PODCAST

Measure Twice, Cut Once

Homebuilders Assn Van HAVAN

Your biggest home building questions answered by the pros.

education home & garden

All Episodes

24:26

Ep 84: The Business Behind the Builder

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/10/28

Builder Chad La Pointe (Nikari Homes) joins Mike Freeman and Jennifer-Lee Gunson to unpack how strong systems create successful builds. From early builder involvement and transparent budgeting to clear communication and reliable trade networks, Chad explains how process—not chance—drives great results. Featuring The Cat’s Meow, an award-nominated renovation designed around both people and pets, the episode highlights how structure behind the scenes builds trust, quality, and lasting

35:39

Ep 63: Generational Wealth

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/10/25

According to Bobby Purba of BDC Homes, who has built many multi-plex and multi-generational homes, talking about generational wealth and real estate can be tough, but says these conversations need to S.U.C.K. Sharing insight on the new multiplex legislation, listen in as Bobby offers tips and recommends the professionals to consult before you start unlockinh your home equity.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido

54:29

Ep 82: Rightsizing For Your Home: Mechanicals & Windows

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/10/22

To mark HAVAN’s 50th Anniversary, CEO Wendy McNeil hosts a special conversation with Mark Rosen (Building Knowledge Canada) and Alfred Jury (Euroline Windows) exploring how far we’ve come in building science. They discuss the evolution of window and mechanical technologies, the importance of integrated design, and practical tips for homeowners and builders to right-size their systems for comfort, efficiency, and value.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images,

60:09

Ep 81: Bringing New Housing to Market

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/10/09

Wesgroup’s Brad Jones joins HAVAN CEO Wendy McNeil to discuss what it really takes to bring new housing to market. From overlapping regulations and skyrocketing fees to the role of CMHC’s loan programs and transparent data from the Missing Middle Initiative, this episode cuts through the noise to explore how collaboration and policy alignment can rebuild affordability across BC.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido

27:06

Ep 80: Plumbing Trends

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/09/26

Save More Plumbing & Lighting’s Nishin Handa joins Mike & Jennifer-Lee to unpack the plumbing trends shaping modern homes. From water-saving toilets and faucets to instant hot water taps, workstation sinks, antimicrobial surfaces, and bidets, Nishin explains how smart choices improve comfort, efficiency, and health. We also explore composting toilets, net-zero plumbing solutions, and how to avoid “Pinterest problems” when choosing fixtures.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once”

37:06

Ep 79: Adaptive Living

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/09/24

Builder Sandro Stefanucci (Abstract Homes) joins Mike & Jennifer-Lee to unpack adaptive living—designing homes that adapt to you. From lighting and automation to elevator-ready shafts, wider openings, and stylish, accessible finishes, learn how early planning protects dignity, independence, and budgets. We cover BC’s adaptable-unit direction, working with OTs, condo-friendly upgrades, and support like RAHA grants via BC Housing.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts

36:51

Ep 78: Building Education and Energy Advisors

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/09/16

Smarter homes start with smarter choices. Guest Mark Bernhardt (Bernhardt Contracting) explains how HEET (Home Energy Efficiency Tool) turns thousands of energy-upgrade variables into clear, cost-smart options, and why continuing education (CPD) and integrated design are vital for builders and homeowners alike.We also spotlight the upcoming CHBA BC Builder Education Summit (Oct 8–9, Richmond), where builders, inspectors, and designers learn side-by-side—delivering faster permits, fewer surprises,

37:59

Ep 77: Evolution of Home Design

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/09/10

From French-fry sketches to modular futures, Synthesis Design’s Curtis Krahn unpacks 30 years of home design—complex sites, Revit, resilience, and sourcing—plus how building science, extremes, and teamwork shape tomorrow’s homes.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to https://havan.ca/episode-75-skilled-to-build-the-education-equation/ Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail

27:30

Episode 76: Your Builder, Your Ally

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/09/02

From engineering roots to award-winning custom homes, HAVAN Member Kevin Liskew of Upward Construction shares how trust, teamwork, and strong communication turn challenges into opportunities. Discover the story behind the “California Dream” project, tips for assembling the right team, and why your builder should always be your ally. Tune in now!You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” on iTunes, Spotify podcasts. For images, transcript, and resources shared by Guido Wimmers, go to

43:06

Episode 75: Skilled to Build. The Education Equation.

