Elevate Construction

Jaksot

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  Ep.1711 - Why I Suck 13.10.2026 13min

  It's easy to compare your worst moments to someone else's best ones. In this episode, Jason pulls back the curtain and shares the side of himself. People rarely see the mistakes, flaws, difficult tendencies, and failures that exist alongside everything he teaches and builds. His point is not self-pity; it is perspective: nobody has everything figured out. Jason reflects on mistakes he has made as a young builder, son, parent, husband, leader, and business owner, while explaining why transparency can sometimes teach us more than polished perfection ever could. What you'll learn in this episode: Why comparing your struggles to someone else's highlights creates a distorted picture. How transparency can make leadership more relatable and useful. Why strong professional performance does not mean someone has every area of life figured out. How self-awareness helps expose controlling, defensive, and unhealthy tendencies. Why accepting imperfection does not remove the responsibility to keep improving. Are you judging yourself against someone else's best moments while ignoring the parts of their life you never get to see?   If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw It's easy to compare your worst moments to someone else's best ones. In this episode, Jason pulls back the curtain and shares the side of himself. People rarely see the mistakes, flaws, difficult tendencies, and failures that exist alongside everything he teaches and builds. His point is not self-pity; it is perspective: nobody has everything figured out. Jason reflects on mistakes he has made as a young builder, son, parent, husband, leader, and business owner, while explaining why transparency can sometimes teach us more than polished perfection ever could. What you'll learn in this episode: Why comparing your struggles to someone else's highlights creates a distorted picture. How transparency can make leadership more relatable and useful. Why strong professional performance does not mean someone has every area of life figured out. How self-awareness helps expose controlling, defensive, and unhealthy tendencies. Why accepting imperfection does not remove the responsibility to keep improving. Are you judging yourself against someone else's best moments while ignoring the parts of their life you never get to see?   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
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  Ep.1710 - How to Feel Organized and Still Get Home on Time 13.10.2026 9min

  Feeling organized should not require staying late every day. In this episode, Jason explains how to stay ahead of your work without letting it consume your life by creating quiet planning time, reducing commitments, and focusing only on what truly needs your attention. Jason shares how early focused work, the Eisenhower Matrix, delegation, automation, strong to-do systems, and one-piece flow can help leaders reduce mental overload and finish the day feeling ahead instead of constantly catching up. What you'll learn in this episode: Why quiet, focused time early in the day can dramatically improve productivity. How saying no, delegating, and eliminating unnecessary work creates more capacity. Why the Eisenhower Matrix can help you focus on what actually matters. How one-piece flow reduces distraction and the stress of doing too many things at once. Why trusted systems, calendars, automation, and to-do lists help you leave work without carrying it home. Are you staying late because there is too much work or because your system is still asking you to carry too much at once?   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
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  Ep.1709 - We're Too Addicted to Computers 12.10.2026 13min

  Being busy on a computer does not always mean real work is getting done. In this episode, Jason challenges the construction industry's dependence on screens and asks whether project teams are spending too much time behind computers instead of leading, observing, solving problems, and being present where the work actually happens. Jason shares how recent personal and professional experiences reinforced the importance of being fully present. He explains why computers should support the work not replace real conversations, field leadership, visual planning, and going to the Gemba. What you'll learn in this episode: Why being active on a computer can create the illusion of productivity. How excessive screen time can disconnect leaders from real project conditions. Why project teams need more face-to-face conversations and field observation. How computers should support systems instead of becoming the system. Why going to the Gemba remains essential for effective construction leadership. Are your computers helping you lead the work or keeping you away from where the real work is happening?   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
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  Ep.1708 - Make It Work Before You Standardize It 12.10.2026 9min

  You can't optimize something that doesn't exist yet. In this episode, Jason explains why teams need to separate the invention phase from the optimization phase and why trying to perfect or standardize an idea too early can actually prevent progress. Jason shares how this principle shows up in Lean Logistics, Super PM Bootcamp, and construction operations: first create something that works, experiment with it, prove the process, and only then turn it into standard work and begin improving it. What you'll learn in this episode: Why invention and optimization require two different mindsets. How premature standardization can lock a process into an immature version. Why getting something working comes before trying to perfect it. How standard work creates a foundation for continuous improvement. Why action and experimentation are essential before optimization begins. Are you improving a proven process or trying to perfect something that hasn't even been built yet?   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
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  Ep.1707 - Build the Team Before You Build the Project 12.10.2026 7min

  Great projects start by getting the right people into the right roles before the work begins. In this episode, Jason connects Jocko Willink and Leif Babin's "cover and move" principle with practical frameworks for building construction teams that can trust each other, communicate openly, and perform together. Jason explains how team size, geographical responsibilities, personality, aptitude, and tools like DISC, Cultural Index, Enneagram, and the Six Types of Working Genius can help leaders determine who belongs in each key seat before mobilization. What you'll learn in this episode: Why getting the right people into key seats is critical to project success. How "cover and move" connects to intentional team building. Why trust, healthy conflict, accountability, and transparency must be developed early. How geographical responsibilities can help clarify ownership across a project. Why personality and aptitude should influence who is selected for each role. Are you intentionally building the team before the project starts or simply filling seats?   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
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  Ep.1706 - Get Rid of the Word "Should" 06.10.2026 5min

  "Should" sounds harmless, but in construction planning it often reveals uncertainty. In this episode, Jason shares a lesson from a field walk that changed the way he thinks about pre-planning: stop saying something should happen and dig deep enough until you know what will happen. Jason explains why words like "should" and "try" create weak commitments and how replacing assumptions with certainty can expose gaps before they become field problems. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the word "should" often signals uncertainty in planning. How weak language can hide gaps in preparation and accountability. Why pre-construction teams need facts instead of assumptions. How digging deeper creates stronger commitments and better readiness. Why replacing "should" with "I know" can improve pre-phase planning. Where are you still saying "should" when you really need to know?   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
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  Ep.1705 - Out of Your Head, Off of Your Shoulders 06.10.2026 10min

  Trying to carry an entire project in your head is not a sign of strength; it creates unnecessary stress, hides information from the team, and puts the burden on one person. In this episode, Jason explains why plans, problems, commitments, and next steps need to be made visible so the entire team can see them and help carry the load. Jason connects personal to-do lists, afternoon foreman huddles, visual planning, and team problem-solving to one simple idea: when you get the work out of your head, you get the weight off your shoulders. What you'll learn in this episode: Why keeping project information in your head creates unnecessary risk and stress. How afternoon foreman huddles help teams prepare the next day together. Why problems should belong to the team instead of a single individual. How visual planning creates shared awareness and makes Lean systems easier to manage. Why writing things down can improve reliability while reducing the mental burden on leaders. What could you get off your shoulders today simply by getting it out of your head?   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
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  Ep.1704 - Hurry Up and Plan 06.10.2026 10min

  The worst time to start planning is when construction is already underway. In this episode, Jason explains why urgency belongs in pre-construction not in the field and why teams should work aggressively upfront so crews do not have to rush, panic, recover, or improvise later. Jason breaks down the difference between driving hard during planning and pushing people during construction. His point is simple: use the time before work starts to remove constraints, coordinate the details, and prepare the project so field execution can happen with stability, flow, and safety. What you'll learn in this episode: Why urgency should happen in pre-construction instead of in the field. How strong planning protects crews from rush, panic, overtime, and unnecessary risk. Why delaying planning until excavation or early construction wastes critical opportunities. How early preparation helps remove constraints before they become field problems. Why Jason believes an hour in pre-construction can save far more time during construction. Are you hurrying up to plan now or waiting until the field forces you to react?   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
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  Ep. 1703 - There's No Such Thing as a Small Mistake With a Client 06.10.2026 12min

  A mistake may feel small to you, but it may not feel small to your client. In this episode, Jason explains why minimizing a client's concern can damage trust and why every complaint should be treated as an opportunity to understand, connect, and improve. Jason shares how his perspective changed after learning to see himself as an extension of the client's team. He explains why empathy, accountability, and taking concerns seriously can turn mistakes into stronger relationships instead of bigger problems. What you'll learn in this episode: Why a small mistake internally can feel significant to a client. How changing your perspective can improve client relationships. Why dismissing concerns prevents teams from finding the real problem. How empathy and vulnerability create opportunities to repair trust. Why responding well to complaints can make a relationship stronger than before. Are you deciding how big the mistake is or are you listening to how big it feels to your client?   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
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  Ep.1702 - Training From the Battle Perch 06.10.2026 4min

