Published 25 Nov 2025
S4. Ep 20. Talking with Alana Luppi about breaking cycles, building culture and backing the next gen of builders
Thanks for joining me today on The Building Talks Podcast, got a ripper episode lined up…
In this episode, I'm joined by Alana 'Lu' Luppi, Senior Project Manager at ESR Group. From cleaning site sheds and abseiling high-rises to leading major commercial builds, Lu's journey into construction is anything but ordinary.
We chat about how mentoring over 40 emerging professionals shaped her career, the story behind launching the Speak Up Foundation, and why emotional intelligence and continuous training matter more than bravado. If you care about culture, growth and fixing the industry's training gaps, this one's for you.
Takeaways:
- ✅Mentoring done right can keep people in the industry
- ✅Curiosity trumps bravado in great leaders
- ✅The industry needs more structured training and support
- ✅Speaking up changes culture from the inside
- ✅You don't have to 'do it tough' just because others did
Chapters:
- 04:40 – The Toughness of the Construction Industry
- 08:52 – Personal Journey into Construction
- 12:19 – Gender Dynamics in Construction
- 17:03 – Career Pivots and Education
- 20:05 – Mentorship and Support Systems
- 28:15 – Empowering Women and Marginalised Group in Construction
- 31:54 – Addressing Bias and Inclusion in the Industry
- 33:33 – The Role of Mentorship in Career Development
- 36:12 – Challenges in In-House Career Development
- 39:05 – The Importance of Leadership and Support
- 42:03 – Creating a Supportive Work Environment
- 44:39 – The Speak Up Foundation's Mission
- 50:01 – The Future of Training and Development in Construction
- 58:39 – Evolving Mindsets and Personal Growth
- 01:00:46 – The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
- 01:03:18 – Navigating Challenges in Project Management
- 01:07:32 – Time Management and Reflection in Construction
- 01:10:52 – The Journey of Writing a Book
- 01:16:31 – Balancing Passion Projects with Professional Life
Tune in for an honest, energising chat on what it really takes to create a better future for construction.
Hope you enjoy the podcast!
#TheBuildingTalksPodcast #ConstructionLeadership #MentoringMatters #MentalHealthInConstruction #SpeakUpFoundation #WomenInConstruction #ESRGroup #ProjectManagement #IndustryCulture
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Building Talks Podcast
Talking to professionals in construction, property development, architecture, and beyond.
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