Elevate Construction

How Bomb Disposal Can Improve Your Remote Meetings Jumping around topics in a virtual meeting is like frantically cutting wires without knowing which one will set off the alarm; it’s confusing, stressful, and ineffective. In this episode, I share a memorable analogy for running smoother remote meetings (and in-person communications) by staying in one “activity frame” at a time. You’ll learn how this principle applies not just to Zoom or Teams, but to jobsite huddles, OAC meetings, and even foreman-to-crew instructions. I’ll share examples from my own field experience, including how seasoned carpenters thrived on one-piece-flow communication, and give you a practical mental model you can use immediately. If you’ve ever struggled to keep a meeting, crew, or conversation on track, this approach will help you deliver your message with clarity and focus.     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

Why “The Trades Agreed to It” Isn’t a Free Pass We’ve all heard it: “The trades agreed to it.” But in construction, that phrase is often used to justify impossible schedules or poorly planned work. In this episode, I explain why simply getting verbal agreement from your trade partners doesn’t guarantee the plan is achievable, and how to make sure it is. I’ll walk through the common reasons tradespeople say “yes” without truly understanding the impact, what an informed agreement should look like, and the responsibility we carry as general contractors to set everyone up for success. If you want to stop hiding behind this phrase and start building schedules that protect people, flow, and respect, this is the episode 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

When Standardization Goes Too Far Is your company’s push for standardization stopping you from innovating? In this episode, I respond to a superintendent whose new tool could improve project meetings but might not fit management’s “everything the same” policy. We’ll talk about the difference between a standard as a baseline versus a cap, how to frame your case to leadership, and why the best companies keep raising their standards instead of locking them in place. I also share my own experience pushing back when corporate tried to dictate my job site processes and how I still got the results my projects needed. If you’re stuck between following the rules and improving your work, this episode will show you how to find the win-win and what to do if leadership won’t even consider it.   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

How to Read Construction Drawings Without Overwhelm When you get a brand-new set of drawings, where do you even start? In this episode, I share my step-by-step method for reviewing drawings in a way that’s organized, relevant, and manageable no matter your role or experience level. We’ll cover how to match your review to the phase of the project, why focusing only on the next 6 weeks is a game-changer, and how to use trade partners as a resource for clarity. I also explain the “phase specialization” approach I learned from a great superintendent, and why breaking the review into short, focused sessions will save you from burnout. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a mountain of construction documents, this episode will help you create a repeatable system that keeps you in control and ahead of the work.     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

Daily Huddles: Beginner vs. Advanced Most daily huddles in construction are just quick check-ins, not true planning sessions. In this episode, I break down the difference between a basic “information-sharing” huddle and an advanced, three-tiered huddle system that improves flow in the field. You’ll learn why foreman huddles should happen the afternoon before, how to run a short and effective worker huddle in the morning, and the key role of a mid-morning management huddle in removing roadblocks. I also share my thoughts on which superintendent-focused conferences and training programs are worth your time and why some of the best learning comes from “boots on the ground” leaders. Whether you’re a superintendent, foreman, or project manager, this episode will give you a clear structure to make your huddles more impactful, collaborative, and results-driven.     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

Ready to Elevate Your Construction Game? In this episode,Jason Schroeder dives deep into Elevating Preconstruction Planning breaking down the essential steps to start your construction projects STRONG and SMART. From pre-con meetings with owners, ordering every crucial piece of equipment early, to setting up daily huddles and safety systems this episode is packed with actionable insights that will transform how you kick off your projects. But this isn’t just theory. Jason challenges YOU to step up, take ownership, and push this industry beyond mediocre. No more excuses. No more waiting for some miracle tech or “savior.” It’s time for builders to lead with professionalism, purpose, and pride. If you want a clear, practical blueprint for running lean, remarkable projects plus inspiration to raise your standards and live a more remarkable life this episode is your blueprint. 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

Builder Collaboration Does the Plan Really Belong to the Builders? What if the secret to crushing your construction project was simply involving the right people early? In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down the game-changing power of true builder collaboration why your project plan only succeeds when it’s made with the builders who will actually build it. Learn the 3-step blueprint to preconstruction success: ·         Gather the builders: Bring in the real experts early ·         Make the plan: Dive deep into the strategy, zones, bottlenecks, and milestones ·         Tear it apart: Stress test your plan with fresh eyes to catch risks before they hit the field Jason challenges the old way of siloed planning and reveals how this shift can lead to projects finished on time, on budget, and exactly as the owner expects. If you want to elevate your construction leadership, ditch mediocre planning, and deliver remarkable projects, 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

How to Truly Enable Your Design Team & Build Better Projects What if the secret to smoother, faster construction starts with real support for your design team? In this episode, Jason Schroeder reveals the crucial steps to empower designers so they can deliver on budget and on time from real-time schedule and budget updates to deep constructability reviews and early trade partner involvement. Discover why true collaboration means ditching drama, leveraging builder wisdom, and using powerful tools like VDC, risk identification, and A3 problem solving sheets to keep the project flowing flawlessly. If you want to level up your preconstruction game, minimize costly surprises, and build with confidence this episode is your roadmap.   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

Mastering Preconstruction Planning with Last Planner & Scrum The Ultimate Design Phase Playbook In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down the powerful Last Planner System and Scrum methods how to set milestones, create pull plans, run daily huddles, and keep your design team laser-focused and on track. Discover how to transform vague goals into clear, actionable steps, balance work in progress, and recover from delays without chaos. Learn why visual plans, weekly work sessions, and smart sprint tracking are game-changers for preconstruction success. If you want your design phase to flow smoothly, your team to collaborate seamlessly, and your project to stay on budget and schedule this episode is your blueprint. 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

Build the Dream Team & Set the Winning Parameters Your Blueprint for Preconstruction Success In this episode, Jason Schroeder dives deep into assembling your design and preconstruction team  and setting the crystal clear targets that keep everyone rowing in the same direction. Discover how to organize your team, define roles, and build communication systems that actually work. Learn why early clarity on budgets, schedules, and general conditions can save your project from costly surprises and last minute panic. Get a behind the scenes look at game changing tools like “conditions of satisfaction” boards and pre-flight check kickoff meetings that set the stage for smooth sailing  from kickoff to closeout. If you want to avoid budget blowouts, timeline chaos, and design rework, this episode gives you the strategic foundation every construction leader needs. 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