Elevate Construction

Millennials & Gen Z Are we facing a "work ethic crisis" in today's younger generations or is that just another recycled excuse? In this raw and unfiltered episode, we cut through the noise and dive into what really matters, entitlement, job hopping, technology dependence, short attention spans, and the danger of chasing comfort before putting in the grind. You'll hear: ✅ The real truth about whether younger generations are less willing to work. ✅ Why entitlement and unrealistic expectations sabotage careers before they start. ✅ Practical advice for building resilience, focus, and skills that actually last. ✅ A hard-hitting reminder that value is earned, not handed out. This isn't about shaming it's about helping the next generation step into their full potential, especially in industries like construction where grit, loyalty, and execution matter most. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Why Projects Fail Without Buffers (And What Mine craft Taught Me About Flow) In this episode, I share a breakthrough analogy (yes, it comes from playing Mine craft with my kids!) that finally makes the power of buffers crystal clear. Whether in project schedules, takt wagons, or your daily workflow buffers are the hidden key to preventing chaos, absorbing variation, and keeping everything moving smoothly. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Turning Construction Chaos Into Clarity What if every worker on your jobsite could instantly see the right information the moment they stepped off the hoist? That's exactly what today's episode is about. I'm joined by Jeff Laporte of Robins & Morton, who shares how his team is transforming communication on the Boca Regional Hospital project through visual environments and floor information boards. We dig into: ✅ Why visual boards are more than "just plywood with markers" ✅ How to design boards that actually get used in the field (not ignored) ✅ The flow of information from conference room planning to boots on the ground ✅ How simple visuals create alignment, reduce chaos, and empower every trade partner If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Are You Wasting Time With Outdated Pull Planning? Too many construction teams are stuck transferring sticky notes into Excel, duplicating work, and misaligning schedules with reality. In this episode, I respond directly to a listener's question about how Last Planner® is being used in the field vs. how it should be used. We dig into: ✅ Why sticky notes and physical boards aren't a "Lean requirement" ✅ How to align master schedules, pull plans, and weekly work plans without wasting trade partner time ✅ Why vertical alignment (from macro plans to daily handoffs) is the real secret to flow ✅ Tech tools and smarter processes that eliminate duplication and keep teams focused If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

The Game Changer for Complex Projects Ever had a project where every zone feels completely different complex layouts, endless variations, and buffers constantly getting eaten up? In this episode, Jason Schroeder introduces a breakthrough idea: Trade-Specific (or "Diagonal") Pull Plans. Instead of running sequences left to right across trades, Jason explains how to trace the flow of one trade across every zone, uncover hidden bottlenecks, and smooth out the variations that sabotage production. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Are you building processes from scratch or reinventing the wheel? In this episode, Jason Schroeder sits down with Superintendent Jesse Powell to dive into one of the biggest challenges in construction today "developing standards, forms, and processes that actually work". Jesse brings 18 years of experience in the field, moving from carpenter to superintendent on $200M projects, and now helping his company take bold steps in their lean journey. Together, we unpack: ✅ How to start building a practical checklist of processes without overcomplicating things. ✅ The critical role of collaboration across teams and regions. ✅ Why lean is more than buzzwords and how respect for people shows up in the real world. ✅ A simple framework for building reliable systems that improve projects everywhere. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

What It Really Means to Be a Great Host on the Jobsite What if your construction site felt less like a grind… and more like a five-star experience? In this episode, Jason unpacks lessons from Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara and shows how superintendents can become true "hosts" for their trade partners. From free popsicles and surprise breakfasts to personalized touches that show genuine care, Jason shares practical (and unforgettable) ways to turn job sites into environments where people feel valued, respected, and excited to contribute. If you've ever believed "we're not here to make friends," this episode will flip that mindset upside down. Because when you treat people like guests instead of cogs in a machine, everything from trust to productivity changes. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Are Controlling Superintendents Sabotaging Your Project? Learn the Red Flags Before It's Too Late! In this episode of the Elevate Construction Podcast, we uncover the subtle but dangerous signs that someone on your project site is prioritizing control over results. From avoiding pull plans and quality preconstruction meetings to hoarding information and isolating themselves from the team, these behaviors can derail schedules, morale, and profits. Jason dives deep into: · How to spot controlling behavior before it harms your project · Why some superintendents sacrifice performance for personal significance · Real-world examples of trade partners and project teams navigating these challenges · The key mindset shift every construction leader needs to empower their team and maintain transparency Whether you're a superintendent, project manager, or trade partner, recognizing these red flags could save your project and your sanity. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

How to Stop Trades from Self Optimizing and Keep Your Project on Track Ever had a trade partner prioritize their own schedule over the success of the entire project? In this episode, we dive into the exact strategies you need to prevent self-optimization before it derails your job. From real-world pre-construction planning examples to visual iterations that align every contractor's work, I break down how to get commitments early, avoid costly conflicts, and keep your team moving as one cohesive unit. If you're a superintendent, project manager, or construction leader tired of firefighting because someone "does their own thing," this episode is your blueprint to maintain control, optimize workflow, and get predictable results without stepping on toes. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Breaking the Silence with Coralee Beatty Construction is one of the toughest industries in the world and it's also one of the hardest on mental health. With suicide rates at alarming levels, leadership gaps on jobsites, and the pressure to constantly deliver, it's time to have a real conversation. In this episode of the Elevate Construction Podcast, Jason Schroeder sits down with Coralee Beatty fractional COO, business coach, and industry leader to tackle one of the most critical issues facing construction today: how we take care of our people. Coralee opens up about her journey in business, her passion for reshaping company culture, and why human connection is the missing link in solving mental health challenges across the industry. From leadership that builds leaders not just followers to creating workplaces where people truly want to show up, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what success looks like in construction. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Breaking Patterns in Construction Smarter Planning, Prefab, and Flow Why do some projects soar while others spiral into chaos? The difference often comes down to patterns the hidden rules driving planning, prefabrication, and production flow. In this episode of the Elevate Construction Podcast, Jason Schroeder unpacks two game-changing concepts every builder needs to master: · Resource, Supply Chain, and Spatial Constraints: how to recognize and balance the three forces that make or break a project. · Aligning Work with Capacity: why it's not about "limiting WIP," but about syncing your teams, zones, and prefab packages to match real capacity (with buffers that create flow). Plus, Jason dives into prefabrication strategies, zone sizing, and how to avoid over or under utilizing your crews insights straight from field-tested experiences and the Foreman Boot Camp. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Supporting Trades and Teams in Construction If you want people to thrive, you have to love the environment that makes them strong. In this episode of the Elevate Construction Podcast, Jason Schroeder shares a powerful analogy: just as a flower needs soil, water, and sunlight, our trade partners and teams need clarity, safety, organization, and lean systems to truly flourish. Too often, leaders chase significance instead of service—creating bottlenecks and stalling lean progress. But when we genuinely love and support people, we naturally start loving the systems, meetings, and planning that empower them. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Are you unknowingly the bottleneck on your construction project? In this short but powerful episode of the Elevate Construction Podcast, Jason Schroeder breaks down three game changing truths every builder and leader needs to hear: ✅ Why keeping the plan in your head makes YOU the project's biggest constraint. ✅ The hard truth about lean: why you can't punch up and what it really takes to scale operational excellence. ✅ Why "punch list crews" are killing accountability (and what to do instead). If you're ready to sharpen your leadership, build accountability, and take your projects to the next level, this is 6 minutes you can't afford to miss. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

My Unfiltered Response to a Negative Review In this episode, I break down a recent four star review that accused me of being "too political" and explain why topics like racism, sexism, and the treatment of people in construction are not off limits they're essential. Along the way, I unpack why I stand behind voices like Taylor Swift, why toxic figures like Andrew Tate are dangerous for our industry, and why criticism only matters when it's intelligent, accurate, and helpful. If you've ever wondered where the line is between opinion and impact, free speech and responsibility, or critique and sabotage this is the episode that lays it all out. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

The #1 Project Killer You're Probably Ignoring In this episode, I unpack a brilliant concept shared by Kevin Rice "managing timelines". We're talking about the sequences that don't repeat, don't fit neatly into your normal planning structure, and yet carry massive consequences like permanent power, elevator installs, switchgear procurement, or utility hookups. If you're not breaking these timelines down into milestones and inch stones and driving them relentlessly you're setting yourself up for costly delays and chaos. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Who Really Controls the Schedule: You or the Trades? Too many projects grind to a halt because one trade insists on "doing it their way" taking massive areas, blowing through at their own pace, and expecting everyone else to adjust. Sound familiar? In this episode, Jason breaks down why allowing a single trade to drive the schedule kills flow, profitability, and project success. You'll learn: · Why batching huge areas slows the entire project (even if it feels faster in the moment). · How flow efficiency and resource efficiency must work together not against each other. · The orchestra analogy every superintendent needs to remember when leading trade partners. · A powerful mindset shift optimizing the whole vs. letting one trade "win." If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Building Better Leaders, Saving Lives, and Changing Construction Culture In this episode, Jason Schroeder sits down with Jason Sturgeon, founder of Arcade Way finding, to unpack his 30 year journey through the trades and the mission behind his groundbreaking programs for foremen and project managers. Together, they dive into: · Why fear vs love is at the core of every leadership decision. · How Arcade Way finding's training has literally saved marriages and kept crews together. · The Build the Circle initiative a movement giving overlooked workers (women, minorities, ESL speakers, LGBTQ+) a fair shot at leadership. · The brutal truth about the "silver tsunami" hitting construction and why the next generation of leaders must look different than the last. · A practical challenge: next time someone's yelling on your jobsite, stop and ask—is this coming from fear or love? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

From Multitasking Myths to Flow Based Success in Construction Why do so many projects stall, burn out crews, and miss deadlines despite everyone "working hard"? The answer might shock you: multitasking and too many open work fronts. In this episode, Jason Schroeder sits down with Dr. Efrat Goldratt-Aschlag, co-author of Goldratt's Rules of Flow and daughter of Dr. Eliyahu Goldratt (author of The Goal), to unpack the principles that are transforming projects worldwide. Together, they dive into: · Why multitasking is the #1 time killer in projects and what to do instead. · The Full Kit principle, how to stop crews from starting unready work and finally finish faster. · The power of gates to ensure work is truly ready before it moves forward. · Real-world success stories from U.S. high-rises to Japan's disaster recovery proving these methods deliver. · The keys to training and growth that keep both people and organizations thriving. If you've ever been told to "push harder" when a project is late, this episode will flip that thinking on its head. Speed doesn't come from panic it comes from preparation, focus, and flow. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Stop Undervaluing Work & Respect the Small Projects In this episode, Jason Schroeder flips common construction myths on their head, smaller doesn't mean simpler, and slashing prices isn't a path to success. Learn why rushing to cut costs or undervaluing service providers hurts your team, your projects, and your relationships. Jason dives deep into how to negotiate fairly, effectively, and ethically, why respecting every project big or small is critical, and how real value comes from clarity, data, and integrity. If you're a construction leader, project manager, or service provider, this episode is packed with insights that will change the way you think about pricing, project scope, and professional respect. Stop playing games with your team and start elevating every project. Tune in and rethink what "value" really means in construction. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why waste and variation are detrimental. What we can learn from old school Supers. What advice would I give myself when I was 28? What if the biggest lessons in construction leadership aren't about schedules or systems—but about people? In this episode, I answer three powerful listener questions that go straight to the heart of what makes a great superintendent. We'll explore how to get ahead of waste and variation in preconstruction, what old-school supers did right (and what we must leave behind), and the number one piece of advice I'd give my 28-year-old self. Spoiler: it's not about pushing harder or working longer hours. This conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, planning, and respect on the jobsite. Whether you're a young super finding your footing or a seasoned builder rethinking your approach, you'll walk away with perspective-shifting insights. It's not just about building projects—it's about building people. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why it's so hard to fix construction. Why the ego gets in the way. This episode dives deep into one of the most powerful yet invisible forces holding construction back, the ego. Too many leaders cling to pride, resist change, and refuse to ask for help, even when projects are sinking. Drawing on insights from Eckhart Tolle's The Power of Now, I break down the eight ways ego sabotages success and how to recognize them in ourselves and others. You will hear how ego impacts sales, marketing, and leadership in construction, and why confronting it head-on is the key to unlocking collaboration, trust, and real transformation. If you have ever wondered why smart people make stubborn choices, this episode will change how you see leadership forever. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: The rise of builders. Sharing information with Trades. The hell of CPM. Are we losing the builders in construction? In this episode, I tackle three pressing issues shaping our industry today. First, I break down why companies must restore balance by empowering superintendents, foremen, and field engineers instead of drowning in administration. Then I expose the destructive practice of hiding schedules from trade partners and why trust and transparency always win. Finally, I dive into the nightmare of CPM scheduling and explain why takt planning is the future of project delivery. If you've ever felt the frustration of excessive paperwork, broken trust, or overwhelming scheduling demands, this episode will hit home. It's time to rise with the builders and reclaim the future of construction. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: The right format for weekly work plans. How to approach using them. Advice for your lean journey. Curious how weekly work plans really work on a live job? In this episode I sit down with Jared Davis to unpack takt planning, pull planning, and making look aheads actually useful. We answer the trade lane question: separate them or show them together. You will learn why the weekly work plan is a pre-kit and how to run five minute trade meetings that surface real roadblocks. We talk tools that help visibility and how to make your plan a real time production instrument. If you want less firefighting and more flow, this episode will give you practical moves you can use tomorrow. Tune in and get your team playing the same sheet music. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What pull means. How we can approach real lean construction. Advice on your lean journey. Are we holding construction back by clinging to the wrong systems? In this blog, I dig into three game-changing truths about our industry: why project managers have overtaken builders, why hiding schedules from trade partners destroys trust, and why CPM is a nightmare we must leave behind. I share why the future belongs to builders, why collaboration matters more than control, and why Takt offers the real path forward. If you want to cut through the noise, escape the trap of administration, and finally lead projects with clarity and confidence, this blog is for you. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why orders must be written and verbal. How changes to the plan should be handled. Why Supers keep the plan in their heads. What the consequences are. Too many superintendents are sabotaging their own projects without even realizing it. In this blog, I share a hard truth: verbal instructions alone destroy schedules, disconnect teams, and neutralize the systems that keep projects on track. I break down why superintendents who fail to lead visually are a liability, how ego and significance get in the way, and what it really takes to protect the flow of work. If you want your projects to thrive, you must embrace written and visual communication as the standard. This is a must-read for every construction leader who wants to build trust, clarity, and consistency on the jobsite. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why you should never ask trades to send you their WWP. What you should expect from the meeting system. Are your construction meetings driving results or just wasting time? In this blog, I uncover one of the most damaging habits in Last Planner implementation: asking trade partners to submit separate weekly work plans. This practice undermines flow, wastes valuable time, and confuses the team. I share how the right approach—anchored in pull planning, tact, and clear meeting outcomes—creates alignment, trust, and reliability across the project. From pull plans to percent plan complete, you'll learn what each meeting should deliver and why flow is the non-negotiable core of success. If you want meetings that truly elevate your projects, this is the clarity you need. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why it is cool that these things are hard. Why you should make your best players famous. Why being bigger means you may be more abusive. In this episode, I share three powerful lessons every construction leader needs to hear. First, why making your winners famous creates a culture where excellence spreads instead of negativity. Second, how privilege and power, whether in daily life or in large construction companies, can easily slip into abuse if not managed with responsibility. And third, why the very things people say are "hard" in lean construction are the things that actually drive growth, clarity, and success. This episode is a call to leaders at every level—reward the right people, respect the responsibility that comes with influence, and stop chasing easy. Real progress only happens when we lean into what's hard and do what's meaningful. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why CPM Is a failed system. How pedaling it is like being a member of a drug cartel. In this episode, I confront a hard truth about our industry: too many leaders still advocate for systems that harm people, especially CPM scheduling. I share why this approach is not just outdated but actively destructive, leading to unsafe practices, wasted resources, burnout, and broken trust. I connect how flawed systems, not flawed people, are the real root of our industry's struggles, and why blaming workers misses the point. I draw bold comparisons to show just how harmful these methods can be, and I challenge leaders to stop normalizing practices that exploit rather than empower. If you are ready to rethink what you stand for in construction, this conversation will push you to take a stand. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Expanded explanations of the rules of flow. In this episode, I unpack Eliyahu Goldratt's rules of flow and show how they apply directly to construction. I break down why avoiding bad multitasking protects capacity, why full kit readiness prevents delays, and why triaging priorities keeps projects on track. I share stories from the field that highlight the importance of synchronization and explain how standardization, root cause analysis, and global optimization create lasting improvements. These rules are simple, practical, and transformative when applied consistently. If you are ready to bring clarity and control to your projects, this episode will give you the roadmap. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What are the 8 Wastes of Starting Lean? How can you use them to begin your Lean journey? In this episode, I share what I call the eight ways of starting lean. While the traditional eight wastes are still critical, these barriers often stop teams before they ever begin the journey. From ignorance and procrastination to unchecked egos and blaming others, we explore what really holds construction back and how leaders can overcome it. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why each effort needs a kit first. How that opens the gate to your beginning. In this episode, I dive into the idea of kitting, inspired by Efrat Goldratt's The Rules of Flow, and explore how it can transform the way we approach construction. I share how a simple experience with my kids in Minecraft made me realize the power of preparation and how that same principle applies to project teams, planning meetings, and field work. We look at why incomplete kits cause delays, wasted effort, and frustration, and why discipline in preparation is the gateway to flow. Whether you are a superintendent, project manager, or trade partner, this episode offers practical insights on how to unlock productivity, eliminate waste, and create smoother systems by ensuring the kit is complete before you begin. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Things people say about being tough in construction. Why we need to be more accepting. In this episode, I sit down with Brandon Montero in Guadalajara, Mexico to have an honest conversation about the culture of toughness in construction. Brandon shares a powerful story about someone being told to "grow thicker skin or get out" after showing emotion in a meeting and we dive deep into why that mindset is broken. Together we explore the dangerous sayings that have been normalized on job sites like "real men don't cry" or "suck it up," and we talk about how these toxic ideas tear people down instead of building them up. We also reflect on what true leadership looks like: creating environments where people are protected, supported, and encouraged to thrive. Brandon highlights the role of vulnerability as real strength, and I share how looking back on my career, it was the one tool I needed most. From A Few Good Men to real-life construction stories, this episode is about redefining what toughness means and challenging leaders to replace outdated bravado with empathy, inclusion, and authenticity. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why safety glasses are the best indicator of readiness. Why it should be mandatory. What it means when people do not wear them. In this episode, I take a strong stance on one of the simplest yet most telling aspects of safety on a construction site: wearing safety glasses. Too often, leaders make excuses or allow exceptions, and in doing so, they undermine the very foundation of a safe job site. I share why safety glasses are more than protective equipment—they are a litmus test of readiness, training, and attitude. We explore how refusing to wear safety glasses reveals deeper cultural or behavioral problems and why leaders must hold the line without compromise. I also explain how something as small as consistent PPE enforcement shapes the larger safety culture and protects workers from future risks. If you want to build projects where safety is non-negotiable and culture thrives, this episode will challenge and inspire you to lead differently. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What crystal balls you have on your roles. When you should look into them. What you are looking for. What you will do about it. In this episode, I draw inspiration from The Rings of Power to talk about crystal balls in construction. Just as the Palantír helped leaders see the future, we too have tools that give us foresight, production plans, field walks, budgets, procurement logs, and more. The challenge is not identifying them but using them with discipline. I break down how superintendents and project managers can schedule time to review their crystal balls, what to look for when they do, and how to take action before small issues become big problems. If you want to sharpen your foresight as a construction leader and keep your projects flowing smoothly, this episode is for you. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What is reference class forecasting? Why your project is not different? What you can do to better plan your projects. In this episode, I explore the power of reference classes in construction planning. Inspired by How Big Things Get Done and challenged by Kate during our Guadalajara bootcamp, I realized how often we take shortcuts with data and assume our projects are different. I break down what reference classes are, why they matter, and how to use them to forecast schedule and budget more realistically. I also share how Elevate's planning system, macro plans as promises and norm plans as targets, perfectly aligns with this principle. We talk about the danger of wishful thinking, the importance of building a project database, and how lean techniques can help us beat the average once we have promised responsibly. This is a practical and honest conversation about planning with evidence, not ego. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: How the bodies of men and women are different. Why this matters on our projects. What we can do about it. In this episode, I talk with Katie about the challenges and opportunities of merging men and women in the workplace. What starts as a discussion about biological differences highlighted in the book Eve turns into a broader conversation about compassion, individuality, and human needs. We explore why traditional workplace standards often reflect male baselines, how flexibility and care can benefit everyone, and why construction culture must move away from "suck it up" mentalities. Katie shares insights on why compassion is not just good for people but also for business, and we dig into the overlooked struggles that men face in the industry. This is an honest conversation about moving past one size fits all thinking and building workplaces where everyone can thrive. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What pull is. Why pull is not our first method. What will happen if you follow the stupidity of what the industry teaches now about pull. In this episode, Jason challenges one of the most misunderstood concepts in lean construction: pull. Too often the industry treats pull as the master principle, ignoring the long supply chains, complex procurement, and predictive planning that real projects demand. Jason explains why Last Planner implementations frequently fail without forecasting, and he dismantles the myth that just-in-time delivery means skipping laydown yards or advance procurement. With real examples like switchgear lead times and curtain wall staging, he shows how the industry has pull wrong and what needs to change. You will learn why predictive planning and tact are essential, how pull should function as a refining tool, and what it takes to finally align construction with lean principles that actually work in the field. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: The definition and difference between roadblocks and constraints. Why we must dig deeper into constraints. Taking it from theory to execution. In this episode, Jason takes a deeper look at the critical difference between roadblocks and constraints in construction. Too often, project teams focus only on the issues that appear in front of them without addressing the systemic factors that define overall project performance. Jason explains how roadblocks can be removed ahead of time while constraints require redesign and optimization of the production system itself. Drawing on examples from lean principles, theory of constraints, and practical project experience, this episode shows how leaders can shift their perspective to unlock flow, improve collaboration, and deliver predictable results. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: The phases of lean implementation. Why you must follow them in order. What happens if you don't. In this episode, Jason shares the four critical phases of implementing lean within a construction company. He explains why leadership awareness and buy-in must come first, why system adoption cannot be skipped, and how training and accountability follow in sequence to ensure success. Using real examples from client conversations, Kate's insights, and lessons from Elevate Construction bootcamps, Jason highlights the risks of rushing into training without top-down commitment. This episode will help you understand the exact path companies must follow if they want lean to truly take hold, create lasting cultural change, and improve results across projects. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: How to keep workers cool. The measure of success. Why it is so important. In this episode, Jason takes on one of the most overlooked but critical aspects of jobsite safety: keeping workers cool in extreme heat. Drawing from personal experiences at Lake Pleasant and lessons from past projects, he shares practical strategies for protecting crews, including misting stations, cooling fans, hydration points, electrolyte drinks, and adjusted work schedules. Jason also emphasizes the importance of jobsite culture, explaining why toughness is no defense against heat and how leaders must normalize cooling off as a smart and professional choice. With tips ranging from cooling gear to shaded bathrooms, this episode will help you rethink whether your jobsite setup is truly something to be proud of. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What to include in a lean scope of work for a general contractor. In this episode Jason lays out the essential inclusions that every owner and owner's rep should require from contractors on lean mega projects. From visual preconstruction planning to tact and Last Planner training, Jason explains the systems and cultural shifts that make the difference between chaos and flow. He highlights why team-building principles, proactive supply chain management, and workforce respect must be written into contracts, not treated as optional. With practical insights from proven projects, Jason shows how the right lean inclusions create remarkable results while those who ignore them struggle to stay on track. If you want to understand what separates winning contractors from the rest, this episode will stop you in your tracks. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why your meetings should create flow for the field. How to organize them. In this episode Jason breaks down why most meeting systems fail and how to design one that actually works. He shares lessons from a client team struggling with complex phasing and shows how shifting the focus from agendas to flow completely transformed their communication. You will learn the step-by-step sequence that moves information from leadership to trade partners to foremen and finally to workers in the field. Jason also explains why organizing meetings is one of the hardest challenges in construction and why it is worth the effort. If you want meetings that drive results instead of draining time, this episode will change the way you think about project communication. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why owners asking for the imposssible is wrong. In this episode, Jason shares a powerful reflection on one of the most damaging ideas in construction: asking teams to do the impossible. He explains why this mindset leads to unsafe practices, unclean job sites, disorganization, and ultimately extended project durations. Through personal stories and practical lessons, Jason highlights the importance of confidence in leadership, setting achievable expectations, and creating flow rather than chaos. This episode is a reminder that construction success comes from clarity, planning, and respect for people, not panic or pressure. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why most people say they are too busy. What the real problem is. How you can fix it. In this episode, Jason takes on one of the most common and destructive excuses in construction: being "too busy." He shares a powerful story from a young superintendent thrown into the fire without proper training and connects it to the larger truth about why so many leaders feel overwhelmed. Jason explains how following the fundamentals, cleanliness, organization, personal systems, and lean practices, creates stability in an industry that will never slow down. He challenges the myth that long hours and constant busyness are signs of dedication and shows why they often signal inefficiency instead. If you are ready to stop masking problems with overtime and start mastering your environment, this episode will give you practical steps and the mindset shift to finally take control of your career and projects. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Additional definitions to Lean. What it means to be lean. In this episode, Jason explores an expanded definition of lean that goes beyond waste elimination and efficiency. He shares personal stories about new resources like the Spanish edition of the Elevating Construction Foreman book, valuable feedback from his parents' neighbor, and the powerful leadership lessons he has learned from working alongside Kate, the CEO of Elevate Construction. Jason argues that lean is not just about tools and processes but about the ability to see reality clearly and to keep learning without end. He highlights how these two traits separate true lean leaders from those stuck in rigid, outdated approaches. If you want to deepen your understanding of lean and challenge yourself to grow as a leader, this episode offers inspiration, clarity, and practical insight. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Why teachings must be vetted. Why experience must be had. And why peer reviews are important. In this episode Jason explores why leaders must be careful about what they teach and model because lessons good or bad will stick for generations. He begins with a listener's question about growth without proper training and explains why investing in your mind is the greatest investment you can ever make. Jason stresses the importance of reading foundational books, seeking certifications, and implementing learning step by step. He then shares a vivid comparison between poorly designed roads in Texas and outdated systems in construction like CPM, showing how one bad idea can become entrenched. Drawing from his own process of reviewing and iterating books and systems at Elevate Construction, he emphasizes that the more red marks the better. This episode is a call to leaders at every level to be intentional, be thorough, and be careful because what you teach today may define tomorrow. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What an Obeya room is. What is their purpose. Why we each need one. In this episode Jason introduces the concept of Obeya Rooms, also known as war rooms or big rooms, which originated at Toyota as a way to improve collaboration and efficiency. He explains how these spaces serve as hubs for visual management, problem solving, and agile decision making. Drawing from personal experiences on projects and proposals, Jason highlights why every construction site and corporate office should embrace the Obeya Room approach. He details how to design them with central locations, clear zones, visual tools, and technology that promote interaction and transparency. This episode is a call to rethink how we create spaces that foster teamwork and continuous improvement in construction. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: Sometimes we need to reach out. We need to understand what trades go through. And own the relationship. In this episode Jason dives into the importance of owning expectations when working with foremen in construction. He explains how years of mistreatment, disrespect, and delayed payments have shaped the way many foremen approach their work. Instead of waiting for them to change, Jason challenges leaders to take responsibility for the relationship and extend the olive branch. Drawing from personal stories and lessons learned, he highlights the value of humility, patience, and extreme ownership. Foremen often carry projects across the finish line despite poor leadership, and it is time superintendents and project leaders recognize that truth. This episode is both a reality check and a roadmap for building trust and stronger collaboration on every job site. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this podcast we cover: What behavior has to change to maintain a balance. Why we still have a problem even when companies stress balance. In this episode, I deliver a direct and passionate message to my teams at Elevate, Lean Built, and Lean Takt and to the industry at large. I confront the misconception that our people are overworked and reveal why the real issue is not the company but old habits of overworking that individuals carry into our culture. You will hear why balance is non-negotiable, why unlimited PTO and capped hours matter, and why silence in the face of overwork is not just harmful but what I call silent treason. I share how we enforce rest, coach people to take time off, and refuse to allow anyone to overburden themselves or others. This is not about silencing voices. It is about creating a culture of accountability where balance is actively protected. If you have ever struggled with guilt about rest or believed that long hours equal dedication, this episode is for you. It is time to unlearn old habits, embrace true balance, and set a new standard for what remarkable work really looks like. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason Schroeder sits down with Kelly, a construction marketing executive, to uncover why ditching pen and paper isn't just about efficiency it's about survival. Learn how digital tools aren't just transforming workflows but also becoming a magnet for the next generation of workers who expect tech enabled jobs by default. You'll hear: Why analog systems repel top talent What your "construction tech stack" says about your culture How diverse, high-performing teams thrive with the right tools Why simplicity is the ultimate superpower in execution If you're a leader still clinging to outdated systems, this episode is your call to evolve or be left behind. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw