Stewarding Human Potential and Trust in Construction with John Toups (Episode 85)
Hoots on the Ground | The Lean Builder
Release Date: 05/30/2025
Hoots on the Ground | The Lean Builder
In this episode, host Adam Hoots connects with Dominic Desmarais, a Canadian mechanical engineer and Lean Construction enthusiast with more than two decades of experience. Recorded live from Kyoto, Japan, at The International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC) 33, Dominic shares insights from his profound Lean journey, his passion for bridging the traditional divides between thinkers and doers, and the critical interplay of mind, hands, and heart in the workplace. Dominic examines the fundamental importance of human motivation and respect in the construction industry, drawing compelling...
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info_outlineHoots on the Ground | The Lean Builder
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In this insightful episode of Hoots on the Ground with No Bullshido, is joined by , a respected leader, coach, and influential figure in the field of Lean Construction. Hal shares over 35 years of experience pioneering Lean practices, offering profound insights into continuous flow construction, human-centered leadership, and the power of engaging frontline workers. Hal reflects on the industry's progress, emphasizing that while Lean has made significant strides, substantial work remains to integrate its core principles universally. He introduces the concept of "Continuous Flow...
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In this powerful episode of Hoots on the Ground with No Bullshido, Adam Hoots sits down with Ryan Taylor, a Superintendent at San Antonio Water System (SAWS), and Rene Duron, a Construction Specialist for SAWS and THIS podcast editor. This episode delves deep into mentorship, leadership, and personal growth in construction while reinforcing the values of trust, accountability, and human connection in the industry. Ryan shares his journey at SAWS, where he has dedicated 25 years to the organization, developing infrastructure and the next generation of construction leaders. Once an entry-level...
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In this insightful episode, welcomes a lecturer at Clemson University and a construction industry veteran with over 40 years of experience. Together, they explore how to build high-performing teams and emphasize the importance of human connections in the construction industry. Tom shares his journey from working summers in road construction to becoming a safety and HR leader, eventually transitioning to academia. He discusses the evolution of the courses he co-instructs with Hoots at Clemson, including Building High Performing Teams and The Human Side of Construction. The pair also...
info_outlineHoots on the Ground | The Lean Builder
info_outlineHoots on the Ground | The Lean Builder
In this episode of 'Hoots on the Ground,' host Adam Hoots welcomes Kent Hedges, a Lean construction advocate and manager of large capital projects at a major healthcare company. Kent shares insights from his extensive 28-year career in the construction industry, which began with a stint as a civil engineer in the Navy before transitioning to healthcare construction management. He discusses the profound impact of Lean methodologies in his work, focusing not only on eliminating waste but most importantly on improving the human aspects of construction processes. Throughout the conversation, Kent...
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In this episode, Adam Hoots engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with , known for his pioneering work with and as the co-host of the CM Mentors Podcast. This conversation navigates through Matt's transformative journey within the construction industry, highlighting his transition from project management to embracing a role as an owner's representative. Matt shares his unique insights on the construction process, underscoring the critical need for a holistic perspective that goes beyond the immediate tasks to consider the broader impact on project stakeholders and end-users. The...
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Joe Pryor shares his journey from a family masonry business to implementing Lean Construction principles as a leader, emphasizing the importance of respect, team dynamics, and work-life balance in transforming the construction industry and personal growth. In this podcast episode, Adam Hoots interviews the great Joe Pryor, revealing his comprehensive journey from the early days in his family's masonry enterprise to his critical roles as a Superintendent and Vice President of Field Operations. Joe diligently applies Lean Construction methodologies throughout his career, focusing on his...
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