SQ.FT Stories

First Hand Experience - The Effects Mental Health In Construction Is Having - Ben Preston - EP8

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Ben Preston, the Director of Quick Cladding Solutions & an advocate of the need for change in the construction industry.
Ben’s journey is one of determination, having built his company from humble beginnings in his parents’ house to a multi-million-pound enterprise. Along the way, he’s faced profound personal challenges that have shaped his perspective on the construction industry, its culture, and the urgent need for systemic change.
In this episode, Ben opens up about his experiences, including the devastating loss of his brother to addiction—a tragedy that underscores the mental health crisis plaguing the construction sector. His story is both a wake-up call and a rallying cry for change.
We explore:
- The human cost of neglecting mental health in the construction industry.
- How Ben grew Quick Cladding Solutions against the odds and what others can learn from his journey.
- The role of leadership in addressing addiction, mental health, and workplace culture.
- Why employers need to foster open conversations about mental health and provide better support systems for their teams.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone in construction, from leaders to frontline workers, who want to be part of a movement to create a healthier, more supportive industry.
Tune in to hear Ben’s powerful story and his vision for a construction sector that prioritizes people as much as profit. It’s time to build not just better structures—but a better industry.

Why The Construction Industry NEEDS Reform From The Top - Ollie Plastow - EP7

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Ollie Plastow, the co-founder of Consensus Workspace and co-host of the podcast The Corporate, Character, and….
Ollie is a passionate advocate for the Design & Build industry, with a career that began as a teenager and spans every role in the fit-out sector—from buyer to founder. His deep-rooted experience and candid perspective make him a leading voice in driving meaningful change within the construction and design industry.
In this episode, Ollie shares his journey, the lessons learned from years in the trenches of Design & Build, and why he's committed to addressing the industry’s most pressing challenges. He highlights how leadership at the top can shape a better future for all stakeholders.
We explore:
🔹 The critical shortage of young talent in construction and the need to revive apprenticeships.🔹 Payment challenges with main contractors and their impact on the supply chain.🔹 Why systemic change in the construction industry must come from leadership at the top.
Whether you're a construction professional, an industry leader, or someone curious about the evolving landscape of Design & Build, this episode offers unfiltered insights into the sector's current challenges and future opportunities.
Tune in to hear Ollie’s compelling vision for a more sustainable and equitable construction industry—and why the time for change is now!

Why You NEED Content Creation In Construction - Tom Hitch - EP6

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Tom Hitch, the founder of WRKPLC, a media brand dedicated to inspiring and entertaining workplace and office design content.
Join us as we delve into Tom’s extensive career in marketing & media production and content creation within the built environment. With a mission to redefine how we perceive workplaces and spotlight world-leading office design and architecture, WRKPLC is setting new standards in workplace storytelling.
In this episode, Tom shares his journey from marketing & media professional to founder of WRKPLC, and how his experience hosting two podcasts, including the ongoing WRKPLC3000, has shaped his approach to content creation. He emphasizes why leaders in the built environment must embrace content creation—or risk being left behind in an evolving industry.
We explore:
🔹 The importance of creating engaging workplace content.🔹 How WRKPLC uses innovative formats to capture office design and architecture.🔹 Why content creation is essential for leaders in the built environment to stay ahead.
Whether you're a design enthusiast, a workplace leader, or curious about the role of media in commercial real estate, this episode offers a fresh perspective on workplace storytelling.
Tune in to discover how Tom is reshaping the narrative around office design and learn why creating content is now a leadership imperative!

Step By Step Guide On How To Win More Projects - Oliver Hammond - EP5

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Oliver Hammond, the founder of OJH Space, specialising in the design & build, fit-out & workplace consultancy.
With a career driven by a deep passion for both people and property, Oliver has played a pivotal role in numerous high-end design and build projects, reshaping the way workspaces inspire and function.
Oliver opens up about the personal and professional challenges he has faced and how they have shaped his approach to design and leadership. Beyond his impressive portfolio, Oliver is now channeling his energy into guiding and mentoring the next generation entering the workforce, offering insights into how they can thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with lessons on network, creativity, and the key tips on how to navigate yourself through the design and build world.

The Dark Side Of The Industry - Lee Castledine - EP4

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Lee Castledine, the Co-Founder of HOP, specialising in the design & build, fit-out & refurbishment industry.
Lee’s story is one of grit, transformation, and the raw realities of navigating the highs and lows of both business and life.
From humble beginnings to reaching incredible professional heights, Lee has faced his fair share of challenges—some that nearly knocked him off course, and others that tested his resilience in ways few could imagine. But through it all, he has emerged as one of life’s true characters—driven, unapologetically authentic, and more determined than ever to carve his own path.
In this episode, Lee opens up about many aspects of his own life and also the issues that we face as a construction industry & where we can improve it for the better.
Whether you're an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, or someone who’s faced setbacks in life, Lee’s story is a powerful reminder that hard work & discipline is key.
Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with one of the most interesting and humorous personalities you'll meet—Lee of HOP.

The Reason Behind The Labour Shortage - Will Pringle - EP3

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Will Pringle, the MD of Big Blue, a recruitment agency specialising in the design & build, fit-out & refurbishment industry.
Join us as we explore Will’s journey from his early days in recruitment to becoming a key player in a niche market. He discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with matching the right talent to innovative design and build projects, and offers valuable advice for both sub-contractors & main contractors looking to thrive in this competitive field.
Will also dives into the importance of fostering relationships within the industry, the impact of emerging technologies, and the main reasons behind the labour shortage we are experiencing at present. Whether you're a professional in the field or simply curious about the inner workings of recruitment, this episode is packed with information.
Tune in to discover how Will is shaping the future of construction recruitment and learn how you can leverage talent to elevate your next project!
 
 

How To Design Your Business & Your Life - Westley Harnett - EP2

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Wes Harnett, the co-founder of Cleo, a cutting-edge design and build company, and owner of Satoris Coaching, a life coaching business focused on guiding others through personal transformation.
Wes has been through many trials and tribulations in his journey, and he opens up about the challenges he faced while building his two successful ventures.
From navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship to finding his purpose through life coaching, Wes shares the lessons he’s learned along the way. This episode is perfect for anyone looking for inspiration on how to turn obstacles into opportunities and build a meaningful career and life.
Tune in for a candid conversation full of insights & life lessons.

How To Scale From Construction To Design & Build - Alex Kerr - EP1

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Alex Kerr, the dynamic CEO of The Kerr Office Group who navigated the complexities of family business with a fresh perspective.
Starting his career young in his family’s company, Alex took a bold step to explore life abroad in Ibiza, enriching his cultural insights and redefining his approach to business. Upon returning, he brought with him not just a wealth of experience, but a passion to elevate the family legacy.
In this episode, Alex shares candid stories about his diverse experiences working across various sectors in the construction industry, the transformative role of business coach in his journey, and his forward-thinking vision for the design & build industry.
Tune in to gain valuable insights, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to innovate in a traditional field.