Welcome to a solo episode of I’m The Gaffer

Gavin Coyle finally answers the #1 question he gets asked every single week:

“How the hell do I win tenders without being the cheapest bidder?”

If you’re a small-to-medium contractor sick of losing work, getting undercut, or telling yourself “it’s all backhanders and who you know,” this 53-minute masterclass will change everything.

This is the exact playbook Gavin uses (and teaches his clients) to win multi-million dollar tenders while still making a proper margin.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Intro + Hustro sponsor

00:21 The question Gavin gets asked more than any other

01:20 Why “brown envelopes” is the loser’s excuse (and the truth)

02:16 Find clients who actually value you (they exist!)

03:13 Sub-contractor model vs direct labour – the hidden reason you keep losing

05:38 Professional tender writers – worth every penny?

06:04 ISO / accredited systems – when you NEED them (and when you don’t)

08:23 The €5M+ tender rule nobody talks about

09:21 Sub-contractor vetting – get this wrong, and you’re instantly disqualified

10:20 ALWAYS ask for the scorecard feedback (and what to do with it)

12:14 It’s not price – it’s TRUST

19:44 Tell a STORY in your tender (most submissions read like a robot wrote them)

22:33 Build your tender library NOW (central folder = game changer)

25:28 Commercial profiles & photos of your key people (huge differentiator)

29:24 Modern slavery & supply-chain risk – clients are terrified of this

33:37 Clients care more about things NOT going wrong than saving €10k

34:36 De-risk the project for them = become the safe pair of hands

36:31 Add unasked-for innovations (toolbox talks, leadership walks, off-site fab)

41:13 Treat every tender like your company’s most important sales pitch

44:32 The team you promise MUST be the team that turns up

45:59 Build relationships BEFORE the tender drops

47:57 The follow-up email that saves tenders from the spam folder

50:19 Shift the conversation from COST to VALUE & TRUST

Sponsored by Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software on the planet.

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast

Website https://www.imthegaffer.com/...

Welcome to Episode of I’m The Gaffer

Gavin Coyle sits down with Brad Huebner, ex-Marine, multi-business owner, and the coach who has quietly helped hundreds of contractors finally get paid what they’re worth.

If you’re working yourself to death, barely paying yourself, and still stuck under €/£/$1M – this episode is your wake-up call.

We go DEEP on the stuff nobody else will say out loud:

– Why 80-90 % of profitability problems are simply “not charging enough.”

– The brutal “crazy cycle” that keeps trades stuck at 70-90 hour weeks

– Why mindset is 90 % of coaching (and how childhood baggage is silently killing your pricing)

– The $35k vs $30k + efficiency example that will blow your mind

– Why picking ONE ultra-specific niche is the fastest way to dominate your town

– The exact 4-step blueprint Brad uses: Mindset → Finances → Sales/Marketing → Systems

Sponsored by Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software on the planet.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Intro + Hustro sponsor

00:16 “Outworking the inefficiencies” – why most have no parachute

00:55 The contractor who’s drowning right now (70-90 hr weeks, no pay)

07:40 The #1 problem across the board: NOT charging enough

12:53 The vicious “crazy cycle” explained

18:42 It’s relationships & communication, not just the task

21:07 Stop work the SECOND you’re not paid

24:27 90 % of coaching is MINDSET – self-worth & people-pleasing

28:19 Gavin opens up about losing his brother & how grief shaped his business decisions

40:46 Step 2 – Finances: kill the services that lose money TODAY

48:16 $35k bathroom vs $30k + $1k efficiency (the math that changes everything)

52:35 If Brad started again tomorrow: ONE niche from day one

55:20 Riches in niches + building a moat

57:13 Brad’s hidden life – 5 mission trips to Russia/Ukraine + world-championship pistol shooter

59:07 FREE BOOK (see below)

FREE GIFT FROM BRAD

Get Brad’s full book “The Contractor Profit Blueprint” 100 % FREE (normally $9.99)

→ https://www.thecontractorprofitblueprint.com

Promo code: GAFFER (all caps) – instant access

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast

Website https://www.imthegaffer.com/

Welcome to Episode of I'm The Gaffer – a raw, gut-punching episode!

Host Gavin Coyle dives deep with James Ford, founder of JT MOTIV, on the double-barrel crisis of addiction and mental health in construction. James bares all: from gambling at 16 to violent benders, rock bottom, and 15 years sober. Hear how pain builds strength, faith flips fate, and recovery rebuilds lives. A must-watch for contractors facing silent battles – with tips to spot signs and get help.

TRIGGER WARNING: Addiction, suicide, violence, trauma. If struggling, call Samaritans (116 123 UK/Ireland) or a loved one.

Sponsored by Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software for safer sites & faster fixes.

• James's addiction started: Gambling at 16 → suicide attempt
• "Two-fold illness": Physical cravings + mental obsession
• Rock bottom: Homeless, jaundiced, disowned
• Recovery miracle: 15 years sober + family rebuilt
• Faith's role: "Breakdown to breakthrough"
• Giving back: JT MOTIV speeches + 24/7 support
• Raw Q: "Better life without addiction?" (No – it shaped him)

• [00:10] Hustro.com – construction's simplest management tool
• [00:26] Raw Q: "Better life without addiction?"
• [00:55] "I'd have a better life... but no regrets"
• [01:25] 15 years addicted = 15 years sober – 2 lives
• [02:18] Meet James Ford: JT MOTIV founder
• [03:18] Addiction started: Gambling at 16, suicide attempt
• [05:09] "Violent drug lead" – dark isolation
• [07:27] "Choose your hard": Addiction vs recovery
• [09:07] Family fallout: "Couldn't even look after myself"
• [10:36] "Masks": Different faces for situations
• [12:55] "Illness of addiction" – WHO-recognized
• [15:49] Hustro.com – streamline safety & compliance
• [17:08] Breakdown to breakthrough: Pain builds strength
• [18:25] "Recovered, not cured" – daily work
• [21:36] Faith's role: "Relationship with Christ saved me"
• [23:05] Miracles: Rebuilt family + grandson
• [26:59] "Help 1 person/day" – JT MOTIV mission
• [27:29] Hustro.com – full ad (75% faster inspections)
• [29:03] Closing: "You're not alone – inbox me"

Connect with James Motiv directly:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-ford-jt-motiv-96b38530b/

Website: https://jtmotiv.com/

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for

you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify

Welcome to Episode of I'm The Gaffer

Gavin Coyle delves deeply into the biggest crisis nobody talks about: the construction leadership gap.

Why can’t we find proper leaders? Are we doing enough to nurture their growth? And what happens when you put the wrong person in charge?

If you own a construction firm, manage sites, or want to step up – this 29-minute rant will save you hundreds of thousands in bad hires.

Sponsored by Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software on the planet.

• The brutal truth: We’re promoting people who can’t lead
• Why “loudest in the room” ≠ leader
• Psychometric testing – the tool 95 % of contractors ignore
• How to spot a money-grabber before they wreck your culture
• The 3-interview rule (and why candidates who hate it are red flags)
• Build an Executive Leadership Group – even if you’re only 10 people
• Mentorship that actually works (internal + external)
• Age & life-stage: the hidden factor nobody admits

• [00:10] Hustro.com – simplest software in construction
• [00:21] The leadership crisis nobody admits
• [01:20] Safety recruitment nightmare → industry-wide problem
• [02:33] Do YOU have a leadership program? (Be honest)
• [03:29] Quiet leaders beat loud ones every time
• [05:16] Born leader vs made leader – the real answer
• [06:43] Psychometric testing – your secret weapon
• [09:29] “I’ve got a good feeling” = expensive mistake
• [11:26] How to fire a bad leader without blowing up the company
• [14:34] Build an Executive Leadership Group (even with 2 people)
• [18:55] The “negative vibe” rule that never fails
• [20:46] 2–3 interviews minimum – no exceptions
• [22:11] Age & life-stage: the elephant in the room
• [24:33] Every leader needs mentors (or they burn out)
• [26:59] We’re 8 episodes from 100 – subscribe now!
• [27:29] Hustro.com – full ad (75 % faster inspections)

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast

Website https://www.imthegaffer.com/

Welcome to Episode of I'm The Gaffer!

Host Gavin Coyle sits down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch.com, to explore how live video + AI is transforming construction sites. From remote inspections to instant AI diagnostics, James reveals how contractors are skipping truck trips, cutting change orders, and boosting profit — all with the smartphone already in your pocket.

Sponsored by Hustro.com, the simplest construction management software for inspections, compliance, and real-time reporting.

• Live Video on Site – See what your crew sees in real-time via SMS tap.
• AI Co-Pilot – 30-second HVAC diagnosis from video? Done.
• Remote Management – Skip the drive, fix issues faster.
• Full Video Documentation – Every pipe, wire, and punch list is recorded forever.
• Customer Transparency – Share build progress with one link.
• Scale Smarter – Make Yourself Redundant, Build to Sell.

1. Live Video = Next-Level Walkie-Talkie – See what your foreman sees, instantly.
2. AI Diagnoses in Seconds – Upload a 30-sec clip → get a full report.
3. No More Truck Trips – Project Managers Resolve Issues Remotely.
4. Video Documentation = Gold – Prove work, train teams, win disputes.
5. Build to Sell – Make yourself redundant or stay stuck.
6. Data Moat = Future Value – Every video feeds your AI advantage.

