Elevate Construction

Jason Schroeder

Elevating construction with interviews, training, and techniques that will make the build environment better for workers, our customers, companies, and the industry as a whole.

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1,655 episodes
Updated July 29

Episodes1655

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Aug 31, 2020 · 34 min
Ep.55 - Leader Standard Work - Your 20%
Leader standard work isn't a fancy productivity hack it's the system that makes every other improvement idea actually stick. In this episode, Jason explains why new habits, meetings, and processes fail when leaders don't have a "receptacle" for them, and how leader standard work protects the critical 20% of actions that drive 80% of results. You'll hear real examples from Jason's own calendar as a lead superintendent and as a director, plus a practical way to build your week around role clarity, personal commitments, key meetings, and the unavoidable chaos of the job. If you want to be more effective, get home on time, and stop being a victim to everyone else's priorities, this is the foundation. What you'll learn in this episode: What leader standard work is and why it's the "receptacle" that sustains habits, processes, and improvement How to build leader standard work in the right order: role → resolutions → standard work → personal organization system How to structure your week: family/personal time first, then required project meetings, then your critical standard work, then chaos The minimum protection target (50% or your project is in trouble) and the goal (80%+) for completing your leader standard work How daily plan-reading, schedule review, and field walks become a trigger system to see the future and stay ahead of problems If your calendar is currently running you what would change if you designed leader standard work that protected your priorities first? 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
Aug 28, 2020 · 29 min
Ep.54 - Contractor Grading!
Contractor performance doesn't improve with more babysitting; it improves when expectations are clear, measurable, and visible to everyone. In this episode, Jason shares a proven "trade partner grading system" that creates collective accountability on site and takes pressure off the superintendent. You'll learn how to grade only non-subjective criteria, publish the results consistently, and use simple visual tools that help teams rise to the occasion. When people can see the standard, they can hit the standard and the whole project gets safer, cleaner, and more stable. What you'll learn in this episode: Why you can't manage what you can't measure and how grading makes performance visible How to build non-subjective grading criteria (yes/no, countable, provable) that drive stability and flow How to use weekly consistency, peer visibility, and a "circle of trust" to create real accountability. Why trade partners should grade the GC first and how reciprocity makes the system fair and effective How clear expectations protect the A players, help F players rise, and reduce superintendent overburden Are you protecting your best performers or letting hidden problems steal time, money, and morale from the whole team? 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
Aug 27, 2020 · 34 min
Ep.53 - Schedule Comes First, Feat. Spencer Easton (THE MAN!)
Schedule isn't just a requirement it's the first leadership decision that protects everything else on the project. In this episode, Jason sits down with scheduling expert Spencer Easton to break down why schedule comes first to support safety, quality, and cost. You'll hear how unrealistic durations force corner-cutting, inflate manpower and inventory, and create chaos that no "hard work" can save. Most importantly, you'll learn how to move scheduling earlier so teams can plan for flow instead of fighting fires. What you'll learn in this episode: Why safety and quality are the first things to suffer when the schedule is unrealistic How schedule drives cost (days = dollars) and why starting with budget creates bad behavior How a schedule becomes a tool for safety planning and quality triggers (inspections, mockups, risk planning) Practical ways to move scheduling earlier: Takt planning early, builders in precon, and an integrated project team. Why understanding CPM/critical path is still foundational even if we need better visualization tools If your team truly put schedule first, what problems would disappear and what leadership habits would you have to change? 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
Aug 26, 2020 · 20 min
Ep.52 - Build a Little Better - Give it Time
If you feel behind in your career, this episode is your reminder to slow down and build the foundation that actually takes you further. Jason talks about why so many people get stuck at the superintendent 1–2 level when they rush past field engineering and the "builder" years. You'll hear what "time in the seat" really gives you—skills, confidence, and the fundamentals that make the next role easier instead of harder. This is about patience, discipline, and enjoying the journey while you're becoming the kind of builder and leader people can trust. What you'll learn in this episode: Why rushing promotions can get you stuck at the mid-level superintendent or PM roles The value of spending real time as a field engineer, in layout, or in a builder role before managing The difference between builder experience and management experience—and why you need both Why discipline beats talent, and how habits like training, reading, and practice compound over time How to avoid being indispensable by training your replacement and acting ready for the next role If you're in a hurry to move up, are you building the foundation or skipping the very thing that If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw
Aug 25, 2020 · 35 min
Ep.51 - Artful Delegation
Worry can hijack your life and in construction, it can feel like you're carrying the job home every night. In this episode, Jason shares practical, builder-tested ways to reduce anxiety and stress using lessons from Dale Carnegie's How to Stop Worrying and Start Living, including "day-tight compartments" and getting the mental clutter out of your head and into a system. He also talks about real panic attack experiences, the role of exercise and habits, and why some situations require professional medical help. You'll leave with simple tools you can use today to calm your mind, protect your energy, and live a more balanced life. What you'll learn in this episode: How to "live in day-tight compartments" so yesterday and tomorrow don't steal today How to use box breathing to regain mind control when stress starts to spike How a simple to-do system and staying meaningfully engaged can crowd worry out Six practical ways to reduce fatigue and worry: rest before tired, relax at work/home, prioritize, decide, organize, and supervise Why asking for help early and getting professional support when needed is strength, not weakness What would change in your work and family life if you stopped carrying tomorrow's problems into 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
Aug 24, 2020 · 36 min
Ep.50 - Remarkable Leadership - Winning Teams
In this final episode of the series, Jason Schroeder discusses how leaders can drive change and build effective teams by applying key principles. Drawing from books such as The Advantage and The Five Temptations of a CEO, Jason shares strategies to overcome challenges in leadership, including how to build clarity, create accountability, and reinforce healthy team dynamics. If you're ready to elevate your leadership and team performance, this episode provides actionable insights to help you succeed. What you'll learn in this episode: · How to build and maintain a cohesive leadership team · The importance of clarity and over-communication in leadership · Practical tactics for leading with humility, accountability, and trust · How to foster a culture of transparency and healthy conflict · The role of personal growth and energy in effective leadership What leadership actions will you take today to build a stronger, more cohesive team? 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
Aug 21, 2020 · 33 min
Ep.49 - How To Be An Ideal Team Player - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder discusses how to support your team and become an ideal team player. Drawing from the book The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni, Jason highlights the three essential qualities—humility, hunger, and smartness—that make someone a great team player. He also shares personal experiences of how these qualities have helped him build strong, successful teams and offers practical tips on how to cultivate them in yourself and your team. What you'll learn in this episode: · The importance of humility, hunger, and people smarts in building strong teams · How to recognize and cultivate ideal team players in your organization · The role of culture in team success and how to create a positive environment · Why you must prioritize personal well-being to effectively support your team · Actionable strategies for fostering humility, hunger, and smartness on your projects How will you incorporate the principles of humility, hunger, and smartness into your team to elevate performance and create a positive work 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
Aug 20, 2020 · 42 min
Ep.48 - Remarkable Communication - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder dives deep into the crucial topic of team communication on construction projects. He shares how to create a culture of communication where everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. Whether you're a leader or team member, this episode offers actionable tips for improving communication, overcoming barriers, and creating a more transparent, collaborative work environment. What you'll learn in this episode: · The importance of tailoring communication to visual, kinesthetic, and auditory learners · How to create a culture of communication that appeals to all team members · The challenges of communication and how to overcome them on construction sites · Why transparency is key to building trust and ensuring project success · Practical advice for communicating effectively with teams and stakeholders How will you increase communication on your project to ensure everyone understands and acts as one? 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
Aug 19, 2020 · 41 min
Ep.47 - Creating Positive Work Environments Feat. Ricky Davenport
In this episode, Jason Schroeder sits down with Ricky Davenport, a senior superintendent, to discuss how to create a positive culture on construction projects. Ricky shares his experience leading a high-performing team on a large project, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, accountability, and building strong relationships with everyone on site. Whether you're a superintendent, project manager, or part of a construction team, this podcast provides valuable insights into leadership, team dynamics, and maintaining a positive work environment. What you'll learn in this episode: · The power of personal connections and understanding people's motivations · How to implement effective team meetings to drive progress · The importance of zero tolerance for safety and cleanliness while maintaining a positive atmosphere · Why getting to know your team can lead to better project results · How persistence and positivity can transform a project culture How can you improve communication and build stronger connections within your project team? 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
Aug 18, 2020 · 35 min
Ep.46 - Death By Meeting - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder dives into the importance of running effective meetings on construction projects. If you hate meetings or feel they're inefficient, this podcast will change your perspective. Discover how to structure meetings that create flow, improve communication, and boost productivity. Jason shares practical tips, including how to make meetings more engaging and relevant, using stories from the field and strategies drawn from the book Death by Meeting. What you'll learn in this episode: · How to structure daily and weekly meetings for maximum efficiency · The importance of keeping meetings engaging and focused on critical tasks · Practical tips to get your team to buy into meeting systems and improve flow · Why effective meetings can save you time and boost project success · How to ensure your meetings align with your project's goals and vision What changes will you make to your meeting system to ensure it's more than just a waste of time? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw
Aug 17, 2020 · 34 min
Ep.45 - The Five Dysfunctions of a Team - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder delves into the five dysfunctions of a team and how to overcome them to build a high-performing team. If you've struggled with team dynamics, lack of commitment, or avoiding accountability, this podcast will provide actionable steps to turn things around. Jason shares personal experiences, offers practical tips, and emphasizes the importance of healthy conflict, trust, and accountability in building successful teams. What you'll learn in this episode: · The five dysfunctions of a team and how to address them · How to engage in healthy conflict to drive team success · The importance of setting clear goals and holding each other accountable · How to create a safe environment for trust and open communication · Steps to transform your team's performance and culture Are you ready to confront the dysfunctions in your team and create a culture of trust and accountability? 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
Aug 14, 2020 · 15 min
Ep.44 - Change - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explores how to successfully implement change, even when change feels difficult. He outlines key principles from Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip and Dan Heath, focusing on directing the rider, motivating the elephant, and shaping the path. If you've struggled with getting your team or yourself to adopt new practices, this podcast will give you actionable steps to make change happen and drive success on your projects. What you'll learn in this episode: · How to apply the elephant and rider analogy to manage change · The importance of motivating the team emotionally and intellectually · How to shape the path and reduce obstacles to make change easier · Practical steps for leading teams through difficult transitions · The power of creating clear direction, emotional connections, and a clear path What change will you implement tomorrow to start driving your team's success? 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
Aug 13, 2020 · 37 min
Ep.43 - The Three Signs of a Miserable Job - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder discusses the vital role of employee engagement and how to achieve it in your teams. He shares key insights from Patrick Lencioni's work, The Truth About Employee Engagement, offering practical tips on how to keep employees motivated and fulfilled at work. If you've ever wondered how to increase productivity and build a more engaged, successful team, this podcast is a must-listen. What you'll learn in this episode: · How to increase employee engagement through personal connection and measurable goals · The three signs of a miserable job: irrelevance, immeasurability, and anonymity · Why employees leave their bosses, not companies, and how to prevent that · How to create an environment where your team works at 100% capacity · The role of intentional check-ins and real conversations in boosting morale and productivity How will you connect with your team today to ensure they feel valued and relevant in their work? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw
Aug 12, 2020 · 42 min
Ep.42 - Team Balance and Health - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder discusses the critical importance of team balance and health on construction projects. He shares insights on how to create a work-life blend, improve team dynamics, and ensure that everyone, from the superintendent to the craft workers, can go home on time and still meet project goals. If you're struggling with overworked teams, long hours, or the stress of balancing work and personal life, this episode offers a systematic approach to help create stability and balance on your projects. What you'll learn in this episode: · How to implement team coverage systems to prevent overburdening team members · Why work-life blend is more effective than work-life balance · The importance of creating a culture where team members can take time off without guilt · How to avoid burnout by setting a good example and having clear systems in place · How to maintain stability and operational excellence on your job site How will you create a work environment where team balance and health are prioritized? 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
Aug 11, 2020 · 40 min
Ep.41 - Building Trust - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder tackles the vital topic of building trust on construction teams. He shares insights from his personal experience and Brene Brown's work on vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of transparency, integrity, and vulnerability in creating a high-performing team. If you're looking to build a stronger, more cohesive team where trust is the foundation, this episode will give you practical tips and principles to make that happen. What you'll learn in this episode: · The importance of vulnerability in building trust · How to create a team culture based on transparency and accountability · Actionable steps to strengthen trust within your team · Key behaviors that can help your team overcome dysfunction and perform at a high level · How to intentionally build trust and keep it thriving What steps will you take today to intentionally build trust within your team? 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
Aug 10, 2020 · 31 min
Ep.40 - The Wisdom of Teams - Winning Teams
In this episode, Jason kicks off a new series on teaming and organizational health by explaining why balanced, healthy teams are the biggest competitive advantage in construction. He introduces the difference between multipliers and diminishers, why every team needs a clear performance goal, and why healthy conflict and real accountability are non-negotiable if you want a team to reach high performance. You'll also learn the "team performance curve" (working group to high-performance team) and what it takes to move a group up that curve so people feel trusted, relevant, and effective, while still getting home on time. What you'll learn in this episode: Why team health matters more than strategy or tools Multipliers vs. diminishers and their impact on teams The role of clear performance goals in team success How teams progress to high performance Why healthy conflict and accountability are required If you want a high-performing team, you must build around three essentials: a multiplier leader, a clear strenuous performance goal, and a culture where people practice healthy conflict and hold each other mutually accountable. Without those, team-building activities and personality tests won't move performance. 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
