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Tarina gives Nic a new nickname, “Wreck it Mouth.” And Nic congratulates Tarina on saving $2.50 on her “$9.00” coffee shop espresso drinks.In this episode, Nic and Tarina lead a conversation on what it takes to be a great leader.Their discussion can be summed up in a simple phrase: “Own it.” Among the attributes and activities of great leaders, here are a few they talk about:A leader protects his peopleA leader walks into danger firstA leader leads with empathyA leader is about influence not authorityA leader lives with the consequences of their decisionsAs Nic observes, the construction industry needs good leaders. The hard part to swallow is many are promoted to a leadership position who don't want the responsibility nor do they have the ability to lead well.Leadership, as Nic and Tarina share, is a sacred responsibility and an important skill.If you enjoy Nic and Tarina's podcast and get something from listening to “all this Nic Bittle Crap,” please hit the like button, share it with a friend, or both. Your recommendation goes a long way in helping us reach more people.Also if you have questions that you want Nic and Tarina to answer, email them at info@nicbittle.com.---
In this episode, we sit down with Emily Foreman to hear her story-from a small town in the U.S. to a African city that calls itself 100% Muslim. Emily and her late husband, Stephen, began their mission work in prisons and giving microloans. Over time, they built strong friendships and quietly shared their faith, even though local laws made it risky and danger was growing.After militants killed tourists nearby, most aid workers left the country. But Emily and Stephen chose to stay and continue their calling. When tragedy struck, Emily responded with forgiveness that broke down fear and opened new doors. Today, their work continues through family and friends who carry on the torch of love, courage, and faithfulness.Check out Emily's book:We Died Before We Came HereSend us a textPlease leave a review on Apple or Spotify to help improve No Sanity Required and help others grow in their faith. Click here to get our Colossians Bible study.
Help, Don't Control: Make Zone Control Walks Work Stop chasing fifteen handoffs and start creating flow. Jason explains how to focus on the vital few, run quick joint walks, and enable trades to self-verify so you follow up instead of firefight. You will learn: How to shortlist the day's critical handoffs in the afternoon foreman huddle. How to run brief, pull-based walks using full kit principles. How to use feature-of-work and zone control checklists for trade self-verification. How to assign remaining handoffs to trade-to-trade walks with written commitments. How to distribute checklists via WhatsApp to foremen and capture quick proof. How to log outcomes in Takt the same afternoon and review the next morning. How to keep supervision tied to field work without micromanaging. 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
Seeing Through Trade Partners' Eyes This short episode reframes “problems with the trades” as problems with systems, culture, and inputs. Jason explains why most crews arrive wary and defensive, how our consistency can pull them back into a window of tolerance, and why emotionally intelligent supervision beats control. You will leave with a humane, practical lens that improves trust, flow, and results. You will learn: Why blaming people fails and fixing systems works. The idea of ill-wired vs ill-prompted behavior and why inputs matter. How to earn trust in six to eight weeks with consistent huddles, pull planning, and clear norms. What emotionally intelligent superintendents do and why one toxic leader can sink a site. Who should listen: Supers, assistant supers, foremen, and field engineers ready to replace control with trust and get better work from better systems. 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
Jason answers a listener from Brazil who is leading a delayed, complex facade restoration and does not know where to begin. He lays out a simple, field-tested starting plan that replaces panic with clarity and momentum. You will learn: The first three daily habits to regain control: read the drawings, visualize the plan with zones and logistics, and walk the field. How to use crew input to shape sequence even without a formal pull plan. How to launch short daily huddles around visuals to surface and solve roadblocks. What full kit really means and how to refuse starts without it. How to hold the line on the system instead of firefighting when pressure rises. 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
At the 2024 International Lineman's Expo, I had the honor of meeting many incredible lineworkers, including Shannon Skinner, foreman for NV Energy and the president of IBEW Local 396. Her step-father, two uncles and cousins worked in the line trade, and she became the first female lineworker west of the Mississippi in 1984. When she first started working out in the field, she remembers hot sticking in a tank top and wearing men's workwear and PPE. Now that more women are entering the trades, they can stay safe and protected with garments and fall protection specifically made for them. She said NV Energy has taken good care of her throughout her career and given her the tools and equipment needed to succeed in the trade. Along with serving as a foreman for NV Energy and serving on multiple committees, she also joins her coworkers to visit schools in the community to educate them about the dangers of electricity and raise awareness about the careers available in the utility industry. If you want to be a guest for a future episode of the Line Life Podcast, stop by the T&D World booth at the 2025 International Lineman's Expo. Field Editor and Line Life Podcast Host Amy Fischbach will be interviewing lineworkers and their families on the trade show floor and featuring the interviews on Podbean. We look forward to seeing you In Kansas City for the International Lineman's Rodeo week.
In this episode, Jason sits down with his mentor, Hal Macomber, to unpack a fresh perspective that could change how you see Takt forever. We cover: Why Takt Construction must be seen as a standardized system, not a piecemeal set of practices. The five components of Takt as an operating system: thinking, people, practices, agreements, and assessments. The three core principles that make or break flow on projects. How second-order thinking and inversion can prevent costly mistakes in the field. Why people not just tools are the real drivers of continuous improvement. Whether you're leading a mega data center or a 100-unit wood frame project, this conversation will challenge the way you approach flow, people, and production laws in construction. If you've ever felt Takt is “just a tool,” this episode will reframe it as the socio-technical operating system that can transform projects big and small. 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 running on continuous improvement or just the appearance of it? In this fast, practical conversation, Jason sits down with Patrick Adams, author of Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap, to expose the difference and show leaders how to build systems that actually sustain. What you will hear: Patrick's journey from the United States Marine Corps to leading Lean Solutions and coaching teams worldwide. The trap: companies that look “lean” on the surface but suffer toxic culture, high turnover, and flat KPIs. The telltales of a true CI culture: clear expectations that cascade to the front line, time and space to problem-solve, and relentless sustainment. Why short-term fixes fail and why real operational excellence takes structured daily behaviors, not silver bullets. How Patrick's 12 questions help leaders assess where they are and design their own roadmap. One practical challenge: Adopt leader standard work today. Structure your day, review it at the end, and align your actions to the results you claim to want. 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 is catching up on powerful lessons and field-tested practices that can make your projects safer, cleaner, and more effective. Here's what you'll learn: The Builder's Code: How you treat workers and foremen is exactly how they'll treat the building, and what the client ultimately experiences. Lessons from Japan (Gemba): Start with 2–3S (sort, straighten, shine), watch people's movement, and stop where things don't make sense to reveal hidden constraints. Problems vs. Dilemmas: A problem has a clear solution; a dilemma forces you to choose between imperfect options. Jason shares examples every builder will recognize. Trash Management Done Right: Pre-kit and pre-cut to reduce waste, use scrap-out units, and manage dumpsters with visual Kanban triggers at half or three-quarters full. Daily Logistics Discipline: Assign a logistics owner to check the perimeter, cleanliness, recycling, and traffic control every single day. Why Saturdays Don't Work: Crews show up thin, productivity drops, and you lose momentum. Stop relying on weekend work as the answer. AEDs on Every Site: More lives are lost to cardiac arrest than auto accidents. Affordable AEDs (around $1,400) save lives. Every project needs one. This episode is practical, fast-moving, and packed with insights you can take straight to the field. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two
Nic sits down with Jason Downs for a talk about career and education options. Jason is a self-described middle-aged family man with an accounting degree who recently served on a local school board. After a series of accounting related jobs, today finds him a stay-at-home dad.They start their discussion with a focus on the Swiss VET System. VET stands for “Vocational, Educational, and Training.” The system is designed to assess high school students' aptitude, how they are wired, and then put them on a track that includes job skills training.The kids graduate ready to enter the workforce and make a real contribution rather than wait to learn everything on the job.Nic observes, “There's something magical about being a producer and not just a consumer.”Jason shares his story about choosing accounting over becoming an architect. His heart is clear: we need to find a way for our school systems to do a better job. The statistics in Switzerland show two-thirds of kids going into the trades. In the United States, two-thirds go to college and half of them never finish college.The realization is not every kid is academically wired. Jason's desire is for high school to be both “life prep” and “college prep.” He wants to believe there's a better way for kids to find their path that allows them to contribute to society in a meaningful way.If you enjoy Nic and Tarina's podcast and get something from listening to “all this Nic Bittle Crap,” please hit the like button, share it with a friend, or both. Your recommendation goes a long way in helping us reach more people.Also if you have questions that you want Nic and Tarina to answer, email them at info@nicbittle.com.---
Ghislaine Maxwell's financial troubles have only deepened since her conviction, exposing a tangle of lawsuits, unpaid bills, and murky asset transfers. Her former defense firm, Haddon, Morgan & Foreman, filed suit against Maxwell, her brother Kevin, and her husband Scott Borgerson for nearly $878,000 in unpaid legal fees, alleging they strung along partial payments to keep representation going before abruptly halting. Questions have also swirled around more than $20 million in transfers tied to Epstein-linked accounts, raising suspicion about whether Maxwell attempted to shield resources as legal pressures mounted. These revelations painted a portrait of a woman who once moved in elite circles now trapped by debt and mounting obligations.Maxwell's money woes also extend to her properties and lingering obligations tied to Epstein's shadowy empire. Her former Manhattan townhouse and New Hampshire retreat have resurfaced on the market, sparking speculation that the proceeds might be used to satisfy creditors or bankroll appeals. At the same time, she has fought to limit access to documents and transcripts that could shed further light on the extent of her wealth and the mechanisms used to protect it. These disputes highlight not only Maxwell's crumbling financial position but also the unraveling of the financial network that once insulated her from accountability.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com
Most of us see stress as the villain in our story. But what if it's actually a tool, even a superpower? In this episode, Jason Schroeder is joined by licensed therapist Barbara Hettinger, who brings years of experience in trauma, family, and mental health work. Together, they break down how stress works, why it isn't inherently “bad,” and how you can flip the script to use stress as fuel for focus, growth, and resilience. What you'll take away from this episode: Why stress is neutral not good, not bad and how your response makes the difference. A three-step method to acknowledge, welcome, and use stress to your advantage. How reframing stress can turn ADHD, OCD, or daily struggles into hidden superpowers. Practical tools to stay within your “window of tolerance” and find calm under pressure. Real stories from the field about leaders transforming stress into clarity and action. This isn't just another talk about “managing stress.” It's about re-imagining it as a force that can sharpen your edge and strengthen your leadership. If you're in construction or just navigating the stress of daily life, this episode will help you rethink the pressure you feel and use it to build something remarkable. 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 episode isn't comfortable and it's not meant to be. Jason takes on a tough but necessary conversation about the cultural mindset that's holding us back. Too often, we wear stagnation, ignorance, and fear like badges of honor. “I haven't read a book in 30 years.” “We've always done it this way.” “AI will take our jobs.” These aren't harmless phrases, they're symptoms of decline. Jason draws from history, industry, and hard truth to challenge us: Why fear and ignorance have become tools of control in governments, companies, and even daily conversations. How the U.S. once thrived on continuous improvement, education, and courage and what it would take to reclaim that mindset. Why tariffs, isolation, and complacency are signs of decline not solutions. What construction professionals can do to reject stagnation and become the true voices of progress. This isn't about politics. It's about leadership, courage, and the future of our industry and our nation. If you're tired of seeing fear and ignorance celebrated, and you're ready to step into improvement and knowledge, this is an episode you can't afford to skip. 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
Is “constructive criticism” really constructive or is it just disguised negativity? Jason takes a bold stance in this episode: criticism should not exist. Instead, he unpacks the difference between criticism and feedback for improvement and why only one of them builds people up, drives growth, and creates healthier cultures in construction and beyond. In this episode you'll learn: Why criticism damages trust, triggers ego, and stalls progress. The clear definition of feedback for improvement and why it works. How servant leadership rejects punishment and embraces growth. Why respecting people means replacing blame with actionable guidance. How shifting from criticism to feedback transforms teams, prisons, even society. This isn't just about construction. It's about how we treat each other as humans. If we want a better industry and a better world, we need to stop tearing people down and start helping them improve. Listen in, and let's build cultures that elevate people instead of discarding 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
Ghislaine Maxwell's financial troubles have only deepened since her conviction, exposing a tangle of lawsuits, unpaid bills, and murky asset transfers. Her former defense firm, Haddon, Morgan & Foreman, filed suit against Maxwell, her brother Kevin, and her husband Scott Borgerson for nearly $878,000 in unpaid legal fees, alleging they strung along partial payments to keep representation going before abruptly halting. Questions have also swirled around more than $20 million in transfers tied to Epstein-linked accounts, raising suspicion about whether Maxwell attempted to shield resources as legal pressures mounted. These revelations painted a portrait of a woman who once moved in elite circles now trapped by debt and mounting obligations.Maxwell's money woes also extend to her properties and lingering obligations tied to Epstein's shadowy empire. Her former Manhattan townhouse and New Hampshire retreat have resurfaced on the market, sparking speculation that the proceeds might be used to satisfy creditors or bankroll appeals. At the same time, she has fought to limit access to documents and transcripts that could shed further light on the extent of her wealth and the mechanisms used to protect it. These disputes highlight not only Maxwell's crumbling financial position but also the unraveling of the financial network that once insulated her from accountability.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.