• [00:16] Hustro.com – Construction’s simplest management tool
• [00:26] James reinvents 911 with pocket cameras
• [01:24] From painting crews to Inc. 500 tech exits
• [03:17] Accidental entrepreneur → tech scaling
• [04:42] Lessons from power washing → redundancy
• [06:37] Exited to KKR → Inmates to Entrepreneurs
• [10:30] “Make yourself redundant” – freedom mapping
• [12:55] Build to sell — even if you never do
• [15:49] Lean growth: Outsource low-value tasks
• [18:18] Hustro.com – Streamline inspections & compliance
• [19:46] LiveSwitch powers Super Bowl, NBA, 911
• [20:42] SMS tap → instant live video from any phone
• [22:31] AI turns 30-sec clip into full HVAC diagnosis
• [26:42] Senior techs guide juniors via live video
• [29:06] Full video record of every build phase
• [31:01] “Contractors aren’t anti-tech — tech’s anti-contractor”
• [33:19] AI co-pilot for punch lists, code checks, training
• [37:37] Lone worker safety via live video stream
• [39:29] “Play with AI — it’s just a new power tool”
• [42:47] Data moat: Every video = future AI fuel
• [46:07] Contact James on LinkedIn → Share this episode first!
• [47:06] Hustro.com – Track, control, analyze — all in one

Book a LiveSwitch demo: https://book-a-demo.referral-factory.com/uHhiSuCI

Website: https://www.liveswitch.com/

Start your free trial: https://www.liveswitch.com/contact-signup

Coupon: Use code "Gaffer10" for 10% off at checkout!

About LiveSwitch: LiveSwitch is the world-leading communications platform for small businesses and...

Welcome to Episode of I'm The Gaffer!

Host Gavin Coyle welcomes Joseph McFall, Operations Director at SFTS - HV and Lead Senior Authorized Person at BOSLAN Ingeniería y Consultoría, to unpack the vital role of a Senior Authorized Person (SAP) in the construction and electrical industries. From ensuring electrical safety on high-voltage networks to addressing the skills shortage in offshore wind and data centers, Joseph shares expert insights for tradespeople, contractors, and aspiring professionals. Learn how to break into this high-demand, high-paying career and why robust safety procedures are non-negotiable. Sponsored by Hustro.com, the ultimate construction management software for safety and compliance.

• What is an SAP? – Senior Authorized Persons ensure electrical safety on high-voltage systems.
• Career Pathways – From apprenticeships to graduate engineering, explore routes to become an SAP.
• Skills Shortage – High demand for SAPs in offshore wind, data centers, and construction.
• Safety Risks – Incompetent SAPs risk fatalities, explosions, or project failures.
• SFTS’s Expertise – Providing SAP services, safety procedures, and network maintenance.
• Career Advice – Tips for tradespeople and students eyeing this rewarding role.

1. SAP Responsibilities: Ensure electrical safety on high-voltage networks in construction projects.
2. Entry Routes: No degree required—apprenticeships or engineering backgrounds lead to SAP roles.
3. Safety is Critical: Robust procedures (isolations, lockouts) prevent catastrophic incidents.
4. Skills Gap: SAP shortages drive demand, with contractors earning ~£700/day or full-time roles at ~£110K/year.
5. Maintenance Needs: Aging infrastructure requires regular checks to avoid failures.
6. Opportunity: Reach out to SFTS at sfts-hv.com for SAP services or career advice.

• [00:16] Intro: Sponsored by Hustro.com, leading construction management software.
• [00:26] Gavin introduces Joseph McFall and the SAP role.
• [00:56] Defining the SAP: Ensuring electrical safety on high-voltage networks.
• [02:21] Joseph’s journey: From Scottish Power to SFTS and BOSLAN.
• [03:18] Pathways to SAP: Apprenticeships, engineering, or adult training.
• [06:42] Skills shortage: Challenges finding experienced SAPs.
• [09:07] Risks of incompetent SAPs: Fatalities, explosions, and project chaos.
• [10:36] Training timeline: ~18 months for competency in complex networks.
• [13:55] Safety procedures: Importance of isolations, barriers, and lockouts.
• [15:23] Hustro.com: Streamline project management and safety compliance.
• [17:08] Case study: 2008 transformer explosion due to improper operation.
• [18:36] No universal SAP standard: Varying procedures across industries.
• [19:35] Labor shortage: 77-year-old SAPs filling gaps.
• [22:28] Risks of fake certifications and inadequate 5-day courses.
• [24:22] Governance: Robust procedures ensure SAP competency.
• [29:35] SAP pay: ~£700/day for contractors, ~£110K/year for full-time roles.
• [31:31] SFTS’s mission: SAP expertise, safety procedures, and maintenance.
• [40:15] SFTS’s future: Expanding in offshore wind and data centers.
• [42:12] Joseph’s life lesson: Travel more when young.
• [42:41] Favorite book: Glue by Irvine Welsh.
• [44:10] Favorite destinations: Donegal for tranquility, Rio for adventure.
• [44:38] Contact SFTS: Visit sfts-hv.com or LinkedIn.
• [46:04] Closing: Career advice...

