

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

5 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 20min
Ep.1223 - Takt Planning Book - Chapter 1
Explore the transformative potential of the Takt Production System in the construction industry, emphasizing worker welfare. Learn about Takt planning's role in improving project delivery and the need for collaborative approaches. Dive into the innovative TAC production system, which redefines scheduling by organizing trades into efficient workflows. Discover critiques of current practices and predictions for Takt's rise as a leading scheduling methodology, along with valuable resources to deepen your understanding.

Dec 3, 2024 • 28min
Ep.1222 - Making Projects Legally Successful, Feat. Andy Wyman
In this discussion, guest Andy Wyman, owner of Wyman Legal Solutions, sheds light on the intricacies of construction law. He emphasizes the importance of communication in avoiding legal pitfalls and building trust between contractors and clients. The conversation dives into proactive strategies for contract management, detailing how well-negotiated agreements can minimize disputes. Wyman also stresses the need for a strong legal framework and the value of professional guidance to enhance operational success in construction projects.

Nov 26, 2024 • 11min
Ep.1221 - Tools vs. People
People vs. Tools? You're Asking the Wrong Question The construction industry loves to debate, Is it about the tools or the people? But what if that whole argument misses the real enemy? In this eye-opening episode, Jason Schroeder exposes the true battle raging in construction not people vs tools, but people vs. the cult of disrespect. From lean implementation gone wrong to toxic jobsite behaviors, Jason shares hard-earned lessons and unapologetically calls out the broken systems that overburden and dehumanize workers. If you've ever felt like the tools were being valued more than the humans using them, this one's for you. Why blaming tools is lazy How disrespect hides behind systems, contracts, and "efficiency" Why it's time to stop being polite and start calling out bad behavior And yes… what Wicked has to do with construction leadership This episode is bold, real, and exactly what our industry needs 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/feature · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

Nov 26, 2024 • 14min
Ep.1220 - Why I Focus on People First
Why I Always Put People Before Profits (And You Should Too) In this episode, Jason Schroeder tackles the uncomfortable truth about how the relentless pursuit of efficiency is burning out our workforce, crushing trade partners, and putting entire projects at risk. He draws a powerful parallel to The Lorax and asks: "Who's speaking for the trades?" If you're a superintendent, project manager, or construction leader who's tired of broken systems, stop scrolling and hit play now. Jason breaks down why focusing on people first isn't just the right thing to do it's the only way to build sustainable, high performing projects. Expect raw insights, bold takes on CPM vs. Takt, and a call to challenge outdated thinking in construction. 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

Nov 22, 2024 • 8min
Ep.1219 - The Metrics you Need to Know Early on in the Project
In this podcast we cover: The things that you need to know in order to get a frame of reference. Understand your program type and really start to plan your project. In this short but powerful episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down the essential metrics you must know at the start of any construction project. From total area and zoning to complexity and constraints, these numbers set the stage for effective planning and production. With practical insights drawn from real project reviews, Jason explains why skipping these basics leads to failure and how mastering them builds both better projects and stronger people. 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

Nov 22, 2024 • 15min
Ep.1218 - Unfamiliar Job Site Problems, A Question from a Professional
In this podcast we cover: Roles. How to use downtime. How to motivate teams after a delay. How to recover a production plan or a schedule. In this episode, I share a real-world scenario from a superintendent dealing with permit delays, unpaid invoices, and frustrated trade partners. I talk about clarifying your role, how to use downtime wisely, how to motivate teams after setbacks, and what you can do to recover a schedule when things are out of your control. 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

Nov 21, 2024 • 9min
Ep.1217 - Humans Are Mirrors
In this podcast we cover: How human beings will reflect how they're treated. How we can approach people from a sincere win-win perspective. In this episode I share a powerful concept I call "Humans Are Mirrors." The way we treat others will always be reflected back to us, whether in jobsite culture, contracts, or day-to-day interactions. I talk about how conditions like messy bathrooms, poor facilities, and harsh contract language are not random problems but direct reflections of how people feel they are being treated. If we approach workers with respect, provide clean and safe spaces, and foster trust, they will respond in kind. When we lead with care, kindness, and professionalism, we build stronger relationships and more productive teams. I also share examples from our boot camp in Canada, discuss the feedback we receive from listeners, and highlight the free resources and simulations we are creating to help teams learn and grow. This episode is an invitation to rethink how we interact with others, not just in construction but in every part of life. If you want better outcomes, stronger collaboration, and a healthier culture, it starts with how you show up. Remember, humans will always reflect the treatment they receive. 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

Nov 19, 2024 • 19min
Ep.1216 - Conditions of Respect
In this podcast we cover: The conditions for respecting people. The right of understanding. The right of involvement. The right of input. The right of success. The right of humanity. In this episode I share what I believe it really means to respect people in construction. Drawing from the work of Dave Risardo, I walk through five essential rights that every worker deserves: understanding, involvement, input, success, and humanity. These rights create the conditions where people feel valued, engaged, and empowered. I also share examples of how these rights show up on job sites and why they are critical for building trust and driving productivity. This is a reminder that no system or strategy will work unless we start with respect for people at the core. 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

Nov 18, 2024 • 28min
Ep.1215 - A Caution to Lean Influencers
In this podcast we cover: A recent post that was posted about flow and construction. Make a plea for people to look at it differently. Extend an invitation to protect people first. In this episode, I open up about a recent post on flow in construction that really struck a nerve with me. Too often, definitions of flow focus on zones or processes and completely ignore the human side of building. From my experience as a superintendent, I explain why putting a GoPro on a work zone misses the bigger picture and can actually harm the people doing the work. I share why the train of trades is the real flow unit, how overburdening leads to safety risks and productivity spirals, and why respecting people is the foundation of lean. This is not just theory. It is about protecting our workers, challenging lazy thinking, and calling for lean influencers to take their responsibility seriously. If you care about the future of construction, this conversation 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

Nov 15, 2024 • 20min
Ep.1214 - The River of Waste, Feat. Hal Macomber
In this podcast we cover: What is the river of waste? Why you must reduce inventory? In this episode, I sit down with my mentor, Hal Makeover, to unpack the river of waste and its role in lean construction. Together we explore why limiting work in progress reveals hidden problems, how the sequence of overburden, variation, and waste shapes sustainable improvement, and why improving processes we shouldn't be doing is a trap we must avoid. This conversation is filled with practical wisdom and deep insights that will help you think differently about flow, waste, and leadership in construction. 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


