Elevate Construction

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

Jason reveals one of the four moments that changed his life: learning about giving first. He shares the Silent Squares game where teams can only solve the puzzle when they give first, not take first. Then he unpacks The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann, the book that shifted his mindset from climbing the ladder (take take take) to giving first, which skyrocketed his career in three years. You'll learn the five laws of stratospheric success that work in marriage, business, and life. What you'll learn in this episode: Silent Squares game: Teams struggle until they switch from take first to give first, then solve the puzzle instantly Law of Value: Your real worth is how much more value you give than you get paid Law of Compensation: Your income is decided by number of people you serve and how well you serve them Law of Influence: Focus 100% on helping others, build an army of personal ambassadors Law of Authenticity: The biggest gift you offer is yourself, be genuine not pretending Law of Receptivity: To give effectively you must be open to receive, they're two sides of same coin When you focus on giving value as a way of life, the money will naturally follow, and you live after the manner of happiness. 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 starts with a somber note, his friend just passed from COVID-19, reminding us life is fragile. Then he dives into Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller, revealing how he used this framework to win a major proposal by making the customer the hero instead of talking about his company. You'll learn the seven-part story structure that wins work, why people buy solutions to internal problems not external ones, and why you're losing customers if you're not clarifying your message through story. What you'll learn in this episode: The book in one sentence: Make your customer the hero, not your brand Why customers buy solutions to internal problems, not external problems The guide principle: Customers trust someone with a clear plan People avoid loss more than they seek gain, use this ethically How Jason restructured proposals using story: hero wants something, villain blocks them, guide helps them win The day we stop losing sleep over our business success and start losing sleep over our customers' success is the day our business starts growing again. 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 and Katie get deeply personal about the month Jason was suspended without pay for not reporting an inappropriate comment to a female colleague. Katie shares what it was like driving home for four days in a company rental after he was suspended, watching him spiral in guilt and shame. This vulnerable conversation reveals why we all have unconscious biases we don't recognize, how diversity makes teams statistically better, and why it doesn't cost us anything to support women and protected classes, but it will cost us everything if we don't. What you'll learn in this episode: The suspension story: Jason didn't report inappropriate comments, got suspended for a month, hated the director for years until realizing it changed his life Hospital study proves diversity wins: Mixed gender, race, ethnicity teams statistically outperform homogeneous teams every time How to handle harassment: Contact HR, legal, supervisors immediately, don't try to smooth things over or sweep under rug Fear drives bias: Scarcity mindset makes us fear loss, abundance mindset recognizes there's plenty of opportunity for everyone It doesn't cost anything: Supporting protected classes costs nothing but makes teams better, refusing to costs everything When we see protected classes winning and women being promoted, we should celebrate, there's plenty of room for all of 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 gets brutally honest about two career moments that changed his safety mindset forever. First, a safety manager threatened to fire him if he didn't take inspections seriously. Second, he was suspended for a month without pay for not reporting an inappropriate comment to a female colleague. These stories reveal why your safety set point isn't high enough yet, and why developing a safety-everywhere mentality now will save you from the butt chewing later. Safety isn't just physical, it's mental, emotional, and about protecting the innocent from harassment and discrimination. What you'll learn in this episode: Jason's safety wake-up call: Threatened with termination for blowing off inspections, became a safety fanatic overnight The suspension story: Month without pay for not protecting the innocent, not reporting inappropriate workplace comment Why safety is a value, not a priority: Priorities change, values remain constant The safety-everywhere mentality: At work, at home, at church, driving, protecting people from COVID, appropriate behavior The challenge: Amp up your game now, take training seriously, develop safety mindset before you become someone's nightmare Your mental set point needs to be set a lot higher for a safety-everywhere mentality, or you'll have that moment where you get your butt chewed to get your mind in the right spot. 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 wraps up the Field Engineer Boot Camp series with his final thoughts on the entire four-day experience. He walks through each day from team building and fear elimination to the final concrete placement under intense time pressure, revealing how laser scans prove that high-functioning teams produce accurate work. Then he makes his boldest claim yet: the field engineering position exists for one reason only, to train future superintendents. Superintendents are leaders, organizers, and planners. If you skip the FE position, you skip the builder experience, and you'll never be as successful as you could be. What you'll learn in this episode: Day-by-day breakdown: Team building and repelling, complex engineering math with garbage drawings, traversing and layout under stress, concrete placement time crunch Why laser scan results prove team performance: High-functioning teams with good communication produce accurate footings, dysfunctional teams are off by feet The bold claim: Field engineers exist only to train future superintendents, not for layout or lift drawings Why skipping FE is a mistake: Workers, foremen, and college grads who go straight to super miss the builder experience of detailing, reading plans, RFIs, submittals, and layout What boot camp really does: Eliminates victim mentality, neutralizes fear, creates goals for massive action, and becomes a trigger for excellence The field engineering position is the Rosetta Stone between the builders of old and what we're training builders to be 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