Welcome to Episode of I'm The Gaffer!

Host Gavin Coyle goes solo to share the Top 5 Rules of Success for construction business owners. Packed with practical insights, this episode reveals how to build a stronger, more profitable business while reducing stress and gaining freedom. From hiring the right team to mastering your numbers and embracing innovation, Gavin’s actionable tips are a must-listen for contractors and entrepreneurs looking to thrive in the dynamic construction industry. Sponsored by Hustro.com, the simplest construction management software.

• Rule 1: Build a Strong Foundation – Prioritize people and documented processes.
• Rule 2: Know Your Numbers – Master cash flow and profit planning.
• Rule 3: Build Relationships – Foster trust for referrals and opportunities.
• Rule 4: Lead by Example – Create a positive culture to boost productivity.
• Rule 5: Focus on the Future – Innovate and plan for long-term growth.

• [00:10] Intro: Sponsored by Hustro.com, construction management software.
• [00:21] Gavin’s solo episode: Top 5 rules for construction business success.
• [00:50] Rule 1: Build a strong foundation with people and processes.
• [02:47] Rule 2: Know your numbers for financial discipline.
• [04:14] Rule 3: Build relationships for referrals and trust.
• [05:42] Rule 4: Lead by example to foster a positive culture.
• [06:41] Rule 5: Focus on the future with innovation and planning.
• [08:37] Practical tips: Consistency in processes and financial tracking.
• [09:34] Pitfalls: Avoid commingling project costs and neglecting reserves.
• [10:33] Reputation as your brand: Deliver quality and communicate effectively.
• [10:58] Closing: Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes.
• [11:11] Hustro.com: Streamline project management and compliance.

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this

podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast

Website https://www.imthegaffer.com/

#ImTheGaffer

Welcome to Episode of I'm The Gaffer!

Host Gavin Coyle welcomes Tom Chapman, founder of the Lions Barber Collective and HereToTalk Training, for an inspiring discussion on mental health in construction. As a multi-award-winning author and TEDx speaker, Tom shares how barbers create safe spaces through haircuts, fostering life-changing conversations. From pop-up barbershops on construction sites to empowering training programs, this episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to wellbeing and suicide prevention!

Episode Highlights

Lions Barber Collective: Using haircuts as a vehicle for mental health conversations.

Construction Impact: Pop-up barbershops engage workers in a fun, stigma-free environment.

Tom’s Story: From Tony & Guy to global barber director, pivoting after a friend’s suicide.

HereToTalk Training: Equipping barbers and workers for early mental health interventions.

Life-Saving Moments: A client’s life was saved through a barbershop chat.

Business Evolution: From charity to a flexible limited company for bespoke events.

Personal Journey: Tom’s mental health struggles and the role of fitness in resilience.

• [00:16] Intro: Sponsored by Hustro.com, a leading construction management tool.
• [00:26] Lions Barber Collective: Haircuts as safe spaces for mental health.
• [01:25] Meet Tom Chapman: Founder, author, and TEDx speaker.
• [02:22] Tom’s journey: From Tony & Guy to mental health advocate.
• [04:44] A friend’s suicide sparks a new mission.
• [07:27] Initial idea: Mental health messaging in haircut catalogs.
• [08:24] A life saved: The power of a barbershop conversation.
• [09:22] Barbers in construction: A Trojan horse for support.
• [10:22] Pop-up barbershops: Engaging workers on site.
• [13:40] Reframing mental health: Strength, not weakness.
• [15:07] Barbers vs. traditional setups: Superior engagement.
• [18:25] Why it works: Trust and captive audiences via haircuts.
• [22:22] Inclusive support: For all genders and backgrounds.
• [24:15] Business shift: From charity to a flexible limited company.
• [26:56] HereToTalk Training: Empowering early interventions.
• [31:16] Joined-up approach: Safe handoffs to professionals.
• [35:06] Real impact: Saving a life through a pop-up chat.
• [38:50] Fitness as a mental health tool.
• [40:05] Tom’s struggles: Overcoming challenges through exercise.
• [44:45] Protecting listeners: Building resilience against burnout.
• [48:22] Life lesson: Valuing the journey’s ups and downs.
• [49:50] Key advice: Securing IP for Lions Barber Collective.
• [50:21] Favorite destination: Disney parks for escape.
• [51:16] Fun fact: Honorary doctorate and bagpipe band past.
• [52:41] Services: Pop-ups, training, and life-saving impact.
• [55:01] Closing: Resources like Samaritans for support

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning...