

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 3, 2024 • 13min
Ep.1093 - The Diagonal Line - People
In this podcast we cover: Why people come first. Why production is enabled by that first focus. What if the most important line in construction isn't in a contract but on a schedule? In this episode, I reveal why the diagonal trade flow line is the key to success and why so many misunderstand it. You'll discover the crucial difference between resource efficiency and true trade flow, and why focusing on productivity first is a trap that burns people out. I'll share real world lessons from project planning, team setups, and even airlines to show why respecting people comes before everything else. If you've ever wondered how to build projects without breaking your teams, this episode will change how you see construction 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

May 30, 2024 • 15min
Ep.1092 - You Are the Hero
In this podcast we cover: How you are the implementor that matters. Why not resisting change is your superpower. Why we need change-makers like you. Are you resisting change or driving it? In this episode, I break down why our industry needs everyday heroes more than ever. I share why people naturally fight change, how you can overcome resistance, and why you are the miracle construction has been waiting for. You'll hear real stories about leadership, integrity, and the tough choices that define careers. I reveal how supers, PMs, and foremen can stand together to shift the balance of power in construction overnight, just like the ants in A Bug's Life. If you've ever wondered whether your role truly matters, this episode will convince you that you are the hero we've been hoping for. 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

May 30, 2024 • 17min
Ep.1091 - Professional Babies
In this podcast we cover: How your schedule is already behind. How most owners and reps act like professional babies. What if some of the biggest challenges in construction aren't technical at all but behavioral? In this episode, I dive into the concept of "professional babies," owners, reps, and contractors who act like toddlers when projects don't go their way. You'll hear why CPM scheduling is broken, how it creates chaos in the field, and why superintendents and project managers must own their production plans. I'll also share updates on books, bootcamps, and resources designed to help you implement lean systems that actually work. If you're tired of toxic environments and unrealistic expectations, this one will hit home. Tune in and learn how to replace babyish behavior with true 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

May 28, 2024 • 9min
Ep.1090 - All Things on One Page
In this podcast we cover: Why seeing things on one page is magic. What things have been reduced to one page to enable human capacity? In this episode, I share a breakthrough perspective on why seeing everything on one page transforms the way we lead projects. I reflect on feedback from industry professionals who are scaling Takt across dozens of jobs, and I dive into how tools like A3s, lift drawings, infographics, dashboards, Kanban boards, and Takt plans all work because they simplify complex systems into a single clear view. I draw comparisons between the old days of flipping through plan sets with your fingers and today's digital environments that sometimes make us feel disconnected, showing why context and visualization are essential for problem solving. You will learn why one-page clarity is not just convenient but critical for project executives, directors, superintendents, and anyone who wants to truly understand and lead their projects. This episode will challenge you to rethink how you present information to your teams and inspire you to embrace the genius of one-page systems to elevate performance. 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

May 28, 2024 • 9min
Ep.1089 - How Do You Schedule Renovations?
In this podcast we cover: How smaller companies schedule their work. Other tips that can help for smaller more variable projects. In this episode, I answer a listener's question about how to schedule small residential renovation projects when CPM and Gantt charts keep failing. These projects may be smaller in budget and scope, but they involve multiple trades that must be coordinated effectively. I explain why takt planning works even for small renovations, how to use a time by location schedule to identify gaps and stacking, and how to overlay multiple projects to balance resources. I also emphasize the importance of preparing work packages and making schedules visual on huddle boards so crews can align. If you are in residential or renovation work and struggle with slipping schedules, this episode will show you a practical system to create flow and predictability. 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

May 22, 2024 • 13min
Ep.1088 - Should you Spend Time as a Super to be a PM?
In this podcast we cover: Why it is a great idea to spend time as a super. What you will learn there. In this episode, I share some inspiring listener feedback and a powerful book recommendation on employee engagement. I also dive into two important questions. First, I explain why CPM schedules fall short and why takt planning is the only true foundation for creating 4D schedules that connect to reality. Then I answer a young professional's question about building a successful project manager career. I highlight why spending time as a superintendent is essential for developing the builder mindset, learning respect for the trades, and staying grounded in the flow of work. This episode blends leadership, scheduling, and career advice into practical guidance that can elevate your path 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

May 22, 2024 • 12min
Ep.1087 - Answering Questions about Takt
In this podcast we cover: How to implement in a CPM job. What to do to scale and advertise the success. In this episode, I respond to a listener's questions about incorporating takt planning into a large project still guided by CPM. I explain why CPM consistently fails to deliver reliable results and how takt creates real flow and predictability in construction. I walk through practical steps for building takt plans for your phase or building, using tools like the takt calculator and Intakt software. I also cover how to handle bottlenecks like fireproofing, how to level zones by density, and how to quietly align takt with CPM when others resist change. This episode is a call to action for builders ready to leave outdated methods behind and embrace a system that actually works. 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

May 22, 2024 • 18min
Ep.1086 - Finishing up the Book Built to Fail
In this podcast we cover: Information for JIT, Supply, and Procurement. In this episode, I close out my reflections on the book Built to Fail and dive into some of the most powerful lessons it offers. From the challenges of modular construction to the importance of just-in-time material management, I explore what the industry gets right and where it falls short. I break down why accepting extreme lead times without question hurts projects and how pushing back can unlock new efficiencies. I share thoughts on controlling supply chains, reducing administrative waste, and partnering strategically to improve flow. You will also hear about practical strategies for balancing inventory, optimizing resources, and leveraging technology to make supply systems more agile. This is a call to construction professionals to stop settling for the status quo and start building systems that actually work. 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

May 22, 2024 • 37min
Ep.1085 - Solving Issues with Changing Design
In this podcast we cover: How to manage a project that is constantly changing. How to lead your team and create focus. In this episode, I sit down for a live problem-solving session with a construction leader facing a project buried in ASIs, RFIs, and constant design changes. What started as a one-year build stretched into nearly two years, leaving the team searching for a way to maintain momentum and adapt under pressure. We dive into strategies for isolating first, second, and third flows of work, protecting crews from burnout, and preventing project management from being consumed by change orders. I share practical recommendations on visual mapping, rally cries for morale, and how to use crew-tied schedules that tell the truth rather than optimistic guesses. If you have ever wondered how to lead a project through chaos without losing productivity, this episode will give you the tools and mindset to stay in 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

May 17, 2024 • 21min
Ep.1084 - Focus on Supply and Demand
In this podcast we cover: New sections from the book. Why schedulers have no business making plans. Why CPM schedules fail. In this episode, I open up about milestones, insights, and challenges shaping both our industry and our lives. From celebrating a 50 percent women workforce milestone to reflecting on lessons from Taylor Swift's Miss Americana, I explore why equality and fairness matter more than ever in construction. I also share insights from Eckhart Tolle's A New Earth about ego, fear, and the history of patriarchy, tying it back to leadership today. The discussion then shifts to Built to Fail, where I highlight the dangers of relying on CPM schedules and why takt planning is essential for true flow. If you want a candid, thought-provoking mix of personal reflection and industry insight, this episode will challenge your thinking and inspire you to lead differently. 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