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/05/05

HAVAN CEO Wendy McNeil sits down with Guido Wimmers, Dean of BCIT’s School of Construction and the Environment, to explore the pivotal role education plays in equipping the people and resources needed to build the homes our communities urgently require. Tune in — you might be surprised by Guido’s eye-opening insights.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” podcasts on iTunes, Spotify and Google podcasts. Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod

42:38

Episode 75: Skilled to Build-The Education Equation

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2025/05/01

40:47

64_Kitchen_Appliance_Design_Trends

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2024/05/21

Renovating 20+ kitchens every year, Julie Hale from Trail Appliances knows a thing or two about how to determine which appliances will work for you and how to design the ultimate kitchen that works for you. Tune in the hear the latest kitchen design and appliance trends, and optimize your next renovation!Join Mike and Jennifer-Lee. You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” podcasts on iTunes, Spotify and Google podcasts. Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod

33:04

Suite Solutions

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2024/05/13

Meet Sara Goldvine from BC Housing. Looking at housing through a holistic lens, Sara dives into the concept of housing as a system, providing an overview of BC Housing and solutions to address our housing crisis such as the BC Builds program, the new Secondary Suite Incentive Program, and benefits to consumers of builder licensing, and the 2-5-10 Home Warranty Program. Join Mike and Jennifer-Lee. You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” podcasts on iTunes, Spotify and Google podcasts. Thanks to

39:04

Multi-Family Homes

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2024/05/07

Meet Laurel James, the design-half of the award-winning Novell Design Build team. Passionate about building homes for families of all configurations, Laurel approaches design with a curious and thoughtful eye to ensure the dwelling spaces nurture our creature comforts. Listen in as Laurel shares her thoughts on multi-family dwellings and the latest provincial regulations. Join Mike and Jennifer-Lee. You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” podcasts on iTunes, Spotify and Google podcasts. Thanks to

43:21

Energy Advisors and Your Home

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2024/04/30

Mike and Jennifer-Lee explore the benefits of working with an Energy Advisor to calculate the building envelope, mechanical systems, and the air-tighness of your home to help provide choice, manage budgets, and above all, increase the comfort of your home when building new or renovating. A performance-based process, tune in for tips from Barb Silverthorn of Capture Energy.You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” podcasts on iTunes, Spotify and Google podcasts. Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC

57:55

Window Selection for Energy Efficient Homes

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2024/04/19

Looking into windows, one quickly realizes there are many considerations and potential unintended consequences that can impact the heating and cooling, plus the affordability, and comfort of your home. Speaking with Anton Van Dyk of Layton Consulting, Mike and Jennifer-Lee look into the importance of proper window selection. You will find “Measure Twice, Cut Once” podcasts on iTunes, Spotify and Google podcasts. Thanks to sponsors: FortisBC, BC Housing, Trail Appliances, Rami Films, jPod

46:32

Zero Carbon Phoenix House with Best Builders

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2024/04/09

Discover the remarkable journey of resurrecting Phoenix House, a home devastated by fire, as Best Builders, Nick Bray Architecture, and Carbon Wise unite to rebuild it to the prestigious Zero Carbon certification standard from the Living Future Institute. Join Mike and Jennifer-Lee as they delve into the extraordinary efforts undertaken by passionate homeowners, determined to pioneer Canada's inaugural Zero Carbon residence for their multi-generational family and the legacy it holds for future

55:21

HP Home Reno Review

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2024/03/25

Discover the challenges and triumphs of renovating a 112-year-old home as we bring back the builder - TQ Construction, and the homeowner, Dr Janet Simons, to review the high-performance whole home renovation project. Including lessons learned, scope creep, and pesky woodpeckers, this episode is packed with information to help you on your next home renovation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

50:13

Designing Dreams, Building Reality

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2023/11/28

Zane Erickson from ZED Studio believes every home has a soul, and dreaming of homes on a large luxury scale, Zane’s passion for design helps to navigate the realities of construction.‘When clients walk into a building that has been designed and built with care and attention, and each person involved in it has put their best foot forward, it's just a feeling you have when you walk through the space’, says Erickson. “It's beautiful. You feel welcomed. You feel comfortable. You feel at home”. Listen

39:17

HAVAN Awards: Renovator of the Year

Measure Twice, Cut Once ·

2023/11/21

Graeme Huguet, Renovator of the Year from My House Design Build Team, is joined by the Chu family who chose to renovate their bungalow. ‘This is the first home to be a certified Platinum Built Green Plus Net Zero renovated home in all of British Columbia and received a national award for Best Net Zero Renovated or New Home, and two HAVAN Awards; Best New or Renovated Space, and Best Character Home Renovation’, says Graeme Huguet. Listen in as co-hosts Mike and Jennifer-Lee have the podcast guests

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Measure Twice, Cut Once

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