Aug 7, 2020 · 33 min
Ep.39 - The Top Blocks To Leadership
In this episode, Jason breaks down the hidden behaviors that quietly block leaders from taking their next step and shows how to identify and eliminate them. You will learn the 16 most common leadership blocks that show up on real projects, from wanting to be liked to indecisiveness, perfectionism, and playing savior with others. This matters because these patterns don't just hurt project performance, they destroy accountability, burn out leaders, and rob people of balance at home. If you want to grow your influence, lead with respect, and stop being held back by blind spots, this episode gives you a clear place to start. What you'll learn in this episode Why common leadership blocks, like wanting to be liked, indecisiveness, perfectionism, or playing savior, quietly sabotage your growth. How selfishness sits at the root of many limiting behaviors and how shifting focus to respect and responsibility changes everything. How to identify your personal blocks and begin intentionally practicing new behaviors that strengthen your leadership. Why real leadership requires accountability, courage, and the willingness to speak up, even when it's uncomfortable. How the principles of respect for people and doing the right thing can guide any leadership decision with clarity. Pick the one leadership block that shows up most in your behavior, write it down, identify where it shows up on your project, and intentionally practice the opposite behavior until it becomes your new standard. 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
Aug 6, 2020 · 19 min
Ep.38 - Build a Little Better - Burning Our Ships!
This episode explores one of the most powerful leadership concepts in construction: burning your ships. Jason breaks down why project teams fall into the trap of pushing problems to the end, and how leaders can eliminate that escape route by creating clear milestones, urgency, and absolute commitment to the plan. Through compelling stories and practical examples, he shows how teams win when there is no fallback option and everyone understands the true performance goal. If you want your projects to finish on time without chaos at the end, this episode will challenge the way you lead and plan. What you'll learn in this episode Why construction teams naturally push issues to the end of the project and how to stop it. How intermediate milestones act as "points of no return" that drive urgency and discipline. Why burning your ships creates focus, unity, and predictable project success. How to use visual milestone boards and team ownership to maintain accountability. Why real urgency not artificial emergencies is essential for high-performing teams. If you removed every excuse to delay and committed fully to the plan in front of you, how much more predictable and peaceful would your projects and your leadership be? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw
Aug 5, 2020 · 34 min
Ep.37 - Afternoon Foreman Huddles
This episode digs into one of the most powerful levers a superintendent has: the daily and weekly huddle system that aligns foremen, workers, and the project. Jason breaks down how afternoon foreman huddles, worker huddles, and a weekly planning rhythm transform chaos into clarity on any job site. Through real project examples and hard-earned lessons, he shows why scaling communication from the master schedule to the worker is the foundation of flow, stability, and predictable production. If you've ever struggled with firefighting, misalignment, or wasted mornings, this episode will reset how you plan and lead. What you'll learn in this episode Why foreman and worker huddles are essential to eliminating chaos and aligning every trade. How afternoon foreman huddles create better planning, fewer reroutes, and smoother mornings. Why two out of three meetings weekly planning, foreman huddles, worker huddles are the minimum for project stability. How to scale communication from the master schedule all the way to the day plan every worker can follow. How effective huddles reduce firefighting, improve safety, and give leaders the freedom to go home on time. If every person on your project knew exactly what winning looked like tomorrow, how different would your days and your results be? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw
Aug 4, 2020 · 18 min
Ep.36. - Build a Little Better - Signs of a Project in Trouble!
This episode goes straight to the heart of project leadership by revealing the early warning signs that a construction job is heading into trouble. Jason shares a powerful list developed by seasoned general superintendents and explains how issues like uncleanliness, disorganization, team dysfunction, and failing systems are not root causes but symptoms pointing to deeper problems. Through real stories and clear examples, he shows how identifying these signals early allows leaders to intervene, restore flow, and protect workers, owners, and the project itself. If you want to stay ahead of crises instead of reacting to them, this episode is essential listening. What you'll learn in this episode How visible symptoms like uncleanliness, unsafe conditions, and chaos reveal deeper leadership and system failures. Why dysfunctional teams, low energy, turnover, and poor communication signal urgent project health concerns. How missing reporting systems and unclear metrics indicate that a team doesn't know where it stands. What multiple struggling subcontractors or unreasonable owners can tell you about the state of a project. How reestablishing flow and diagnosing true root causes can bring a troubled project back on track. If you could spot trouble on your project the moment it appears, how much time, money, and stress could you save and how many people could you protect? 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