

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

Oct 24, 2024 • 8min
Ep.1197 - Utilize Our Strengths
In this podcast we cover: Why it's not reasonable to think that you can do it all on your own. Why teams must understand and leverage each other's strengths. How you can do it. Too many of us carry the heavy burden of thinking we must do it all. The truth is we are not designed to. In this episode I share a story about a teammate who felt ashamed for needing help with something outside her natural strengths, and why that shame has no place in a healthy team. We thrive when we recognize our own strengths and let others cover our blind spots. I talk about the toxic myth of self-sufficiency, the real power of complementary skills, and why successful companies are built on teamwork. This episode will inspire you to let go of unrealistic expectations, embrace your unique strengths, and fully leverage the abilities of your team. Together we win and together we grow. 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

Oct 24, 2024 • 9min
Ep.1196 - How Fast We Fix Problems
In this podcast we cover: Why having problems is not a problem but that our focus should be how fast we actually fix problems. How we create that culture in our organizations. This episode tackles one of the most important truths in business and construction: problems are not the problem. The real measure of success is how fast we fix them. I share how our team at LeanTakt uses red cards to surface issues quickly and how we built a culture where raising problems is encouraged, not punished. I revisit a powerful lesson from Janet Howe at DPR, who showed me that safety recognition comes from fast correction, not flawless reports. We explore how systems like EOS, two-second lean, and the Toyota Production System all revolve around the same principle, identify problems fast and respond even faster. Lean is not about hiding issues. It is about creating visibility, trust, and responsiveness. If you want to build a culture that thrives on solving problems rather than avoiding them, this episode will show you the path 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 😊). 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

Oct 24, 2024 • 15min
Ep.1195 - PDCA Percentages
In this podcast we cover: The percentage of each of the steps. Why planning must be your largest percentage. How you can really get this wrong and get yourself into trouble. This episode uncovers a powerful truth about PDCA. Most of your effort must go into planning. I share insights from Toyota, the military, and construction that prove why planning is not just a step but the foundation of everything. You will hear why 80 percent of the cycle belongs to planning, how the Western world gets it wrong, and what that means for your projects. I connect this to field engineering skills, installation work packages, and the kind of preparation that sets teams up for success. Lean systems, Navy SEAL missions, and great builders all point to the same principle. Plan deeply, execute intentionally, and adjust with clarity. This is not about adding more meetings. It is about building the discipline and systems that prevent chaos before it starts. If you want to stop firefighting and start building projects with stability and flow, this is the episode you need. 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

Oct 24, 2024 • 17min
Ep.1194 - The Wrong Sequence
In this podcast we cover: How many different things are actually tied to a pull plan and a pull plan success. What happens if you have the wrong sequence. The impact on work. What are some things that you can do to really, really make sure that it goes well. This episode dives deep into one of the most overlooked but critical aspects of construction success: the sequence of a pull plan. I share updates from our leadership journey, insights into empowering crews with the right tools, and why advanced work packaging often misses the mark. Most importantly, I uncover the surprising truth that 95 percent of project roadblocks can be prevented with a proper pull plan done the right way. If you have ever struggled with constraints, bottlenecks, or trades falling out of sync, this is your wake-up call. The wrong sequence will derail your project, but the right one creates flow, rhythm, and trust. I will show you exactly why this is non-negotiable and how to get it 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 😊). 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

Oct 24, 2024 • 9min
Ep.1193 - Never Make a Decision Based on Feelings
In this podcast we cover: Why we should never make a decision based on solely how somebody should feel. Why we should always make decisions based on what is right. Why sometimes taking the indirect approach is okay. What happens when leaders make decisions just to keep people happy? The result is stalled progress, broken trust, and manipulation by those who know they can exploit emotions. In this episode, I share why feelings cannot be the compass for decision-making and why true leadership is rooted in what is moral, ethical, and right for the mission. I discuss the balance between considering people’s concerns and still having the courage to choose the greater good. You will hear real-world stories from construction projects and insights from leadership training that prove why decisions based on principle always outperform decisions based on preference. If you want to stop being held hostage by emotions and start leading with clarity and conviction, 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

Oct 16, 2024 • 13min
Ep.1192 - Airport Thinking—When Do We Leave?
Discover the innovative concept of 'airport thinking' and how it applies to construction management. Learn about the importance of sequencing and timely planning, as well as how this approach can improve project execution. The discussion also tackles challenges faced by smaller contractors in adopting lean principles. Gain insights on backward planning and anticipating buffers to streamline processes, ultimately reducing project stress and enhancing success. Tune in for engaging community feedback and practical guidance for aspiring construction workers!

Oct 15, 2024 • 19min
Ep.1191 - I’m Asking You to Speak up
In this podcast we cover: Why it will take all of us speaking up to fix this. This episode is a call to action that you cannot ignore. I share real feedback from a listener who transformed their growth through learning, mentoring, and lean practices. We then confront an uncomfortable truth about silence in the face of abuse both in construction and in society. From the struggles of women worldwide to the dangers hidden in outdated scheduling systems, the message is clear. Harm happens when people stay quiet. Abuse thrives when no one speaks up. Change will only come when we collectively say enough. This conversation may challenge you, but it is meant to inspire you to raise your voice and protect what matters most. 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

Oct 15, 2024 • 10min
Ep.1190 - A Crucial Mistake in the Flow of Your Deliverables
Discover how to effectively separate traditional CPM scheduling from the Last Planner System. Learn the critical mistakes that can derail project execution and why a structured approach is essential. This discussion highlights the importance of flowing deliverables properly, avoiding unnecessary complexities that can hinder success in construction projects.

Oct 15, 2024 • 25min
Ep.1189 - Construction Apologetics
Discover the world of construction apologetics and its significance in the industry. Explore how practical experience shapes effective leadership and the importance of defending beliefs through dialogue. Navigate parental fears around child safety, highlighted by a neurosurgeon's insights. Hear a gripping account of an accidental injury and the challenges faced afterward. Finally, critique outdated construction management systems like CPM and EVM, addressing the ethical responsibility to improve practices for a healthier workforce.

Oct 15, 2024 • 14min
Ep.1188 - Don’t Just Design What People Want
Explore the nuanced balance between what clients want and what they truly need in construction. Discover the importance of innovative design methodologies tailored to the industry's evolving demands. Learn how trademarking new systems can boost collaboration and efficiency on construction sites. Dive into the necessity of moving past outdated practices to unlock greater productivity in projects. These insights are crucial for anyone looking to elevate their construction approach.