Raino brings you back to boot camp for Part 3, where field engineers are learning through stress, failure, and hands-on struggle. You'll hear raw reflections from teams who learned that no matter how right you think you are, you can still make mistakes. They discovered how much they take survey and FE roles for granted, why best practices aren't overdoing it when you see the numbers match, and how lift drawings that required printing over and over taught them that due diligence prevents massive rework. Brandon closes with a powerful speech on standardizing your day, controlling your morning with routines, and why you standardize your evening to love life, not just work. What you'll learn in this episode: Why boot camp is effective: Learning under stress, doing things with your hands, practicing in context creates faster retention than classroom theory The connectedness lesson: How lift drawings tie to building, coordinates tie to traversing, traversing ties to radio staking, everything teaches context Brandon's morning routine: Up at 3:45, gym, 10 pages of personal development, study drawings, five task to-do list before chaos hits at 7am Why best practices aren't overdoing it: Taking proper steps prevents mistakes, hitting checkpoints with right data means you proceed correctly Standardizing your evening to love life: Put "tell wife I love her five times" and "read book with kid" on your to-do list, create time for what matters When you standardize your day so it becomes monotonous and thoughtless, you become perfect at it and move on to the next thing that makes you better. 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

Dr. Steve Grennan challenged Jason with a simple question: "Show me that people are your most valuable asset." This off-script, under-five-minute message cuts straight to the heart of what we say versus what we do in construction. Jason confronts the lie that employees should be "loyal" to companies or do multi-billion-dollar corporations "favors" by ruining their families and health. We work to live, not live to work. Family is eternal. Buildings are temporary. If a company claims people are their biggest asset but doesn't prove it, they're lying. What you'll learn in this episode: Dr. Grennan's challenge: Show me through actions, training, mentoring, leader standard work, knowing families, that people truly matter Why loyalty to a company is a lie: You're loyal to family, God, and health, not to corporations making billions while you get divorce and heart attacks The eternal vs. temporary question: When you're dying, will the building be there? No. Your family will be. When to fire your company: If they marginalize people or aren't safe, you 86 them, they're not good enough to employ you What "show me" looks like: Personal development, one-on-ones, protecting families over customer demands There's no such thing as doing a multi-billion-dollar company a favor, if they say people are their asset, make them show 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

You just finished a perfect $100M project on time, under budget, safest job in Arizona, passed every audit. Your neighbor finished a year late, $3M over, a total nightmare. Who gets the next job? The neighbor. Why? Because they created more moments. Jason breaks down "The Power of Moments" by Chip and Dan Heath to show you how defining moments not flawless execution determine what customers remember and who they choose. You'll learn the four elements that create memorable experiences (elevation, pride, insight, connection) and how to strategically build peak moments throughout your projects so you stop being the unsqueaky wheel that gets ignored. What you'll learn in this episode: Why doing great work isn't enough: Customers remember moments, not details, and the team with more frequent mental moments gets selected The four elements of defining moments: Elevation (rise above routine), Pride (commemorate achievements), Insight (deliver realizations), Connection (bond people together) Real examples: Popsicle hotline at Magic Castle Hotel, trial lawyer graduation ceremony, Signing Day for college athletes, Brinker Capital work anniversaries How to apply this in construction: Creating moments when solving design issues, tracking down permits, handling big problems for owners and designers Why organizations dramatically underinvest in building peaks and instead just fill potholes Are you creating strategic moments throughout your projects, or are you the unsqueaky wheel doing perfect work while your competitor gets the next job? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this bonus episode, Jason narrates Chapter 5, Part 1 of Calumet "K" and unpacks the razor-sharp difference between Bannon's relentless execution and Peterson's passive waiting. When 200,000 feet of cribbing arrives by boat and the CNSC railroad threatens to shut everything down, you'll see how Bannon uses diplomatic firmness, productive paranoia, and strategic night shifts to keep momentum while Peterson continues to hesitate. Jason also addresses the book's outdated attitudes toward women in construction and explains why supporting diversity costs us nothing but statistically increases our chance of winning. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Bannon immediately ordered lights for night shifts before leaving townproductive paranoia means anticipating problems and getting ahead instead of becoming a victim How to handle railroad representatives, inspectors, and difficult stakeholders with diplomatic firmness instead of throwing hard hats and being jerks Jason's take on women in construction: Supporting and celebrating their success costs nothing and statistically increases your team's chance of winning When to terminate non-performers: After you've provided training, support, structure, and a healthy system, protect the team by removing cancer Why early strategic moves (shifts, night work, additional crews) prevent late-project chaos where workers become unsafe and disorganized Are you making strategic moves early in the project to prevent the crash landing at the end, or are you waiting and hoping it works out? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Why won't superintendents go home, and what system actually gets them there? In this episode, Jason reveals the team health and balance system that works, proven by a general superintendent who said after two divorces and 30 years in construction, this was the first time anyone showed him how to actually go home on time. You'll learn why team coverage must be intentional with a visual weekly coverage schedule, how the weekly meeting agenda prioritizes PTO and coverage before anything else, why the day plan from foreman and worker huddles is the key to releasing control, and how grading contractors on site with A and F players creates accountability. This is about ending the babysitting, getting operational control, and creating capacity for training. What you'll learn in this episode: The weekly coverage schedule: draw your hours Monday through Friday so the team knows who's covering orientation, safety walks, gate closing, and natural disasters Why does the weekly meeting agenda start with a lightning round, then PTO coverage, Saturday coverage, and weekly coverage reminders The day plan components: shout-outs, safety focus, permits, deliveries, training topics, key activities, and weather all visual Supporting systems for operational control: remarkable bathrooms, decent lunchroom, perfect cleanliness, zero tolerance safety, scheduled deliveries, just-in-time staging How to grade contractors weekly and post A players, F players, and the Circle of Trust on the conference room wall Training is good. Babysitting is bad and should be stopped at almost any cost. Get this system implemented first, then your team will have time to do training. 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 are you withholding from your clients, and how much is it costing you? In this episode, Jason unpacks Patrick Lencioni's Getting Naked, a model for naked service that overcomes three fears: losing the business, being embarrassed, and feeling inferior. You'll hear the story of an arrogant curtain wall contractor who lost a project the moment the PM opened his laptop and started checking emails, learn why asking dumb questions and celebrating mistakes builds trust faster than perfection, and discover why giving away the business and doing the dirty work wins more work than any PowerPoint presentation. This is about transparency, humility, and human-to-human connection, not manipulation. What you'll learn in this episode: The three fears that prevent naked service: fear of losing the business, fear of being embarrassed, and fear of feeling inferior How to overcome fear of losing the business by entering the danger, telling the kind truth, consulting instead of selling, and giving away the business Why asking dumb questions, making dumb suggestions, and celebrating mistakes creates safe environments and builds rapport How to honor the client's work, make everything about them, do the dirty work, and take a bullet, even if it means helping with the groundbreaking The PM who opened his laptop and started answering emails the moment a contractor said, "You just need to hire us" Don't your clients deserve to work with transparent, honest, open, safe people? Use this model if you are that and if you're faking it, please don't sour it for the rest of 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

You know how to get into state so why aren't you doing it? In this episode, Jason breaks down the three keys to peak performance: physiology, focus, and language. You'll learn why Olympic champions and effective leaders master these elements before high-stakes moments, hear how Jason used box breathing and music to demolish a high-profile interview, and discover the boot camp breakthrough where acknowledging "I don't know what I'm doing" flipped fear into connection and problem-solving. This is about showing up ready whether you're walking into a safety meeting, a hard conversation, or your front door after work because your body is the vehicle through which your mind performs. What you'll learn in this episode: The three keys to being in state: physiology (posture, exercise, movement), focus (where you look is where you go), and language (stop negative self-talk) Why dancing and music at boot camp keeps participants at peak performance for 17-hour days with 95% success rates How to dance with your fear instead of fighting it—acknowledge it, then focus on your goal, not the fear The breakthrough moment: saying "I don't know what I'm doing" increases communication from 5 to 50 questions per hour The CDAAA list technique: write down negative thoughts, then correct them with the truth until negativity disappears Motion equals emotion. Practice your morning routine, box breathing, and intentional focus on physiology, language, and where you're headed, not where you're afraid of going. 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 the breakthrough you need starts with yelling "I don't know what I'm doing" as loud as you can? In this episode, Jason reveals the pivotal boot camp moment when field engineers stopped clinging to certainty and significance, admitted they didn't know what they were doing, and watched their communication skyrocket from five questions an hour to fifty. You'll learn why figuring things out presupposes you don't know what's going on, how admitting uncertainty increases your chances of survival like pilots in an emergency, and why dancing with your fears instead of fighting them enables you to turn nothing into something. This is about building a team that can figure it out because when you can do that, you can do anything in construction and in life. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the process of figuring things out presupposes you don't know what you're doing, and admitting that increases communication The airplane emergency analogy: fast, short bursts of communication increase survival; silence decreases it The breakthrough exercise: yelling "I don't know what I'm doing" and how it relieved the fear of looking stupid Boot camp testimonials on dancing with fears, realizing what giving 100% really means, and rallying teams after rough starts How field engineers learn a method of learning and a mindset of figuring things out that enables them to live a remarkable life It's okay to not know what you're doing. Once you realize that, you can increase communication, ask questions, and fail forward at a faster pace. 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

Can your team solve problems together, or are you relying on sad experience instead of wisdom? In this episode, Jason reveals the exact pattern that enables teams to be as successful as possible every single time, from boot camp exercises to construction projects. You'll learn why appointing a point person, truly collaborating, and ensuring total participation moves you from leader-centric chaos to team-powered execution. Plus, hear powerful testimonials from boot camp participants and instructors about breaking out of comfort zones, failing forward, and discovering that technical expertise alone won't propel your career, it's the compilation of skills that wins. What you'll learn in this episode: The team success pattern: appoint a leader, collaborate fully, make decisions, ensure understanding, work together, then plan-do-check-act Why learning from the wisdom of the team prevents sad experiences, mistakes, trials, and stress you carry alone How to move from leader-centric systems to total participation, where everyone can see, know, and act as a group Boot camp testimonials on getting out of your comfort zone, failing forward, and learning about your blind spots Why technical skills aren't enough—it's teamwork, emotional range, and giving 100% that propel your career We can learn from wisdom or from sad experience. The strength of the team and the burden shared together is how we avoid riddled problems and distress. 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 grading high enough in all areas of life to keep your head up? In this episode, Jason introduces the Wheel of Life, a powerful tool to assess whether you're balanced across seven key areas: physical body, emotions and meaning, relationships, time, work and mission, finances, and spiritual contribution. You'll hear Jason respond to listener feedback about jobs spiraling out of control and the tension between schedule and information, learn why you need at least four areas above a grade of seven to avoid a dark spot, and discover Tony Robbins' model for taking massive action. This is about protecting yourself by getting help when you need it because the tough guy facade is fake, and we all need support sometimes. What you'll learn in this episode: How to use the Wheel of Life to grade yourself in seven key areas and identify where you're struggling Why the flow of information is king, and the schedule comes first, they work together, not against each other The warning sign: if you don't have at least four areas above a seven, get coaching or clinical help immediately Tony Robbins' model for massive action: get your body in shape, find your passion, decide and commit, then take immediate intelligent action Why the tough exterior is a façade, real strength is asking for help when you need it If your wheel is jagged and you don't have wins in life, you can't sustain it. Get help. Keep your head up. You deserve 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

What would you do if the railroad blocked your critical lumber shipment, and litigation would take five years? In this chapter of Calumet K, Bannon refuses to let emotion drive his decisions, recruiting farmers with a grudge against the railroad to haul lumber overland while he orchestrates barges, fixes broken bridges in the night, and sets aggressive timelines that leave everyone breathless. Jason reflects on the power of urgency, logistical genius, and clearing roadblocks before they stop your workforce because the fastest path forward reduces the opportunity for things to go wrong. This is about execution through total participation, not heroics. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Bannon refuses slow legal action and builds a creative solution using farmers, wagons, and barges instead The principle of aggressive timelines: "It moves in an hour" instills urgency without compromising safety or respect How Bannon clears roadblocks, proactively fixing the bridge at night so 1,500 feet of lumber can flow smoothly Why character and integrity matter: Bannon refuses to manipulate the wheat market for personal gain despite a clear opportunity The logistical genius of checking every possible breakdown point and ensuring redundant checks for flow Bannon doesn't say "I'll do it myself"; he leverages everyone and everything available because the rapidity of advance toward victory reduces the opportunity for obstacles to stop 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

Tell me you don't judge a restaurant by the quality of their bathrooms—because on a construction project, how your bathroom goes is how your project will go. In this episode, Jason makes the bold case that remarkable bathrooms are foundational to operational excellence, walking you through multiple practical solutions from building them out of trailers to fitting them inside the building itself. You'll learn why lean culture always starts in the bathroom, how to build custom facilities for $7,000-$14,000, and why management should use the same bathrooms as the workers. This is about respect for people as a production strategy, and it starts with white epoxy paint, great lighting, and zero tolerance for dirty conditions. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the state of your bathrooms is a key indicator of morale, health, and project culture, check them first when you walk into a site Four viable bathroom solutions: build out of trailers, standalone facilities, inside the building, or upgraded event restrooms The bare minimum requirements: cleaned 3-5 times per week, handwash stations, trash cans, music, white paint, and great lighting Why you should budget bathroom quality into mockups and get creative with insulated tents, plywood partitions, and temporary fixtures The story of workers ripping clothing for toilet paper and why that proves we have disrespect in construction Lean starts in the bathroom, and if you wouldn't let someone drain your bank account without permission, don't let dirty bathrooms drain the culture and respect on your project site. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free, and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Would you let someone randomly access your bank account and spend your money on things you don't even use? Would you let them make you feel guilty for saying no? That's exactly what you're doing with your time, and Jason says time is more valuable than money. In this episode, Jason makes the case for why a personal organization system is the number one thing anyone in construction should implement, walking you through the five steps of mastering workflow from David Allen's Getting Things Done. If you're wasting 30-40% of your time because you don't have a system to capture, clarify, organize, reflect, and engage with your tasks, this is your wake-up call. What you'll learn in this episode: Why time is more valuable than money—you can earn and borrow money, but you can't earn or borrow time The powerful metaphor of people draining your bank account without permission, and how it mirrors what happens with your time every day The five steps of mastering workflow: capture, clarify, organize, reflect, and engage and how to implement them by Friday Why do you need as few capturing buckets as possible, and must empty them regularly to stop wasting 40% of your day The three daily habits of a builder: 30 minutes in your drawings, 30 minutes in your schedule, and 30 minutes on a reflection walk Stop letting people schedule meetings without your consent and waste your most valuable commodity. Get organized, protect your time, and start doing the work of three people. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free, and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Is operational control a dirty word, or is it exactly what your project needs to protect your people and deliver results? In this episode, Jason breaks down the false choice between command-and-control and collaboration, showing you how to build a system that uses both. You'll learn why the industry has demonized the wrong concepts, how to get scheduling information all the way to your workers, and the exact workflow that moves your project from chaos to operational excellence. This is about protecting families by protecting flowand it starts with having control of your project site. What you'll learn in this episode: Why collaborative planning and accountable execution aren't opposites—they're partners in operational control The three systems compared: Old System, Last Planner System, and Operational Control System, and where information breaks down in each How afternoon foreman huddles and morning worker huddles solve the 50% communication breakdown that kills your schedule Why your project needs six weeks of structured implementation before collaboration can truly work The Rick Rescorla story from 9/11 and what "I have to evacuate my people now" means for your responsibility as a leader The system failed them; they didn't fail the system, so build a system that gets information all the way to the workers, protects your people, and gives you operational control without apology. 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