Join us LIVE tonight at 7pm EST where we'll deep dive into the life of Foreman of the Texas School Book Depository, William Hoyt Shelley! Was he a regular Joe, or up to no good? Hang out with us and find out! Support the show via the links below...The Coldest - https://snwbl.io/coldest/TLG10 Use our link to save 10% on the most amazing cup in the world! Great designs in a variety of sizes compatable with your lifestyle, and they are customizable!Silk City Hot Sauce - https://silkcityhotsauce.com Use our code GUNMAN for 20% off entire order at checkout!Music By - Lee Harold OswaldA Loose Moose ProductionBBB&JOEBBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lone-gunman-podcast-jfk-assassination--1181353/support.
There's a common saying in construction: “You're not doing your job unless your name's on the porta john.” Jason and Mark Story break it down and break it apart. Disrespect is not a badge of honor. It's a warning sign that leadership is failing. Instead, they show how real leaders win trust and build high-performing jobs by supporting their teams, not fighting them. You'll hear field-tested stories of: Turning messy, conflict-heavy projects into stable, clean, and respectful jobsites. Why adding restrooms and daily worker huddles can instantly boost morale and productivity. How trades are already bending over backwards and what GCs must do to better support them Why “leadership” boils down to one thing: removing roadblocks so your people can succeed. This episode is about more than porta john graffiti. It's about flipping the culture of construction from disrespect to dignity, from chaos to flow. 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
Nic and Tarina joke about the possibility of producing a 2026 calendar featuring him and Cruze moving plants into the rain. Tarina “loves” the idea. Nic also believes Tarina lost her true calling as a word-smith. “So good it just tastes like really dark dirt,” was Tarina's comment after taking a sip of her Americano.Nic shares a correction on the previous episode about Charlie Kirk. Nic believes people feel connected with Charlie because he was courageous. A lot of people are inspired by his example of boldness in faith, work, and life.Tarina and Nic just returned from the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) National Conference in Chicago. Nic spoke about how to have hard conversations while there. This is one of the skills Nic loves teaching. It takes courage to tell somebody they can do better.In a standing-room only session, Nic talked about being able to do an assessment on your leadership style. A lot of people afterwards came up with questions and feedback.It was a great time to catch up with people, connecting in person, and invite them to be on the podcast.If you enjoy Nic and Tarina's podcast and get something from listening to “all this Nic Bittle Crap,” please hit the like button, share it with a friend, or both. Your recommendation goes a long way in helping us reach more people.Also if you have questions that you want Nic and Tarina to answer, email them at info@nicbittle.com.---
Unions spark some of the strongest emotions in construction. Jason finally tackles the topic head-on sharing both the best and worst he's seen. From world-class training halls to toxic bullying, from skilled Southern California carpenters to right-to-work states with weaker pipelines, he unpacks why unions exist, where they add value, and where they've gone off track. In this episode, Jason covers: Why unions are ultimately our fault, a response to toxic management and disrespect for people. The undeniable benefits: training, tools, benefits, and raising the bar on craft quality. The dark side: threats, vandalism, mafia-like behavior, and how that destroys trust. Real examples from California, Texas, Arizona, and Illinois that show both extremes. Why “all union” vs. “no union” politics is broken and what a balanced path could look like. A bigger truth: nobody in the U.S. should be threatened or killed for their beliefs, union or non-union. The bottom line: if companies want to avoid unions, they must take better care of their people. And if unions want lasting respect, they must hold themselves accountable to higher standards. This is a raw, unfiltered conversation you won't hear anywhere else. Hit play and join the dialogue. 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
Competition may sound like it sharpens us, but in practice it creates waste, weakens innovation, and leaves most of us struggling while a tiny fraction benefits. Cooperation, on the other hand, unlocks speed, quality, and respect for people. In this episode, Jason shares: A powerful example of how rivalry once stopped firefighters from saving lives. Why Asian manufacturers thrive on total participation while U.S. industries stall. How CPM schedules and competitive contracts reinforce the wrong behaviors. The overlooked “ninth waste” in construction: competition itself. Personal stories of being punished for helping others and why that mindset is broken. He challenges leaders to imagine a jobsite where trades, GCs, and partners stop hoarding information and start sharing openly. What would happen if instead of fighting each other, we fought waste together? If you're ready to flip the script from rivalry to results, this is the episode to hit play on. 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 boot camps to field training, Jason shows why our schools and even many corporate programs are broken, and how the construction industry can step up with meaningful education that sticks. In this episode, you'll hear: Why grading and homework are damaging and outdated. How schools condition kids to stay quiet instead of staying curious. Why colleges and traditional training leave people siloed and scared to speak up. Examples of companies (Hensel Phelps, Petticoat-Schmidt, O'Shea Builders) doing training the right way. Why ignorance benefits the ruling class and why we must fight it with education. The dangerous excuses we keep repeating in construction (“workers are the problem,” “we can't do that here,” “retention is fine”) and why they're all wrong. The books, tools, and lean practices that every builder should be learning and applying today. Jason's challenge is simple: training, training, and more training. Not once a year, not when it's convenient, every day, until learning becomes the heartbeat of your company. Because we don't rise to the level of our ambitions, we fall to the level of our training. If you're ready to swap ignorance for growth and excuses for real learning, this episode will light a fire. 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
Too many leaders want Lean to be “instant pudding” just add water and see results. The truth? Real transformation isn't instant, and it will never happen by delegating change or running small pilot experiments. In this episode, Jason explains: Why true Lean scale takes 18–24 months, not overnight fixes. The “three of three” essentials every company needs to succeed. Why leaders not consultants must own the operating system. The non-negotiables every site and team must follow to achieve excellence. How total participation and accountability drive sustainable results. If you're ready to stop chasing shortcuts and start building systems that actually scale, this is the episode to hit play on. 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
Welcome to Mommin' on a Monday with Taylor Foreman Mindset Coach with Compete Training Academy! Taylor talks about the importance of environment and influences on your mindset! Also if you want to take the next step in your mindset head over to competetrainingacademy.org and sign up for a one day mindset retreat with Mindset Guru and Owner of Compete Training Academy Jordan Delks that takes place this coming Saturday!
Charlie created a connection with people, especially college students. One way he did this was have conversations with people and stay cool under pressure.While Nic sees him as a greater debater, he didn't feel like he knew him like some folks have expressed online. They both see him living boldly his values: You know where he stood on his beliefs and his perspective.Do you want to do a better job of connecting? You have to let people in, be vulnerable, practice humility, and be more curious not judgmental. You also need to be aware and available, not on your device, and have conversations.Ask yourself the question: Do people really know me? Why or why not?If you enjoy Nic and Tarina's podcast and get something from listening to “all this Nic Bittle Crap,” please hit the like button, share it with a friend, or both. Your recommendation goes a long way in helping us reach more people.Also if you have questions that you want Nic and Tarina to answer, email them at info@nicbittle.com.---
This episode gets real about why good delivery models go bad. Jason breaks down the traps that derail IPD, Design-Build, and CM at Risk, and shows how systems thinking, flow, and true collaboration keep projects on track. Key points: The “competitive design proposal” trap burns millions and cannibalizes unpaid design. Phased design without a full kit leads to rework: missing sleeves, embeds, blue bangers, and chaos. If it violates Goldratt's Rules of Flow, it will fail no matter the contract wrapper. Deming's lesson: we fail despite best efforts when we don't think in systems. Stop sub-optimizing and start collaborating across teams, trades, and tech. Update your playbooks continuously instead of treating methods as frozen versions. If you want delivery models that actually deliver, build the system first, protect flow, and make collaboration non-negotiable. 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 shares a real-world story from the road to the Super PM Bootcamp in Dallas and the powerful lesson it revealed: being prepared creates freedom. By handling the small details in advance, you clear space for innovation, calm, and focus. Instead of fighting fires, you get to lead. Key Takeaways: Preparation eliminates chaos and stress. Buffers protect you from last-minute crises. Clean, organized systems multiply performance. Taking care of details frees you to innovate and improve. If you want projects and life to flow smoother, start by getting the details right. 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 tackles a tough truth: our industry has quietly stopped training. Core builder skills are disappearing and it's costing us. Drawing lessons from Japanese craftsmanship, U.S. military history, and decades of field experience, Jason makes the case that training is not optional it's survival. Just like Japan rebuilds its temples every 20 years to preserve skill, we must continually rebuild our workforce to preserve the craft of building. Key Points: How technology has replaced not supported builder skills. Why the silence of older generations cost us vital knowledge. The impact of rapid scaling without matching training systems. Why field engineering must remain a cornerstone skill. A vision for mass-producing master builders to rebuild America. If you've ever wondered why projects feel harder to staff with skilled leaders, this episode will open your eyes and point to a way forward. If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two
In this episode, Jason breaks down why great systems fail in the field and how to make them stick. Using a simple glucose and insulin analogy, he shows that tools and manuals (value) only work when teams are ready and structured to receive them. You'll also hear a quick reveal of the new one-day Builder Huddle designed to ignite real implementation across entire cities. Key points: Implementation lives in the socio-technical side, not just the technical. The “three of three” pattern to make change land. Plan with First Planner, Takt Production, Last Planner. Scale with a clear operating system, company-wide training, monthly field walks. Switch by making it clear, making people want it, and clearing their path. Without master builders to receive the value, even the best system stalls. Builder Huddle: a high-energy, practical day to turn concepts into next-day habits. If you want your teams executing instead of admiring the plan, this episode gives you the checklist and the charge to make it real. 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
Episode 396 of The VentureFizz Podcast features Alasdair McLean-Foreman, CEO & Founder of Teikametrics. It's another repeat guest! I think I'm up to 5 repeat guests on The VentureFizz Podcast and just like the 5-times club on Saturday Night Live, I might have to start thinking about getting some custom jackets made up for our repeat guests because they must be on to something special! Take Alasdair, who… five years ago, back on Episode 153, shared some predictions around eCommerce that were mostly spot on. So, I was eager to get his point of view on what's next especially in this radically evolving world of AI which we discuss at the beginning of our interview. He has an interesting perspective as he was one of the first third-party sellers on Amazon and his company, Teikametrics, has a front row seat as the AI marketplace optimization platform for leading brands. There's a lot that we had to catch up on like their new patented GenAI technology that has the opportunity to shake up how brands scale on platforms like Amazon, Walmart, TikTok Shop, and Shopify. He also recently brought on Sandie Hawkins, the former Head of TikTok Shop as the company's President to help scale to the next level. We cover all of these topics and more!
Welcome to Re-Watching Home Movies! Today, we are delighted to bring you our interview with story board artist Alan Foreman! Alan had so much amazing insight to the show and it was truly an honor to talk to him! Huge thanks to the Happy Corner Podcast for the use of their studio and equipment. Thanks to Nik for the refreshed Logo & Chris Bongat for creating our Theme SongWe have no affiliation with Adult Swim or Home Movies.
PM and Superintendent are not rivals. They are a duo. In this fast moving conversation with third generation builder Nic Parish we tackle the real friction and the fixes that actually work in the field. What this episode gives you: A simple model for PM brings the pieces and the Super puts them together. The mantra see the future and feed the project. Daily five minute touchpoints and weekly lunch to build trust. Visual systems on the wall so nothing lives in someone's head. One rule for culture all problems are team problems. How to stop the office versus field blame loop. Practical cues for procurement logs delivery plans and look aheads that actually connect. Nic brings stories from 45 years of civil and trucking experience. Jason maps those lessons to clear plays you can run tomorrow. If you want fewer firefights and more flow this one is for you. Tune in and level up your PM Super partnership 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
Logistics is more than deliveries, it's the hidden engine that keeps projects moving smoothly. In this high-energy conversation with Mark Story, we break down why logistics planning can make or break a job. From mega-projects to tight urban sites, the principles stay the same: plan ahead, keep it simple, and always think with the end in mind. What you'll learn in this episode: The golden rules of logistics every superintendent should know. Why logistics plans must evolve as your project changes. How to scale logistics for small jobs versus massive builds. The role of truck drivers, routes, signage, and staging areas. How prefab, buffer zones, and laydown grids can speed up production. Mark shares real stories from buses colliding with pump trucks to truck drivers lost in congested campuses that prove why planning is non-negotiable. If you want to stop putting out fires and start running smooth, predictable projects, this episode is for you.
Tarina has her “Cream Dr. Pepper” and Nic confronts Tarina about her other addiction—buying plants. Her latest plant purchase is a rubber tree.To listen to Nic and Tarina's early days and what they struggled through, you can go back to early episodes. “Everyone is fighting a fight that the rest of the world knows nothing about.” When we are vulnerable and share, it builds trust and connection. Leaders who share their own struggles will build stronger teams because it makes them relatable and human.Often, when we're going through it, we sometimes feel like the only one. The reality is we're all going through something. And sharing can help others heal in small ways. As Nic says, people are more inspired by your failures than your successes. Sometimes we are too eager to impress and less eager to connect.If you enjoy Nic and Tarina's podcast and get something from listening to “all this Nic Bittle Crap,” please hit the like button, share it with a friend, or both. Your recommendation goes a long way in helping us reach more people.Also if you have questions that you want Nic and Tarina to answer, email them at info@nicbittle.com.---
What happens when a builder refuses to settle for “business as usual”? Michael Chavez, Project Manager at Sky Blue Builders, shares how Super PM bootcamp reshaped the way he leads, plans, and runs projects. From energizing meetings to building people first, Michael reveals the simple habits that keep momentum alive long after training ends. If you want practical tactics and real inspiration for leading in construction, this episode will fire you up. 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
Recordables are down across the industry, yet fatalities have not moved. In this episode, Highwire Chief Safety Officer David Tibbetts shows how to stop chasing TRIR and start preventing serious injury and fatality by focusing on the work that can change a life in a single moment. • What SIF really means: life ending, life threatening, and life altering. • Why TRIR alone can mislead and how to pair it with exposure tracking. • How to make pretask plans actually useful by centering high risk tasks and critical controls. • Where to invest limited energy and attention so crews stay safe for real. • Fast moves for this week daily SIF scan, top three risks in huddles, verify controls before start, log SIF potential events. If you lead people on a job, this gives you a clear, exposure focused playbook you can apply today. Press play and send every worker home safe. 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
Quick, energetic recap from Salt Lake City plus a listener question that turns into rapid fire, practical guidance on what actually works on site. Where AI saves time today: takeoffs, RFIs, submittal registers, meeting notes, and when to still write key items by hand. Tools that matter now: ChatGPT for writing and notes, plus purpose built platforms for estimating, reality capture, and schedule insight. First Planner vs Takt vs Last Planner what each system is for and how they fit together. Roadblocks vs constraints, why over prioritizing backfires and how to visualize and clear the path fast. What is coming next: General Superintendent book progress, Takt update, student video series, and the one day Builder Huddle. 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
Projects rarely go wrong. They start wrong. In this punchy breakdown, Jason spotlights Adam Beanie's framework and ties it to the builder's code Never yield ground so you can protect finished work, keep control, and deliver. The big miss: inadequate planning and starting before you're ready. Leadership alignment: PM and superintendent in lockstep or the job suffers. Scope change creep: why phased design spins teams out and how to stop it. Scheduling truth: CPM confusion vs the rhythm and flow of Takt. Team capability: put the right people on the bus and skill them up. Incentives: how contracts drive behavior and how to align them. Risk and information: continuous risk scanning and real time updates to the field. Clear. Applicable. Field ready. Press play, level up your next kickoff, and hold the ground you've earned. 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
Micromanagement gets blamed for everything. Jason pulls apart the viral advice and shows when close guidance is actually teaching, how capability and team stage change what leaders must do, and why meetings and details aren't the enemy. It's a frank reset on accountability, trust, and what real leadership looks like on the job. When close guidance is right: explain, demonstrate, guide, enable. Forming and storming need more check-ins so work can move in short cycles. Meetings are the work when teams are not side-by-side. Details matter: tighten quality where it protects brand, clients, and safety. Never okay: stealing ideas or hogging credit. The better response: communicate, shorten iterations, build trust, and raise your own quality bar. If you lead people, this episode gives you a clearer lens and practical moves you can use 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
Send us a textEver wondered how Scientology manages to evade legal consequences for decades of alleged abuses? The answer lies in their sophisticated legal machinery – a system now raising serious ethical questions as former Scientology attorneys ascend to judicial positions.In this eye-opening episode, Marc and Claire Headley (former Sea Org members with 20+ years inside Scientology) analyze the recent appointment of William Hobbs Foreman to California's Supreme Court by Governor Gavin Newsom. This appointment follows a disturbing pattern first established when Mark Marmorro, who represented Scientology against the Headleys in 2009, was appointed to the same court by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2010.Drawing from personal experience and meticulous research, the Headleys present documented evidence of Foreman's involvement in four major Scientology cases, where his legal strategies consistently delayed justice for victims while allowing continued harassment. From forcing religious arbitration to arguing that children's "religious obedience contracts" were binding, these tactics protected Scientology from facing jury trials – which Marc notes they've never won.Most troubling is the revelation that documents from 2021 still link both judges to Scientology cases, raising serious questions about potential conflicts of interest in California's highest court. While judges should ethically recuse themselves from ruling on Scientology matters, their influence extends beyond individual cases to the broader legal environment.This isn't merely an academic discussion – it's a call to action. The Headleys provide practical resources for filing attorney misconduct complaints, submitting judicial grievances, and contacting Governor Newsom directly. They've even compiled bar numbers for key Scientology attorneys to simplify the process.Ready to help bring accountability? Watch now to learn how you can participate in creating meaningful change against one of the most litigious organizations in America.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...
