Elevating construction with interviews, training, and techniques that will make the build environment better for the workers, our customers, companies, and the industry as a whole. Podcasts are published at 5AM every weekday.
Listeners of Elevate Construction that love the show mention: construction, request, jason, content, awesome, great, like, listening.
The Elevate Construction podcast is an exceptional resource for professionals in the construction industry. From the moment I started listening, I was hooked and couldn't wait to hear more. The host, Jason, does a fantastic job delivering valuable content and insights that are truly helpful and applicable to real-life construction scenarios. His passion for the industry shines through in every episode, making it easy to stay engaged and motivated.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the quality of the information provided. Jason brings in top-tier talent from the construction industry to share their wisdom and experiences. These guests offer invaluable insights that can greatly benefit both entry-level professionals and seasoned veterans alike. The advice given is practical, actionable, and easily relatable to everyday construction projects.
Additionally, the format of each episode is well-structured and easy to follow. Jason covers a wide range of topics relevant to construction professionals, including project management techniques, leadership skills, productivity hacks, and much more. The episodes are packed with valuable information that can be implemented immediately on job sites.
Furthermore, Jason's enthusiasm for teaching and helping others is contagious. He provides not only knowledge but also motivation and inspiration throughout each episode. By sharing his own experiences as well as those of his guests, he creates a supportive environment where listeners can learn from both successes and failures.
As for any potential drawbacks, it's difficult to find any significant negatives about this podcast. However, if there was one thing that could be improved upon, it would be adding transcripts or show notes for each episode. This would make it easier for listeners to revisit specific points or search for particular topics they may be interested in.
In conclusion, The Elevate Construction podcast is an absolute gem for anyone involved in the construction industry. With its wealth of knowledge, practical advice, and motivational content, it has become an essential resource in my professional development journey. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone looking to improve their skills, knowledge, and overall performance in the construction field. Thank you, Jason, for providing such exceptional content and helping others elevate their construction careers.
What happens when a superintendent builds the hospital… and years later, his own daughter becomes a patient there? In this unforgettable episode, Jason sits down with one of his all-time favorite humans: Jake Smaellie, a master builder with a story that will hit you right in the gut. From healthcare construction to personal healing, Jake opens up about: The emotional moment he walked his daughter into an MRI room he built. Why cleaning jobsite bathrooms (yes, really) sets the tone for leadership. The power of saying “good morning” and how it's a secret weapon for team culture. His incredible 180-pound weight loss and training for a 200-mile bike ride. How to lead by example, not by title. Funny. Raw. Inspiring. This is more than construction, it's a masterclass in humility, grit, and taking care of people.
In this episode, Jason responds to two powerful listener messages. First, a PM asks: How do you lead when you're new to a project and the entire team knows more than you do? Jason shares the exact strategy he would use to build trust, gain clarity, and define his role starting with humility and collaboration. Second, a reflection from a $300M industrial project in the Amazon reveals something important: even with advanced systems like BIM, AWP, and Last Planner in place, production suffers when foremen and supervisors lack core skills. Through Kaizen cycles, the team discovered gaps in pre-task planning, tool management, drawing reading, and 3D model usage and solved it with targeted training. Jason connects this insight to real examples like High Street and P1 Group's Forge training facility, emphasizing that skilled people, not just systems make the difference. A powerful reminder that builders need both the plan and the preparation. If you're new to a team or trying to level up field performance, this one's for 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
This one's going to hit home. We've all seen it, a rude PM, an arrogant superintendent, an aggressive designer on a call, or a toxic leader on a mega project. It's easy to justify behavior like this as “just the way things are” in construction. But Jason reminds us of a deeper truth: how we treat people is part of our job. In this episode: Why communication, kindness, and collaboration are essential job skills. What it feels like to be dismissed or belittled (Jason shares a personal and frustrating visit with a specialist). Why mega projects often bring out the worst behaviors. And why the most noble thing in construction might be leading a small project with stability and dignity. Plus, Jason answers a listener's question about finding the First Planner System book (spoiler: it's now titled Elevating Pre-Construction Planning due to Amazon publishing issues). This episode is for anyone who's ever felt mistreated at work or wants to be a better builder, leader, and human. 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
We talk a lot about strategy in construction. Planning, systems, flow, accountability—great stuff. But what if none of it works unless you confront one brutal truth?
Ever been asked to “just redo that in a different format”…for no reason? Or told “we don't have time for planning” even when it's clearly needed? In this episode, Jason calls out the everyday thoughtless requests that chip away at team morale, respect, and productivity in construction. Whether it's lazy leadership, selfish budgeting, or tone-deaf directions, these requests aren't just annoying, they're dangerous. What you'll hear in this episode: The difference between truly thoughtless vs. selfishly thoughtless requests. Why poor communication destroys trust on-site. How “small asks” actually cause massive waste. The one mindset shift that instantly builds respect in your workplace. And why "please" and "thank you" still matter more than ever. If you want to build a high-trust, high-performance team, it starts with what you don't say and what you stop asking others 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
“You Can't Make It Up on the Freeway” – The Myth of Going Fast in Construction Ever leave late and tell yourself, “I'll make up the time by driving faster”? Spoiler: it never works and neither does rushing in construction. In this quick but powerful episode, Jason shares a real-life analogy that hits hard: speeding through traffic to make up for poor planning is no different than pushing crews on site without a stable plan. Both lead to stress, risks, and sometimes irreversible consequences. What you'll hear in this episode: A personal story that will shift how you think about “urgency”. Why rushing, pushing, and panicking only look productive. How late starts and poor planning are always the real problem. The dangerous ripple effects of last-minute chaos in construction. If you've ever said “we'll figure it out in the field” or felt the pressure to crash-land a project, this episode is your wake-up call. 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
The Lie of Being Unique: Why Construction Keeps Reinventing the Wheel Let's bust a myth that's quietly killing our productivity in construction: “This project is different.” In this eye-opening episode, Jason challenges one of the most common (and dangerous) beliefs in our industry that every project is so unique it can't follow a standard process. But what if that mindset is the very thing holding us back from stability, repeatability, and excellence? He shares: A powerful question from his CEO that sparked this whole reflection. What software, lean systems, and builders like Hensel Phelps already know. Why thinking you're unique can tank your schedule and lead to chaos. The truth about production systems: different buildings, same process. Whether you're a superintendent, project manager, or craftsman aiming to level up, this episode will shift your mindset and sharpen your focus. 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
From Hammer to Hero: The Team-Building Genius of Mark Story Ever wondered how the best construction leaders turn chaotic projects into high-performing teams? In this episode, Jason sits down with Mark Story, a 37-year industry veteran with roots in the trades and a reputation for transforming troubled jobs into thriving team environments. Mark isn't just a builder; he's a relationship architect. They dive deep into the habits, mindset, and philosophies that set Mark apart: how he listens to lead, empowers others to win, and creates project cultures where people feel safe, supported, and inspired. From letting people fail on purpose to showing up like their biggest fan, Mark's leadership lessons will change how you think about team dynamics on any construction site. Core Habits for Effective Leadership and Connection: Look, listen, and feel: Stay present and tuned into your surroundings and team. Help people win: Focus on empowering others to succeed. Mark ‘L' at the top of your notepad to remind yourself to listen: A visual prompt to stay in listening mode. Be curious: Approach challenges and people with genuine interest. Ask thoughtful questions: Use inquiry to understand, not to control. Make intentional time to connect: Prioritize meaningful engagement with your team. Watch how you ask: Frame questions in a way that invites honesty and collaboration. Try not to lead the witness: Avoid biasing responses; let insights surface naturally. Let people fail safely: Give room for learning and growth through experience. Care enough to have tough conversations: Address real issues with courage and compassion. Plan using visual learning tools: Make information accessible, clear, and easy to act on. Contact Mark Story: Mark Story. Commercial Construction Services LLC. Construction Consulting. Cell 612-968-0257 Mark@storyccs.com 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
Are you a leader who brings clarity or chaos? In this bold and refreshing episode, Jason Schroeder tackles two tough truths: Why blaming owners for not doing Lean is just an excuse. And what it really means to be a toxic seagull on the jobsite. He unpacks a real conversation with a former CEO who claimed Lean wasn't used because “owners didn't want to pay for it.” Jason respectfully calls BS and explains why doing the right thing isn't optional for real builders. Then it gets personal. Have you ever flown into a project, stirred things up, then flown back to corporate thinking you “added value”? You might be a toxic seagull. This episode will challenge how you show up as a leader, how you serve your team and whether you're dropping solutions… or just dropping crap. 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
In this episode, Jason goes off in the best way about a crucial mindset shift: When something breaks down do you fix the system, or blame the people? Do you create buffers or bulldoze schedules in the name of “efficiency”? Do you leador just criticize?
Ever feel like your team is sprinting straight into a wall? In this thought-provoking episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down why rushing without clearing roadblocks is one of the most dangerous habits in construction. Using a powerful analogy (spoiler: it involves smashing into walls), Jason challenges one of the most common misapplications of the Last Planner System and percent plan complete (PPC). Discover how a simple language problem—calling everything a “constraint”—is wrecking your team's ability to plan, prioritize, and stay safe. If you've ever been frustrated with chaotic boards, missed milestones, or wasted effort, this is the podcast that will shift your thinking for good. Ready to stop running into walls and start leading with clarity? Hit play now. 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
Why Are Trades Flooding the Jobsite with Inventory? It's Not What You Think… In this eye-opening episode, Jason uncovers a surprising root cause behind excessive trade inventory—and it's not poor planning or laziness. What if the real issue is a lack of rhythm on your jobsite? Discover how chaos in scheduling triggers a domino effect of waste, inefficiency, and frustration. Whether you're a GC or a trade partner, this one insight could change how you view planning forever.
In this podcast we cover: A question from a listener. How to plan temporary cooling. 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
In this podcast we cover: What honest debate is. Why we do not criticize or blame people. The proper way to share ideas. 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
In this podcast we cover: What is a baseline in CPM? What is a baseline strategy in Takt? 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
In this podcast we cover: Why it is important to innovate from a starting point. How there are no stupid questions, but there are stupid answers, and those are the ones that do not innovate from a base. 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
In this podcast we cover: A question from one of our listeners. How to plan for one-off activities that cross multiple zones. 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
In this podcast we cover: Why focusing and going slow are important. How clear instructions applies to all types of communication. 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
In this podcast we cover: Updates to inTakt that are awesome. What things could go well or wrong with the statement. 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
In this podcast we cover: Questions from Listeners. How can you innovate when the company is so stuck on same standards. How can you innovate when the company says, “If it ain't broke, don't fix 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
In this podcast we cover: Questions from Listeners. How to attack the process of reading your drawings. The overall philosophy of how to break it down. 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
In this podcast we cover: Advanced Daily Huddle advice. A critique of the 7 rules for daily huddles. 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
In this podcast we cover: Introduction to the First Planner System™️ - Why Cake? Part 2 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
In this podcast we cover: Introduction to the First Planner System™️- Why Cake? 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
In this podcast we cover: Introduction to the First Planner System™️ 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
In this podcast we cover: Why we must have dashboards to operate. How those warning lights keep us from burning 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
In this podcast we cover: Why jobsite teams cleaning up for visitors may not be bad. 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
In this podcast we cover: How inputs affect human behavior. 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
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