Intimacy can feel like an awkward topic until you realize it's one of the top friction points for new couples, right alongside finances and keeping the house clean. In this episode, Jason and Katie talk candidly about what they've seen with new couples in construction, what they struggled with themselves, and why "fix what bugs you" applies at home just as much as it does on a jobsite. You'll hear practical ways to communicate needs, reduce resentment, and build a system that actually works for your relationship. The goal isn't perfection it's progress, trust, and a home life that brings you joy. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why new couples commonly fight about finances, intimacy, and the house and how to stop the spiral · How to "fix what bugs you" in a relationship without blame, shame, or avoidance · The difference between obligation and intentional partnership and how to move from one to the other · How Love Languages can help you translate what your spouse needs (even if it doesn't come naturally) · Why scheduling intimacy can be a healthy solution (and how to keep it from feeling transactional) · How resentment kills connection and how meeting needs outside the bedroom changes everything · Why kindness, consistency, and teamwork matter more than "spontaneity" · How prayer and alignment helped Jason and Katie break through a long-standing struggle · A simple framework for new couples: talk openly, make a plan, work the plan, adjust together · The bigger aim: build a marriage that brings joy, stability, and strength for your life and career If you're a new couple in construction, don't wait years hoping things "just get better." Have the honest conversation, build the system together, and keep refining it. Share this with someone who needs it. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason sits down with Dr. Steve and Amanda from BioHealth Management to talk about something most teams ignore until it's too late: shoulder pain, shoulder wear-and-tear, and the long-term consequences of "just pushing through it." They break down the real difference between symptoms vs. source, why the pain often shows up in the back even when the problem starts in the front, and how repetitive motion, posture, tool belts, harnesses, and desk work quietly stack up over time. The goal isn't just to feel better at work it's to stay strong enough to enjoy life after work without pain, stiffness, or lost mobility. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why shoulder pain is usually the symptom and not the source · How forward posture (phones, computers, harnesses, bags) shortens the front and weakens the back · The most common shoulder issues workers retire with (impingement, bursitis, frozen shoulder, rotator cuff problems) · How to spot early warning signs before they become long-term damage · Why "stretching" can help but only if you do the right kind at the right time · A simple chest/pec stretch that opens up the front of the shoulder safely · A practical activation sequence for the back muscles (including easy jobsite-friendly movements) · Why shoulder circles and toe-touching stretches can backfire for certain people · How ergonomic desks can still cause strain if you set them up wrong · How taking care of shoulders supports performance on the job and quality of life at home The big takeaway is simple: you don't have to accept shoulder pain as "part of the job." When teams learn how the body works, how to prepare it, and how to recover correctly, you can dramatically reduce injuries, improve mobility, and extend careers. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason challenges a core assumption most leaders make on job sites: that people naturally know how to collaborate, speak up, and engage in healthy meetings. The truth is, many workers have been conditioned their entire lives to stay quiet, avoid conflict, follow hierarchy, and survive not participate. If you've ever wondered why pull plans stall, meetings feel awkward, or foremen won't engage, this episode explains exactly why. Jason breaks down what's really happening beneath the surface and how great leaders can deprogram these behaviors to build trust, engagement, and real teamwork. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why people struggle to speak up in pull plans, huddles, and coordination meetings · How traditional schooling conditions workers to avoid conflict and authority · Why silence, resistance, or disengagement is often a learned survival behavior · What to expect when new trade partners enter a Lean or collaborative environment · How fear of hierarchy shuts down communication on job sites · Why some foremen become aggressive or withdrawn in meetings · The importance of psychological safety before demanding accountability · How to assume positive intent without lowering standards · Practical ways to rebuild trust and participation on your project · How leaders can retrain teams to collaborate, plan, and problem-solve together If you want better meetings, stronger pull plans, and teams that actually collaborate instead of shut down, this episode will change how you see people and how you lead them. Start building trust, reinforce the right behaviors, and commit to creating a culture where people feel safe enough to speak up and contribute. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason challenges you to stop waiting for permission to grow and start investing in yourself like it matters because it does. Training isn't fluff, and personal development isn't optional if you want to level up. If you want better opportunities, better confidence, better results, and a better life, you have to sharpen the saw on purpose. This episode is a direct push to pick your next training, schedule it, pay for it, and get after it. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why negative voices keep people stuck and how to replace them with a positive feedback loop · Why training is one of the best returns on investment you'll ever get · What "sharpening the saw" looks like in real life and real career progression · How Jason approaches investing in himself yearly and why it compounds · Why "technical-only" learning misses the point of leadership and growth · How to identify what you actually need next instead of copying someone else's path · How your "red zone" helps you choose the right training and avoid miserable promotions · A simple process to pick 2–3 growth targets, research training options, and schedule them · How to approach your company to pay for training and how to come back and teach it · Why you should schedule the training first, then figure out the money second Training changes your skill set, your mindset, your confidence, and your ability to lead. If you want the next level, you have to force the jump and invest in yourself on purpose. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason breaks down a simple truth that most teams avoid: owners don't get mad because problems happen they get mad when they're surprised. If you want trust, repeat work, and a healthy project team, you have to take the owner with you as issues emerge, not at the end when the damage is already done. This episode is about transparency, early warning systems, and how to communicate problems with a plan so you protect relationships, protect the team, and protect the job. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why "we'll just absorb it" usually backfires later · How surprises destroy owner trust more than bad news does · The right way to report problems without dumping them on the owner · How to use OAC meetings to keep everything above-board and visible · Why schedules must stay accurate and never be "falsified to look good" · How open-book thinking reduces stress and improves collaboration · What to do when procurement, design, or field issues start trending bad · The simple language to notify owners early and reset expectations · Why "problems belong to the team" is the only sustainable mindset · How transparency today becomes your best marketing for the next job If you're a superintendent, PM, or project executive, your job is not to hide pain until the end. Your job is to surface issues early, bring a recovery plan, and keep the owner informed so they feel in control. No surprises. No last-minute shock. Take them with you. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason walks through Chapter 3 of Calumet K and connects it directly to real-world construction leadership. The story of Charlie Bannon exposes a critical lesson: great builders don't accept surface answers when procurement fails they hunt for root causes and create new paths forward. This episode is about persistence, situational awareness, and the mindset required to win when systems push back. If you've ever been told "there's nothing we can do," this one is for you. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why accepting vague procurement excuses guarantees delays · How Charlie Bannon models true root-cause problem solving · The danger of relying on phone calls instead of face-to-face investigation · How power, politics, and hidden incentives affect material flow · Why great builders refuse to be "buzzed away" by authority · What it means to think several moves ahead under pressure · How imagination and situational awareness unlock better decisions · Why winning builders always develop Plan B, C, D, and beyond · How persistence turns roadblocks into strategic advantages · What modern superintendents can learn from this classic story If you're facing stalled materials, unclear answers, or political roadblocks on your project, take this episode as a challenge. Don't stop at the first explanation. Dig deeper, ask better questions, and build alternate plans until you find a way forward. 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

Most superintendents don't fail because they lack talent they struggle because they lack consistent standard work. In this episode, Jason breaks down the Superintendent Commandments: the daily habits that create safety, cleanliness, flow, and trust on a construction project. He explains how these principles work regardless of personality style and why discipline always beats raw ability. If you run this system long enough, the results compound less stress, better projects, and a stronger career. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · What "commandments" really mean standard work that predicts success, not rigid rules · The daily loop every great superintendent follows: drawings, schedule, reflection walk · Why studying drawings every day is non-negotiable for real builders · How reviewing the schedule daily triggers assignments, readiness, and accountability · Why carrying the schedule into the field changes how you see manpower and flow · The power of visualization and repeating the plan until it sticks · Why every superintendent needs a tape measure and what it symbolizes · How asking questions builds authority instead of weakening it · Why transparency eliminates stress and prevents disasters · The real job of leadership: removing roadblocks daily · How safety and cleanliness directly protect cost, schedule, and morale · Why returning calls, texts, and emails is a career-defining habit · How PMs and superintendents must operate as equal accountability partners · The 60-day discipline challenge and why consistency changes everything If you're a superintendent, commit to these commandments for the next 60 days and track your consistency. If you're a leader, challenge your supers to run this system and support them while they build the habit. Discipline compounds and when you master these basics, everything else gets easier. 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

Most projects don't fail in the field they fail before boots ever hit the site. In this episode, Jason walks through the builder's pre-construction game plan for "winning the war before going to battle," from strategy and flow to procurement, team setup, and workforce support. If you want a job that runs with clarity instead of chaos, this is the checklist-style breakdown of what to design, buy out, and align before Notice to Proceed. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why planning is the real "battle," and how most teams lose before construction even starts · How a morning routine (and box breathing) supports focus so you can actually execute your systems · What "anchor projects" are and why your best people should learn from them and replicate the model · The first-planner steps: project strategy, constraints, contract requirements, flow, and sequencing maps · Why Takt planning belongs before CPM/P6/Microsoft Project and how it protects trade flow · How a day-to-day geographic logistics analysis reveals the real production limits on tight sites · The WBS → sequence → logic-tie approach that prevents "compressing the schedule to fit a date" · How to identify bottlenecks and stabilize throughput instead of speeding up random activities · Building procurement into the plan early especially exterior systems, elevators, and long-leads · How to build the team in pre-con: roles by geography, leader standard work, and team health systems · Designing trailers and office layouts for collaboration (so lean actually has a chance to work) · Workforce win strategies: bathrooms, lunchrooms, huddles, parking, water/ice, and making work fun · "Contracts and costs for culture": buying out the behaviors you want (LPS, JIT, coordination, BIM) · Schedule health essentials: right detail level, commissioning/startup, monthly health checks and risk · Risk prevention systems: basis of schedule, sequence maps, trade partner buy-in, fresh-eyes reviews · The baseline discipline: backups, reports, owner interface strategy, and weekly schedule updates If you want remarkable performance in the field, you have to design the job people, logistics, culture, procurement, and flow in pre-con. Win the war first. Then go to battle. 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

Field engineering mistakes are expensive and most of them are preventable. In this episode, Jason lays out the "field engineering commandments," the core practices that protect you from the big, painful errors that cost time, money, and trust. If you're a field engineer (or want to become one), this is a practical checklist to tighten your habits, improve your accuracy, and build confidence in your work. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why following proven field practices prevents major rework and costly layout errors · The critical control, benchmark, and verification steps that keep your project coordinates honest · What "always check" really means and how to double-check correctly (tech, direction, person, approach) · Why closed level loops and properly documented benchmarks matter more than most teams realize · The baseline setup rule that makes your layout self-checking and reduces risk · Why you should never burn a foot and the simple tape technique that eliminates the mistake · The hidden accuracy problems with forefoot prism poles and when to use mini prisms instead · Why calibration isn't optional and how defective gear quietly creates bad data · How better field notes, labeling, and documentation protect you and the project This episode is about being professional, consistent, and dangerous in the best way meaning your work holds up, your layout is right, and your confidence is earned. Learn the commandments, build them into your standard work, and go home knowing it's correct. 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

This episode is dedicated to workers and foremen who want to take their next step but feel stuck, unsure, or intimidated by what comes next. Jason shares a key epiphany about why people stall in their careers and explains the real skills gap that holds foremen back from advancing. If you want to move forward with confidence instead of fear, this episode lays out a clear, practical path. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: · Why career growth doesn't happen automatically—you have to force the jump · The hidden skills that stop foremen from advancing beyond early superintendent levels · Why technology, organization, and communication are the real barriers (not intelligence) · How fear of computers, email, and systems quietly limits career progression · Why the field engineer path accelerates long-term growth · The four core skill sets every future superintendent must master · How to train yourself if you don't have access to formal programs · What it actually takes to move from foreman to high-level leadership If you're a worker or foreman who wants more—more responsibility, more opportunity, more impact this episode is your wake-up call. Don't wait for someone to notice you or promote you. Take ownership of your growth, force the learning curve, and build the skills that unlock your next level. If you need help creating that path or want guidance on where to start, reach out, take action, and commit to your future. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason and his wife Katie explore one of the most powerful mindset shifts for leaders: assuming positive intent. Through the concept of "skill, not will" from the book Changeable, they unpack why most people are doing their best even when their behavior is frustrating, and how identifying their positive intent allows you to stay in control, find win-win solutions, and avoid getting dragged into the mud. What you'll learn in this episode: Why most negative behavior is a skill problem, not a will problem How assuming positive intent keeps you in control and out of reactive mode The technique of identifying what someone is trying to accomplish (even when they do it poorly) Why people who seem difficult are often just trying to meet basic needs like significance or connection How this mindset shift frees you from the emotional weight of assuming the worst about people Stop getting dragged into the mud and start leading from a place of control. 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 construction, leaders often play savior when team members bring complaints about each other. But that approach drains your emotional currency, prevents real conflict resolution, and stops teams from building trust. In this episode, Jason breaks down the right way to handle complaints by connecting people directly, coaching healthy conflict, and building teams that solve their own problems instead of running to you. What you'll learn in this episode: Why playing savior with complaints drains your emotional currency and prevents team growth The four-step response system for handling complaints without becoming the middleman When you must handle complaints directly versus when you should connect people together How healthy teams function like Navy SEALs or Olympic teams with open coaching and accountability The guiding principle: Is this bringing the team closer together or pushing them further apart? Stop playing savior and start building teams that trust each other. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason continues the Calumet K series with Chapter 2, where Charlie Peterson's inexperience becomes painfully clear against Bannon's problem-solving drive. Through the story of Murphy's rope drive job and Peterson's cribbing crisis, Jason unpacks what separates proficient superintendents from inexperienced ones and why comfort zone work is just running away from real leadership. What you'll learn in this episode: Why doing laborer's work means you're running away from your real job as a superintendent How productively paranoid leaders attack supply chain issues instead of hoping they resolve themselves Why great superintendents get out of their comfort zone to solve hard problems nobody else wants to tackle The difference between victim mentality and ownership mentality when deadlines and penalties are on the line How urgency and aggressive problem-solving separate proficient project teams from inexperienced ones Are you leading or just staying busy in your comfort zone? 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 construction, no scheduling system is one-size-fits-all not CPM, not Last Planner, not even Takt. But what if there was a framework that could work across nearly any project milestone with just team collaboration and a simple board? In this episode, Jason introduces Scrum, an agile planning system built on transparency, daily standups, and constant feedback that can transform how your teams plan, execute, and actually win on site instead of just surviving. What you'll learn in this episode: Why traditional scheduling systems fall short and how Scrum creates true team collaboration without requiring scheduling expertise. The 12 practical steps to implement Scrum on your construction projects, from creating a backlog to running sprint retrospectives. How to use a simple four-column Scrum board to move tasks from planning to completion and gain on schedules instead of barely meeting them. Why Scrum works across milestones while other systems require specialized knowledge and constant adjustment. How daily standups, sprint reviews, and scoring systems create a process of constant improvement that makes teams faster and happier. Stop worrying about being behind start planning to win. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Safety, quality, and productivity aren't three competing dials you don't "pick two." In this episode, Jason is joined by Jim Rogers (known for his LinkedIn Learning work) to break down why those three outcomes are inextricably linked: when safety drops, productivity drops; when quality drops, safety and schedule suffer; and when teams chase speed without systems, everything gets worse. They talk about leading indicators, using technology and data to spot problems early, and adopting Lean thinking so you remove root causes instead of just adding manpower and hoping it fixes the mess. What you'll learn in this episode: Why "pick two" is a myth, and how safety, quality, and productivity rise and fall together How unsafe conditions reduce efficiency and quality (and why fear and chaos kill performance) How Lean thinking shifts the paradigm: remove waste and root causes instead of adding people to "clean up" problems How leading indicators and construction technology can reveal early warning signs before you get injuries, rework, and delays The challenge to "think differently" and build training, learning, and better systems into the industry Are you still living in the old paradigm of "pick two," or are you ready to build a system where safety, quality, and productivity improve 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