If you've ever struggled with making construction schedules truly reliable, this episode is a must-listen. Jason continues his series on the Last Planner System with a deep dive into the 2020 Benchmark, breaking down what's working, what's missing, and where the industry needs to head next. From field engineering as the backbone of quality and safety, to the real meaning of reliable promises, Jason unpacks how detailed task breakdowns, constraint removal, and full-kit readiness set the stage for project success. He also shares insights on: Why lookahead planning is more than just a meeting, it's a commitment to roadblock-free work. How Percent Plan Complete (PPC) can mislead you, and the better metric you should be tracking. Why integration with Takt planning and flow-based work packaging is essential for the next generation of Last Planner. The Benchmark's push for target value delivery, adaptability, and continuous learning. This isn't theory, it's practical, battle-tested insight designed for builders who want to lead with clarity, reliability, and flow. If you're ready to level up your planning game and see how Last Planner ties directly to Takt and real project delivery, 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
This episode wraps up our Last Planner series and sets the stage for a brand-new Last Planner Implementation Guide with real-world visuals and field-proven steps. Here's what you'll learn: Why the classic “should–can–will–did” ladder fails and how to rebuild it with macro-level Takt so your plans are both realistic and reliable. How to structure work by zones, not dates, to shorten throughput time without fantasy durations. Why shielding and screening at the weekly level is already too late and what to do months earlier instead. The power of First Run Studies (done 3–6 weeks out) to guarantee crews only start what they can finish on time. How to use workable backlog as swing capacity for the train of trades keeping flow intact and crews productive. A clear line in the sand: why CPM can't be your master schedule and what to use instead. This isn't just theory, it's the foundation for a field-ready manual that teams can actually follow. If you're serious about reliable promises, real flow, and project delivery that works, this episode is your blueprint.
In this episode, Jason uncovers why Japan's lean revolution succeeded while the U.S. drifted away from the very principles it created. The answer lies in humility, respect for people, and the power of working as one united team. Inside this episode: The forgotten U.S. production miracle of WWII and how Japan carried it forward. Why humility after the war fueled Japan's lean culture while America lost it. How total participation transforms project sites from worker huddles to safety culture to trade partner alignment. Why foreman meetings, visual systems, and zero-tolerance for chaos aren't optional, they're the foundation of flow. The hard truth: Lean will never take root in construction until everyone participates. If you're tired of trades working in silos, projects bogged down by excuses, and the industry lagging behind manufacturing, this episode is your wake-up call.
What's the one thing that can make or break every project? Trust. In this episode, Jason sits down with the man, the myth, the legend Mark Story to dive deep into the real foundation of successful construction teams: creating an environment where people feel safe to share, collaborate, and grow. We talk about why trade partners often arrive with skepticism, how past project trauma carries into new jobs, and what leaders can do to set the mood on site. From debriefs that actually build confidence, to enabling teams to own their plans (instead of being micromanaged), Mark shows us how to replace fear with accountability rooted in trust. If you've ever wondered how to stop finger-pointing, unlock true collaboration, and transform a jobsite into a learning system where every trade wins, this conversation is for you. Listen in and challenge yourself: What are you doing right now to build trust with your team and trade partners? 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 took a hard look at the Last Planner System, what works, what doesn't, and why it desperately needs a reset. From daily huddles that prioritize foremen over craftworkers, to the misuse of “constraints” vs. real roadblocks, to static boards that kill flow, I pull no punches in critiquing where our industry is stuck. You'll hear why: Morning huddles waste critical craft time (and what to do instead). Roadblocks must replace “constraints” in our language and practice. Visual boards should drive problem-solving, not just display commitments. Why percent plan complete (PPC) isn't enough, we need new KPIs. Pull planning should always use one sticky per day and avoid batching. Lean systems should evolve, not stagnate. If we want Last Planner 2.0 (or 3.0) to actually deliver, we've got to stop repeating bad habits and start building trust, flow, and clarity on our projects.