The Role of the Owner in Construction: Episode 1 - Beyond Writing Checks – Redefining the Owner’s Role
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
Release Date: 03/17/2025
The Truth About Women in Construction: Interview with Architect Emily Stout
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
Get to know Emily Stout, a licensed architect working for New Mexico State Parks and an inspiring leader, as she chats with Steve Harper about her bold, non-traditional leap into the world of architecture and construction. From breaking barriers as a woman in construction to navigating the rise of AI and automation, Emily brings fresh insights into what it really takes to thrive in this evolving industry. They dig into everything from the importance of mentorship and owner engagement to the power of confidence in shaping your own career path. Emily also pointed out the shifts in the...
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The Role of the Owner in Construction: Episode 1 - Beyond Writing Checks – Redefining the Owner’s Role
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
Welcome to Episode 1 of The Role of the Owner in Construction, a podcast series that redefines what it really means to lead a successful construction project. Hosted by Steve Harper, CEO and Founder of Owner Insite, this episode dives into a much-needed conversation: the owner’s role isn’t just about signing checks—it’s about steering vision, managing risk, and holding teams accountable. In “Beyond Writing Checks,” Steve challenges the outdated perception of passive ownership and outlines what it takes to be a proactive, effective leader in construction. From real-world anecdotes...
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Leadership is a Contact Sport: Joseph Rockett - Construction Project Manager, Irving ISD
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
Another incredible guest joins us for an insight-packed Leadership Is A Contact Sport episode. Tune in as Owner Insite’s CEO, Steve Harper, interviews Joseph Rockett, the Construction Project Manager at Irving ISD. With a wide range of experiences encompassing Architecture and Education, Joseph Rockett offers the best of both worlds. Why keep watching? Steve and Joseph discussed pressing matters such as having a clear vision for school districts and finding your “tribe” to create a harmonious working process for overall success. Don’t miss out on gaining valuable information from...
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Leadership is a Contact Sport: Crystal Drake - School Board President, Glades County School District
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
In this episode, host Steve Harper welcomes Crystal Drake, School Board President of Glades County School District, to discuss the challenges and leadership dynamics within education today. A former teacher, Crystal shares her personal journey from banking to the classroom and ultimately to the school board, highlighting how her experiences shape her leadership approach. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of active listening, staying connected to the classroom, and fostering trust between school board members and superintendents. Crystal also offers practical advice for...
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Leadership is a Contact Sport: Glenn Jarrett - Director of Construction and Facilities, Alief ISD
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
Glenn Jarrett, Director of Construction and Facilities at Alief ISD, joins Steve Harper in this episode of "Leadership is a Contact Sport." With years of experience navigating the complexities of educational construction projects, Glenn opens up about his leadership philosophy, the power of adaptability, and the importance of trust in team dynamics. From handling challenges in a post-COVID world to fostering innovation and collaboration, Glenn offers actionable insights for leaders in any field.
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Women In Construction Series ft. Gina Koert, President and Co-Founder of Bell SPI
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
In this empowering episode of the Women in Construction Series, we sit down with Gina Koert, co-founder of Bell SPI, a thriving commercial painting company based in Denver, Colorado. Gina shares her unconventional journey into the family business, her rise as a leader in the male-dominated construction industry, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From navigating high-pressure environments to embracing flexibility and growth, Gina offers invaluable insights for women and men looking to make an impact in construction. Tune in to hear her story of resilience, strategy, and unwavering...
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Leadership is a Contact Sport: Dr. Joe Harrington - Superintendent, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
In this episode of Leadership is a Contact Sport, host Steve Harper welcomes Dr. Joe Harrington, superintendent of Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD. Dr. Joe shares his leadership journey, offering practical insights into how he navigates challenges and drives excellence in one of Texas's most dynamic school districts. Hear about: How his coaching background shapes his leadership style. The importance of trust, continuous improvement, and community engagement. Lessons learned from managing a district through growth and financial challenges. Dr. Joe’s passion for education and his belief in the...
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Leadership is a Contact Sport: Dr. Bhavna Sharma-Lewis - Superintendent, Diamond Lake District 76
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
Dr. Sharma-Lewis, Superintendent of Diamond Lake District 76 in Mundelein, Illinios, and adjunct professor at Concordia University in Chicago, is a powerhouse in school district leadership, having served as superintendent across three different districts. Dr. Sharma-Lewis’ story is one of resilience, transformation, and leading with authenticity. From facing challenges early in her career, to rebuilding her personal and professional brand, Dr. Sharma-Lewis is a beacon of hope and innovation in education. Tune in to this episode to hear about Dr. Sharma-Lewis’ lessons in...
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Women In Construction Series ft. Maggie Kuyper, Harpeth Painting
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
We are excited to share another episode in our Women in Construction Series where we highlight women who are making incredible strides in the construction industry! Today's episode is with Maggie Kuyper of Harpeth Painting.
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Leadership is a Contact Sport: Wade Callaway - Superintendent, Gruver ISD
The Owner Insite Construction Podcast
In this inspiring episode of Leadership is a Contact Sport, host Steve Harper sits down with Wade Callaway, the humble yet impactful Superintendent of Gruver ISD, a small but mighty school district in rural Texas. With a down-to-earth charm, Wade shares his unique journey from coach to superintendent, a path filled with unexpected leadership opportunities and hard-earned wisdom. Listeners will be captivated as Wade discusses his approach to servant leadership and his emphasis on high expectations and accountability—a philosophy that has led every campus in Gruver ISD to receive the...
info_outlineWelcome to Episode 1 of The Role of the Owner in Construction, a podcast series that redefines what it really means to lead a successful construction project. Hosted by Steve Harper, CEO and Founder of Owner Insite, this episode dives into a much-needed conversation: the owner’s role isn’t just about signing checks—it’s about steering vision, managing risk, and holding teams accountable.
In “Beyond Writing Checks,” Steve challenges the outdated perception of passive ownership and outlines what it takes to be a proactive, effective leader in construction. From real-world anecdotes to strategic insights, this episode is your crash course in becoming the linchpin of your project.
Whether you’re a school district leader, a municipal administrator, or a private sector project owner, this episode will help you understand why stepping up is essential—not optional.