Success in construction isn't about getting a new title, a new truck, or a new company it's about getting into your red zone: what you're best at, what you love doing, and what you get paid for. In this episode, Jason shares the "silver bullet" he believes can accelerate almost anyone's career in construction: finding your core purpose and building your fundamentals the right way. He tells the story of going from nearly getting fired as a field engineer to becoming a trusted teacher and coach—because he went back to basics, studied relentlessly, and implemented what works. If you want to level up fast, this episode will give you a direction and a practical starting point. What you'll learn in this episode: What "success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure" really means and how to find your red zone How to identify your core purpose (and why promotions won't fix misalignment) The difference between running to something vs. running away from something in your career decisions Why the Field Engineering Methods Manual can be a career "silver bullet," and how mastering fundamentals changes everything Why workers and foremen should consider the field engineer path to build a foundation before moving into superintendent leadership Are you chasing a new position to fix a feeling or are you willing to do the hard work to get aligned with your core purpose and build the foundation that will actually change your 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

Your body is your #1 tool, and if you don't take care of it, the job will eventually take it from you. In this episode, Jason is joined by Dr. Steve Grennan and Amanda Hill from Biohealth Management to talk specifically about lower-back pain, why sitting can wreck your spine, and how tight hamstrings and dehydration show up as real symptoms on the job. They give practical, jobsite-ready guidance for mobility, hydration, and prevention so you can work hard without paying for it later. Plus, they share how to get a simple stretch sheet and a giveaway for boot insoles for the first listeners who take action. What you'll learn in this episode: Why sitting (car rides, slouching, and "resting" at home) can make lower-back issues worse How tight hamstrings pull your pelvis, flatten your low-back curve, and create symptoms The difference between nerve-related pain vs. muscular strain and how to recognize early warning signs Why hydration matters for joints, muscle function, and recovery—and how dehydration shows up fast How to get a simple low-back stretch program and request a free insole kit (first 75 who email [email protected]) Are you treating your body like a replaceable part or like the asset that determines your future? 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

Construction can build a great career but it can also quietly take your family if you don't design the lifestyle on purpose. In this episode, Jason is joined by his wife, Katie, for an honest conversation about what it really takes to protect families in a high-intensity industry: making clear agreements, setting expectations, staying kind, and showing up at home with the right energy. They share real stories from the early years, the sacrifice of travel and long hours, and the practical mindset shift that helps couples stop "surviving construction" and start building a life together. What you'll learn in this episode: Why couples must make the "deal" up front: expectations for hours, travel, moving, and what support really looks like How construction spouses build home systems and why the working spouse shouldn't come home and disrupt them Why being tired is never an excuse to be a jerk, and how kindness and presence matter more than perfection Practical ways dads and moms can show up: helping with kids, communicating, and becoming a positive influence at home Why "builders build lives": stop competing, stop comparing, and keep working back toward balance, health, and family stability If your family is the most important project you have, what agreement and habit will you build next so your home stays strong while you build in the field? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

If you've ever wondered how Scrum can actually work in construction, this episode is your introduction from the source. Jason interviews Felipe Engineer, a Lean leader and Scrum master, to break down how Scrum creates flow, reduces multitasking, and helps teams attack the most critical and troublesome parts of a project with fast feedback loops. They also get into a huge point that matters for real builders: Lean tools like Last Planner should be PDCA'd and adapted to fit the project, not treated like a rigid template that burns people out. This is a practical conversation about being more agile, more nimble, and more effective without losing respect for people. What you'll learn in this episode: What Scrum is (backlog → to-do/doing/done → daily scrum → review → retrospective) and how it maps to Last Planner thinking How Scrum helps teams stop multitasking, create flow, and deliver "done-done" work with fewer surprises Why Lean tools must be modified with PDCA to fit the job (and why "template-only" thinking kills buy-in) Where Scrum fits best in construction: complex functional areas like elevators, MRIs, critical changeovers, and high-risk scopes How to introduce Scrum the right way: start simple, meet people where they are, and let pull—not push—create adoption Are you trying to manage your project with rigid templates or are you willing to build an agile system that creates flow and lets the team win? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw