Builder Tactics

Information to Action 13.09.2026 27dk

Data doesn't create better decisions. Leaders do.In this episode of Builder Tactics, Damien Edwards explores how construction and production leaders can move beyond simply reporting metrics and start using data to anticipate problems, identify opportunities, and drive action.Learn the difference between leading and lagging indicators, how to build driver trees that connect business outcomes to operational performance, how to recognize meaningful trends and outliers, and why your data should function as headlights instead of just a rearview mirror.You'll also learn how to communicate the same data differently to operators, managers, and executives using a simple What, So What, Now What framework.If you want to become a more data-driven leader without becoming a data scientist, this episode provides practical tactics you can start using immediately.In this episode:• Leading vs. lagging indicators• Turning information into actionable insight• Building KPI driver trees• Identifying trends, patterns, and outliers• Using data to anticipate performance• Presenting data to operators vs. executives• Turning dashboards into management systemsBuilder Tactics is focused on helping construction professionals develop the leadership, business, and strategic skills required to advance their careers and build stronger organizations.HTTP://bolsterbuilt.com/builder-tactics

Stratigic Thinking and Vision 24.08.2026 18dk

Thinking Like an Executive: Strategic Thinking and VisionWhat separates a great operational leader from an executive leader? Perspective.In this episode of Builder Tactics, Damien Edwards explores how construction professionals can move beyond managing today's projects and begin thinking strategically about tomorrow's organization.Learn practical techniques for systems thinking, horizon planning, scenario planning, trend scanning, and pattern recognition—and how to connect strategic decisions to long-term business value.Whether you're a construction manager preparing for your next promotion or an experienced leader looking to sharpen your strategic perspective, this episode provides actionable tactics for making the transition from managing what's happening today to anticipating what needs to happen next.http://bolsterbuilt.com/builder-tactics

Building your Executive Brand 09.08.2026 18dk

Long before anyone offers you the next title, people have already decided what they think of you. That's executive brand, and it's built in the meetings you're not in, the conversations you don't hear, and the way people describe working with you when your name comes up.In this episode of Builder Tactics, we break down what executive brand actually is (hint: it's not your LinkedIn photo), why visibility and credibility are two completely different currencies, and how the "Horizons" framework, Horizon 1 (today), Horizon 2 (what's next), Horizon 3 (the five-year view) can instantly separate leaders who get noticed for the right reasons from leaders who just get noticed.We also cover the quiet brand mistakes that stall careers, staying too tactical, analysis paralysis, internal turf-guarding, and mistaking "busy" for "useful", and how to start showing up in Horizon 2 and 3 conversations starting with your very next meeting.In this episode:What executive brand really is, and why it forms before your title changesVisibility vs. credibility — and why they're not the same thingThe Horizons framework: Horizon 1, 2, and 3 explainedScenario planning and trend scanning as brand-building habitsThe quiet mistakes that cap careersWhy your brand has to travel beyond your own departmentWhether you're a project manager, superintendent, or division leader, this episode gives you a practical way to think — and talk — like the executive you want to become.http://bolsterbuilt.com/builder-tactics

Boss to Leader: The Influence Shift every Construction Leader Needs 20.07.2026 16dk

You didn't get promoted to keep doing the same job at a bigger scale — you got promoted to build the people who can do it without you. In this episode of Builder Tactics, host Damien Edwards breaks down why authority stops working the higher you climb, and what actually replaces it: influence.You'll learn the three dimensions of executive influence — Credibility, Connection, and Clarity — and five practical tactics you can use this week to build trust, develop other leaders, and multiply your impact across teams. Plus, a simple 90-day action plan to start shifting how your team experiences your leadership, starting now.Whether you're chasing your next promotion or already leading a team of leaders, this episode gives you tactics you can put to work on your very next job site conversation.http://bolsterbuilt.com/builder-tactics

Hard Hats to High Stakes: Transitioning from the Job Site to the Boardroom 27.06.2026 14dk

In this episode, we discuss why technical expertise and operational success alone aren’t enough for executive leadership. You’ll learn how to transition from solving daily problems to developing people, building systems, creating strategy, and leading with an enterprise-wide perspective.

You work hard—but do you know what you’re worth? 02.02.2026 20dk

In this episode of Builder Tactics, we break down how to understand your value to an employer in a way that actually matters: results, impact, and proof—not just effort and long hours. You’ll learn how to measure what you bring to the jobsite, how to communicate it with confidence, and how to make sure your work doesn’t stay invisible.Whether you’re a superintendent, construction manager, or trade leader, this is your playbook for turning performance into recognition—and recognition into opportunity.🎧 Listen in if you’re ready to stop guessing your value and start owning it.

Beneath the Surface: Itzik Malka on Future-Proofing America’s Infrastructure 31.08.2025 36dk

In this episode, Damien sits down with Itzik Malka, Co-founder of 4M Analytics, to uncover one of the greatest threats to America’s infrastructure future: the buried utilities beneath our feet. These hidden lifelines power our daily lives, yet there’s no map that tells us where they are—leaving construction projects vulnerable to risk, delays, and cost overruns.Itzik explains how 4M is tackling this challenge head-on, using data and technology to bring visibility to the unseen and certainty to the unknown. From skyrocketing material costs and compressed timelines to the high stakes of transportation construction, this conversation explores why underground utilities remain the industry’s number one unacknowledged risk—and how solving it could reshape the future of infrastructure.https://www.4manalytics.com/

Blue Collar AI with Chad Gill 19.07.2025 45dk

In this episode of Builder Tactics, host Damien Edwards sits down with Chad Gill, founder of VAs for Construction, to explore a groundbreaking topic that’s shaking up the industry: how blue-collar workers are using AI on the construction site.Together, they explore real-world applications of artificial intelligence by field teams — from streamlining punch lists and tracking job progress to automating repetitive administrative tasks and enhancing communication between the office and the field. Chad shares stories from the trenches, discusses the resistance and excitement AI is generating among tradespeople, and highlights the surprising ways virtual assistants and AI tools are already making a difference for foremen, supers, and site teams.About Chad Gill: Chad Gill is a former contractor with 23+ years of hands-on experience in the construction industry. Now, as the founder of Laminin Coach and VAs for Construction, Chad helps leaders and their teams become AI-enhanced. By focusing on practical applications, he empowers organizations to leverage AI for better decision-making, improved workflows, and measurable results. He’s also a speaker, known for his talk “Blue Collar AI”, which explores practical ways AI is transforming the skilled trades and construction industry. Chad is passionate about showing leaders that AI isn’t about complexity or futuristic technology—it’s about small, everyday actions that add up to huge impact. Website: https://www.vas4construction.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-gill-99042a37/ Contact: [email protected] Phone: 804-938-7915

Rebranding and Building Zen 12.07.2025 14dk

In today’s episode, I share some exciting news about rebranding the podcast to better align with my evolving creative projects and deeper mission. This isn’t just a name change — it’s a renewed vision that reflects the journey we’re all on toward balance, leadership, and clarity in the chaos of life and construction.You'll also get an exclusive listen to Chapter 1 of my new book, Building Zen — a personal and powerful reflection on finding peace, purpose, and presence, even in the most intense moments.I’d love to hear what resonates with you. Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and join the conversation.https://a.co/d/68s6AUJ

Professional Development Part #2 17.02.2025 34dk

Welcome to The Construction Management Podcast! As we kick off 2025, we want to take a moment to focus on what you are going to do with the new year. If you're tuning in, chances are you already have a growth mindset—a drive for professional and personal development that will shape your success this year and beyond.In this episode, we're diving deep into goal setting, motivation, and sustaining a growth mindset in construction management and beyond. We cover what professional development means and why it’s crucial for your career. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, improving leadership skills, or simply looking to level up in 2025, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you set clear goals and make them happen.🎧 Tune in and start building the foundation for your best year yet!

Builder Tactics Chapter #8 Time Management 08.02.2025 21dk

During this episode, we dive into Chapter 8 of the recently updated book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we explore the essential skills of time management for builders.I hope your year started off right, and you are achieving all of your 2025 goals.For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Builder Tactics Chapter #6 Accounting 21.12.2024 12dk

During this episode, we dive into Chapter 6 of the recently updated book, *Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we unpack the essential elements of accounting for builders. I hope you all have a fantastic holiday season, set some New Year resolutions, and achieve your goals for 2025. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Builder Tactics CHapter #5 Contracts 25.10.2024 16dk

Join me for an insightful episode as we dive into Chapter 5 of the recently updated book, *Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we unpack the essential elements of contracts between builders and trade companies, shedding light on how these agreements lay the groundwork for successful projects. Maintaining positive control over your construction site starts with a solid understanding of the legal requirements that govern your trades and your company. Whether you’re a seasoned construction manager or just starting out, this knowledge is critical to ensuring your project's success. Tune in as we explore the complexities of construction contracts and elevate your management skills! For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Builder Tactics Chapter #4 Job Site Management 12.10.2024 18dk

Chapter 4 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of how to manage your job site. And what it takes to portray yourself as competent and in charge of managing construction projects. Job site management includes the appearance of your job site, traffic and delivery control, safety, stormwater and pollution control, and a whole lot more. Maintaining positive control of your construction site is critical to the success of your project and essential for every construction manager. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Relaunch Episode #3 Trash 05.10.2024 29dk

This is another relaunch of a lost episode. In this episode, Jason and I discuss job site management, specifically trash. Trash is a plague on job sites and must be eradicated or at least cleaned up. Enjoy.

Episode #2 Time Managmeent (Relaunch) 29.09.2024 22dk

This is episode #2 from 2018. When we switched platforms, we lost a bunch of shows. Fortunately, I was able to dive deep into the archives and recover some of them. Today's podcast is about time management and how you can effectively manage your time and the time of your trade partners.

Builder Tactics Chapter #3 28.09.2024 30dk

This is chapter 3 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of Pre-Construction planning and the steps to take to ensure your project's success from the start. Pre-construction planning includes reviewing the drawings and submittals, assessing the physical site, reviewing the budget, and holding pre-construction meetings. Each step is critical to the success of your project and essential for every construction manager. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Builder Tactics Chapter #2 21.09.2024 14dk

This is chapter 2 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of the technical and soft skills required for success in construction management. For the full audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Builder Tactics Chapter #1 14.09.2024 13dk

This is chapter #1 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes an introduction to the size and complexity of the construction industry and an explanation of the current state of our profession, Construction Management. For the full audiobook, go to Audible.com; for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/iyIwzLc.

Professional Development 14.11.2023 27dk

Damien and Jason discuss how to evaluate your skill set and organize your professional development efforts.