Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

How do you turn a quiet childhood into a powerhouse communications career in AEC? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd sits down with Susan Young—journalist-turned-communication coach—for a deep dive on why storytelling, curiosity, and clarity are the secret weapons of modern construction pros. Susan shares her unique journey from broadcasting to boardrooms and unpacks the common struggles she sees across the industry, especially when it comes to presenting, persuading, and connecting with people. 🎯 Whether you're pitching to clients, presenting at public hearings, or leading a team—this episode will change how you think about communication in AEC. Meet Our Guest Susan Young is CEO of Get in Front Communications, Inc. Susan is an award-winning CEO, communicator, and keynote speaker in the AEC industry with over 40 years of experience. She works with AEC professionals who want to be clear communicators so that they have more confidence, trust, and impact. For 10 years, Susan was an on-air radio news reporter and anchor. In addition, she co-managed the office of radio and TV for New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman. She blends her unique communication background with today's mindset tools that bring new, heartfelt, and repeatable processes and perspectives that few trainers know. TODD TAKES Everyone Has a Story—Even If You Don’t Think So Most people in the construction industry downplay their own stories, believing that everyday work isn’t worth sharing. But the truth is, if you got out of bed today, you have a story. The challenge is recognizing those small but meaningful moments—like attending a parade or building with Legos as a kid—that shape who you are and why you do what you do. Storytelling starts with acknowledging the value of your own experience. Curiosity is a Superpower Being a great communicator starts with having a natural curiosity—not just about others, but about yourself too. Asking the right questions (internally and externally) can uncover powerful insights and help shift internal narratives. Whether it’s connecting with clients or developing your own career path, curiosity leads to clarity, confidence, and better human-to-human connection. If You Want to Clean Your House, You Have to Look at the Dirt Self-awareness is the starting point for growth. From leadership to frontline workers, communication struggles often stem from unexamined habits, fear, or ego. True innovation—especially in communication—requires the willingness to reflect honestly, challenge internal dialogue, and break outdated patterns. Avoiding the “dirt” only allows dysfunction to fester. Growth begins with a willingness to face it head-on.   Additional Resources Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Susan’s LinkedIn Get in Front Communications, Inc.  

What happens when you blend startup energy with construction grit? In this week’s episode, Todd sits down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch and lifelong entrepreneur, for a conversation on how innovation, leadership, and customer “obsession” are shaping the future of the built environment. From launching his own painting company to helping Fortune 500 teams scale, James shares a practical yet visionary approach to leading in the construction tech space. He breaks down the process of shifting team mindsets, improving buy-in across the board, and how building trust beats selling products every time. 🔑 Key Topics: Translating startup lessons into construction leadership Why trust and relationships still close more deals than tech Creating a “customer-obsessed” culture across your teams The mindset shift needed for growth in Contech TODD TAKES Solve the Problem That Actually Exists—Not the One You Assume Innovation in construction must start by addressing real, boots-on-the-ground challenges—not hypothetical or abstract problems. The most effective tools are born from firsthand experience and direct input from the field. If the tech doesn’t make a worker’s life easier today, it won’t be adopted tomorrow. Practical Empathy Drives Better Innovation Seeing through the eyes of the people who actually use the technology—whether it’s a superintendent, technician, or small business owner—ensures that tools are intuitive, fast, and don't require lengthy training. Empathy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a design strategy. You Need Both Visionaries and Plane Landers Visionaries dream of the future. Plane landers bring those dreams safely to the ground. For innovation to succeed in construction, businesses need both: those who can see around corners and those who can translate that vision into practical tools that teams can use today, without disruption fatigue.   James Hatfield is Chief Revenue Officer at LIveSwitch Inc., a global technology company that serves the trades and other businesses. As an industry thought leader and expert in sales, leadership and business innovation. James has extensive experience working with entrepreneurs, small businesses, and Fortune 500 enterprises. He is also an entrepreneur and has founded a painting and power washing company. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: James’ LinkedIn LiveSwitch  

What does it take to build a business that truly lasts? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt sits down with visionary business leader John Abrams to explore legacy in construction leadership and how employee ownership is helping reshape the future of the industry. From founding one of the nation’s earliest worker cooperatives to mentoring a new generation of leaders, John shares hard-earned wisdom on how to leave a purposeful and enduring mark in construction. They also discuss his latest book, From Founder to Future, which offers a roadmap for building businesses centered on values, longevity, and democratic decision-making. If you’re thinking about your own leadership legacy in construction, this episode offers practical insights on culture, hiring, ownership, and succession. About Our Guest John Abrams is Co-Founder of South Mountain Company and Abrams + Angell. John is a visionary business leader, author, and pioneer in employee ownership. John co-founded South Mountain Company, an architectural building and solar firm that became one of the first worker cooperatives in the U.S. setting a gold standard for purpose driven business in construction. He now mentors others on creating lasting impact through democratic ownership. His latest book, From Founder to Future, is a roadmap for building companies with an enduring integrity.   Todd Takes Culture doesn't just happen—it’s built on purpose. If you want a strong, healthy company culture, it takes daily, intentional effort. It means aligning your values with your decisions and walking the walk, not just talking the talk. Culture should be something you actively shape, not something you inherit or hope works itself out. Hiring isn’t a race—it’s a responsibility. The best teams come from hiring slowly and with purpose. When you prioritize values, character, and long-term fit over speed or resume flash, you end up with people who strengthen—not strain—the culture you’re trying to build. Trust grows when everyone gets a seat at the table. Some of the best solutions come from opening up tough questions to the whole team. When people are invited to help solve problems and shape decisions, trust deepens and ownership expands—because everyone feels like their voice actually matters. 🎧 Tune in to learn how you can build your own legacy in construction leadership—through purpose, people, and long-term impact.   Related Content Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: John’s LinkedIn South Mountain Company Share this Episode Get on the show!

What does it take to truly transform construction? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt chats with Paul Hedgepath of MJ Harris about the powerful intersection of innovation and practicality on the jobsite. With over 25 years of experience, Paul dives into how BIM, AI, and reality capture are reshaping workflows across industries like healthcare, aviation, and education. Discover how to lead technology adoption, build smarter with data, and future-proof your teams in a rapidly evolving industry. 🔎 Topics We Cover: How to drive meaningful innovation with BIM, AI, and reality capture Why adaptability and communication are key to long-term success Breaking down silos and making tech adoption less intimidating 🎧 Listen now for more insights on the future of building. Meet Our Guest Paul Hedgepath is Director at MJ Harris Construction. In his role, he leads construction technology and BIM operations, integrating practical tools into project workflows and fostering collaboration among design teams, trades, owners, and field teams. His goal is to help teams use technology effectively for better project outcomes. TODD TAKES Tech Culture Starts with Trust and Action Adopting construction technology isn’t just about the tools—it’s about building a culture that trusts innovation. By getting hands-on, showing results, and addressing real field problems, tech leaders can build credibility and foster meaningful buy-in from teams on the ground. AI is Already on the Jobsite—And It's Working AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore. Teams are actively using smart assistants to review submittals, flag schedule risks, and cross-check documents—saving time and reducing rework. It’s about aligning AI with real tasks, not just theoretical use cases. Training and Simplicity Drive Adoption Rolling out new tech—especially AI—requires thoughtful training. That means using real-world examples, simplifying workflows, and giving teams just what they need to succeed without overwhelming them. A one-pager and clear pain-point examples go a long way toward making AI stick.   Stay Connected Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Paul’s LinkedIn MJ Harris Construction Services, LLC    

It’s a fact: a picture is worth a thousand words. In this episode of Bridging the Gap, Todd Weyandt sit down with Roger Yarrow of TrueLook Construction Cameras to explore the evolving world of construction cameras. Roger shares his vision for the future of precon, the growing importance of data-driven decisions, and how visibility tech is transforming project teams. Tune in and dive into the rising demand for preconstruction software, how to avoid costly job site mistakes, and why flexibility and transparency are must-haves in today's construction landscape. 🔎 Topics Covered: Why preconstruction is more important than ever The role of data and software in modern construction Building trust through client transparency Preparing your team for future innovation The biggest challenges facing preconstruction teams today Roger Yarrow is CEO of TrueLook Construction Cameras. In his role, Roger spearheads the company's commitment to being the market leader in total jobsite visibility. By harnessing advanced camera technology, data-driven insights, and AI, TrueLook offers construction professionals a seamless and comprehensive solution for viewing, securing, and documenting their jobsites. TODD TAKES Total Jobsite Visibility Isn’t Just a Catchphrase—It’s a Decision-Making Superpower When you’ve got real-time visuals, time-lapse documentation, and security footage all in one place, you’re not just watching a jobsite—you’re managing it smarter. Visibility gives you the power to make decisions proactively instead of reactively. That’s a game-changer. Cameras Build Accountability and Transparency Without the Big Brother Vibe It’s not about catching people doing something wrong—it’s about creating a shared reality everyone can operate from. When project stakeholders can see progress, align on facts, and track what really happened on site, you’re building trust from the field all the way to the C-suite. A Connected Jobsite Is a Safer Jobsite This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety. Cameras and other connected tools create an ecosystem where machines, people, and data talk to each other. And when tech can warn you about danger before it strikes, that’s innovation doing what it’s supposed to—keeping people safe.   Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Roger’s LinkedIn TrueLook Construction Cameras    

Resilient sustainable construction with ICFs is transforming the building industry. In this episode of Bridging the Gap, discover how the concrete industry is exceeding expectations—achieving a 50% reduction in carbon emissions well ahead of the 2030 goal—and how Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are setting the new standard for energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and long-term performance. Todd Weyandt sits down with Frank Gordon, Vice President of Strategic Development at BuildBlock Building Systems and an active member of the Virginia Ready Mixed Concrete Association (VRMCA). Frank shares his deep industry expertise on how resilient sustainable construction with ICFs is not just a trend, but the future of building smarter and stronger. Key Takeaways The vital connection between sustainability and resiliency in modern construction How ICFs protect against wildfires, hurricanes, and seismic events Real-world case studies of ICF structures enduring catastrophic disasters Innovations driving carbon-neutral and low-carbon concrete technologies 🎙 Tune in to learn how ICFs are reshaping resilient sustainable construction and why forward-thinking builders, architects, and developers are adopting this approach. About Our Guest Frank Gordon is the VP of strategic development at BuildBlock Building Systems and is a member of VRMCA, Virginia Ready Mixed Concrete Association. He is an advocate of sustainable and resilient construction. With over 30 years of industry experience, Frank shares his passion for educating architects, engineers, and developers on the advantages of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) and how they are revolutionizing sustainable construction.   Todd Takes Sustainability and resiliency go hand in hand.  You really can’t have one without the other. It’s not just about being efficient or green—it’s about building systems that can weather change and still deliver value over time. Let curiosity lead the way.  Staying curious—asking the right questions and digging into the “why” behind customer behavior—can unlock powerful insights. It’s that mindset that turns raw data into real opportunities for growth. Step back to move forward.  True innovation doesn’t always come from adding more—it often comes from pausing and reassessing the process itself. When we zoom out, we can spot friction points, simplify complexity, and unlock smarter, more scalable solutions.   Related Content Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn Other Relevant Links: Frank’s LinkedIn BuildBlock Building Systems NRMCA Share this Episode Get on the show!

What happens when you blend old-world craftsmanship with forward-thinking sustainability? In this episode of Bridging the Gap, host Todd Weyandt is joined by Jonathan Orpin, founder of New Energy Works and pioneer in timber frame construction and sustainable design. Jonathan shares how re-embracing wood as a primary building material is key to creating a more carbon-conscious future. From the importance of craft in construction to balancing tradition with innovation, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainable building, prefabrication, and the human element behind the tools. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Why mass timber and wood framing are making comebacks in modern construction How collaboration and community are essential to real innovation The vital role of craftsmanship in an era of automation How New Energy Works is leading the charge in sustainable, people-first building 🎧 Tune in to learn how timber can help us shape a better, more beautiful built environment. Jonathan Orpin is a lifelong entrepreneur and sustainability advocate, founder of New Energy Works and Pioneer Millworks, two eco-friendly leaders in design. He is also Member of the Board of Directors at Timber Framers Guild. TODD TAKES Sustainability and Business Success Go Hand-in-Hand Jonathan emphasized that sustainability isn't just about being environmentally conscious—it’s also a smart business strategy. By balancing people, planet, and profit, companies can build long-term value while creating better work environments and products. Building a Strong Culture is Key to Long-Term Success A company’s mission is only as strong as the people who believe in it. Jonathan highlighted the importance of creating a culture where employees feel invested, informed, and aligned with the company’s purpose. When people understand the "why" behind their work, they’re more engaged and committed to long-term success. The Future of Construction Depends on Smarter Material Choices Sustainable building starts with rethinking the materials we use. Jonathan stressed the importance of selecting materials that reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability and performance. From wood fiber insulation to mass timber, the industry has opportunities to build smarter and greener—if we make intentional choices.   Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Jonathan’s LinkedIn New Energy Works Pioneer Millworks  

Does innovation always mean groundbreaking new tech, or can it also mean simple, steady improvements to the way you work? Live from Advancing Prefab 2025, Todd Weyandt sits down with Jason Van Nest to talk about the importance of standardization in prefab construction, the balance between innovation and practical solutions, and the necessity of stakeholder buy-in for successful standards. Looking to the future, Jason emphasizes the need for configured solutions in construction and the power of collaboration to drive change in the industry. Main takeaways: 🔹 How can we bridge the gap between architects and builders? 🔹 Why is prefab the key to efficiency and scalability? 🔹 What’s coming next in automation, AI, and modular design? 🎧 Don’t miss this deep dive into the prefab revolution—tune in now! Jason Van Nest is the founder of LOGIC Building Systems and a leading voice in offsite construction and modular innovation. As the executive director of New York Tech's Center for Offsite Construction, he works to create the technology, research, and curriculum needed to scale industrialized construction in the U.S. With a background as a licensed architect, professor, and BIM consultant, Jason brings a unique blend of hands-on experience, academic leadership, and forward-thinking strategies to the conversation on how to drive down costs and make prefab more accessible. TODD TAKES Prefab Needs Standardization—But Not at the Cost of Flexibility: Everyone talks about the need for standardization in prefab, but Jason made a great point—it’s not about forcingeverything into a rigid system. Instead, the goal should be to create repeatable, scalable solutions that still leave room for customization and adaptability. Think of it like USB ports—if the industry can agree on universal connection points, prefab can scale without limiting design freedom. Industrialized Construction is the Only Path Forward: With rising material costs, labor shortages, and sustainability pressures, Jason doesn’t see a future where industrialized construction isn’tthe solution. Prefab and modular methods are the only scalable way to build smarter, faster, and more efficiently. The key? Breaking free from outdated, project-by-project engineering and moving toward a true “configured-to-order” model. The Market Needs to Be Ready for Innovation: Here’s the thing—technology alone won’t change the industry. Jason pointed out that major innovations only succeed when the market is prepared to adopt them, just like how USB ports paved the way for smartphones and thumb drives. If we want prefab and industrialized construction to scale, we need to set the foundation nowwith clear standards, better collaboration, and a mindset shift across the industry.   Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Jason’s LinkedIn LOGIC Building Systems

Is prefabrication all about efficiency, or is it also revolutionizing the way we build? In this episode, Todd Weyandt sits down with Michael Quillen, a seasoned expert in electrical prefab to explore the changing landscape of workforce development, automation, and the future of modular construction. Michael shares his journey from being a 17-year-old apprentice to becoming a leader in prefab design, emphasizing the importance of engaging young talent and breaking industry stigmas. He reveals how his team’s innovative approach—focusing on field collaboration, hiring forward-thinking professionals, and embracing automation—has revolutionized efficiency in construction. Key takeaways include: 🔹 How early engagement with schools fosters a stronger, skilled workforce. 🔹 The mindset shift needed to scale prefab from job sites to full-scale factories. 🔹 The role of AI and automation in shaping the future of construction. 🔹 Strategies for gaining buy-in from the field and leadership to push prefab forward. 🔹 Highlights from Advancing Prefab 2025, including the growing involvement of architects and owners in prefab planning. 🎧 Tune in to gain fresh insights into the prefab revolution and what it takes to stay ahead in this rapidly advancing industry! Michael Quillian is a leader in electrical prefabrication and modular construction at Inglett & Stubbs Modular. With over 20 years of field experience, he specializes in designing and fabricating electrical and multi-trade modular skids and assemblies that drive efficiency and innovation. Michael is passionate about leveraging technology and advanced workflows to push the boundaries of cost-effective, high-quality, and sustainable prefab solutions. TODD TAKES Prefab Success Starts with Thinking Differently: If you want prefab to thrive, you can’t just copy-paste traditional construction methods into a controlled environment. Michael made it clear that success comes from rethinking processes, questioning why things are done a certain way, and constantly searching for better solutions. The best prefab teams aren’t just following a playbook—they’re rewriting it in real time to drive efficiency and innovation. Collaboration with the Field is the Game-Changer: Prefab isn’t about forcing the field to use a product—it’s about partnering with them to solve real problems. Michael emphasized that his team actively listens to what field crews need, which builds trust and ensures that prefab solutions actually make their lives easier. When prefab is seen as a service to the field rather than just another deliverable, that’s when real buy-in happens. The Future of Prefab is Automation—But Not Just the Kind You Think: Everyone loves to talk about robotic automation, but Michael pointed out that digital automation is just as critical. Whether it’s dashboarding, AI-driven data analysis, or streamlining workflows, the ability to process information faster is what will take prefab to the next level. The companies that win in the future won’t just automate bending conduit—they’ll automate decision-making and process optimization across the board.   Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Michael’s LinkedIn Inglett & Stubbs Modular  

With tariffs and supply chain disruptions reshaping the construction landscape, staying ahead of contract complexities is more critical than ever. In this episode of Bridging the Gap, host Todd Weyandt welcomes back Josh Levy, CEO and Co-Founder of Document Crunch, to discuss how AI is revolutionizing contract review and helping contractors navigate risks—including the impact of new tariffs. Josh shares insights on how AI-driven tools help teams quickly identify key contract risks, streamline workflows, and improve decision-making. He also dives into the evolving role of technology in construction and the importance of bridging the knowledge gap between legal teams and field professionals. Key takeaways include: 🔹 How AI is transforming contract review and risk management. 🔹What contractors need to know about upcoming tariffs—and how to prepare. 🔹 Why better contract understanding leads to stronger project outcomes. 🔹 The future of AI-driven solutions in construction. 🎧 Don’t let complex contracts slow you down—tune in now to learn how AI can give you a competitive edge! TODD TAKES Stay Ahead of Disruptions: Change isn’t just coming—it’s already here. The companies that succeed aren’t the ones that simply react but the ones that anticipate and prepare. Josh highlights how being proactive about understanding market shifts, regulatory changes, and technological advancements can give businesses a competitive edge. Instead of waiting for disruption to force change, leaders should be constantly scanning the horizon and adjusting their strategies to stay ahead. Leadership and Innovation Go Hand in Hand: Technology can be a powerful tool, but it doesn’t automatically lead to better results. Josh makes a great point about the need for both leadership and innovation to shape technology in a way that enhances workflows rather than creating new inefficiencies. It’s not just about adopting the latest tools—it’s about bending them to fit the real needs of the business. The best leaders recognize that tech should serve the process, not the other way around. Construction’s Resilience Is Its Superpower: If there’s one industry that knows how to adapt, it’s construction. Josh reminds us that time and time again, construction has faced major disruptions—from economic downturns to labor shortages to new regulations—and has always found creative ways to move forward. This ability to think outside the box and problem-solve in real time is what keeps the industry strong. The future will bring new challenges, but if history is any indication, construction will rise to meet them.   Josh Levy is Co-Founder and CEO at Document Crunch, a contract intelligence platform for the construction industry. With a strong leadership background and expertise in construction law, he co-founded Document Crunch to bring his extensive experience to the field. Throughout his career, he has worked for top-ranking construction firms and led departments with annual revenues of $1 billion. He graduated with honors from the University of Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. He also holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami, graduating with high honors. Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd’s LinkedIn   Thank you to our sponsors! Applied Software Applied Software LinkedIn   Other Relevant Links: Josh’s LinkedIn Document Crunch