Elevate Construction

Jason Schroeder
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Feb 25, 2025 • 14min

Ep.1283 - 2 Needed Corrections

In this podcast we cover: The proper role of a Safety Professional. The proper role of planning in construction. In this episode, I take on two dangerous misconceptions that I keep seeing in our industry. First, I challenge the idea that safety professionals are just “advisors.” The truth is, their job is to hold the line, correct unsafe behavior, and make sure every worker goes home safe. Then I dig into the myth that planning doesn’t reduce risk. I show why proper planning with Takt, Last Planner, and Scrum actually eliminates risk and builds reliability. If you’ve ever questioned what real safety leadership looks like or wondered why effective planning matters, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. 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
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Feb 25, 2025 • 11min

Ep.1282 - Examples of Pushing

In this podcast we cover: Why most Supers do not know how to run their projects. Why we must move away from pushing. In this episode I open up about two big misconceptions I keep seeing in construction. First, I share why pushing, whether in a drive-through, at the airport, or on a jobsite, only creates chaos, delays, and frustration. Then I challenge the dangerous idea that superintendents automatically “know how to run their jobs.” The truth is most have been trained by the old system to push, rush, and panic. I explain why the future belongs to supers who become system builders using Takt, Last Planner, and Scrum. If you’ve ever questioned why pushing doesn’t work or wondered what it takes to lead projects the right way, this is an episode you’ll want 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
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Feb 21, 2025 • 4min

Ep.1281 - Lean Lies

In this podcast we cover: As many lean lies I have heard that I can remember. In this episode I dig into some of the biggest myths I see in construction, what I call lean lies. These are the false beliefs that sound convincing but end up hurting projects, teams, and outcomes. From the idea that you can plan too soon, to the myth that lean can be implemented bit by bit, I break down why these approaches fail and what the truth really looks like. I also share practical insights on planning, huddles, sticky notes, and why leaders cannot delegate lean. If you have ever wondered why lean fails on some projects, this episode will give you the clarity and direction you need to set the record straight. 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
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Feb 21, 2025 • 12min

Ep.1280 - Principles of Preparation

In this podcast we cover: Don’t start until you can win. Brokers can’t make work ready. In this episode I share fresh lessons from recent boot camps about preparation, planning, and why pushing is the enemy of flow. You’ll hear how a simple shift in mindset during a Takt simulation completely changed performance, why afternoon huddles beat morning huddles every time, and why builders, not brokers, are the ones who truly make work ready. If you’ve ever struggled with teams defaulting to panic and push, this episode will give you the clarity and tools to help your projects win. 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
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Feb 19, 2025 • 10min

Ep.1279 - Visibility with all LPS Deliverables

In this podcast we cover: How you can make your entire lean system functional. In this episode I share a breakthrough that completely changed how I see the Last Planner System. Too many projects rely on a single pull plan and wonder why things break down. The truth is we need all the views: macro, norm, pull, look ahead, weekly work plan, and day plan. Each one reveals something essential for a different audience. Without all seven, your team is flying blind. Join me as I explain why visibility is the missing piece and how you can finally unlock the real power of Last Planner. 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
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Feb 19, 2025 • 11min

Ep.1278 - Stop Signs & Opportunities - The Truth

In this podcast we cover: What’s the difference between a stop sign and a research point or opportunity? In this episode I share why too many teams treat problems as stop signs instead of opportunities. I talk about my own experiences with concrete crews who resist changes and give excuses without data. The truth is every obstacle is a research point. If someone says it cannot be done, they need to show the numbers, the RFI, and the analysis. Real leadership is about challenging assumptions and turning barriers into opportunities. Listen in to see why the right mindset transforms challenges into progress. 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
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Feb 19, 2025 • 15min

Ep.1277 - Misalignment between Reality & Plan

In this podcast we cover: What happens when your plan does not reflect reality in the field? Ever felt like you’re following a map that doesn’t match the road? That’s exactly what happens when field plans don’t align with reality. In this episode, I share why misalignment destroys schedules, wastes time, and leaves teams spinning their wheels. I also open up about a tough experience with negativity and excuses in the industry, and why CPM isn’t the savior people think it is. This one’s raw, real, and straight to the point. If you’ve ever struggled with plans that look good on paper but fail in the field, this will hit home. Get ready for some unfiltered truths about alignment, leadership, and doing the work that actually matters. 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
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Feb 19, 2025 • 12min

Ep.1276 - Professional Concrete

In this podcast we cover: What signs are there that you have a professional concrete crew. What separates an average concrete crew from a professional one? It’s not just the pour, it’s how they finish, clean, and care for the details. In this episode, I share insights from an incredible company that showed me what real excellence looks like in concrete work. From immediate patching and scraping to clever tricks that keep slabs spotless, these are the small habits that make a huge difference. Too often, crews leave the mess for someone else to fix, but the best don’t. If you want to see the pride and professionalism that elevate construction, this story will hit home. 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
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Feb 13, 2025 • 12min

Ep.1275 - Anticipation Is the Ultimate Superpower!

In this podcast we cover: Why anticipation is best. Why reaction never works. What if the ultimate power in construction isn’t speed or force, but anticipation? In this episode, I share how a struggling team went from failure to success the moment they stopped pushing and started planning. I dive into why our industry wrongly glorifies “firefighters” and why the real heroes are the ones who prevent problems before they happen. You’ll hear how anticipation beats reaction every time and why planning is always worth the cost. If you’ve ever felt stuck putting out fires on your project, this blog will challenge you to lead differently. 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
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Feb 11, 2025 • 10min

Ep.1274 - Implement Systems Fully—Make Improvements bit-by-bit

In this podcast we cover: Why systems must be implemented fully. How improvements can be made bit-by-bit. What if the reason your systems fail isn’t the people but the way they’re implemented? In this episode, I share why trying to roll out Last Planner bit by bit will never work. Using examples from manufacturing lines, HVAC systems, and even Paul Akers’ Two-Second Lean, I break down the difference between a system and an improvement. The secret is simple: systems must be complete to function, but improvements can be made gradually. Too often, we confuse the two and end up frustrated. If you’ve ever tried to implement change only to see it stall, this blog will shift your perspective. 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

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