

Elevate Construction
Jason Schroeder
Elevating construction with interviews, training, and techniques that will make the build environment better for workers, our customers, companies, and the industry as a whole.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 5, 2025 • 9min
Ep.1313 - We All Have Problems - The Question Is If We Address Them Early or Late
Every project faces problems, but the timing of when you address them can make or break your success. In this episode, I share why productive paranoia is one of the most valuable mindsets you can have on a construction site. You will hear real examples of how spotting issues early prevented major setbacks, and why waiting for the perfect moment to act almost always backfires. If you want to protect your schedule, your budget, and your sanity, this is the episode you need to hear. 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Apr 5, 2025 • 12min
Ep.1312 - Treated Like A Subcontractor
What does it really mean to treat someone like a subcontractor? In this episode, I unpack a toxic industry norm that undermines trust, damages relationships, and hurts project outcomes. I share my own misstep, why the language we use matters, and the concrete ways we can treat trade partners with the respect they deserve. If you want stronger relationships, smoother projects, and better results, this conversation is a must listen. 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Apr 5, 2025 • 23min
Ep.1311 - AIA Contract Documents, Feat. Luke Diorio
Contracts Are More Than Paper, They’re Your First Line of Defense What if your contracts could actively protect your project, your team, and your bottom line? In this episode, I sit down with Luke Diorio, Senior VP at AIA Contract Documents, to break down how the right agreements, backed by over 140 years of industry expertise, can help you spot risks early, share them wisely, and keep projects running smoothly. From AIA’s new Katina platform to real-world strategies for customizing contracts, Luke and I unpack how project managers, supers, and executives can turn contract reviews into a powerful risk-management tool. Whether you’re building a home or a stadium, these insights could save you time, money, and headaches. Listen in, and start seeing your contracts not as a formality, but as a strategic advantage. 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 😊). Code: ELEVATE15 Offer: 15% of the Unlimited Subscription (eligible for first-time subscribers only) Expiry Date: June 30, 2025 aiacontracts.com Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Mar 29, 2025 • 8min
Ep.1310 - The Hating Period
Ever heard of the “hating period”? It is not about being negative, it is about asking the tough questions that keep you and your projects safe. In this episode, I share why blind optimism is dangerous, how curiosity uncovers hidden risks, and the simple five-question rule that will make you sharper, safer, and more effective. Whether you are new to construction or a seasoned pro, this mindset shift will change how you approach every decision. 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Mar 29, 2025 • 9min
Ep.1309 - The Worry & Overcome Cycle
Do you find yourself worrying about every step of a project? That might actually be your secret weapon. In this episode, I share how the worry and overcome cycle has helped me push projects, teams, and companies forward. You will see why having something to worry about is a sign of progress, how to turn fear into focus, and why comfort can sometimes be a danger zone. Discover how to use worry to stabilize systems, build momentum, and create remarkable results. 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Mar 29, 2025 • 9min
Ep.1308 - We Read Drawings to Trigger Action
What if studying drawings could completely change how your project starts? In this episode, I break down the five questions that turn drawing reviews into powerful actions. You will see how clarity, constructability, sequencing, responsibility, and procurement connect to real-world project success. Discover why simply “reading” drawings is not enough and how to use them to trigger RFIs, refine scopes, order materials on time, and lock in your production plan. If you want to start every project with confidence, this episode is 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Mar 29, 2025 • 7min
Ep.1307 - How Morning Worker Huddles Create Fast Change
In this episode, I reveal why daily huddles are the single most powerful tool for scaling fast change in construction. From afternoon foreman huddles to morning worker connections, these structured touchpoints create immediate feedback loops that keep teams aligned and projects on track. Forget waiting days or weeks to communicate change. With daily huddles, you can move entire crews in hours, not days. If you want a jobsite that adapts quickly, stays safe, and thrives on clarity, this episode is a must-listen. 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Mar 28, 2025 • 11min
Ep.1306 - Waiting
In this episode, I confront one of the most destructive habits in construction: waiting. From procurement logs to project planning, too many teams lose valuable time waiting for the perfect information instead of advancing with what they already know. I share why superintendents must never wait, how to plan effectively even without complete data, and why momentum is more important than perfection. If you want to avoid project failure and lead with strength, this episode will change the way you approach planning and execution. 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Mar 27, 2025 • 11min
Ep.1305 - Failure to Start, Check-in, and Win!
In this podcast we cover: Why we must ask for help to start. Why we must check-in and get help. How that prevents re-work. In this episode, I break down one of the most damaging patterns in construction careers: failure to launch. Too often, fear of starting and fear of checking in lead to endless delays, rework, and frustration. I share real-world stories, examples from the field, and the practical antidote to this cycle. If you’ve ever hesitated to take action or delayed showing your progress, this conversation will show you how to break through fear and move faster, smarter, and with more confidence. 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Mar 27, 2025 • 9min
Ep.1304 - We Will NOT Save You, But We Will Help You Save Yourself
Saving People In this podcast we cover: The role of “The Wolf.” A story about Ana. How you can help people to help themselves. In construction, I have often felt the pressure to swoop in and “fix” problems. But over time, I have learned that real leadership is not about being the hero. It is about empowering teams to solve problems themselves and grow stronger in the process. In this episode, I share why our approach at Elevate is built on coaching rather than saving, and how incredible directors like Ana Luisa Perez Mayorkin guide teams to their own recoveries. I explain why savior leadership creates dependency, and why empowering people to save themselves builds resilience, confidence, and lasting cultural change. Join me as I talk about why the best leaders focus on building strength in others instead of carrying the weight for 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 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw