The Why We Build Podcast! The Lookback: What Every Project Teaches Us at Year’s End
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this solo episode, Greg explores one of the most valuable—and most overlooked—practices in remodeling: the post-project lookback. As the year comes to a close and production teams push toward the finish line, Greg explains why companies should pause long enough to learn from the work they’ve already completed.
Using practical field experience and insights from coaching remodelers, Greg breaks down how simple lookbacks can uncover patterns, reduce recurring problems, and strengthen collaboration across departments. He then connects the same framework to a year-end company review, helping leaders enter the new year with focus, clarity, and intention.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
- Why remodelers often avoid lookbacks—and why it hurts performance
- A simple three-question framework that makes debriefs fast and effective
- Common patterns that show up when companies start reviewing their jobs
- How to apply the lookback method to your entire year, not just your projects
- How reflection—not speed—is what drives long-term improvement
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Most recurring issues are predictable; lookbacks make them visible.
- These conversations aren’t about blame—they’re about systems and alignment.
- Capturing what went well is just as important as identifying friction.
- A year-end review helps companies stop dragging old problems into a new year.
- Improvement only happens when teams reflect, decide, and act with intention.
MEMORABLE QUOTES
“Projects rarely fall apart in one big moment—they fall apart in the lessons we never take time to capture.”
“A lookback is where quiet problems finally get a microphone.”
“Companies don’t get better by accident. They get better by reflection, decision, and discipline.”
ACTION STEP FOR LISTENERS
Before the year ends, choose one completed project and run a quick lookback with your team:
- What went well?
- What caused friction?
- What will we change going forward?
One conversation can shift the momentum of your entire next year.
CONNECT WITH GREG WOLECK
- Instagram: @whywebuild_ra
- LinkedIn: Greg Woleck
- Podcast: The Why We Build Podcast (available wherever you listen)
- Website: Remodelers Advantage