Elevate Construction

Jason is driving in Washington State to do a scheduling training and shares a powerful insight about discovering your life's purpose. Ask "why" seven times (plus or minus three) until you get chills or a revelation. A company owner discovered their purpose: "to build people and families" (not what you'd expect from their technical trade). Jason's friend discovered: "to find joy in improving the lives of others" (not just "improve lives", the "find joy" qualifier prevents ignoring family, burning out, or staying miserable). The litmus test: if that was your ONLY criterion, what would the consequences be? Once you have your purpose, ask: Can I fulfill this in my current role, marriage, or circumstances? If no, take massive action. Success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure. Misery comes when what you're doing isn't aligned with your core purpose; it creates dissonance and disconnect. The WHAT you do isn't as important as the WHY. You only have one life to live. Stop wasting it being miserable, trapped by golden handcuffs. What you'll learn in this episode: Ask why seven times (plus or minus three): Keep asking until you get chills or a revelation about your core purpose Company example: The executive team independently discovered "to build people and families" as their purpose Friend's purpose: "To find joy in improving the lives of others", the "find joy" qualifier matters Litmus test: If that was your ONLY criterion, what would the consequences be? Does it allow bad outcomes? Purpose vs activity: You can fulfill your purpose in any role (print shop, wilderness guide, COO); what isn't as important as the why Qualifying criteria: Once you have your purpose, ask: Can I fulfill this in my current role/marriage/circumstances? If no: Take massive action to change your situation If it's a stepping stone: Keep moving with massive action If yes: Stay and do a darn good job Success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure Misery comes from misalignment: When what you're doing isn't aligned with core purpose, it creates dissonance You only have one life: Stop wasting it being miserable, trapped by golden handcuffs Ask why seven times. Discover your purpose. Align your life with it. On we go. 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

Jason interviews his dad, Ken Schroeder, former truck boss and driver for Service Rock Products, about developing remarkable vendor relationships, specifically with ready-mix concrete suppliers. Ken shares firsthand stories of providing world-class service: 305 yards per hour on big pours, inspectors recommending Service Rock to customers, 7-day breaks instead of 21-day breaks, spotless batch plants, and graded drivers (A through D) who competed to improve. The key insight: service equals 90% of quality. When trucks showed up late at one prison project, concrete went off, and finishers had to patch as they went. At the FCI-2 project with Service Rock, trucks arrived 15 minutes early, breaks came up in 7 days, and the mud was perfect. Ken's philosophy as truck boss: "My sole objective is to make you look good." For general contractors: over-communicate expectations, visit and vet vendors, and develop personal relationships. For vendors: clean equipment matters, total participation from drivers to dispatch, quality control testing, and continuous improvement. What you'll learn in this episode: Service = 90% of quality: Personal relationships, attention to detail, and care translate directly into product quality Grading drivers worked: A through D grading made drivers competitive, D drivers worked up to C to avoid the low grade 305 yards per hour: 2700-yard pour starting at 3am, finished by 6am (top-out crew normally arrived at 9am) 7-day breaks vs 21-day: Service Rock's quality lab tested cylinders, breaks always came up in 7 days, not 14 or 21 Clean = culture: Spotless batch plant, beautiful trucks, concrete-paved paths to fuel islands, customers toured the facility Total participation: Truck boss communicated customer needs to every driver, context matters for service Hot/cold water systems: Hot water tanks for winter (calcium chloride activation), refrigeration units for summer Front-load vs rear-load: Ken prefers rear-load, shoot man controls it, driver watches for cues, safer Vet your vendors: Visit batch plants, inspect equipment, talk to batch operator, check hot/cold water capacity Ken's philosophy: "My sole objective is to make you look good", focus on making your customer successful Develop personal relationships with vendors. Overcommunicate. Vet your suppliers. Service equals quality. 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

Jason shares a powerful card game simulation that reveals why teams struggle on construction sites. Leaders assume everyone knows the plan, but they don't. The game puts 7 players in a triangle formation where only the person in front knows the full purpose (everyone needs four of a kind), while people in the back only know "win the game" without knowing what winning looks like. Teams struggle for 45+ minutes, feeling frustrated and in the dark, exactly like trade partners on construction projects with 76-page schedules nobody reads. The reflection always reveals the same insight: over-communicate what winning looks like. Repeat the plan seven times. Don't assume people know. This episode also covers Jason's upcoming Scrum Master Certification training with Felipe Engineer, a successful executive offsite creating organizational clarity, and the "Widen the Circle" principle, master builders loop in team wisdom, seek counsel, and never work as lone wolves. What you'll learn in this episode: The card game simulation: 7 players in a triangle formation (1-2-4), each needs four of a kind, but only the front person knows the full goal Game rules: Can't talk, look forward only, pass cards forward/back, always hold 4 cards, chaos and frustration ensue The lesson: People in the back feel frustrated and in the dark, exactly like trade partners on construction sites What teams do differently: The leader immediately communicates the purpose and plan to everyone, and doesn't assume they know Overcommunicate: Repeat what winning looks like 7 times in foreman huddles, worker huddles, over and over Widen the Circle principle: Loop in team wisdom, seek counsel from other superintendents, and be transparent with owners Teams win through: Trust, healthy conflict, goal setting, accountability, and performance If you're not annoyed by how much something is repeated, you're not communicating enough Scale communication. Don't assume people know the plan. Communicate what winning looks like over and over. 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

Jason declares war on CPM scheduling and the industry's broken systems that create crash landings and destroy families. He's grumpy, fired up, and unapologetic as he reads construction productivity data showing the industry has declined since CPM was adopted in 1965, while every other industry improved. Follow the money trail: everyone defending CPM is financially incentivized to keep using a garbage system. But the real conflict is deeper; you're putting work before yourself and your family. Field engineers at boot camp fill out work goals but ignore their personal life goals. Companies will replace you tomorrow and never think about you again, yet you sacrifice your health, marriage, spirituality, and family for a paycheck you can get anywhere. The order of loyalty is God, family, yourself, health, friends, and companies LAST. You're out of sequence, out of balance, and it has to end today. Stop crapping on yourself for a company that doesn't deserve you. What you'll learn in this episode: CPM is garbage: It hides problems, creates variation, wastes 12 weeks, nobody reads it, and it's the most ineffective tool Jason has ever seen Follow the money trail: Every CPM defender works for Oracle, uses P6, or is financially incentivized to protect a broken system Industry productivity data: Since CPM adoption (1965), construction productivity declined 20-32% while all other industries increased 85% Construction waste: 50-75% of labor time is wasted (vs 26% in manufacturing), caused by push systems Excellence vs Perfection: Strive for excellence, not perfection; don't nerd out on one anchor bolt while leaving 49 unchecked Field Engineer Boot Camp ticket story: Six goals (2 work, 1 personal, 1 family, 2 options), but people only complete work goals The real conflict: You're trained to focus on what the job needs before your personal health, safety, and family Order of loyalty: God, family, yourself, health, friends, THEN companies last, never be loyal to a company Your company will replace you: They can replace anyone tomorrow and never think about you again. Stop sacrificing yourself If one person can do it, you can too: Jason went home on time with 11 kids, mega projects, and church callings; you can too Stop putting yourself last. You deserve better. It has to end today. 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

You are chemically addicted to emails. Your brain releases endorphins when you check them. Jason breaks down why email addiction is killing productivity and shares two methods to break free: the self-preserving batching method (4-Hour Work Week style) and the one-piece flow method (Paul Acres style). He hilariously ribs project managers glued to their computers while the superintendent begs for attention, explains why work is like football (moving the ball down the field together), not tennis (hitting it back and forth), and challenges PMs to get out of their emails and do the people work their role requires. Stop writing novels for every email; you're not drafting the Constitution. Just send the message and move on. What you'll learn in this episode: Email addiction is real: Your brain releases endorphins and chemicals, you're chemically addicted like Pavlov's dog Work is NOT like tennis: Stop hitting emails back into someone's court, work is like football where the whole team moves the ball down the field together Two methods to break free: Batching (check twice daily at noon and before going home) or one-piece flow (respond immediately using voice, text, or quick replies) Stop overthinking emails: You don't practice speeches for phone calls, why draft novels for emails? Just communicate and move on. Paul Acres' method: Use Voxer, WhatsApp, GroupMe, or text for quick replies, don't let everything become email stew PM/PE challenge: Your role is people work, safety walks, team huddles, mentoring, removing roadblocks, not being a slave to your inbox Leader standard work: Office positions must train teams, hold effective meetings, check in on team health, and provide remarkable experiences Stop being addicted to emails. Get it under control. Get back into your role as a leader. 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

Do you know what psychological safety is and why it matters? Jason interviews Caitlyn and Cabri about creating fear-free environments where workers can ask questions, make mistakes, and speak up without consequences. The conversation covers suicide prevention (construction has the 2nd worst rate in the US), diversity and inclusion, language that matters ("died by suicide" not "committed suicide"), and why diverse teams always outperform homogeneous ones. Jason shares a vulnerable story of being suspended for failing to defend a woman being talked down to, a month that changed his life and made him productively paranoid about safety and inclusion. The actionable advice is clear: educate yourself, normalize mental health conversations, ask how people are doing and actually care, and create environments where connection happens before correction. What you'll learn in this episode: Psychological safety defined: Freedom from fear, asking questions, and making mistakes without embarrassment or consequences Why it matters: When crews are burdened by fear, you lose team buy-in, innovation, production, and physical safety Construction's suicide crisis: 2nd worst rate in the US, normalize the conversation, use toolbox talks from preventconstructionsuicide.com Language matters: Say "died by suicide", not "committed suicide", it removes stigma and false understanding that the person was weak Actionable steps: Find your EAP resources, talk about mental health in safety meetings, ask about pressures people are under, and connect before you correct Why diverse teams win: Studies show diverse teams outperform homogeneous teams; it's not just right, it's smart business Morning worker huddles build psychological safety when superintendents emotionally connect, but they make it worse if there's no connection Connection before correction. Ask how people are doing and actually care. Create environments where people feel free to speak up. 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

Meet Franco Jacquinto, CEO and founder of Ipsum, a scheduling and planning software company that integrates Takt planning and prioritizes getting workers home on time. Jason interviews Franco about why the scheduling process is broken, how Ipsum connects high-level planning all the way down to workers in the field, and why construction companies need to stop hiding behind NDAs and closed doors. Franco shares his journey from dropping out of college to spending a year on a construction project and falling in love with the industry. Jason breaks down his integrated control system: Takt plan → phase planning → make ready look aheads → weekly work planning → afternoon foreman huddles → morning worker huddles. The message is clear: CPM is dethroned, transparency wins, and it's time to challenge everything we're doing. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Ipsum matters: Scheduling software that integrates Takt planning, connects the master schedule to workers, and gets people home on time Franco's background: Dropped out of college, spent a year on a construction project, built software for 21st-century scheduling The broken process: CPM → Excel spreadsheets → messy pull planning sessions → engineers wasting hours updating data instead of thinking Jason's integrated control system: Takt governs the project → phase planning → make ready → weekly work planning → afternoon foreman huddles → morning worker huddles Why afternoon foreman huddles work: Foremen plan the next day in the afternoon, giving them overnight to prepare materials and logistics Franco's challenge: Stop doing the same things with different tools—challenge your process, open your doors, involve everyone in planning Jason's war on CPM: It's all-out war against CPM—it needs to be dethroned, and the book is coming to prove it Challenge what you're doing. Be open to new things. Construction companies need to open up and stop acting like their spreadsheet is NASA-level proprietary. 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

Pull planning is a pain, but it's valuable when done correctly. Jason breaks down the difference between pull planning (a technique) and phase planning (planning up to milestones), then dives into how to implement pull planning the right way. He shares Principle 14 from his book: Pull not Push, pulling contractors into areas when ready creates flow, while pushing them on top of each other causes delays, waste, and quality issues. Jason walks through the backwards pull methodology (right to left from the milestone), explains why going backwards forces creative thinking and flushes out constraints, and shares Elevate Construction's virtual pull planning system with homework templates and Blue Beam setup. The hierarchy is clear: flow where you can with Takt, pull when you can't, and push when you must, but CPM push systems are wasteful and detrimental. What you'll learn in this episode: Pull planning vs phase planning: Pull planning is a technique for planning phases up to milestones, you can also use Takt, traditional methods, or other approaches Principle 14: Pull not Push, pulling contractors when ready creates flow; pushing them on top of each other causes delays, waste, and poor quality The backwards pull: Work right to left from the milestone, list predecessors/constraints on each tag, and don't move forward until all needs are addressed Why backwards works: Forces creative thinking, flushes out constraints and handoffs that would delay work if not identified early Elevate Construction method: Homework template, swim lanes, Blue Beam sessions, color coding, and trust-building before commitment The hierarchy: Flow where you can (Takt), pull when you can't (pull planning), push when you must (CPM)—but avoid push systems whenever possible Flow where you can, pull when you can't, push when you must. 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

Do you feel failure to the point that you don't make decisions and move forward? Jason breaks down why failing forward fast is the key to success in construction, and why adults struggle with it more than kids. Using the Culver's vs In-N-Out analogy, he explains why detaching parts of a process creates waste that looks fast but isn't. He shares Principle 13 from his book (cut for being "only" a 10/10): be flexible and nimble, make decisions slowly with team consensus but act quickly once decided. The key is knowing when your risk profile changes and you must decide now. Fail forward fast on mockups, JHAs, Takt plans, and meetings. But never fail with safety or high-risk items, fail on paper, in planning, in draft form before execution. What you'll learn in this episode: Culver's vs In-N-Out: Why detaching order-pay-receive creates waste that masks the true throughput of the system, apply this to construction workflows Principle 13: Flexible and nimble means make decisions slowly with consensus, then implement fast with command and control enforcing team decisions The Opposing Lines game: Why adults take 40+ minutes while kids solve it in 10, we overthink instead of failing forward fast When to fail forward: Mockups, JHAs, Takt plans, meetings, preconstruction, collaboration, get it wrong on paper before execution Decision timing: Make decisions before your risk profile changes, waiting too long costs 10x more than deciding now Jim Collins: Unify the team after decisions, even dissenters must violently support the final choice or select themselves off the bus A good plan violently executed today is better than a perfect plan next week. 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 enemy is waste and variation, not your people. Jason breaks down why construction leaders need to raise their setpoint and fight harder against the real threats on every project. Using the Roman Triari as an analogy, he explains why senior superintendents and experienced builders are the elite third line, the ones it comes down to when projects struggle, when people are disrespected, or when hard decisions must be made. This episode includes a vintage interview with Gray Childs about Roman military lessons: organization, embracing technology, leadership, and how Roman soldiers were also the builders of roads, aqueducts, and the Colosseum. Everything on site is trying to kill us if left uncontrolled; it comes down to us to protect our people. What you'll learn in this episode: Principle 12 from Jason's book: Control what you can, focus on cleanliness, safety, organization, and planning to keep team morale high Why the Triari matters: Elite Roman soldiers held the third line as the decisive force. "it comes down to the Triari" meant carrying it to the bitter end Jason's challenge: If someone is repeatedly unsafe and still on your job on Monday, you're not protecting your people like you should be Gray Childs on Roman lessons: Organization, embracing technology, leadership, and how the Roman army was also master builders The real enemy: Waste and variation are trying to kill us, ruin families, and destroy careers. We must fight harder against them, not each other Families are counting on us to bring their loved ones home safely. It comes down to us. 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

Jason's voice is gone from yelling at boot camp, so we're bringing you two vintage episodes from when he first started podcasting at DPR. First, Brent Elliott breaks down why empathy is his superpower, reading people daily, asking "how are you doing?" first, and building people while building the building. Second, Jake Smiley shares why making real connections matters, shutting your mouth to listen, finding common ground beyond construction, and building trust that improves communication. These classic interviews remind us that who we build is as important as what we build. What you'll learn in this episode: Why empathy means tailoring your approach to each person instead of treating everyone like a nail when you're the hammer Brent's daily practice: read people's mood, ask how they're doing first, and care about them before diving into work Jake's method: shut your mouth, listen, find common ground in hobbies and family, and build genuine connections Why building relationships first leads to better communication, more safety reporting, and stronger trust with subs and inspectors The warning: don't reach too far or be fake, people can tell when you're not sincere We're dealing with people. If we tear them down reaching the goal, what does that mean at the end of the day? 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

