Elevate Construction
Elevating construction with interviews, training, and techniques that will make the build environment better for the workers, our customers, companies, and the industry as a whole. Podcasts are published before noon every weekday.
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Ep.1541 - The Schedule, Feat. Adam (Beanie) Bean
02/16/2026
Ep.1541 - The Schedule, Feat. Adam (Beanie) Bean
In this episode, Jason and Beanie continue the “causes of project failure” series and focus on why poor scheduling destroys flow especially when the plan never becomes a clear, visual tool for the people doing the work. They talk about how real progress starts when the schedule is collaborative, visible, and owned by the team, not buried in software or controlled by one “expert.” You’ll also hear how ego and complexity create bottlenecks, and what to do instead to get the plan into the field and keep projects moving. What you'll learn in this episode: Why a schedule is useless if the field can’t see it and use it daily. How visual, collaborative planning gets teams aligned and solving problems together. Why complexity and “expert control” often become the real bottleneck. How to use the schedule as truth then improve it instead of ignoring it. What you can do immediately to increase flow without waiting for permission. Is your schedule helping the people doing the work or just protecting someone’s ego while the project drifts? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1540 - Project Changes, Feat. Adam (Beanie) Bean
02/16/2026
Ep.1540 - Project Changes, Feat. Adam (Beanie) Bean
In this episode, Jason Schroeder and Beanie break down project changes as a major cause of project failure, and why most teams unintentionally create variation that stretches durations and wrecks flow. They connect changes to global vs. local optimization, showing how “nice-to-have” tweaks can destroy the overall goal if they don’t protect the bottleneck and the plan. You’ll hear practical field stories, plus the habits middle, and keep everyone aligned with a visual plan. What you'll learn in this episode: How local optimization creates unnecessary project changes that hurt the global goal. Hthat reduce changes: verify full kit, don’t start unless you can finish, manage the dip in the Theory of Constraints helps you decide which changes matter and which don’t. Why “don’t start unless you can finish” (verify full kit) prevents midstream chaos. How short cycles and rhythm reduce the motivation dip and keep crews finishing zones. Why visual planning gets everyone on the same page and cuts down variation and change. Are your changes helping the whole system reach the goal or just making people feel busy while the project slows down? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1539 - How Takt Complies with Lean Core 3
02/11/2026
Ep.1539 - How Takt Complies with Lean Core 3
In this episode, Jason Schroeder dives into Lean Core #3: One Piece Process and Progress Flow, and explains how the TACT Production System aligns perfectly with this principle. He discusses how TACT helps in selecting the right batch size for work (based on work density), the limits of applying one-piece flow, and how it calculates optimal batch sizes through tools like Dr. Marco Binniger's TACT formula. Jason explains how TACT minimizes variation, analyzes in-zone cycle times, and ensures that work progresses smoothly by aligning materials, labor, and resources with the work in progress. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the TACT Production System is the ideal method for selecting batch sizes based on work density. How One Piece Flow should be applied carefully, especially when there are limiting factors like shipment access. How TACT calculates and optimizes batch sizes through formulas like Little’s Law and Kingman’s Formula. Why working in zones with TACT supports aligned work in progress (WIP) and prevents overburden. How the Jidoka system can be used to stop the flow, solve problems, and ensure quality. How TACT helps identify and resolve bottlenecks using the Theory of Constraints. Are you optimizing work flow by reducing batch sizes and focusing on one-piece flow, or are you creating inefficiencies by ignoring the limitations of your resources? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1538 - Same Thing Helping More People, Not Higher
02/11/2026
Ep.1538 - Same Thing Helping More People, Not Higher
In this episode, Jason Schroeder challenges the common misconception that higher leadership roles should involve doing less and distancing oneself from the work. He explains that true leadership is about doing more serving others, staying involved, and supporting the team. Jason uses the analogy of a mountain climber who, after reaching the top, must send the rope back down to help others reach the summit, instead of abandoning them. He makes the case that as a leader, your responsibility is to help more people, provide more guidance, and keep the vision alive, not retreat to a corner office and reduce your involvement. What you'll learn in this episode: Why higher leadership roles require more, not less, involvement in the work. The danger of distancing yourself from the team once you've "made it". How leadership should be about helping others achieve their goals, not just enjoying perks. The role of leaders in creating an ESOP, driving progress, and providing ongoing training. Why true leaders send the rope back down after reaching the top, helping others climb with them. As a leader, when you reach the top, do you send the rope down to help others, or do you retreat and work less? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1537 - Standards Must not Slip
