episode of the Passive House Podcast, Ilka Cassidy shares on-the-ground interviews from Green Building United's Sustainability Symposium in Philadelphia, highlighting regional policy, incentives, and high-performance affordable housing work. Ilka chats first with  Rich Freeh  and  Emily Pugliese  of Green Building United about Pennsylvania's divided political landscape, lagging energy code adoption and advocacy opportunities including Philadelphia's push to adopt 2021 IECC residential code. Ilka also chats with  Justin Lovenitti and  Norm Horn of New Ecology about  Energize Delaware programs and case studies in  Philadelphia.https://greenbuildingunited.org/event/2026-sustainability-symposium/https://www.newecology.org/https://energizedelaware.org/https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

This episode of the Passive House Podcast was recorded during the Passive House Network conference in New Haven, Connecticut, hosted at the first certified Passive House hotel in the U.S. Hotel Marcel. Ilka Cassidy chatted with Ken Levenson about the theme “Profit by Experience” and Architect of Hotel Marcel Bruce Becker. Ilka also talked to other attendees like Timothy Lock, Beth Campbell, Karen Ramsey, and Cheryl Saldanha. They discuss Massachusetts code-driven Passive House growth, grid benefits, trade training access, community value, resilience, and the need to address cost, risk, and more in-person collaboration.https://www.hotelmarcel.com/https://passivehousenetwork.org/the-passive-house-network-conference-2026/?utm_term=&utm_campaig...https://collective.reimaginebuildings.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Candice Halliday from CNA Design Studio shares her journey from founding a successful architecture practice to becoming a leading voice for emerging professionals within the Australian architecture industry. As the incoming president of Imagine at the Australian Institute of Architects, Candice discusses the importance of collaboration, sustainable design, and creating healthier, higher-performing buildings that meet the challenges of a changing climate. The conversation explores the role of Passive House principles, building performance, retrofit design, and the future of sustainable construction in Australia. Candice shares insights from the Thrive Passive House Conference, discusses the need for better building quality and public education, and explains why architects, builders, policymakers, and industry organisations must work together to drive meaningful change. We also dive into adaptive reuse, reducing embodied carbon, improving building standards, and how emerging technologies and AI could help shape the future of architecture and construction.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Candice's journey from sole practitioner to founder of a growing architecture practice  Lessons and insights from the Thrive Passive House Conference  Passive House principles and improving building performance in Australia  Building healthier, more energy-efficient homes through better design  Retrofit strategies, adaptive reuse, and reducing embodied carbon  The future of sustainable architecture and the role of the NCC  Why collaboration between architects, builders, and industry bodies matters  AI, innovation, and emerging opportunities for the next generation of architectsLEARN MORECNA Design Studio: https://www.cnadesignstudio.com/ Sustainable Builders Alliance (SBA): https://www.thesba.com.auBROUGHT TO YOU BYThe Sustainable Builders Alliance

Passive House design and construction is a team sport. It requires effective strategies and cooperation, but also precision in the field and the ability to tweak and recalibrate systems once the building is complete. A robust envelope may be the superpower of Passive House construction, allowing for downsized mechanical systems, electrification, and reduced stress on the energy grid, but these benefits are only achieved if everything works as intended.    In this episode, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of conversations from the Reimagine Collective. Featured speakers include Carmel Pratt of ZAZNRG and Passive House New York on post-occupancy data, Ed May of bldgtyp on modeling literacy, Skyler Swinford of Energy Systems Consulting with Lloyd Alter of Toronto Metropolitan University on refrigerants and water-based distribution, James Peterson of Petersen Engineering on heat pump water heaters, and Nick Nigro of Leggett McCall on what's next at the innovative and enormous Bunker Hill housing redevelopment project.The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.com.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Mary James and Ilka Cassidy speak with Joel Callow, building physicist and founding director of UK consultancy Beyond Carbon, about scaling certified Passive House delivery in London. Callow explains the firm's focus on whole life carbon, compact building forms, overheating avoidance, and early-stage design input, and notes the team has grown to 12 people with recruitment challenges as UK training ramps up via the Passive House Trust. He describes Beyond Carbon's role in helping major developer Barratt adopt Passive House—through lobbying, 12–18 months of R&D, and cost and constructability work—leading to thousands of units in the pipeline and an estimated 15–20,000 London dwellings in progress.https://www.beyondcarbon.uk/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