  What if one of the best places to train future construction leaders is above the job site? In this episode, Jason explores the concept of the "battle perch" an elevated position where leaders can step back, observe the entire project, and learn from what the building and the site are showing them. Jason shares how this idea can become more than an observation tool by turning it into a deliberate mentoring opportunity for assistant superintendents, field engineers, project engineers, and project managers. What you'll learn in this episode: Why a bird's-eye view can reveal things you may miss at ground level. How the battle perch supports strategic and tactical observation. Why leaders should intentionally slow down and let the job site teach them. How to use the battle perch as a mentoring and career-development tool. Why bringing younger leaders along can build stronger field judgment. Are you using your battle perch just to observe or to develop the next generation of builders?   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
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  Ep.1701 - If You're Not Happy, Leave 06.10.2026 20min

  How much of your life are you willing to postpone for a future that isn't guaranteed? In this episode, Jason challenges the idea of staying stuck in a job, career, or lifestyle that makes you miserable simply because leaving feels risky. Drawing from recent experiences with loss, family, work, and the passage of time, he argues that life should be lived intentionally now not someday. Jason also explores the idea of "never finding yourself in the middle," explaining why unclear standards and inconsistent expectations can create unnecessary complexity in both work and life. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Jason believes staying miserable in the wrong role can cost more than leaving. How loss and the reality of limited time can change the way you think about work and family. Why meaningful experiences today may matter more than endlessly preparing for someday. How clear standards can be easier to manage than inconsistent expectations. Why living intentionally requires making decisions instead of remaining stuck in the middle. Are you building the life you actually want now or postponing it for a future that may never come?   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
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  Ep.1700 - The System Asking for Help 05.10.2026 9min

  What if your system could tell you when it needed help? In this episode, Jason explores the Jidoka principle and reframes it as something much bigger than a machine simply stopping when something goes wrong. A truly lean process should make problems visible, flag them in real time, and ask a human to intervene when help is needed. Jason connects Jidoka, Just-in-Time, Kaizen, visual systems, and respect for people to explain why lean systems should never hide problems.  What you'll learn in this episode: Why Jidoka can be understood as a system or process asking a human for help. How flow makes interruptions, bottlenecks, and roadblocks visible. Why visual systems should expose problems instead of hiding them. How respect for people connects Jidoka, Kaizen, and continuous improvement. Why a system isn't truly lean until it can flag problems at the right time. Does everything you've set up ask a human for help when a problem appears?   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
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  Ep.1699 - Work and Worship 05.10.2026 15min

  What if the way you work is more than just a way to earn a living? In this episode, Jason explores the idea that meaningful work can become a form of worship, an opportunity to serve people, create value, fulfill your calling, and make a difference in the world. He also explains why loving hard work does not mean ignoring balance, health, safety, or the people doing the work.  What you'll learn in this episode: Why meaningful work can be connected to purpose, service, and worship. How Lean environments can reduce stress, injuries, and unnecessary burdens on workers. Why team balance, personal organization, health, and PTO are essential to sustainable performance. Why Jason believes hard work and balance are not opposites. How loving your work can help you serve your family, your team, and humanity at a higher level. What if the work you do every day is part of your purpose, not just your paycheck?   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
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  Ep.1698 - Behaviors Have Consequences 05.10.2026 8min

  What happens when being "nice" means never setting standards, never addressing poor performance, and never holding teams accountable? In this episode, Jason explores the uncomfortable consequences of avoiding accountability and questions whether protecting people from difficult conversations can ultimately hurt them more. He discusses operating systems, training, field walks, psychological safety, and the responsibility leaders have to create an environment where people can succeed while still maintaining high standards. What you'll learn in this episode: Why an operating system, training, and field walks work together to drive consistent performance. How avoiding accountability can create drift, complacency, and poor project performance. Why leaders must consider the impact of weak standards on workers and trade partners. How high standards and psychological safety can coexist within a healthy company culture. Why consistently performing may be kinder than avoiding difficult conversations and eventually laying people off. Which is truly kinder: avoiding accountability, or holding high standards while helping people succeed?   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
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  Ep.1697 - The Most Important Things in Construction Planning 30.09.2026 10min

  In this episode, Jason breaks down the five planning practices he believes are essential to successful construction delivery: pull planning, look-ahead planning, pre-construction meetings, morning worker huddles, and material queuing. The goal is to stay ahead of the work, remove roadblocks early, and make sure every crew has what they need before they begin. When the work is truly ready, teams spend less time reacting and more time executing. What you'll learn in this episode: Why pull planning should begin months before a phase starts. How look-ahead planning identifies and removes roadblocks before they impact work. Why pre-construction meetings ensure each trade is fully ready to start. How morning worker huddles align crews before they enter the work area. Why materials must be inspected, staged, and fully kitted before delivery to the crew. Are you planning far enough ahead to make tomorrow's work predictable?   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
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  Ep.1696 - See People, See the System 30.09.2026 10min

  In this episode, Jason explores the relationship between people and the systems that shape their performance. A strong person can still struggle when placed inside a broken system and improving the system often requires capable people who are willing to see and fix it. The goal is to build environments where good people can perform at their best and continuously improve. What you'll learn in this episode: Why people should be developed before expecting them to build great things. How training and operating systems work together to help people succeed. Why a bad system can overwhelm even capable people. Why leaders need to understand both human behavior and the systems affecting it. How Lean helps teams see together, know together, and act together. Do you see the person struggling or do you see the system affecting them?   If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw
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  Ep.1695 - My Energy, Not My Identity 30.09.2026 6min

  In this episode, Jason explores the difference between leading from personal identity and leading with positive energy. He reflects on how a strong identity can sometimes lead to control, frustration, and unnecessary rigidity and why he wants to shift toward inspiring and serving the workforce instead. Jason discusses the importance of creating strong standards and maintaining a disciplined job site while focusing more on winning over the workforce, encouraging participation, and leading with energy rather than relying on authority. What you'll learn in this episode: The difference between your identity and the energy you bring to a project. How personal identity can sometimes create unnecessary control. Why strong standards can coexist with positive leadership. How to inspire workforce participation instead of relying primarily on enforcement. Why leaders should come to the job site ready to serve, give, and inspire. Are you leading from the identity you feel you have to protect or from the energy that inspires people to follow 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
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  Ep.1694 - The 47 Things Before Work Starts 16.09.2026 6min

  In this episode, Jason explains why successful construction teams do not simply start work, they prepare for work. He introduces the concept of the "47 things" that must happen before a work package can begin and why these pre-phase planning activities are often more important than the actual field execution. Jason explains how construction teams get trapped in reactive firefighting when they fail to plan the hundreds of small preparation tasks that happen before production starts. By identifying these activities early, assigning ownership, and managing them through clear gates, teams can create stability and predictable flow. What you'll learn in this episode: Why preparation before a work package is more important than simply supervising execution. How every construction activity has dozens of tasks that must happen before work begins. Why project teams struggle when they start pre-planning too late. How human capacity, PTOs, and competing priorities affect project preparation. How milestone gates can create better control over pre-mobilization, pull planning, and pre-construction activities. Why project management systems should track preparation work, not just scheduled activities. Are you managing the work that happens before the work starts or are you waiting until the field is already under pressure to solve problems?    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
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  Ep.1693 - Lazy and Entitled Behavior Does Not Get to Use Lean Principles 16.09.2026 7min

  In this episode, Jason discusses the importance of understanding the purpose behind Lean principles and why they should never become excuses for avoiding responsibility, preparation, or hard work. He explains that concepts like respect for people, team balance, buffers, and "we don't start until we're ready to finish" are designed to help committed teams perform at a higher level, not to justify poor preparation, lack of ownership, or entitlement. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Lean principles require commitment and personal responsibility. How good systems can be misused as excuses for poor behavior. Why respecting people does not mean lowering expectations. The difference between team balance and avoiding hard work. How preparation, discipline, and ownership support a successful Lean culture. Why Lean principles are meant for teams focused on continuous improvement and delivering value. Are you using Lean to reduce effort or are you building a system that helps people do their best work and 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
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  Ep.1692 - Meeting Time Limits Are Stupid 16.09.2026 6min

  In this episode, Jason challenges the idea that construction meetings and planning huddles must fit within arbitrary time limits. The goal isn't to finish the meeting quickly, it's to make sure the work is actually ready. He explains why teams should take whatever time is necessary to fully plan the next day, eliminate surprises, confirm full kit, and create stable conditions before work begins. Instead of pushing unfinished planning into the field, leaders should solve problems before workers are expected to execute. What you'll learn in this episode: Why arbitrary meeting time limits can hurt planning. Why the next day shouldn't begin until the team is ready. How better preparation reduces rush, push, panic, variation, and surprises. Why afternoon planning should confirm safety, quality, readiness, and full kit. How poor preparation creates unnecessary emergencies in the field. Why meeting effectiveness matters more than meeting length. Are your meetings focused on saving time or are they creating the preparation needed for a predictable and successful day?   If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw