

Construction Genius
Eric Anderton
Thomas Edison said, "Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration."
This show interviews hard-working construction company owners and executives who share their wisdom, perspectives, and lessons learned from decades of experience bidding, planning, and building profitable projects. Topics include leadership, strategic planning, conflict resolution, niche identification, succession planning, talent management, business development, and business growth.
Industry expert, Eric Anderton also shares his insights about how construction company owners can increase project profit by improving communication, running productive meetings, and attracting, developing, and retaining talented leaders.
Tune in each week and get practical inspiration for how to build people, projects, and profits.
"I know of no genius but the genius of hard work." John Ruskin
This show interviews hard-working construction company owners and executives who share their wisdom, perspectives, and lessons learned from decades of experience bidding, planning, and building profitable projects. Topics include leadership, strategic planning, conflict resolution, niche identification, succession planning, talent management, business development, and business growth.
Industry expert, Eric Anderton also shares his insights about how construction company owners can increase project profit by improving communication, running productive meetings, and attracting, developing, and retaining talented leaders.
Tune in each week and get practical inspiration for how to build people, projects, and profits.
"I know of no genius but the genius of hard work." John Ruskin
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 15, 2023 • 47min
The Art Of Saying "No" And Other Leadership Strategies
In this insightful interview, Bradley engages Eric Anderton in a conversation about his journey, his leadership philosophy, and the strategies he employs to help construction leaders maximize their potential. Eric shares his unique EAR (Encouragement, Accountability, Recognition) framework for effective leadership communication, discusses the importance of setting an aspirational hourly rate, and emphasizes the power of saying "no" to tasks falling outside a leader's role or below their aspirational hourly rate.

Aug 8, 2023 • 48min
Nail Your Estimates: How To Use Information, Creativity, And Collaboration To Win More Work With Melvin Newman
Changing the game in estimating can be a pain in the neck but utilizing gathered information will help strategize and turn the tides in the business' art of war. In this episode, Melvin Newman, the President of PataBid, accentuates some key points to nail your estimates and win the right projects, clients, and locations. He also captures the value of socializing the estimates in your organization to be creative in increasing hit rates and winning more work. Melvin also shares his insights on how time inversion impacts the hit rate of a contractor in winning the work. Let's dive deeper into this conversation with the estimating genius Melvin Newman! Do you have a talented senior executive who needs to be a better leader? Getting an outside, impartial perspective from an industry expert can help. Reach out to Eric directly to learn more about his executive coaching for construction leaders: www.constructiongenius.com/contact

Aug 1, 2023 • 38min
Website Strategy: Mastering SEO To Humanize Your Brand And Navigate Litigation With Michael Buzinski
In this episode, Eric Anderton engages in a captivating conversation with Michael "Buzz" Buzinski, an expert in website strategy, search engine optimization (SEO), and integrated marketing. Buzz provides a comprehensive understanding of SEO and its crucial role in enhancing a construction contractor's website performance, online visibility, and lead generation. Discover effective techniques for humanizing your brand by leveraging community relationships, building trust, and positioning yourself as a reliable and approachable industry expert. Gain valuable insights on using SEO as a strategic tool to navigate potential challenges, including litigation, and protect your brand's reputation in the digital landscape. Learn how to optimize your website strategy by incorporating SEO best practices, keyword research, content optimization, and user experience enhancements. Buzz shares practical recommendations for contractors seeking to dive into SEO, whether through DIY efforts using reputable online tools or by partnering with an experienced search engine marketing firm. Explore the long-term benefits of SEO and the importance of considering the full marketing ecosystem to maximize return on investment (ROI) and drive sustainable business growth. Connect with Michael "Buzz" Buzinski at Buzzworthy.biz to leverage his expertise in website strategy, SEO, and integrated marketing for your construction business. Contact Buzz via email at Buzz@Buzzworthy.biz or by phone at 907-382-7625. Connect with Buzz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/MichaelBuzinski/ Don't miss this enlightening episode where Eric and Buzz delve into the realm of website strategy and its pivotal connection to SEO. Whether you're aiming to humanize your brand, optimize your online presence, or effectively navigate potential reputation challenges, their insights will equip you with actionable strategies to elevate your construction business. Tune in now to master the art of SEO and propel your website performance to new heights. Get in Touch with Eric: Interested in executive coaching? Eric offers invaluable insights and practical advice that can guide your leadership journey in the construction industry. Schedule a quick 10-minute conversation with him through the following link: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me For more hands-on, practical, and effective leadership advice, be sure to get a copy of Eric's book "Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies." Available on Amazon. The book provides a wealth of knowledge that every construction professional can benefit from. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing game in the construction sector.

Jul 25, 2023 • 54min
Scaling Up: Empowering Growth Through Leadership Development And Innovation With Wes Palmisano
In this comprehensive and insightful conversation, Eric Anderton, host of Construction Genius, sits down with Wes Palmisano, President & CEO of Impetus, a commercial construction startup that rocketed to success. The chat unveils Wes's approach to leadership development, culture creation, and his strategic blend of in-house and external expertise to drive growth and innovation. Wes also shares his personal strategies for maintaining focus amidst the whirlwind of leading a fast-growing company. Highlights: Building a Leadership Academy: Wes discusses how Impetus created its own Leadership Academy, empowering employees to grow into more prominent roles within the company. He highlights the value of investing in people, creating an internal ecosystem where talent can flourish, and the benefit of structured career pathways. Cultivating a Company Culture: Wes emphasizes the importance of creating a culture that mirrors the identity of the leaders. He stresses that it's not only about setting standards and values; instead, it's about nurturing those values consistently within the organization, to the point where it becomes a habit. Balancing Internal and External Expertise: Wes unpacks how his organization leans on external expertise when needed, despite their preference for in-house resources. He elaborates on how these external consultants bring fresh perspectives and ideas, highlighting the importance of careful selection and gradual integration of external partners for alignment with the company's culture. Continuous Growth and Expansion: Wes offers an inside look at the rapid growth of Impetus, from zero to $100 million in revenue in its first 36 months. He describes the company's journey, from initially focusing on commercial construction to branching out into heavy civil construction and other self-performed capabilities, always pushing for innovation and improvement. Maintaining Sanity Amidst Rapid Growth: In the midst of an aggressively growing business, Wes swears by routine to maintain his sanity. He shares his personal strategies for keeping a structured day, including exercising, minimizing decisions, and sticking to what works for him. A Taste of New Orleans: The conversation wraps up on a lighter note, with Wes recommending Peche, a local seafood restaurant in New Orleans that offers a modern, healthier take on traditional local cuisine. For a deep dive into how a successful construction business operates and navigates challenges, don't miss this conversation with Wes Palmisano on Construction Genius. Explore the journey of Impetus and find actionable insights to drive your own business success. Links: Website: https://buildimpetus.com, https://www.thinkrngd.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-j-palmisano-317681a, https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildimpetus Restaurant Recommendation: https://www.pecherestaurant.com Get in Touch with Eric: Interested in executive coaching? Eric offers invaluable insights and practical advice that can guide your leadership journey in the construction industry. Schedule a quick 10-minute conversation with him through the following link: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me For more hands-on, practical, and effective leadership advice, be sure to get a copy of Eric's book "Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies." Available on Amazon. The book provides a wealth of knowledge that every construction professional can benefit from. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing game in the construction sector.

Jul 18, 2023 • 50min
Mastering Talent Acquisition: Insights And Tactics For Construction Recruitment Success With Taylor Maurer
Welcome to another enlightening episode. Today, we are joined by Taylor Maurer, founder of Heavy Civil Resource Consultants (HCRC). With a deep-seated passion for the construction industry, Taylor brings more than 18 years of recruiting experience in the heavy civil construction and engineering sector. In this episode, Taylor shares insights into the unique challenges and best practices of recruiting in the construction industry. He dives into the three pillars of successful recruitment - having a candidate pool, creating engaging marketing materials, and ensuring consistent high-volume communication. Taylor also touches on the importance of cultivating an attractive company culture and fostering a positive candidate experience. As an avid long-distance backpacker, Taylor reveals his experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail. His affinity for adventure goes beyond his professional life, revealing parallels between hiking and navigating the recruitment landscape. In addition to recruitment, Taylor's firm HCRC is developing various programs to offer extensive services, including onboarding and retention consulting, employee satisfaction assessments, succession consulting, company acquisition, and sales consulting. Find more about Taylor Maurer and his company at: HCRC: www.hcrc.us LinkedIn: Taylor Maurer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylormaurer/ LinkedIn: HCRC Inc - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcrc-inc Get in Touch with Eric: Interested in executive coaching? Eric offers invaluable insights and practical advice that can guide your leadership journey in the construction industry. Schedule a quick 10-minute conversation with him through the following link: www.10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me For more hands-on, practical, and effective leadership advice, be sure to get a copy of Eric's book "Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies." Available on Amazon. The book provides a wealth of knowledge that every construction professional can benefit from. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing game in the construction sector.

Jul 11, 2023 • 47min
Empathy In Action: Mastering Emotional Resilience And Connection For Construction Leaders
In this episode, we explore the crucial role of empathy and emotional intelligence in the construction industry. Our guest, Erin Thorp, a renowned speaker, and coach, shares invaluable insights on how leaders can effectively understand and support the emotions of their team members. We also delve into the dynamics between men and women in the workplace, highlighting the mutual learning and valuable contributions each gender brings to the table. Erin emphasizes the importance of women entering the construction industry, embracing their unique perspectives, and unleashing their full potential. Rather than conforming to traditional expectations, women are encouraged to show up authentically and contribute their distinct insights and skills. On the other hand, men should let go of the urge to change or fix women's approaches. Instead, they are encouraged to foster curiosity and embrace the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with women. By leveraging the strengths and perspectives of both genders, construction companies can tap into the best available talent and build successful businesses. Throughout the episode, Erin provides practical strategies for building empathy, active listening, and effective coaching techniques. By creating an understanding culture, and collaboration culture, construction leaders can enhance relationships, promote mutual learning, and drive project success. Connect with Erin: Website: www.erinthorp.ca Book: "Inside Out Empathy" LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinthorpcoaching This episode is hosted by Eric Anderton, author of "Construction Genius: A Guide to Effective Hands-On Leadership." Eric's book offers further insights and strategies for construction leaders to enhance their leadership skills and leverage diverse talents to build thriving businesses. Summary: In this captivating podcast episode, we delve into the essential role of empathy and emotional intelligence in the construction industry. Our guest, Erin Thorp, shares invaluable insights on understanding and supporting the emotions of team members while highlighting the reciprocal learning and valuable contributions of both men and women. Erin encourages women in construction to embrace their unique perspectives and unleash their full potential, while men are advised to foster curiosity and collaborate with women. By leveraging the strengths and diverse talents of both genders, construction companies can harness the best available talent and build successful businesses. Throughout the conversation, practical strategies for empathy, active listening, and effective coaching are provided, empowering construction leaders to enhance relationships, promote mutual learning, and drive project success. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion with Erin Thorp, where you'll gain valuable tools to enhance your leadership abilities in the construction industry. Resources: Erin Thorp's Website: www.erinthorp.ca Book: "Inside Out Empathy": www.insideoutempathy.com Erin Thorp's LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ Erin Thorp's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/?hl=en Erin Thorp's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinthorpcoaching Eric's Book: "Construction Genius: A Guide to Effective Hands-On Leadership" (link: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T)

Jul 4, 2023 • 42min
The Ultimate Guide To Retaining Top Talent In The Construction Industry With Matt DiBara
Amidst the scarcity of talent in the construction industry, the true measure of success lies in our ability to retain and empower our workforce. By cultivating a supportive environment and embracing effective strategies, we pave the path to building a thriving future. Today, we dive deep into the pressing issue of talent retention in the construction industry with Matt DiBara of DiBara Masonry and The Contractor Consultants. Matt sheds light on the persistent labor shortage that plagues the construction sector. He discusses why talent retention is paramount for companies in this industry, emphasizing the need for effective strategies in the face of fierce competition. He also explores the keys to creating a supportive and fulfilling work environment that attracts and retains top talent. Matt offers practical advice and real-life examples to guide construction professionals on their path to securing and retaining their most valuable asset—their skilled workforce. Don't miss this ultimate guide to retaining top talent in the construction industry. Tune in now and learn how to navigate the challenges posed by the labor shortage. Buy the one book every construction leader must read: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Own a construction company, need to become a better leader? Contact Eric for a chat about how he can help: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me/

Jun 27, 2023 • 29min
The Cybersecurity Blueprint: Unpacking CMMC Certification And Choosing Your Cybersecurity Team With Nick Espinosa
The Department of Defense will require contractors' and subcontractors' certifications and security protection. In this episode, Nick Espinosa, an expert in Cybersecurity and Network Infrastructure, unpacks the cybersecurity blueprint to help establish security to mitigate breaches. He explains the value of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. He also dives into hiring an outside expert to help you in cybersecurity. Nick discusses when you can get an internal person handling cybersecurity in your construction company. Tune in to this episode with Nick Espinosa to find out more! More on the CMMC work Nick's done for ELECTRI and JGRF: https://electri.org/product/a-cmmc-overview/ Buy the one book every construction leader must read: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Own a construction company, need to be a better leader? Contact Eric for a chat about how he can help: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me/

Jun 20, 2023 • 20min
From Adversity To Advantage: Harnessing The Power Of Urgency
The economy shifts and affects every industry, especially construction. The market is becoming more competitive as we face new economic challenges. In this episode, Eric Anderton explains how you can harness the power of urgency to stay at the top of your game in this ever-changing industry. He reveals the three areas you need to respond with urgency in the construction business: the fundamentals of the business, the team dynamics, and customer service. Construction is cyclical, and what happens in the following years won't be the same, but the next downturn will still occur. Be wise and tune in to this episode to learn how to leverage the power of urgency to move from adversity to advantage.

Jun 13, 2023 • 37min
Golden State Growth: Construction Obstacles And Opportunities With Richard Douglass
The construction industry has been changing over time, and the biggest change is regulation. In the Golden State, we are seeing how much these changes have hindered the development and building of homes, businesses, and various structures. In this episode, Richard Douglass, the President of Trumark Homes' Southern California Division, discusses construction obstacles in California and the opportunities we can glean from despite it all. He shares tips for construction businesses to move along the increasing complexity and difficulty in the face of constant changes. Richard also touches on the key aspects to thrive in the construction industry, helping builders and contractors continue to create a positive impact on people's lives. Tune in to this episode and learn how to thrive in the industry and more!