Hey MTGA fans, we're excited for you to meet a good friend of ours, olease give it a listen! Mark Wille shares his journey from childhood in construction to becoming a leader in building science and education. Discover his insights on trades, education, leadership, and his innovative children's book series that aims to inspire the next generation of builders.Key TopicsJourney from childhood in construction to industry leaderThe importance of trades and vocational educationInnovative approaches to inspiring youth in constructionBuilding science and energy efficiency advancementsLeadership, mentorship, and community impactText the guys your ideas & feedback! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

In this episode of the Passive House Accelerator Podcast, Ilka Cassidy chats with Marty Josten and Ashley Wisse of New Ecology. Marty and Ashley describe the nonprofit's 26-year mission to preserve and improve affordable housing through sustainability, building performance, health, and resiliency, using a hybrid fee-for-service and grant-funded model. They discuss evolving embodied-carbon requirements, regional market differences, misconceptions about Passive House cost, and innovations like drain water heat recovery, as well as engaging lenders and maintaining focus amid political and funding pressures.https://www.newecology.org/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Accelerator podcast, Ilka Cassidy interviews Nathan Kipnis, founder of Kipnis Architecture and Planning in Chicago and Boulder, about his path from early solar architecture influences during the 1973 oil embargo to today's fact-based, certifiable Passive House practice. Kipnis explains how early rule-of-thumb passive solar design often led to overheating, and how building science and climate-specific approaches improved outcomes.  And describes his firm's “high design and low carbon” approach, evolving client communication from quietly implementing efficiency measures to showcasing performance and resilience through smart home monitoring, batteries, and high-quality envelopes.KAP websiteNHA websiteProject profile for Evanston's first Passive House in PHIUS' databaseCrain's Chicago Business Notable Leader in Sustainability 2025 recognitionThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast, Michael Ingui and Ilka Cassidy to share their interview with Dr. Wolfgang Feist from the 35th International Passive House Conference in Essen and discuss where Passive House is headed. Dr. Wolfgang Feist emphasizes focusing on documented, evaluated projects, the importance of integrated component systems. Looking back, he credits early collaboration with Swedish researchers and the push to build real demonstration projects, and he reiterates that the five principles remain unchanged because “physics is right.” Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Ilka Cassidy and Michael Ingui, are at the International Passive House Conference in Essen and share rapid-fire interviews focused on scaling Passive House. With questions based on Michael's presentation at the conference focusing on moving Passive House from niche to necessary by reframing it as risk mitigation and engaging adjacent sectors like insurance, real estate, finance, and policy. Interviewees describe scaling through large-volume delivery, education,  supportive codes and incentives, and manufacturer-led training.With interviews from:Tomas O'LearyAnn-Marie FallonKen LevensonAlexander Gard-MurrayIn ChoFrancesco NesiGünther JedliczkeEsra AydinogluThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays

Get in touch - leave me a messageWhat if better buildings are one of the most practical climate resilience tools we already have?In this episode of Climate Confident, I'm joined by Darren Macri, Co-CEO of Wythe Windows and rising president of the Passive House Network. We talk about why passive house is not just a building standard, but a practical climate tech pathway for decarbonisation, emissions reduction, energy security, healthier homes, and a more resilient built environment.You'll hear why buildings can cut heating loads by up to 90% through airtightness, better insulation, mechanical ventilation, thermal bridge-free design, and high-performance windows. We dig into how this shifts passive house from a niche green design idea into something far more urgent: infrastructure that helps people stay safe during outages, heatwaves, storms, and fires.You might be interested to learn how leaky buildings can make wildfire damage worse, how poor windows contribute to mould, noise, asthma, and energy poverty, and why retrofitting existing building stock may matter even more than making new builds cleaner. Darren also explains why adoption is often blocked less by technology than by training, policy, codes, business habits, and fragmented construction practices. Imagine that: the physics works, but humans still need meetings.We also cover affordability, net zero, the energy transition, local manufacturing, and why better buildings can reduce bills while improving comfort and health.

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler - Welsh interviews Elizabeth and Everett Norris from their newly completed Christchurch home. They describe their Port Hills site on Huntsbury Hill, bought after the 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, and discuss the area's microclimate and west–northwest-oriented design. They share challenges including long build times, working largely solo, living on site after a robbery,  and more. They detail the key lessons on early builder input, avoiding rushed window orders, daylight implications of eaves, and airtightness detailing.https://www.designmake.co.nz/people.htmlhttps://www.everhomes.co.nz/blank-1About their amazing straw bale Passive House in Christchurch: https://sustainableengineering.co.nz/casestudy/norris-strawbale-passive-house/

We are joined by Ian Pritchett of Greencore Homes to talk about his science-based approach to green building and the work that has led him from developing green building materials becoming the co-founder of a vertically-integrated developer and house builder.There's a lot of history and legacy to cover because Ian has been in the green building game for decades and it's this that has informed the approach being taken right now.Greencore is also challenging the Passive House Institute about the accuracy of its PHPP (passive house planning package) modelling software because their homes outperform the model's predictions because of their use of phase-change materials.Be warned, this is nerd business—Jeff gets to interrogate the build up specification—but it doesn't get too technical to be able to follow the thread.Notes from the showThe Greencore Homes website Ian Pritchett on LinkedIn A PH+ article about Neil May**SOME SELF-PROMOTING CALLS TO ACTION**We don't actually earn anything from this podcast, and it's quite a lot of work, so we have to promote the day jobs.Follow us on the Zero Ambitions LinkedIn page (we still don't have a proper website)Jeff and Dan about Zero Ambitions Partners (the consultancy) for help with positioning and communications strategy, customer/user research and engagement strategy, carbon calculations and EPDs – we're up to all sortsSubscribe and advertise with Passive House Plus (UK edition here too)Check Lloyd Alter's Substack: Carbon UpfrontJoin ACANJoin the AECB Join the IGBCCheck out Her Retrofit Space, the renovation and retrofit platform for women**END OF SELF-PROMOTING CALLS TO ACTION**   

Hello! This is Episode 399, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with HOME Method members Jan and Landon, who are building a new home and granny flat as a Passive House in Sydney’s north. As a reminder: Jan and Landon are building on a site that has been in Landon’s family for over 70 years. Their new build project has been driven by clear goals around ageing in place, sustainability and lifestyle alignment, and they’ve worked collaboratively with their architect and builder throughout their project, involving their builder during pre-construction as well. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/399] This is Part 2 of the conversation you heard in Episode 398, so if you haven’t listened, you’ll find it at www.undercoverarchitect.com/398. And if you’re new to their story, I’d really encourage you to start at the beginning, because following their journey from the very first episode makes this one even more meaningful. We’ll pop all the links you need in the resources for this episode. In the last episode, we heard all about their construction progress, and how their builder’s prefab wall cassette system put the entire shell of their home up in just five days. In this episode, we kick off the conversation with a reflection on something that’s been really striking to witness, and that’s the sense of calm and confidence Jan and Landon have brought to this project. I ask them directly how they’ve arrived at that place, and what’s helped them trust their own decisions, even when those around them expected them to feel anxious. We talk about where they’re up to with their interior selections. This can be a stage that trips up a lot of homeowners, however Jan has taken a really thoughtful approach here, and it’s a wonderful example of knowing when to wait for more information before committing to a decision. We also cover the delightful surprises that construction has brought, the beautiful relationships that have formed with their architect and builder along the way, and I ask Jan and Landon what they are most proud of, and the advice they’d give to anyone who is right at the beginning of their own project journey. If you haven’t heard the previous instalments of Jan and Landon’s story, you can find them at www.undercoverarchitect.com/338, www.undercoverarchitect.com/339, www.undercoverarchitect.com/367 and www.undercoverarchitect.com/368. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/399. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/399 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Matt Carland from Carland Construction shares his journey from aspiring surgeon to builder, and how it led him to focus on sustainable, high-performance homes.The conversation explores key challenges in the construction industry, including skills shortages, licensing, and the influence of social media. Matt also highlights the importance of mental health and mindfulness for long-term success.We dive into Passive House principles—airtightness, insulation, and thermal bridging—and how they are shaping better building practices in Australia.The episode also covers motivation and reward systems for apprentices, financial literacy for builders, and the realities of managing workload, setting boundaries, and avoiding overcommitment. Matt shares practical insights on planning, client communication, and making smarter financial decisions to grow a sustainable business.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS  Sustainable and high-performance building focus  Mental health and mindfulness in construction  Passive House principles and building standards  Skills shortages and licensed trades  Financial literacy and scaling a building business  Work-life balance and avoiding overbooking  Planning and client communication LEARN MORECarland Construction: https://www.carlandconstructions.com/ Sustainable Builders Alliance (SBA): https://www.thesba.com.auBROUGHT TO YOU BYThis episode is proudly brought to you by Craftwood Hardwood, Wunderbuild, and Powerhaus.

In this episode of the Passive House Podcast Jay Fox interviews Vermont filmmaker Allie Rood about her documentary Prickly Mountain and My Design Build Life, which traces the design-build architecture movement that began in Warren, Vermont around 1963 and influenced design-build programs nationwide. Rood explains her personal connection through her father's work in the community, the movement's roots among Yale architects reacting against the designer/builder class divide, and ideas like Dave Sellers' “Wild Beam Theory” of improvisational building. She contrasts early sculptural ski houses with a later sustainability-focused generation behind the Dimetrodon co-housing project and discusses Yestermorrow's emergence as a design-build school. Rud also recounts the film's 10-year production, funding and grant challenges, finding an editor, shifting to a personal narrative, and current festival distribution and screening plans.https://allieroodfilms.com/Trailer for the film: https://vimeo.com/1125499443?fl=pl&fe=sh Reimagine Buildings: Designing for Survivability: https://events.ringcentral.com/events/reimagine-buildings-survivability/registrationThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

Hello! This is Episode 398, and in it, I’m speaking with HOME Method members Jan and Landon, who are back to share an incredibly exciting construction update on their passive house new build in Sydney’s north. This is the fifth instalment of Jan and Landon’s journey on the podcast. They’ve been sharing their story with us across Episodes 338, 339, 367 and 368, and if you haven’t heard those yet, I’d really recommend starting there to get the full picture of how this project has come together. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/398] As a quick recap: Jan and Landon are building a new home and granny flat as a Passive House in Sydney’s north, on a site that has been in Landon’s family for over 70 years. They’re both in their 70s and are building with very clear goals, to age in place well, to live sustainably, and to create a home that’s deeply aligned with their values and lifestyle. As retired teachers, they’ve brought a wonderful learning mindset to this project. They joined HOME Method in January 2024 and have used it as a real foundation for their preparation and decision-making all the way through. When we last caught up in Episodes 367 and 368, the project was well into design and the early stages of construction. Now, things have moved very quickly, and the home is actually taking shape before their eyes. Jan and Landon are living on the neighbouring lot to their construction site, so they can quite literally look out the window and watch their home going up. One of the most compelling parts of this episode is hearing about the prefabricated wall cassette system their builder uses, and what that’s looked like in practice on site. In earlier episodes, we introduced this system in concept. Jan and Landon walk us through the reality of it: visiting the panels being built in the factory, seeing the manufacturing drawings that translate the architect’s plans into something that can be precision-built offsite, and watching the entire shell of the house go up in just five days with a crane and a dedicated team. It’s a fascinating, real-world account of what this construction methodology involves, and of how the precision and accuracy embedded in every stage of that process directly supports their passive house goals. Plus, they share loads more helpful insights I know you’ll find super helpful for your project. If you haven’t heard the previous instalments of Jan and Landon’s story, you can find them at www.undercoverarchitect.com/338, www.undercoverarchitect.com/339, www.undercoverarchitect.com/367 and www.undercoverarchitect.com/368. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/398. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/398 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Talk Design podcast, host Adrian Ramsey sits down with Brian Johnson, a general contractor and the founder of Synergy 360. With a diverse background that spans commercial construction, Ironman triathlons, and the biohacking wellness industry, Brian bridges the gap between advanced building science and holistic health.Brian shares his journey of turning the home into a true healing modality. Guided by the philosophy of his mentor, renowned architect Paula Baker-Laporte, that "Nature is the gold standard," Brian discusses how we can mimic the natural environment indoors. He takes us down the "rabbit hole" of building biology, explaining the hidden health impacts of Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMFs) and how to mitigate them using hardwired infrastructures and low-voltage DC circadian lighting systems like Color Beam.Adrian and Brian also debate the nuances of the Passive House standard, agreeing that true sustainable design must be highly contextual to its climate—allowing a home to breathe and open up to nature when appropriate. Finally, Brian unveils his latest pioneering project: "The Element," an upcoming 20-home wellness community nestled in a canyon north of Tucson, Arizona. These homes will seamlessly blend timeless, Southwestern architectural aesthetics with cutting-edge health technology, including structured water pools and advanced air filtration.Key Topics Covered:The Birth of Synergy 360: How Brian's background in biohacking and commercial building led him to pioneer wellness-focused residential construction.Demystifying EMFs: An accessible breakdown of electromagnetic frequencies, how wireless tech and "dirty electricity" affect our biology, and practical ways to wire a home for a low-EMF sanctuary.Circadian Lighting & Indoor Air Quality: The science behind mimicking the sun's natural spectrum indoors to support our biological clocks, and the post-COVID evolution of residential air filtration.The Passive House Debate: Why creating a sealed "bubble" isn't always the best approach, and the importance of contextual, hybrid designs that allow for natural cross-flow ventilation."The Element" in Tucson: A sneak peek into Brian's upcoming 20-home community that merges indigenous Adobe-style architecture with the ultimate health and wellness amenities.The Emotional Floor Plan: Brian discusses his personal studio space—a bright, grounding environment fueled by natural daylight and Chinese elements that brings him "Joy" and flow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Mary James chats with Nidhi Shah, a certified Passive House designer and member of the Reimagine Buildings Collective. Shah traces her path from early sustainability interests in India to Passive House training in the UK. They dive into her retrofit-focused work with Retrofit Action for Tomorrow (RAFT), emphasizing whole-building approaches over piecemeal measures like external wall insulation or heat pumps. Nidhi  describes how funding criteria centered on operational carbon shaped retrofit decisions for cash-strapped public-sector buildings, and why reducing demand and peak heating loads matters alongside electrification and comfort. https://www.retrofitaction.org.uk/s/RAFT-Whole-Life-Carbon-ReportReimagine Buildings: Designing for Survivability: https://events.ringcentral.com/events/reimagine-buildings-survivability/registrationThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

We take a look at the state of the green building sector through the lens of itss biggest dedicated show in the UK, Futurebuild. It on 12–14 May this year and you can sign up here.Helping us to peek behind the curtain is the event's director, Martin Hurn, a man who is, ultimately, responsible for it all.It seemed with a conversation because this year Futurebuild was acquired by a new owner and repackaged to become a super event. The green building great big networking event has merged with UK Construction Week and the Stone and Surfaces Show. In light of this we get into the history of Futurebuild that sheds a little light on how the impact of changes that it's going through right now are a little more like a return to its roots.The episode has a bit of a long wind up because we've included a chunk of preamble in which Jeff explains his background to Martin which wasn't intended for the episode but it ended up revealing similarities, and differences, in their backgrounds that felt worth including. Both Martin and Jeff have been in this working within the business of the built environment for about the same amount of time (early 00s), and both coming from publishing backgrounds. They've seen the heydays, boom times, and catastrophes created by the Celtic Tiger and the UK's solar subsidisation and feed-in tariffs. Consequently, the pair of them are able to offer a some illuminating and interesting perspectives on where they see the sector at this strange point in time.We also let Martin plug the show.And, at the end we do get around to asking ‘how sustainable are events?'Notes from the showRegister with Futurebuild 2026 for your event passThe Futurebuild website Martin Hurn on LinkedIn **SOME SELF-PROMOTING CALLS TO ACTION**We don't actually earn anything from this podcast, and it's quite a lot of work, so we have to promote the day jobs.Follow us on the Zero Ambitions LinkedIn page (we still don't have a proper website)Jeff and Dan about Zero Ambitions Partners (the consultancy) for help with positioning and communications strategy, customer/user research and engagement strategy, carbon calculations and EPDs – we're up to all sortsSubscribe and advertise with Passive House Plus (UK edition here too)Check Lloyd Alter's Substack: Carbon UpfrontJoin ACANJoin the AECB Join the IGBCCheck out Her Retrofit Space, the renovation and retrofit platform for women**END OF SELF-PROMOTING CALLS TO ACTION**   

In this episode we are talking about a greatly overlooked determinant of health — your home. We obsess over food, supplements, exercise, sleep… but what if the very walls around you are either supporting your biology — or silently stressing it? My guest today is Paul Kealey, founder and president of EkoBuilt and the architect of the “House is Medicine” system. For nearly two decades, he has been pioneering the design and construction of low-energy Passive House and Net-Zero homes that don't just save energy — they actively improve air quality, reduce mold risk, stabilize temperature, calm the nervous system, and support long-term health. We spend up to 90% of our lives indoors. Think about the impact on our health if the home we live in could reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and even prevent chronic illness? Learning Points: • Why your home is a biological environment • Mold & poor air quality are design failures — not just bad luck • Passive & Net-Zero homes are about health — not just energy savings Social Media: https://ekobuilt.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kealey-17614529/

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Matthew Cutler-Welsh speaks with Andreas Goetz about building the Wunderbar Passive House in Orewa, about 40 minutes north of Auckland. Originally from Germany and motivated by comfort and health, Goetz pursued Passive House despite local challenges, choosing a simple rectangular ICF design with imported European triple-glazed windows and integrated exterior shutters to manage overheating without mechanical cooling. The home uses whole-house ventilation, achieved near 0.6 ACH50 airtightness, has low power bills, and added solar projected to pay back in four years, while also earning Homestar V5.https://wunderbar-passive-house.org/ Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Ilka Cassidy and Jacob Racusin are at the BuildingEnergy Boston 2026 Conference (Sponsored by New Energy Works).Ilka and Jacob recap day 2 of the conference including a keynote by Melissa O'Mara and Kevin Stack, “Unstoppable Inner Resilience and Generational Leadership,” which guided attendees through a meditation connecting to ancestors and future generations, highlighting accountability, leadership, and the “knowing-doing gap” via the Inner Development Goals. Ilka then interviews architect Phil Kaplan about a deep energy retrofit of a mid-century Acorn Deck House involving unexpected conditions, major structural changes, and questions about cost and embodied carbon versus rebuilding. The day's highlights also include sessions on tools and strategies to balance operational and embodied carbon, evaluate deep versus moderate retrofits, and push manufacturers toward healthier, lower-impact materials.Episode with Rachel White & Michael Hindle: https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/podcast/building-energy-boston-with-rachel-white-michael-hindleMeditation that is similar to the one described in the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-long-time-academy/id1589516917Episode with Melissa O'Mara and Kevin Stack: https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/podcast/180-inner-development-goals-idgs-and-buildings-with-kevin-stack-and-melissa-omara Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

What is social value? It's a messy, ill-defined beast that's increasingly a core component of public procurement, and it's something that we worked on recently so it's been front of our minds.We invited Michael McLaughlin (LHC Procurement Group) onto the show to talk through what he thinks about social value, and what he thinks it could be if the sector was able to organise itself better. No shade intended and we're not suggesting that it's easy to fix things, but we have looked into it. While there's a lot of great work being done there are an unconscionable number of opportunities being wasted, and not for want of trying.Notes from the showMichael McLaughlin on LinkedInThe LHC Procurement Group website LHC on LinkedIn **SOME SELF-PROMOTING CALLS TO ACTION**We don't actually earn anything from this podcast, and it's quite a lot of work, so we have to promote the day jobs.Follow us on the Zero Ambitions LinkedIn page (we still don't have a proper website)Jeff and Dan about Zero Ambitions Partners (the consultancy) for help with positioning and communications strategy, customer/user research and engagement strategy, carbon calculations and EPDs – we're up to all sortsSubscribe and advertise with Passive House Plus (UK edition here too)Check Lloyd Alter's Substack: Carbon UpfrontJoin ACANJoin the AECB Join the IGBCCheck out Her Retrofit Space, the renovation and retrofit platform for women**END OF SELF-PROMOTING CALLS TO ACTION**

https://youtu.be/HicyIaKqRgkMatt talks with Two Bit Da Vinci and Ziroth about Donut Lab's new battery, the controversy around it, and what they think it actually might be.Watch the Undecided with Matt Ferrell episode, The Breakthroughs My Net Zero Home is Missing https://youtu.be/hb2x5VcUT0I?list=PLnTSM-ORSgi7FwYRnWkpCSkAeFOzrgh5h(00:00) - - Intro (01:46) - - Donut Lab Conversation (01:01:40) - - Home Regrets Discussion YouTube version of the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/stilltbdpodcastGet in touch: https://undecidedmf.com/podcast-feedbackSupport the show: https://pod.fan/still-to-be-determinedFollow us on X: @stilltbdfm @byseanferrell @mattferrell or @undecidedmfUndecided with Matt Ferrell: https://www.youtube.com/undecidedmf ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Ilka Cassidy and Jacob Racusin are at the BuildingEnergy Boston 2026 Conference (Sponsored by New Energy Works).Ilka and Jacob speak with:Gregory Smith, Architect at Moody NolanClay Tilton, Existing Buildings Program ManagerBuilt Environment Plus (BE+)Arlen Li, Fitwel Ambassador, Planning PrincipalHGAAnthony Michetti, Director of Sustainability, Cell Signaling TechnologyJulie Newman, PhDDirector of SustainabilityMassachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)Steve Hessler Building Systems Specialist at New Energy Works | Certified Passive House Consultant at Holzraum SystemBryan Bleiere, Director of Offsite Construction at New Energy WorksLuke Winston-Almanzar CEO, Co-Founder ReservoirThey discuss the conference mood amid political and economic headwinds, the theme “Don't Stop Us Now,” and a keynote on “The Cost of Pausing” featuring MIT and Cell Signaling Technology, emphasizing business cases and co-benefits for maintaining climate goals. Conference co-chairs Clay Hilton and Greg Smith highlight curation, community-building, and student participation. Trade-floor interviews feature Reservoir's smart heat-pump water heater with predictive controls and recirculation, and New Energy Works' timber/panelization work and foam-free assemblies.https://nesea.org/conference/schedule/50140https://newenergyworks.com/https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/component-spotlight-rethinking-domestic-hot-water-intro...Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

Just because someone lives in an apartment doesn't mean they don't want to go outside and be in nature.In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Zullo, Managing Director of Impact at Jonathan Rose Companies, at their Midtown Manhattan headquarters to talk about what happens when you design affordable housing around health — and how nature fits into that equation. Lauren's work sits at the intersection of housing, sustainability, and the social determinants of health, and she makes the case that housing touches every single one of them: air quality, food access, social connection, financial stress, and the immediate environment in which people live.We talk about how Jonathan Rose Companies brings nature into 19,000 units of affordable housing across the US — from trees for shade in the Bronx to green roofs that make rooftop solar more efficient in DC — and why the business case for green space isn't about ecosystem services but about building places people actually want to stay. Lauren also shares the story behind Sendero Verde in East Harlem, one of the largest affordable Passive House buildings in the world, where the courtyard follows a Lenape walking trail and the plantings were chosen based on the indigenous species that once grew on the site.Find Lauren Zullo and Jonathan Rose Companies at rosecompanies.com.

Building science is at the core of high-performance construction, but it takes more than an understanding of psi-values and hygrothermal dynamics to actually get these buildings built. As we see in this episode, having a real-world understanding of materials science, finance, and how people actually work together is yet another component to this line of work. Granted, there's still a lot of building science involved, as emphasized by the clips featuring Ed May and Ben Bogie, but this episode of The Reimagine Edit series of the Passive House Podcast should be a reminder that construction touches loads of academic fields, and that the status of expert will forever be a moving target in an evolving industry.In this episode, host Zack Semke shares selected clips of conversations from the Reimagine Collective. Featured speakers include Ben Bogie, Jesse Hunt, Michael Ingui, Ed May, and Emily Mottram.The Reimagine Edit is a special series of the Passive House Podcast that shares curated insights from our Experts-In-Residence at the Reimagine Buildings Collective, our membership community of building professionals stepping up to tackle climate change. Learn more about the Reimagine Buildings Collective at https://www.reimaginebuildings.com.

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Zack Semke chats with Nick Nigro of Leggat McCall about the Bunker Hill Housing Redevelopment in Charlestown, Boston, a phased replacement of 42 aging WWII-era public housing buildings into 2,699 mixed-income units. Nick explains how the team committed to Passive House from day one and is using a repeatable “kit of parts”—precast lateral-load-bearing cores, prefabricated load-bearing exterior panels, and CLT floor systems—to improve speed, reduce temporary work, and lower both carbon and cost through iteration across 15 buildings. He describes early modeling, enclosure mockup testing, and construction-sequencing innovations like using the permanent elevator as a hoist. https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/critical-mass-scaling-passive-house-at-bunker-hillhttps://www.lmp.com/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Mary James chats with Kia Weatherspoon, founder of Determined by Design. Weatherspoon describes how experiences visiting her brother in prison and creating privacy during Air Force deployments shaped her belief that spaces must be felt, not just seen. She explains her mission-driven focus on affordable housing and a design process rooted in ancestry, legacy, and identity, translating community narratives into specific material and layout decisions. The discussion emphasizes bringing interiors into the integrated design team early, pushing for healthier materials amid cost and pricing-transparency challenges, and streamlining specifications to maintain budgets. The hosts reflect on how interior environments affect wellbeing and project outcomes.https://www.determinedbydesign.com/portfolio/station-u-o/https://passivehouseaccelerator.com/articles/leading-with-humanity-passive-interior-design

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, host Matthew Cutler interviews New Zealand building scientist and sustainability specialist Tavis Creswell-Wells of Ecolution about overheating risk, building performance, and lessons from working in the UK. Tavis describes his path from architecture to building science, early research with BRANZ on the Building Energy End Use Study, and later experience in London with large energy modeling and rating systems including BREEAM, WELL, and Part L. He argues New Zealand's H1 code overemphasizes insulation and lacks requirements to address overheating, while Part L includes lighting, hot water, mechanical systems, and checks at design and completion. The conversation covers glazing, shading, natural ventilation limitations, PHPP overheating constraints, and using TM59 for zoned overheating analysis, and previews the Reimagine Buildings Multifamily online conference.https://ecolutionsbs.com/ecolutionThank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

In this episode of The Passive House Podcast, Jay Fox speaks with Tony Daniels and Caitlin Matusewicz of Cycle Architecture + Planning about their backgrounds in high-performance design and the firm's focus on scalable multifamily deep energy retrofits, resilience, and Passive House. The conversation covers why retrofits are harder than new construction and how Cycle aims to scale by starting with repeatable retrofit solutions. They discuss panelized overcladding and modular mechanical strategies, NYSERDA's role via incentives and innovation programs, and broader barriers such as contracting and insurance models that enforce siloing.https://www.c-ap.net/Thank you for listening to the Passive House Podcast! To learn more about Passive House and to stay abreast of our latest programming, visit passivehouseaccelerator.com. And please join us at one of our Passive House Accelerator LIVE! zoom gatherings on Wednesdays.

Architecture education is often romanticized as a pursuit of pure creativity, but in reality, it serves as a masterclass in grit. The studio environment, characterized by sleepless nights and public critiques, builds a specific kind of resilience necessary for navigating a risk-averse industry. While sectors like lighting have undergone rapid technological revolutions—moving from incandescent to LED in a decade—commercial construction moves at the speed of a massive vessel, slowed by liability concerns and ingrained methods. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep This hesitation, however, is slowly giving way to data-driven sustainability. The industry has shifted from making purely economic arguments for energy efficiency to focusing on human health and wellness, a transition accelerated by the pandemic. Tools like the Healthy Materials Database now allow teams to bypass greenwashing, using empirical data to guide tradespeople who might otherwise resist new specifications. By framing material changes as collaborative problem-solving rather than top-down mandates, the industry can bridge the gap between high-concept design and practical application. Nowhere is this practical application more evident than in the “Net Zero Trailer” project. Born from a desire to improve job site dignity and efficiency, this ten-week experiment successfully merged Passive House standards with trailer manufacturing. It proved that construction environments do not have to be uncomfortable energy hogs; they can be solar-powered hubs of productivity. This experiment serves as a microcosm for the industry's broader challenge: how to scale innovation. Whether adapting to the massive energy demands of data centers or designing schools with a 100-year operational lifespan, the future of building requires looking beyond current codes. It demands a “green shoots” mentality where structures are designed not just for immediate occupancy, but for climate resilience and flexibility across generations. The Hedgehog Concept: A framework from the book Good to Great focusing on the intersection of passion, talent, and economic engines. Good to Great by Jim Collins USGBC & Healthy Materials: Susan discusses her work with the U.S. Green Building Council and managing a database of over 2,500 sustainable building products. U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Living Building Challenge The Net Zero Trailer: Pepper Construction's experiment to create a solar-powered, Passive House-standard job site trailer in under 10 weeks. Pepper Construction Passive House Institute Trade Education & AGC: How general contractors are collaborating to educate tradespeople on green building methods and carbon tracking. Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) Climate Risk & 100-Year Buildings: The shift toward designing K-12 schools and community structures to withstand climate changes and serve communities for a century or more. Thanks for listening to Convo By Design, 13 years, over 700 episodes and 3 million downloads and listens to the show!