Elevate Construction

In this podcast we cover: What pull is. Why pull is not our first method. What will happen if you follow the stupidity of what the industry teaches now about pull. In this episode, Jason challenges one of the most misunderstood concepts in lean construction: pull. Too often the industry treats pull as the master principle, ignoring the long supply chains, complex procurement, and predictive planning that real projects demand. Jason explains why Last Planner implementations frequently fail without forecasting, and he dismantles the myth that just-in-time delivery means skipping laydown yards or advance procurement. With real examples like switchgear lead times and curtain wall staging, he shows how the industry has pull wrong and what needs to change. You will learn why predictive planning and tact are essential, how pull should function as a refining tool, and what it takes to finally align construction with lean principles that actually work in the field. 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

In this podcast we cover: The definition and difference between roadblocks and constraints. Why we must dig deeper into constraints. Taking it from theory to execution. In this episode, Jason takes a deeper look at the critical difference between roadblocks and constraints in construction. Too often, project teams focus only on the issues that appear in front of them without addressing the systemic factors that define overall project performance. Jason explains how roadblocks can be removed ahead of time while constraints require redesign and optimization of the production system itself. Drawing on examples from lean principles, theory of constraints, and practical project experience, this episode shows how leaders can shift their perspective to unlock flow, improve collaboration, and deliver predictable results. 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

In this podcast we cover: The phases of lean implementation. Why you must follow them in order. What happens if you don't. In this episode, Jason shares the four critical phases of implementing lean within a construction company. He explains why leadership awareness and buy-in must come first, why system adoption cannot be skipped, and how training and accountability follow in sequence to ensure success. Using real examples from client conversations, Kate's insights, and lessons from Elevate Construction bootcamps, Jason highlights the risks of rushing into training without top-down commitment. This episode will help you understand the exact path companies must follow if they want lean to truly take hold, create lasting cultural change, and improve results across projects. 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

In this podcast we cover: How to keep workers cool. The measure of success. Why it is so important. In this episode, Jason takes on one of the most overlooked but critical aspects of jobsite safety: keeping workers cool in extreme heat. Drawing from personal experiences at Lake Pleasant and lessons from past projects, he shares practical strategies for protecting crews, including misting stations, cooling fans, hydration points, electrolyte drinks, and adjusted work schedules. Jason also emphasizes the importance of jobsite culture, explaining why toughness is no defense against heat and how leaders must normalize cooling off as a smart and professional choice. With tips ranging from cooling gear to shaded bathrooms, this episode will help you rethink whether your jobsite setup is truly something to be proud of. 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

In this podcast we cover: What to include in a lean scope of work for a general contractor. In this episode Jason lays out the essential inclusions that every owner and owner's rep should require from contractors on lean mega projects. From visual preconstruction planning to tact and Last Planner training, Jason explains the systems and cultural shifts that make the difference between chaos and flow. He highlights why team-building principles, proactive supply chain management, and workforce respect must be written into contracts, not treated as optional. With practical insights from proven projects, Jason shows how the right lean inclusions create remarkable results while those who ignore them struggle to stay on track. If you want to understand what separates winning contractors from the rest, this episode will stop you in your tracks. 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

In this podcast we cover: Why your meetings should create flow for the field. How to organize them. In this episode Jason breaks down why most meeting systems fail and how to design one that actually works. He shares lessons from a client team struggling with complex phasing and shows how shifting the focus from agendas to flow completely transformed their communication. You will learn the step-by-step sequence that moves information from leadership to trade partners to foremen and finally to workers in the field. Jason also explains why organizing meetings is one of the hardest challenges in construction and why it is worth the effort. If you want meetings that drive results instead of draining time, this episode will change the way you think about project communication. 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

In this podcast we cover: Why owners asking for the imposssible is wrong. In this episode, Jason shares a powerful reflection on one of the most damaging ideas in construction: asking teams to do the impossible. He explains why this mindset leads to unsafe practices, unclean job sites, disorganization, and ultimately extended project durations. Through personal stories and practical lessons, Jason highlights the importance of confidence in leadership, setting achievable expectations, and creating flow rather than chaos. This episode is a reminder that construction success comes from clarity, planning, and respect for people, not panic or pressure. 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

In this podcast we cover: Why most people say they are too busy. What the real problem is. How you can fix it. In this episode, Jason takes on one of the most common and destructive excuses in construction: being "too busy." He shares a powerful story from a young superintendent thrown into the fire without proper training and connects it to the larger truth about why so many leaders feel overwhelmed. Jason explains how following the fundamentals, cleanliness, organization, personal systems, and lean practices, creates stability in an industry that will never slow down. He challenges the myth that long hours and constant busyness are signs of dedication and shows why they often signal inefficiency instead. If you are ready to stop masking problems with overtime and start mastering your environment, this episode will give you practical steps and the mindset shift to finally take control of your career and projects. 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

In this podcast we cover: Additional definitions to Lean. What it means to be lean. In this episode, Jason explores an expanded definition of lean that goes beyond waste elimination and efficiency. He shares personal stories about new resources like the Spanish edition of the Elevating Construction Foreman book, valuable feedback from his parents' neighbor, and the powerful leadership lessons he has learned from working alongside Kate, the CEO of Elevate Construction. Jason argues that lean is not just about tools and processes but about the ability to see reality clearly and to keep learning without end. He highlights how these two traits separate true lean leaders from those stuck in rigid, outdated approaches. If you want to deepen your understanding of lean and challenge yourself to grow as a leader, this episode offers inspiration, clarity, and practical insight. 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

In this podcast we cover: Why teachings must be vetted. Why experience must be had. And why peer reviews are important. In this episode Jason explores why leaders must be careful about what they teach and model because lessons good or bad will stick for generations. He begins with a listener's question about growth without proper training and explains why investing in your mind is the greatest investment you can ever make. Jason stresses the importance of reading foundational books, seeking certifications, and implementing learning step by step. He then shares a vivid comparison between poorly designed roads in Texas and outdated systems in construction like CPM, showing how one bad idea can become entrenched. Drawing from his own process of reviewing and iterating books and systems at Elevate Construction, he emphasizes that the more red marks the better. This episode is a call to leaders at every level to be intentional, be thorough, and be careful because what you teach today may define tomorrow. 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