It takes 6 seconds to make a world of difference, but only 4 seconds for your brain to talk you out of it. Nelson Atagi shares the story of two Marines in Ramadi who stood their ground for 6 seconds while a truck bomb barreled toward them, saving 150 sleeping soldiers and sacrificing their own lives. Jason and Nelson break down what those 6 seconds mean for us, 6 seconds to call your spouse, dance with your kids, ask a coworker how they're doing, or stop an unsafe act. When you've already decided to do the right thing, those 6 seconds change everything. What you'll learn in this episode: The story of Jonathan Yale and Jordan Haerter, two Marines who gave 6 seconds and saved 150 lives in Ramadi, 2008 Why your brain will talk you out of doing the right thing in 4 seconds, unless you've already decided before the moment arrives How servicemen and women train themselves to make the right decision instantly because they've decided ahead of time The challenge: Use your 6 seconds to call someone, show you care, stop an unsafe act, or serve, don't let 4 seconds talk you out of it Why buildings and projects mean nothing if we don't take care of the people we work with and love Decide now who you're going to be. When the 6 seconds come, you won't have time to decide; you'll only have time to act. 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

Wake up. Apathy will kill you here. If pornography hasn't touched your life already, it's going to rip huge gaping holes in it. Jason tackles one of the most destructive yet hidden issues affecting construction workers, leaders, and families, pornography addiction. He shares stories of brilliant construction professionals whose lives were destroyed, marriages that ended, and families torn apart by an addiction as chemically powerful as cocaine or heroin. This episode explains why we're losing the battle against pornography, how the addiction cycle rewires the brain, and why bringing it into the light is the only path to recovery. If you can't stop, you have a problem, and you need help. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Jason knows as many people whose lives have been destroyed by pornography as by serious construction injuries—and why we must talk about it The addiction cycle: preoccupation, ritualization, acting out, despair, and how it escalates into illegal acts and destroyed marriages Why pornography is a chemical addiction that rewires the brain and desensitizes people to real human relationships The truth about recovery: disclosure is the key, and 12-step support programs are essential, just like with alcoholism Jason's challenge: Ask yourself, "Can I stop?" If the answer is no, bring it into the light and get help before it destroys your life Elevate Construction's mission is to respect workers, train leaders, and preserve families. This episode serves that mission by addressing the hidden enemy destroying marriages and lives in silence. 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

If you doubled your communication, it wouldn't be enough. If you quadrupled it, still not enough. You need to multiply it by seven. Jason tackles the number one problem on construction projects: teams aren't communicating because they don't trust each other and they're not really a team. He breaks down why the plan can't live in one person's head, why visual communication must be everywhere on your project, and how the communication thermometer rises from 20% to 100% when teams build trust through proximity. Jason also paints a vivid picture of what a pristine, well-organized project looks like with visual boards, clean job sites, and morning worker huddles that build rapport and culture. What you'll learn in this episode: Why you need to communicate important points seven times before people will act, and why most teams communicate at only 20% The communication thermometer: how to rally teams around increasing transparency and trust to prevent costly rework Why 50% of communication is body language, 43% is voice, and only 7% is words, and how to match, mirror, and pace to build rapport The truth about IPD and big rooms: more emails and texts mean better throughput of communication, not wasted time Jason's detailed walkthrough of a pristine project site with visual communication everywhere, from wayfinding signs to huddle boards on every floor Without proximity, there's no culture. Without culture, there's no trust. Without trust, there's no communication. Without communication, nobody performs. Increase your communication thermometer and start winning. 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

Jason reveals 205 episodes times 25 minutes equals 5,125 minutes, 85 hours of podcast, probably 100 hours. In Baltimore Maryland with the DPR crew hanging out with best friends. Jim Collins quote about right people on bus: five basic characteristics for the right person. Main topic going fast but together. Think fast anticipate problems spot industry trends, companies that didn't switch to webinars online learning remote events during COVID-19 obsolete out of business. Make decisions quickly eliminate bureaucracy, unbundle everything visible accessible quickly and relevant. Get to market faster, Jason's takt planning book two weeks away first definitive book about takt planning. Sustain maintain velocity outpace entropy. What you'll learn in this episode: 205 episodes math: 205 times 25 minutes equals 5,125 minutes, divide by 60 equals 85 hours, probably 100 hours worth of podcast Jim Collins right people on bus: Five basic characteristics for being right person on bus, wrong people off bus, right people in right seats Think fast: Anticipate problems see roadblocks, spot industry trends, companies didn't switch to webinars online learning during COVID-19 now obsolete out of business Make decisions quickly: Create rules parameters guidelines bumpers, eliminate bureaucracy, unbundle everything visible accessible quick fast relevant Get to market faster than others: Jason's takt planning book two weeks away, first definitive book, editor jamming Katie going through story, first one out wins Sustain maintain velocity: Calculate odds prove it, apply resources ruthlessly, measure key metrics, maintain financial flexibility, don't believe your own PR ask customers You have to go fast together, do right things, not chase the next shiny thing or overburden people, outpace entropy, destroy decay of 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

Jason at FE Boot Camp Utah State Fair Park Zion building with horseshoe setup snowing outside 6 to 9:30pm sessions Tony Robbins energy with music dancing movement. Then reveals nothing evil about being rich, more money more people you can help, obligation to be as rich as possible. Main topic: Rest and sleep. 2014 University of Illinois study employees in windowless offices lose 46 minutes sleep per night, bodies need natural light for circadian rhythms. Stanford study Chinese workers working from home 13% more productive than offices. Jason calling out stupid people who say napping is bad, sleep when you die, stay up with us. Four hour work week: Longer it takes to manage project worse you are at job, overworking is waste. What you'll learn in this episode: FE Boot Camp facility: Utah State Fair Park Zion building, horseshoe setup, four speakers, high vaulted ceiling, windows, music equipment, snowing outside, 6 to 9:30pm sessions Nothing wrong with being rich: More money more people you can help, more time more help, more wisdom more advice, obligation to be as rich as possible 2014 University of Illinois study: Employees windowless offices lose 46 minutes sleep per night, bodies need natural light for circadian rhythms Stanford study Chinese workers: Working from home 13% more productive than only working in offices Jason calling out: Napping is bad, you don't need sleep, sleep when you die, stay up with us, don't sleep at work unprofessional, sins of fathers passed down Four hour work week insights: Limit email twice per day, avoid meetings without clear objectives, end time for meetings, empower others to act without interrupting Longer it takes to manage large project worse you are at job, least amount you work on project indication of how good you are. 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

Jason after 17 hour boot camp day breaks down Carol Dweck's fixed mindset (intelligence static, avoid challenges, give up easily) vs growth mindset (intelligence can be developed, embrace challenges, persist through setbacks). Then reveals rich vs poor mindset: Poor mindset consumes (buy house, car, phone, clothes), lives in scarcity, doesn't rock boat, hopes for miracles, obeys authority, waits for permission, goes to college for a job. Rich mindset invests (training, businesses, real estate, stocks), doesn't live in scarcity, thinks big, works for goals, reads researches studies, solves problems, not victim, takes calculated risks. Most public school lessons are false: CPR changed seven times, going under the desk in an earthquake worst thing (should be next to the desk for a triangle). What you'll learn in this episode: Carol Dweck fixed mindset: Intelligence static, avoid challenges, give up easily, see effort as fruitless, threatened by others, plateau early Carol Dweck growth mindset: Intelligence developed, embrace challenges, persist setbacks, effort is path to mastery, learn from criticism John Taylor Gatto seven lessons school teaches: Confusion, class position, indifference, emotional dependency, intellectual dependency, provisional self-esteem, no hiding places Poor mindset explained: Consume house car phone clothes, live in scarcity, don't rock boat, hope for miracle, obey authority, wait for permission Rich mindset explained: Invest in training businesses real estate stocks, think big, work for goals, read research study, solve problems, calculated risks Most public school lessons false: CPR changed seven times, go under desk in earthquake crushes you (should be next to desk for triangle), need budgeting investing family dynamics Clarity mindset personal organization morning routine work together to design person, if missing any not going as far as you can be. 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

Jason reveals listening is essential for collaboration, if people know you're not listening they can't weigh in, if they can't weigh in they can't buy in. Recording from hotel at boot camp not recording booth. Before power communication with rapport people said Jason you're not paying attention, now gets feedback thank you for caring being sincere really hearing me. Problem now: when listening he forgets what he wants to say, proves he's actually paying attention. Seven ineffective habits: not paying attention, false listening (nodding uh-huh), rehearsing (waiting to speak), interrupting (Jason admits still does to wife), hearing what's expected (finishing sentences), feeling defensive, listening for disagreement. Stephen Covey oxygen: Not being listened to is like oxygen sucked out of room. What you'll learn in this episode: Listening enables collaboration: If people know you're not listening they can't weigh in, if can't weigh in they can't buy in Seven ineffective listening habits: Not paying attention (ignoring speaker watching TV reading), false listening (pretending nodding uh-huh), rehearsing (chatter in mind waiting to speak), interrupting (Jason still does to wife), hearing what's expected (finishing sentences), feeling defensive (defend instead of understand), listening for disagreement (attorney shouting I object) Four ways to achieve effective listening: Focus (pay attention even with dull topics, observe body language voice inflection non-verbal cues), establish rapport (mirror body language rhythm voice tone pace not manipulation), paraphrase what was heard (summarize sender's message give back speaker's words), listen for whole message (meanings in verbal and non-verbal, ideas feelings intentions facts positives and unpleasant) Integrated control system: No longer command and control, integrated control where team decides together weighs in buys in, keep control of project sites Stephen Covey oxygen analogy: Not being listened to is like oxygen sucked out of room, they won't weigh in won't buy in Great listeners are great leaders, write Q card and intentionally practice becoming amazing listener. 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

Jason reveals how clarity, personal organization, mindset, and morning routine tie together after coaching call epiphany. Tony Robbins designed Tony, calls that name the monkey mind randomness and lack of discipline goes away. HVAC analogy: Clarity document is thermostat setpoint (where you want to go), mindset is mental setpoint aligning with temperature you want, personal organization is capacity of duct system and units and power feed, morning routine is when during day at key moments setpoints change to make environment right. Morning meditation: Prayer, box breathing, hand on heart grateful twice, breathe in energy push out twice, ask what one thing I need to do today. What you'll learn in this episode: Tony Robbins designed Tony: Calls that name the monkey mind randomness lack of discipline goes away, shows up how he needs to be Consulting retainers: Clients take idea implement come back with results, energy positivity growth over the top, consultant helps show you the holes in ship HVAC analogy explained: Clarity document is thermostat setpoint (where you want room to be), mindset forms mental setpoint to align with temperature, personal organization is capacity of duct system units power feed, morning routine is when setpoints change Can't have personal organization without clarity document: Vision mission values big hairy audacious goal strengths what's most important goals show up in leader standard work weekly basis Morning meditation process: Prayer, box breathing, hand on heart grateful for something sincerely grateful twice, breathe in energy push out to United States world family twice, ask what one thing need to do today Giving vs taking mentality: Time block activities in taking mentality won't be successful, have to be in giving mentality, ask from heaven or universe what key things are, do time blocking with gratitude and giving If you're in take mode people say I don't want to work with Jason he's looking out for his own career, if honestly always giving they say I'll support that guy anywhere. 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

Jason celebrates episode 200 announcing the Elevating Construction Superintendent book now out on Audible, paperback, Kindle, ebook. At the bioscience research laboratory he had a builder foundation from Hensel Phelps, CM BIM certification, DBIA, lean core training, read 15 lean books, finished on time under budget, great team, clean organized and safe. Then shares a powerful Tony Robbins wall story: 350 plus pound woman had to come over an 8 to 10 foot wall, Jason saw in her eyes she knew she was going to fall and die but decided to trust the team anyway. Her focus went from ground to Jason's eyes, she reached hand up, Jason summoned all strength and hauled her over the wall no matter what. What you'll learn in this episode: Elevating Construction Superintendent book: Out on Audible, paperback, Kindle, ebook, basic principles needed for building career as true builder Jason's training base: Builder foundation from Hensel Phelps, flew around country over 700 times, boarded plane over 500 times at Hensel teaching field engineers Bioscience research laboratory: Had CM BIM, DBIA, lean core training, read 15 lean books, finished on time under budget, great team, clean organized safe Tony Robbins wall story: 350 plus pound woman had to come over 8 to 10 foot wall, no harness, no fail safe, Jason only one to help Her eyes: Knew she was going to fall die damage organs break leg arm concussion, but decided to trust team, focus went from ground to Jason's eyes Jason's decision: No matter what you're getting over this wall, if she's going down I'm going down with her, summoned courage strength, hauled her over Mission: By sheer accident of being tall thrown into trainings with best builders, vision to help everyone else over wall, tanked retirement fund to start business Moments are molecules that make up eternity, behind every job team person are families children thousands of posterity affected by our actions. 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

Jason opens with Lord of the Rings analogy: One ring (flow, Takt) rules them all (CPM, Last Planner, Scrum). Last Planner changed his life but isn't complete without Takt. Jason is CPM expert, knows theory, risk analyses, Acumen infuse risk, doesn't work. Flow where you can, pull where you can't, push when you must. Three basic habits for builders, seven key positions, nine key meetings. River of waste correction: It's not reduction of water level that wins, it's stabilization of water level. In CPM and Last Planner roadblocks are hidden, in Takt and Last Planner roadblocks are exposed. Can't throw Last Planner or Scrum into chaotic system, need stable system with Takt. Takt takes 33% of time of any other system. What you'll learn in this episode: Lord of the Rings analogy: One ring (flow, Takt) rules CPM, Last Planner, Scrum in land where respect reigns supreme Jason's CPM expertise: Knows theory, risk analyses, Acumen infuse risk, run scheduling departments, expert and it doesn't work Flow where you can, pull where you can't, push when you must (modified from Taiichi Ohno) River of waste corrected: Not reduction of water level wins, stabilization of right water level wins, once you stabilize flow all expenses reduce, all roadblocks rise to surface Roadblocks hidden vs exposed: CPM and Last Planner hides roadblocks, Takt and Last Planner exposes roadblocks, Takt and Scrum exposes roadblocks Can't throw Last Planner into chaos: Can't expect magic from Last Planner or Scrum in chaotic system, need stable system with Takt planning first Takt efficiency: Takes 33% of time to run Takt system as any other system, Last Planner takes time and is labor intensive, Takt works and not labor intensive If you can't see the plan in 5 to 30 seconds on a project then you don't know the plan, Takt will enable you to do that. 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

Jason opens with Jean R. Cook quote: Some of us created imaginary limits in our minds, there's literally genius locked inside each of us, don't let anyone convince you otherwise. Eight boot camps scheduled, expanding Elevate Construction. Then he breaks down the faith framework: Know somebody or something you believe in, know what you want, believe it's possible, want it bad enough, work for it. Ryan Young told Jason "you're going to change the industry" enough times that Jason believed it, already changed thousands of lives through boot camps, heading towards hundreds of thousands. Publishing book example: 40 to 50 hours writing, graphics in a day and a half, negligible cost, upload in a month or two. What you'll learn in this episode: Jean R. Cook quote: Some created imaginary limits, genius locked inside each of us, don't let anyone convince you otherwise Eight boot camps scheduled: One day, two days, full week immersive, 3 to 4 months prep, 6 months certification Flow where you can pull where you can't push when you must: Takt is flow (best), Last Planner and Scrum is pull (better), CPM is push (not good) Faith framework: Know somebody you believe in, know what you want, believe it's possible, want it bad enough, work for it Ryan Young told Jason: You're going to change industry, Jason believed it, already changed thousands through boot camps Publishing book reality: 40 to 50 hours writing, graphics in day and a half, editor, negligible cost, upload in 1 to 2 months, all mapped out Mountain hike analogy: Halfway up looking over Phoenix, always have next segment to climb, higher you get more you see, broader expanse, more influence If you don't think it's possible you're wrong, if you don't think there's a mentor out there you're wrong, if you're not working for it you're only wasting time. 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

Jason addresses listener question: How do you capture bottom-up innovation as organizations grow bureaucratic and less nimble? He reveals the framework: regional leadership sets minimum standards, provides framework and boundaries and support. Teams exceed standards, stay within framework, innovate. Spend time with your best people, send best people to anchor projects, if you send everybody to crap projects you're incentivizing everybody to be crap. Fresh eyes meetings at project start, one third, two thirds. Jim Collins discipline: Do you have discipline to fire when they don't meet expectations, keep best people on best projects and not dispatch them to play savior? What you'll learn in this episode: Framework revealed: Regional leadership sets minimum standards, framework, boundaries, support. Teams exceed standards, stay within the framework, innovate. Anchor projects strategy: Send best people to anchor projects not crap projects, creates competition and motivation, incentivizes good behavior not whining Parenting analogy: Spend time with good kid, if you always play savior with bad kid the good kid will go off deep end for attention Fresh eyes meetings: Project start, one third, two thirds, diversity of thought prevents drift into failure, tour each other's jobs mandatory Localize everything: Set goals on the job not centrally, clarity document on job, training on job, let them have own systems for own customers Jim Collins discipline: Fire when don't meet expectations, reorganize failing teams, keep best people on best projects, let teams have autonomy, decentralize anticipation of problems Regional leadership tells what the expectations are, project teams say how and reach goal with right support and resources. 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_3p5nmMKns

Jason brings Brandon Montero (Survey Jesus lowercase J) and Spencer East (Spence Money) to answer listener questions: How do you get people excited, wonderful, and to be role models? Brandon reveals he watered himself down for years, wasn't allowed to grow sideburns past earlobe, met everyone's expectations but nobody knew who he was, no emotional fulfillment. Spencer discusses looking past the immediate sphere of influence to understand the customer's customer, creating clearer why and more opportunities for influence. Tony Robbins truth: Success without fulfillment is ultimate failure. Be 100% yourself, not 100% somebody else, define success outside your comfort zone but don't become who you're not. What you'll learn in this episode: Brandon's lens concept: See through someone's experience, emotions, interpretations, help them be version they want to be, what do they really want for themselves? Spencer's sphere: Look past immediate customer to customer's customer, what part do I play in grand scheme, what value do I bring? Brandon's watered down years: Met everyone's expectations, sideburns couldn't pass earlobe, smiled but nobody knew who he was, no emotional fulfillment 100% showing up: Not flicking into beast mode, but are you beneficial to what you're contributing, hitting the mark with criteria? Tony Robbins quote: Success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure, be you first then get outside comfort zone Challenge: Give people meaningful work, wonderful team, purpose, mission, vision, find their energy, help them operate outside comfort zone authentically Be 100% yourself not 100% somebody else, don't be outside comfort zone becoming somebody you're not, be best you while giving to humanity. 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

Jason reveals he's spent $35k on training and investments in his business (coaching, organizational health, Tony Robbins, mastermind, LinkedIn marketing) despite family needs because training is investment not consumption. Boot camps scheduled for next three months, attending Scrum Master course with Felipe Engineer in February. Then he breaks down reflection: CPM is pushing without reflecting, Takt takes time to reflect and learn in flow like tortoise and hare. The cave people cartoon with square wheels pushing the wagon, too busy to accept round wheels, if they'd stop and change they'd go faster. Plus delta at the end of meetings, track them week to week, measure satisfaction improvements. What you'll learn in this episode: Jason's $35k investment: Coaching, organizational health, Tony Robbins, mastermind, LinkedIn marketing, coming out of retirement and family money because training is investment Boot camps: Scheduled for next 3 months, operational excellence covering takt planning, last planner, scrum, team development, personal organization, Tony Robbins meets construction CPM vs Takt: CPM pushing without reflecting, Takt takes time to reflect and learn in rhythm and flow like tortoise and hare When to reflect: After meetings, phases, projects, feature of workboards, scrum sprints, plus deltas, retrospectives, lessons learned, huddles, ohno circles Creating safe environments: Wait 35 seconds for people to think, prove 30 to 60 days it's safe to speak up, people beaten up before pull down and tear down systems Challenge: Plus delta at end of meetings, track week to week, act on them, measure meeting satisfaction improvements If you have standard systems ask everybody how it's going then improve that standard and make better newer standards and win and win and win. 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

Jason reveals his modified river of waste analogy: most people say lower water level (resources) to expose roadblocks (rocks), but in construction if you just reduce resources there's still chaos. The first step is stabilizing the water, creating calm environment before you can see roadblocks. Wavy murky unstable environment won't expose rocks no matter the water level. Then he breaks down the balance between rules, routines, discipline, and training. Companies drift toward bureaucratic control as they grow, but Jason spent most of his time on care, connection, bathrooms, lunchrooms, daily training for entire job site, weekly safety huddles, weekly foreman training. No team anywhere at any point will work without accountability. What you'll learn in this episode: River of waste modified: First stabilize water (calm environment with tact, cleanliness, standard systems), then you can see roadblocks, reducing resources alone creates chaos False lean slash and burn: People hate lean when it means fire somebody, reduce positions, cut budget, shorten time without stability first Four-part balance needed: Rules (paytoplay for dirtbags), routines (make culture easy), discipline (values-based decisions), training (Jason's primary focus on sites) Jason's project sites: Most time on care, connection, nice bathrooms and lunchrooms, horizontal communication, daily training for entire job site, weekly safety huddles, weekly foreman training Bureaucracy problem: People accountable to central control can't see where work happens, accountable to not fixing system, not seeing problems, not fixing what bugs them Critical truth: No team anywhere at any point any place will work without accountability, if through training they still don't speak up and defend innocent people they need to go If you double quadruple the training you will head in better direction even if seems more chaotic versus if you go towards bureaucracy. 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

Jason opens with Benjamin Franklin's insight that painters throughout history struggled to distinguish sunsets from sunrises on canvas, what comes next determines which it really is (daylight of progress or darkness). He reveals signing up for Tony Robbins Business Mastery ($10k course) despite 11 kids, new business, and leaving full-time employment because training is that important. Then he unpacks drifting into failure: organizations drift from within the norms incrementally until catastrophe, Challenger disaster happened because each shuttle flight drifted slightly from standards until total failure. Jim Collins' five stages: hubris born of success, undisciplined pursuit of more, denial of risk and peril, grasping for salvation, capitulation to death. What you'll learn in this episode: Benjamin Franklin wisdom: Painters couldn't distinguish sunset from sunrise, what comes next (daylight progress or darkness) determines which it really is Tony Robbins investment: $10k Business Mastery course despite 11 kids and new business, what's holding you back from training? Drifting into failure explained: Organizations drift from within norms incrementally, each decision seems reasonable until total catastrophe Challenger disaster example: Each shuttle flight drifted slightly from standards, normalized deviance, until people died Jim Collins five stages: Hubris born of success, undisciplined pursuit of more, denial of risk and peril (leaders discount negative data and amplify positive), grasping for salvation, capitulation to death Challenge: Are you productively paranoid? Checking JHAs, pre-task plans, silica exposure, height risks, energizing safety program? If you're comfortable in your comfort zone, get out and find out if you're complacently allowing failure to drift into your organization. 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

Jason interviews Caitlyn Frank, co-founder of EMOD Safety and superintendent for Drone Construction. Caitlyn grew up on job sites, sat on a lunch pail asking her dad (who owned a GC business in Boston) why and how come, got an architecture degree but had nightmares about AutoCAD line weights, switched to construction management and went straight to the field. They discuss current conditions: daily safety plans pencil whipped, poor onboarding where workers have no idea what to do in emergencies, applications with 14 data fields collecting data for corporate where no decisions are made. EMOD reverse engineered from field needs not developer preferences. What you'll learn in this episode: Caitlyn's background: Grew up on job sites asking why and how come, architecture nightmares led to CM degree, superintendent creating safety platforms Industry changes post 2020: Safety hot priority, rethinking prefab offsite, stop trade stacking people on top of each other Current conditions EMOD combats: Pencil whipped safety plans, no real onboarding, workers don't know who to call in emergencies, disconnect between COVID checklist and pre-task plan Jason's tech pet peeve: Applications with 14 data fields for sake of collecting data that goes to corporate where no decisions made, no feedback loop Caitlyn's mission: If I can send one person home safe that wouldn't have gone home safe, I've done my job We don't talk enough about people who lost that eye, don't have that range of motion, passed away, it's real enough to prevent drift into failure. 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

Jason sits down with Adam Hoots, a lean operations leader who shares the story of his 17th birthday when his dad gave him a beautifully wrapped box containing boots, hard hat, vest, and a stack of trade applications (welcome to being an adult, go pick your trade). Adam reveals Dean Reid's wisdom: capability drives productivity tenfold, not the other way around. They break down the accountability meter (make aware, educate, coach, check your process, find new role), small J change versus big J change, and why screaming "go faster" without developing capability is wrong fashioned thinking. What you'll learn in this episode: Dean Reid's principle: Capability drives productivity tenfold, increase capability and productivity follows naturally Adam's 17th birthday gift: Dad gave him PPE and stack of trade applications, became plumber's helper, now operations leader building clean rooms Accountability meter process: Make aware, educate expectations, coach when not getting it, check your process, find new role out of respect Small J change vs Big J change: Small improvements within current process versus large transformational changes to entire system Challenge to industry: For every five skilled trades workers that retire or die only one enters the workforce, how do we get folks fired up about trades? Do you value productivity more or do you make intentional time to develop capability, some nonvalue work may add value in the long run. 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

If you don't have time to improve, you won't improve. If you don't have time for family, you won't prioritize family. If you don't have time to take your next step, you're stuck. Jason delivers a direct challenge about personal organization—the foundational skill that unlocks everything else in construction leadership. He breaks down why to-do lists, leader standard work, time blocking, and personal clarity documents must work together as a system, and why busyness is waste that signals someone doesn't know what they're doing. This isn't theory, it's the difference between working 70-hour weeks in chaos and working 45-55 hours with time to think, mentor, and go home to your family. What you'll learn in this episode: Why personal organization is the number one barrier preventing construction professionals from taking their next step How to-do lists, leader standard work, personal clarity, and time blocking work together as a system, not isolated tools Why you must align your daily tasks with your 3-6 month goals, or those goals will never happen, you'll stay mired in chaos The truth about successful leaders: they're not busy, they have time to think and create, and they work 45-55 hours because they've eliminated waste Jason's challenge: Spend the $180 or $250 on personal organization training now, put it on a credit card if you have to, because the return is 10-50x If your children, spouse, company, and mental health deserve better, stop saying you're too busy to fix the problem. Fix the problem and live a remarkable life. 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 do some superintendents struggle while others advance quickly to operations leadership? Professor Wes Crawford, author of Construction Surveying and Layout and Professor Emeritus from Purdue University, joins Jason to discuss why construction surveying and field engineering experience create the strongest foundation for construction careers. They explore Crawford's decades with Hensel Phelps, the story behind his foundational manual, and why learning the basics matters even more in a technology-driven world. When GPS systems fail, and total stations go down, the professionals who know how to use a tape measure, turn angles, and apply 3-4-5 triangles are the ones who keep projects moving. What you'll learn in this episode: Why field engineering and construction surveying experience accelerates career advancement to superintendent, general superintendent, and operations leadership Professor Crawford's journey from a hunting cabin conversation to writing the industry's most trusted field engineering manual How his year-long sabbaticals with Hensel Phelps shaped the practical content that eliminates mistakes on job sites Why learning the fundamentals matters more than ever when technology fails, basics like three-wire leveling and proper traversing keep projects running Crawford's challenge: Be your best, take control of your life, and improve one thing each day. You're the only person who can change your future The fastest path to leadership runs through construction surveying and layout. Companies that build their own people from this foundation create organized, visualizing, high-performing leaders who protect families by preventing costly rework. 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

Your executive leadership team should be the most cohesive, high-functioning group in your organization, but in most companies, it's the exact opposite. In this episode, Jason tackles why companies train field engineers, superintendents, and foremen but refuse to invest in executive development out of fear. He breaks down the 16 blocks to leadership, explains why pushing executives out of their comfort zones is the only path to growth, and shares why security is mostly a superstition that keeps leaders stuck. If you're a CEO, president, or owner protecting your executives from discomfort, you're protecting dysfunction. It's time to build Team One. What you'll learn in this episode: Why executive teams need to be pushed out of their comfort zones the most—and why companies are too afraid to do it The 16 blocks to leadership that keep executives stuck in certainty and significance instead of growth and contribution How the comfort zone, fear zone, learning zone, and growth zone work—and why emotional discomfort is required for transformation Why Team One (executive leadership) must be cohesive before Team Two and Team Three can function at high levels Jason's challenge: Stop protecting your executives and invest in the professional development that will actually scale your company If you're continuously having to motivate your team, you either don't have a vision or you haven't communicated it effectively. A vision-empowered team is self-motivated. The question is: have your executives gotten past their blocks to leadership together? 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

Is construction technology really for you, or just for the big companies out west? In this interview, Jason sits down with Hugh Seaton, author of The Construction Technology Handbook, to break down the myths and realities of tech in construction. Hugh shares why technology isn't replacing workers, it's empowering them to focus on what matters. They discuss making technology as reliable as your favorite tool, why data matters only if it drives better decisions, and how the industry needs to stop optimizing offices while field workers struggle in the wind. This conversation gives you a roadmap to becoming a better consumer of technology and demanding tools that actually make your life easier. What you'll learn in this episode: Why technology should empower field workers to focus on the work that matters, not replace their intuition and experience How Hugh's Construction Technology Handbook gives construction professionals a common language to engage with developers and demand better tools The critical difference between collecting data and using data to make better decisions at every level Why technology needs to be as reliable as your trusted tool, not as addictive as Facebook—consistency matters more than flash Hugh's challenge: Get comfortable with technology, learn the language, and tell software companies what you actually need in the field Technology isn't going away, and the companies that listen to field workers are the ones that will survive. It's time to stop accepting office-optimized tools and start demanding technology built for the people doing the real work. 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

Energy fuels everything in leadership, yet most people don't realize they're draining it from their teams. In this episode, Jason breaks down the 10 rules of The Energy Bus and shares the story of how a Tony Robbins event transformed his Field Engineer Boot Camps from good to life-changing. He tackles the hard truth about energy vampires, people who are checked out, and team members who are only halfway bought in. If you want to build high-performing teams, you need to understand that if you're not adding energy, you're taking it away, and that's costing you time, money, and results. What you'll learn in this episode: Why energy is the fuel that drives teams, and how to recognize when people are draining it instead of contributing The 10 rules of The Energy Bus: from being the driver of your own bus to removing energy vampires who poison your culture Jason's story of getting 45 grown men to dance in a professional training environment—and why movement and music transformed retention and engagement Why "I'm not adding or taking away" is a lie, if you're not adding energy, you're actively sucking it from everyone else The challenge: notice who gives you energy and who drains it in your next meeting, then make the hard decision to protect your team's fuel Energy is everything. If your team is full of people who are trunky, checked out, or stuck in mediocrity, they're wasting your time and money. It's time to post the sign: no energy vampires allowed. 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 part two of Chapter 5, tensions escalate as Peterson's defiance of the walking delegate creates a domino effect of problems, stopped work, a blocked train, and an angry railroad company. Bannon faces a critical choice: fight back or play chess. In his reflection, Jason unpacks why Bannon's decision to stay calm and handle the delegate delicately was the only path forward, and what this teaches us about navigating high-stakes conflicts without making things worse. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Peterson's anger at the delegate created a chain reaction that nearly derailed the entire project How Bannon handled the walking delegate without arguing, fighting, or escalating, even when he had every right to be angry The principle of "playing chess, not checkers" when dealing with people who have power over your project Why staying delicate and strategic in conflict situations often wins the war without fighting the battle The critical lesson is that your foreman's behavior with outside stakeholders can create roadblocks that you'll spend days fixing When you're blocked by someone with authority, the worst thing you can do is make them your enemy. Bannon understood this, do 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

Do you get frustrated when dealing with emotional people on your project site or in your life? You're probably approaching it the wrong way. In this episode, Jason explores why fighting emotion with logic always fails, how fear-based thinking creates chaos in people's minds, and the specific techniques that actually work to help emotional team members get clarity. Whether you're managing a crew or navigating relationships, this episode gives you practical tools to handle emotional situations with empathy instead of frustration. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the demons in someone's head are not real and make no sense, and why you need to stop trying to apply logic to chaos How 80% of emotional struggles resolve simply by being spoken out loud with empathy and understanding The radical transparency approach: going there emotionally with someone, listening without shame, and helping them get clarity Why people who seem "crazy" are often just choking on fear and insecurity, and how you can help them break the cycle Practical techniques from Jason's own journey through emotional struggles, including the CDAA list transformation If you can learn to listen emotionally instead of respond logically, you'll transform how you lead people who are struggling with fear, insecurity, and emotional 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

Do you have clarity on where you are in the process? In this episode with Jake Williams, Jason unpacks why perfection early in the process delays handoff and kills delegation. You'll learn Jake's 16-year-old story installing blocking when his dad said "we are seldom if ever able to achieve perfection with our work, but if we set our sights on anything else, we often miss the mark completely," the envelope game analogy (one piece flow beats batching by 2-3 minutes every time), why faster is better when you're in the beginning stages, the owner who told Jake "when you do that, it makes me feel like you don't value my input," and the six-year book draft story where the author couldn't publish because he wanted it perfect. The pattern: rough draft people vs. final polish people, know which one you are in the process. What you'll learn in this episode: Jake's superintendent transition: realized he was spending too much time perfecting things instead of delegating, missing his spot in the process Use "DRAFT" labels liberally on everything: lift drawings, schedules, emails, P6 activities communicate it's not perfect and needs review The envelope game: one piece flow (fold, stuff, lick, stamp one at a time) beats batching by 2-3 minutes—get things out faster early in process Owner's feedback: "When you do that, it makes me feel like you don't value my input", not involving others can come across as arrogant Current condition: overwhelmed, overcommitted, and underutilizing people. Challenge: What should I be doing that others can't or won't do? Ask yourself the leader question: What can I hand to somebody else that would get them the opportunity to contribute to the end product? That's team 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

Do you need lean facilitation on your project? In this lean and IPD series episode, Jason unpacks why teams get stuck without facilitation and how to bring out the best in others. You'll learn the hard talk about superintendents who don't schedule (if they're not organized and don't know how to schedule, they're not superintendents yet, invite them to step up, train them, or let them go), the cancer center facilitation story where AGC taught last planner system and morning huddles, why 95% of detractors get bought in when facilitation is done right, and the pattern for facilitation: What's the goal? What's the problem? Get people together to solve it themselves instead of sending one savior to fix it and leave. What you'll learn in this episode: Hard talk for $100K-$3M projects: if superintendents don't schedule and aren't organized, they're not superintendents yet need training first Cancer center success: AGC facilitator taught the last planner, huddles, weekly work planning, then visited meetings and coached improvements Facilitation qualities from Transforming Design and Construction: strong communication, open-ended questions, encourage full participation, neutral on content "If a team can perform well together in meetings, they can do anything.", Meetings are the first step to everything The pattern: get teams to solve their own problems through facilitation instead of sending one person to play savior, fix it, and leave Changing a tire while the vehicle is going 60 miles an hour, that's improving on a project site. Facilitators make it possible by bringing out the best in others. 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 turning risks into opportunities? In this lean and IPD series episode, Jason unpacks the risk and opportunity register, a game-changer for construction management that keeps teams focused on prevention instead of reaction. You'll learn the research laboratory story where Ryan and Jason used a register to identify risks (scaffolding, floor floating, design changes) and finished fantastically, the counter-story where Jason recommended tracking stone procurement risk but the team didn't listen and it nearly affected the end date, and Dr. Eli Goldratt's six principles from his headstone (people are good, every conflict can be removed, every situation is exceedingly simple). The methodology: Excel matrix with description, probability, estimated cost, dollar total, owner, and due dates, then project what happens if all risks actualize (e.g., from 0.96 to 0.881 fee) and rally the team to prevent them. What you'll learn in this episode: The conflict: you're not identifying risks and opportunities early enough and reviewing them frequently enough Research lab success: identified scaffolding/floor floating/design change risks, set targets, reduced exposures, finished fantastically Counter-example: stone procurement risk ignored, procured too late, nearly affected end date—team didn't buy in The register: Excel matrix with probability percentages and dollar amounts, reviewed weekly in team meetings and monthly in status reports Prevention vs. reaction: "create spiritually before created temporally", anticipate risks in your mind, and prevent through physical action An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If we're always supposed to bring problems to the surface, the second priority is to do it as soon as possible. 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

Do you take all the leadership control or engage in distributed leadership? In this episode with Spencer, Jason unpacks why hierarchy reduces conflict and accountability, reveals the five dysfunctions of a team (trust, conflict, goals, accountability, results), and explains why Hitler lost valuable ground at Normandy because commanders needed his permission to dispatch panzer units. You'll learn Spencer's story about March 2020 when his scheduling department became the highest-performing team by looking up at the goal instead of shanking each other for power, why bad bosses build hierarchical structures to force signatures instead of having hard conversations, and the skills needed for horizontal leadership: group facilitation, delegation, management skills, and letting people fail forward. This is about creating environments people love, not making people like you. What you'll learn in this episode: Why hierarchy reduces conflict and accountability, employees fear that annoying the boss will show up on their paycheck The five dysfunctions: trust, then healthy conflict (pillow fighting, not knife fighting), then commitment, then accountability systems, then results Spencer's March 2020 breakthrough: stopped fighting for power, looked up at the goal, and became the highest-performing team in the company Skills for distributed leadership: group facilitation, delegation, management skills, letting people fail forward, knowing everyone personally, tactical skills of the past Why do bad bosses tell people what to do and control everything? Remarkable leaders set the vision, parameters, and provide autonomy Peter Drucker: "There's nothing as useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all." Being an efficient diminisher boss shouldn't be done at all. 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 an emotional one-trick pony who just pulls out the hammer every time, or do you have a tool belt full of emotional range? In this episode with Brandon Montero (the Chupacabra), Jason and Brandon unpack why emotional range isn't weakness, it's what it takes to fire someone with empathy, hold the line with vulnerability, and handle conflict without throwing hard hats. You'll learn the water balloon analogy for emotional capacity, why old school superintendents only had one tool in their bag, how to develop larger capacity through intentional practice, and the General Patton lesson: he was better than Eisenhower at combat strategy but lacked the emotional range to become Supreme Allied Commander. This is about showing up as your own environment, regardless of what's happening around you. What you'll learn in this episode: What it takes = a wide range (vulnerability, empathy, patience, toughness to hold the line, ability to fire someone soberly), not just firmness The water balloon analogy: small capacity pops with one more drop; large capacity absorbs stress without changing shape How to develop emotional range: life experience, personal work through audiobooks and therapy, failing forward, learning from others, stewardship Why being married or in relationships is hard, but forces you to gain emotional range, being alone is easy, but doesn't build tools Brandon's challenge: decide to be happy as an emotional range tool you pull out daily, and become your own environment Real power is when you have the power to throw someone out the window but choose not to; you keep your emotions in control and make decisions that win the war without fighting. 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

Do you know the seven wonders of the world? Not the pyramids and Taj Mahal, a girl from Ecuador wrote down the real ones: touch, taste, see, hear, feel, laugh, and love. In this episode with Dr. Steve and Amanda Hill from Bio Health Management, Jason unpacks what we intake through these seven wonders and how it determines our outputs at work and home. You'll learn the vessel analogy (you can fill yourself with light or darkness), why good relationships need to be nurtured like ovens not microwaves, the quote "don't get upset by the results you didn't get with the work you didn't do," the 40-year retiree who said "they had the work of my hands when they could have had my hands, mind, and heart," and Dave Graham's wisdom that foremen who use their people get lower response, but foremen who utilize their people get teamwork. What you'll learn in this episode: The seven wonders: touch, taste, see, hear, feel, laugh, love—inputs through our senses determine our outputs in life and work See: watch inspiring media, see people (not just look at them), see your kids play, take your eyes off your phone Touch: hugs, connection, kinesthetic learning, feeling the sand and ocean things that touch us emotionally like music Hear: silence so your brain can rest, good music, kids calling your name, positive tone (not putting anger on others) Taste and feel: good food creates experiences, cognitive performance depends on what we eat, and serotonin lives in your gut Laugh and love: create environments people love (not just making people like you), love your people vs. using them as tools If the circle of friends you hang out with doesn't inspire you, you're no longer in a circle; you're in a cage. The only competitor you have is the person you were yesterday. 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 if construction's industrial revolution is in the future, not the past? In this special episode with Charlie Dunn from DPR Construction, Jason and Charlie explore the future of prefabrication, why empathy will create the most value in construction by 2030, and how we must default to everything prefabricated unless it's a negotiated exception. You'll learn why prefab adapts the work to the worker instead of the worker to the work, how 70% design reuse could transform our industry, why production design principles mean beginning with the end in mind, and the BSRL research laboratory's story of pre-cutting everything from studs to MEP spools. This is about falling in love with your problems, not your solutions—and building the industrial revolution we haven't unleashed yet. What you'll learn in this episode: Charlie's three things for 2030: empathy enabled by vertically integrated owners, production design (designing with the end and the worker in mind), and design reuse (starting from 50-70% instead of zero) Why prefab creates parallel spaces and times—you can never create more space or time on site, but you can off-site The default presumption: everything will be prefabricated, hard stop, anything not is a negotiated exception How prefab adapts the work to the worker with safe, well-lit, decongested environments instead of bending, reaching, and unsafe conditions The BSRL story: pre-fabricating overhead MEP in spools, pre-cutting all studs and headers, room kitting, and why that prevents design issues before they become schedule impacts Fall in love with your problems, not your solutions. Construction's industrial revolution is in our future, and prefab is how we unleash standardized parts, assembly lines, and automation 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 do people say team kickoffs are fluffy and ineffective? Jason argues they're scared, they've been hurt by evil bosses, and being vulnerable means they could be hurt again. In this episode, Jason unpacks why great teams build great projects, reveals the three things every team needs to succeed (multiplier leader, clarity on direction, and engaged people), and walks you through the five key things to establish in a kickoff: conditions of satisfaction, design vision, team structure, meeting structure, and team culture. You'll hear the research laboratory pre-flight story and the "win all you can" game that predicted exactly who would struggle on the team. This is about building the team first because if you build the team first, you've already started building the project. What you'll learn in this episode: Why people who resist team building are typically scared, not transparent, competitive, siloed, and riddled with fear The three things teams need: multiplier leader (attracts talent, creates space for thinking, extends challenges), clarity on direction (big, hairy, audacious goal, mission, values), and engaged people (relevance, measurement, connection) Five key things to establish in a team kickoff: conditions of satisfaction, design vision, team structure, meeting structure, and team culture The research laboratory pre-flight kickoff story and the "win all you can" game that revealed problem people from day one Why is clear kind and unclear is unkind, fearful? People are safest in silos, so they resist clarity Great teams build great projects. Bottom line. Build the team first, and you've already started building the project. 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

Jason reveals why Disney's Home on the Range was garbage and how Pixar's brutal first review meetings (where teams leave dejected knowing everything will change) produce emotionally moving, visually stunning films. He explains the cultural shift needed to declare breakdowns: we've been programmed to shut up in school and bad jobs, we don't have eyes to see problems because we're conditioned for mediocre, and Americans just aren't accountable people (compare to Japan's duty-driven culture). The problem bowl technique helps teams detach emotion and realize problems belong to the group, not the person. What you'll learn in this episode: Disney story: Home on the Range flopped, Pixar came in with brutal first reviews that tear everything apart to get it right Four cultural needs: Shift to speaking up, eyes to see (higher mental setpoint), more accountability, understand problems not a problem Americans not accountable: Japan puts credit card on tray with duty, we throw trash and say "not my problem" Problem bowl technique: Write breakdowns on sticky notes, throw in bowl, team discusses together, detaches emotion When to declare: Disconnect with team, waste, defects to customer, disrespects people, confusion, results not what you want Safety and respect rule: Stop immediately, doesn't matter if you agree, be considerate enough to listen The current condition is we don't speak up, we make crap work, sometimes push it to customer, people don't feel authorized, we reinforce disconnected culture. 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

Jason reveals why personality profiles are like blood tests for teams, getting actual data instead of guessing what's wrong and masking problems with pills of consequences (firing, moving, black clouding people). He shares the story of a project manager who hated emails and wanted verbal communication, once Jason knew this their relationship blossomed. Player cards summarize key characteristics so teams know how to interact, give feedback, have conflict, and build safe pathways to communication. The three best profiles: Myers-Briggs, StrengthsFinder, Six Working Geniuses. Teams that communicate more effectively are the winning teams. What you'll learn in this episode: Player cards: Summarized cards showing key characteristics, how someone wants feedback, strengths, weaknesses, how to support them Top 3 personality profiles: Myers-Briggs (MBTI), StrengthsFinder, Six Working Geniuses for $60-110 per person Cancer and leprosy analogies: Body doesn't know the problem so can't fix it, same with teams Naturopathic doctor story: Blood tests with 100 data points fix root cause vs regular doctors guessing and prescribing pills to mask problems Black boxes from airplane crashes: Difference between wrecking and not wrecking is how much captain and first officer communicated Six steps not five: Know each other, trust, healthy conflict, set goals, accountability, perform You can't trust each other unless you know each other, why would we guess what's wrong when we could get data and fix the root cause? 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

Jason shares his 12 Days of Christmas family plan (reflection, vision, goals, habits) before diving into total participation as the new construction industry buzzword. Then he reveals why most leaders rush to solutions without defining the problem first. Through a personal church story, he admits he pushed missionary work programs for months when the real problem was basic connection and scripture reading. Like cancer cells the body doesn't recognize or leprosy destroying nerve endings, if you don't know the problem, you can't fix it. The WRAP process helps: Widen options, Reality test assumptions, Attain distance, Prepare to be wrong. What you'll learn in this episode: Total participation: Days of leaders deciding for everyone and shoving it down throats are over Church story failure: Pushed missionary work programs when real problem was basic connection, joy, scripture reading Cancer analogy: Body doesn't recognize cancer cells as enemy, can't attack what it doesn't detect Leprosy analogy: Destroys nerve endings so body doesn't know there's damage to repair Ask introverts: They take 24 hours but give well thought out opinions, help define problem first WRAP process from Decisive book: Widen options, Reality test, Attain distance before deciding, Prepare to be wrong The current condition is we go straight to solutions without really knowing the problem, especially extroverts who access front part of brain for quick opinions. 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

Jason announces he's pausing Saturday and Sunday worker and field engineer topics to focus on the upcoming book and boot camps. Then he shares his nightmare story of running a job without field engineers, spending $250k from contingency on layout mistakes that would've been prevented. He walks through the 43-step process of what field engineers should actually be doing, from personal organization and the Field Engineering Methods Manual to primary control, baselines, lift drawings, and quality checks. Field engineers aren't personal assistants, they're professional construction managers training to become superintendents. What you'll learn in this episode: Nightmare story: Job without field engineers cost $250k in contingency from layout and general mistakes Success story: Roman Lug Cruz, craft worker who only spoke Spanish, trained to be field engineer in eight months Field Engineering Methods Manual: Chapters 1-8 are the Bible for organization, layout, total stations, levels, lasers 43-step startup process: Tools, testing area, primary control, secondary control, baselines, benchmarks, lift drawings What field engineers really do: Professional construction managers doing layout, quality, safety, RFIs, not personal assistants If you're a general contractor saying "I wish I had better supers," field engineering is your silver bullet for training future superintendents. 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

Jason shares The Bridgebuilder poem and delivers tough love to workers and foremen: you're not investing in yourself. He breaks down the wasting time list (too much TV, video games, complaining, comparing) versus the investing time list (courses, networking, learning skills, gym). Then he confronts the lie that you can't progress in construction without college. You can become a field engineer, superintendent, or business owner if you read books, listen to podcasts, develop morning routines, and stop the hedonistic pursuit of pleasure as a way of life. What you'll learn in this episode: The Bridgebuilder poem: Old man builds bridge for youth coming behind him, we learn from wisdom not sad experience Wasting time: TV, video games, negative news, bad friends, too much alcohol, being lazy Investing time: Courses, networking, learning skills, side hustle, gym, reading books The lie society tells: You didn't go to college so you can't be VP, director, business owner Top five changes: Read scriptures daily, read books, stop negative media, date night with spouse, set goals and grind We can choose to be animals looking for pleasure or creators looking for opportunity, the world pays you what it thinks you're worth based on what you've trained your mind to do. 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

Jason reveals the system that achieved zero roughin rework after drywall at his research laboratory. After ripping out 20 to 30% of inwall roughin at the cancer center because of coordination failures, he developed room kitting, a prefabrication approach where every wall gets coordinated in Revit, reviewed by end users, pre-cut, and delivered in blue bins with laminated drawings that get screwed to the wall for framing, roughin, and inspections. Electricians stop guessing with four different drawing sets, inspectors sign off on the wall drawings, and asbuilts write themselves. What you'll learn in this episode: The problem: Cancer center had 20 to 30% roughin rework, electricians guessing with multiple drawing sets Room kitting process: BIM creates cut sections, trade partners mark dimensions in Blue Beam, page flip with designers and end users Pre-cut delivery system: Parts come in blue bins with barcode, bill of materials, and room drawings ready to install Wall drawings: Laminated 11x17 screwed to wall, used for framing, roughin, inspections, then archived for asbuilts Research lab results: Zero roughin rework after drywall in complex laboratory, inspectors love the system The current condition is electricians go out with four different drawing sets, guess at best, put it in wrong, and even if it's right it's still not where the user wants 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