

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

Jun 13, 2024 • 8min
Ep.1103 - Obeya Rooms
In this podcast we cover: What an Obeya room is. What is their purpose. Why we each need one. In this episode Jason introduces the concept of Obeya Rooms, also known as war rooms or big rooms, which originated at Toyota as a way to improve collaboration and efficiency. He explains how these spaces serve as hubs for visual management, problem solving, and agile decision making. Drawing from personal experiences on projects and proposals, Jason highlights why every construction site and corporate office should embrace the Obeya Room approach. He details how to design them with central locations, clear zones, visual tools, and technology that promote interaction and transparency. This episode is a call to rethink how we create spaces that foster teamwork and continuous improvement 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

Jun 13, 2024 • 10min
Ep.1102 - Own the Outcome with the Foremen
In this podcast we cover: Sometimes we need to reach out. We need to understand what trades go through. And own the relationship. In this episode Jason dives into the importance of owning expectations when working with foremen in construction. He explains how years of mistreatment, disrespect, and delayed payments have shaped the way many foremen approach their work. Instead of waiting for them to change, Jason challenges leaders to take responsibility for the relationship and extend the olive branch. Drawing from personal stories and lessons learned, he highlights the value of humility, patience, and extreme ownership. Foremen often carry projects across the finish line despite poor leadership, and it is time superintendents and project leaders recognize that truth. This episode is both a reality check and a roadmap for building trust and stronger collaboration on every job site. 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

Jun 13, 2024 • 25min
Ep.1101 - You Are Not Authorized To Overburden Resources
In this podcast we cover: What behavior has to change to maintain a balance. Why we still have a problem even when companies stress balance. In this episode, I deliver a direct and passionate message to my teams at Elevate, Lean Built, and Lean Takt and to the industry at large. I confront the misconception that our people are overworked and reveal why the real issue is not the company but old habits of overworking that individuals carry into our culture. You will hear why balance is non-negotiable, why unlimited PTO and capped hours matter, and why silence in the face of overwork is not just harmful but what I call silent treason. I share how we enforce rest, coach people to take time off, and refuse to allow anyone to overburden themselves or others. This is not about silencing voices. It is about creating a culture of accountability where balance is actively protected. If you have ever struggled with guilt about rest or believed that long hours equal dedication, this episode is for you. It is time to unlearn old habits, embrace true balance, and set a new standard for what remarkable work really looks like. 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

Jun 7, 2024 • 16min
Ep.1100 - Technology as a Recruiting Tool
In this episode, Jason Schroeder sits down with Kelly, a construction marketing executive, to uncover why ditching pen and paper isn't just about efficiency it's about survival. Learn how digital tools aren't just transforming workflows but also becoming a magnet for the next generation of workers who expect tech enabled jobs by default. You'll hear: Why analog systems repel top talent What your "construction tech stack" says about your culture How diverse, high-performing teams thrive with the right tools Why simplicity is the ultimate superpower in execution If you're a leader still clinging to outdated systems, this episode is your call to evolve or be left behind. 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

Jun 7, 2024 • 22min
Ep.1099 - Your Own Individual or Family CFO
In this powerful episode, Jason Schroeder sits down with Candace and Jason Shepherd of Awaken Financial Wellness to uncover what most of us were never taught how to take control of our financial lives with purpose and strategy. From field level experience in construction to a passion for serving others, this dynamic duo is transforming families by helping them build lasting legacies. You'll learn: What a personal or family CFO is and why you need one How they helped one person cut 13 years of debt to just 3 Why mindset is more important than money itself The 6 pillars of financial wellness (and how to apply them today) How this free, no gimmick service can benefit workers, leaders, and companies alike If you're tired of feeling financially stuck, stressed, or unprepared this episode 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

Jun 6, 2024 • 8min
Ep.1098 - Circle in the Huddles
In this fast, no-fluff episode, Jason Schroeder drops a tactical gem that could transform your morning huddles from chaotic to laser-focused and it starts with one simple move: circle the huddle. You'll learn: Why the morning worker huddle is the #1 most impactful meeting on your project How to eliminate distractions and get every crew dialed in What to do when workers (or even trainers) start chatting, zoning out, or resisting How enforcing respect and engagement kindly or directly can shift your entire project culture If you're tired of half-listening crews and sloppy starts to the day, this 5 minute mindset and tactical reset will help you take control, set the tone, and build the culture your project deserves. 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

Jun 6, 2024 • 12min
Ep.1097 - Meetings Are NOT Sacred Cows
Are your meetings dragging your team down instead of lifting them up? In this episode, Jason gets raw and real about one of the biggest productivity killers in construction meetings that suck and why we tolerate them like sacred cows. Discover: ✅ Why most people are afraid to speak up in meetings ✅ How to flip the script and turn meetings into high impact gatherings ✅ A powerful story about family, leadership, and maturity you won't forget ✅ Why Elevate is asking for your help (and how we're balancing risk, growth & service) This episode is part leadership call to action, part emotional gut check, and all fire. Listen in if you're ready to lead with intention, challenge the status quo, and stop settling for anything less than remarkable. 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

Jun 6, 2024 • 16min
Ep.1096 - There Is No Substitute for Fundamentals
In this episode, Jason Schroeder dives into the chaos of boat ramps, and draws a brutally accurate parallel to what's really going wrong in construction. 💥 Just because you've got the gear doesn't mean you've got the game. 💥 Titles, tech, and tools don't matter if you don't know how to use them. 💥 Want to avoid wrecks on site and at the lake? Learn the fundamentals. From backing trailers to leading superintendents, Jason shares hilarious observations, hard truths, and a bold callout to an industry addicted to shortcuts and allergic to training. Whether you're a builder or a leader, this episode will hit home. 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

Jun 4, 2024 • 11min
Ep.1095 - The Virtual PM Boot Camp
In this podcast we cover: What you will learn. Why it matters. Think your project can succeed with a CPM schedule alone? Think again. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the Virtual Project Manager Bootcamp, a four-day course designed to transform the way you run projects. You'll learn why projects fail, how the Integrated Production Control System works, and why takt planning is the backbone of every successful schedule. I'll share how my own experience in 4D scheduling exposed the flaws of CPM and proved that takt isn't optional, it's essential. With exercises, free resources, and practical tools, this bootcamp is built to make an immediate impact. If you want to run lean, remarkable projects, this is the training you've been waiting fo 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

Jun 3, 2024 • 11min
Ep.1094 - Your Project Is NOT Unique
In this podcast we cover: How a common process and system can fit all. Why your project is not unique. How you can get rid of your mental block. Is your project really that different or is that just an excuse? In this episode, I break down one of the biggest lies in construction: the idea that "our project is special." From tilt panels to hospitals to airports, I've seen teams claim they're the exception. The truth is, they're not. Operational excellence applies everywhere, every time, and it's the fastest way to turn chaos into flow. I'll show you why the belief that your project is unique is a mental block holding you back, and how systems like Takt, Last Planner, and Scrum can transform any project. If you've ever said "this doesn't apply here," this episode will change your mindset forever. 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


