
The Preconstruction Podcast - Commercial Construction.
The Preconstruction Podcast tells the story of Preconstruction Innovation within Commercial Construction throughout the US. We will be traveling the country speaking with Preconstruction innovators, Estimating geniuses, and national leaders within Technology, General Contractors, Architects, Owners, and Subcontractors to hear their Preconstruction success stories.
Latest episodes

Dec 9, 2024 • 42min
123: KC Mares, Data Center Power Solutions Leader: ENERGY is the elephant in the room when it comes to AI!!!!!!!!!
Gareth McGlynn chats with KC Mares about the elephant in the room when it comes to Data Center Construction in 2024/2025 ENERGY. How do we power the Data Centers needed to accommodate AI?
Key Points:
Data Center: Design, Development, Energy and efficiency
Why are the transmission lines decades behind what's needed?
The perfect storm is Natural Gas & Solar or Wind
What challenges the Department of Energy have
Why completely changing the government is a bad idea when it comes to DOE
Onsite Power Solutions are key to any sustainable Data Center.
KC doesn't sit on the fence with anything and discusses so much more - ENJOY
If you have any questions for KC or would like to dive further into the solutions needed for a Data Center Project, reach out to him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kcmares/
Or check out his website Mega Watt Consulting: https://megawattconsulting.com/

Nov 25, 2024 • 50min
E122: Henry Nutt, III, Sheet Metal Worker come Preconstruction Executive at Southland Industries
In this episode, Gareth McGlynn sits down with Henry Nutt III, Preconstruction Executive at Southland Industries, to discuss his inspiring journey and transformative insights.
Key discussion points:
Starting out from a vocational school as a sheet metal worker and journeyperson.
The transition from fieldwork to preconstruction and its challenges.
The transformative power of leadership that empowers teams through actions, not just words.
Insights from his book, Seven Principles.
Southland Industries' deliberate approach to transitioning field professionals into estimators.
Price escalation in mechanical systems and predictions for 2025.
Connect with Henry Nutt III on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-nutt-iii-7832347/
Tune in to this inspiring episode, and keep an eye out for more engaging stories and expert insights on The Preconstruction Podcast!

Nov 18, 2024 • 42min
E121: Michael Lewis, Regional Scheduling Director at AECOM Hunt
Michael Lewis, Regional Scheduling Director at AECOM Hunt, joins our host Gareth McGlynn for a focused discussion on scheduling in preconstruction and estimating.
Episode Highlights:
Construction Management degree from the University of Nebraska.
12 years of scheduling expertise.
Importance of scheduling in pre-construction and estimating.
The stigma around scheduling.
Biggest challenge scheduling faces in today’s industry.
Connect with Mike Lewis on LinkedIn for more insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lewis-pmi-sp-a700642a/
Catch this insightful episode and stay tuned for more from The Preconstruction Podcast!

Nov 11, 2024 • 41min
E120: Paul Wilkins, Vice President - Director Preconstruction Services at JE Dunn Construction
In a lively chat, Paul Wilkins, Vice President of Preconstruction Services at JE Dunn Construction, shares his journey from the UK to Oklahoma's booming construction scene. He highlights Oklahoma's ambitious projects including a basketball stadium and preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Paul discusses the complexities of managing billion-dollar ventures and the crucial role of preconstruction services. His insights bridge personal nostalgia for football with the dynamic evolution of the construction industry, showcasing the power of teamwork in building a brighter future.

Nov 4, 2024 • 40min
E119: David Blanton, Senior Vice President of Preconstruction at JPI on The Preconstruction Podcast
In our latest episode, Gareth McGlynn sits down with David Blanton, Senior Vice President of Preconstruction at JPI, to discuss critical issues shaping the multifamily construction space.
Discussion Highlights:
Career Growth: David shares key moments and decisions that defined his journey.
Skills Gap: Examining the widening gap and its implications for preconstruction.
Labor Shortage: An industry-wide challenge impacting timelines and budgets.
EPA Code Adoption: How the new regulations are driving up costs.
2024’s Knowledge Requirements: The level of technical expertise demanded in modern projects.
Mastering a Skill: Why specialization can be a career game-changer.
Find out more about David's work and connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-blanton-0985883/
Catch more insights and conversations—subscribe to The Preconstruction Podcast!

Oct 28, 2024 • 48min
E117: Mission Critical Construction with Suffolk's Mike Mallon (Director of Preconstruction)
In this episode, Gareth McGlynn sits down with Mike Mallon, Director of Preconstruction at Suffolk Construction, to explore a range of topics that are shaping the future of preconstruction within Mission Critical projects:
Key Discussion Points:
- Graduating in 2016 from Northeastern University
- Started as a Scheduler (Co-op)
- Mentorship with Charles McCarthy
- Why make the move from operations to Preconstruction.
- Challenges of Mission Critical projects
- Career growth what is the key?
- Preconstruction Technology with Ediphi
If you have questions for Mike, drop him a message on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-mallon-83866689/
Huge thanks to Mike for coming on.

Oct 21, 2024 • 44min
E116: Hamzah Shanbari, Director of Innovation at The Haskell Company
In this episode, Gareth McGlynn sits down with Hamzah Shanbari, Director of Innovation at Haskell, to explore a range of topics that are shaping the future of preconstruction and innovation in the industry.
Key Discussion Points:
Paperless Builders: Hamzah’s latest book is now available.
Construction Technology: The why, what, and how of applying tech effectively.
Education: Hamzah’s academic background, which includes an architectural engineering degree, a master’s in building construction, and a Ph.D. in design construction planning.
Teaching: Insights from his role as a professor at the University of North Florida.
Innovation at Haskell: The latest developments in the company.
Knowledge Retention: The importance of an LMS system for preserving insights.
It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of innovation and technology in construction.
You can get in touch with Hamzah via his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamzah-shanbari/

Oct 14, 2024 • 41min
E115: The Biggest issue in construction is PEOPLE. Brent Darnell is an International thought leader transforming our industry.
Brent Darnell, Owner of Brent Darnell International, is a thought leader in construction, focusing on enhancing emotional intelligence and performance. He shares his journey from a construction family and the critical 'people issue' in the industry. Brent emphasizes the need for better mental, physical, and emotional well-being for leaders. He discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in fostering team dynamics, enhancing relationships, and improving overall project outcomes. His insights challenge traditional hiring practices and advocate for empathy and collaboration.

Oct 7, 2024 • 50min
E118: Jim Driscoll, Director of Preconstruction at Kadean Construction, based out of Kansas City, Missouri.
Gareth McGlynn chats with Jim Driscoll, Director of Preconstruction at Kadean Construction, to discuss all things preconstruction.
Key Points:
Jim's transition from Director of Operations to Director of Preconstruction
Delivery methods and design-build in healthcare and industrial projects
Building teams through recruitment and internships
And a lot more.
Catch this episode for more practical insights from the field.
Connect with Jim Driscoll via his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-driscoll-a1911591/

Sep 30, 2024 • 29min
E:111 Kyle Bonde, Preconstruction Reimagined discusses LIVE from APC 2024 in Denver, CO
The Preconstruction Mastermind that is Kyle Bond sat down with our host Gareth McGlynn to discuss his vision of what Preconstruction should look like.
Enjoy and feel free to connect with Kyle via his LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-bonde-809b6566/