02/11/2026
Ep.1537 - Standards Must not Slip
In this episode, Jason Schroeder emphasizes the importance of not letting standards slip especially in Lean systems. He explains that standards are non-negotiable and must be upheld consistently across all levels, from workers to leadership. Jason shares how slipping standards can lead to chaos and how maintaining strict, fair standards ensures stability and success in Lean implementations. He also discusses the need for leader standard work, clear communication of cultural expectations, and the creation of phase gates to keep everyone accountable. What you'll learn in this episode: Why letting standards slip undermines Lean and creates instability on a project. How to create and follow leader standard work to ensure consistent performance. The importance of checking processes, verifying capabilities, and enforcing culture. Why small acts of dissension against standards can derail the entire system. How to maintain high standards while working shoulder-to-shoulder and with kindness. If you don't have clear standards, how can you expect consistent results? And if you do, how are you ensuring they're never compromised? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1536 - The Person Solving the Problem
02/11/2026
Ep.1536 - The Person Solving the Problem
In this episode, Jason Schroeder discusses the importance of allowing the person solving the problem to follow their mental process, without interruption. He shares a personal story of a lesson learned from a general superintendent and highlights the role of humility and trust when seeking or giving advice. Jason explains that in leadership and problem-solving, sometimes it’s necessary to let the person guiding the solution take the lead in their own way, which can ultimately lead to better outcomes and smoother collaboration. What you'll learn in this episode: Why it’s crucial to let the person solving the problem follow their mental process without interference. The impact of “boxing someone in” when they’re providing advice or solving an issue. How the theory of constraints relates to respecting the person solving the problem. Why subordinating to the problem solver’s process can lead to better teamwork and solutions. How to ask for help in a way that respects the other person’s approach without being controlling. Are you letting the person solving the problem follow their own mental process, or are you boxing them in with your expectations? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1535 - Need Data when Opinions Gridlock
02/11/2026
Ep.1535 - Need Data when Opinions Gridlock
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explores how data should drive decisions, especially in times of project delay, instead of relying on opinions or reactionary fixes like adding extra crews or working overtime. He explains that while delays are inevitable, it’s critical to avoid old practices like CPM crashing and instead use data-backed methods such as re-sequencing, isolating delays, or utilizing buffers. Jason stresses that by simulating different “what-if” scenarios and visually mapping out the impact, teams can make smarter, more effective decisions that truly recover delays without causing further chaos. What you'll learn in this episode: Why relying on opinions during delays leads to chaos, while data leads to better decisions. How to use simulations and “what-if” scenarios to recover delays without disrupting the schedule. Why adding labor or cutting duration often doesn’t solve problems, but exacerbates them. How to handle project gridlock by pivoting to data, not just relying on seniority or gut decisions. The importance of mapping out delays visually to assess the real impact on timelines and resources. Are you making decisions based on opinions or data and how would it change your project outcomes to rely on the latter? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1534 - Likening Dumb Things to an Orchestra
02/06/2026
Ep.1534 - Likening Dumb Things to an Orchestra
· LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1533 - Salty Eyes
02/04/2026
Ep.1533 - Salty Eyes
In this episode, Jason Schroeder talks about “salty eyes”, the mindset that turns experience into bitterness instead of wisdom. He explains how negativity, resistance to change, and untrained habits create toxic behaviors that hurt people and projects, even when they’re disguised as “experience.” Jason challenges the industry to replace over-salted perspectives with optimism, learning, and systems thinking because survival and success in construction start with attitude. What you'll learn in this episode: What “salty eyes” look like in construction leadership and jobsite behavior. Why experience without training often leads to push, panic, and toxic habits. How negativity and fixed mindsets block real improvement. Why optimism and process thinking are survival skills in construction. What it really means to be “seasoned” in a way that helps people and projects. Are your eyes lightly seasoned with reality or over-salted to the point where they’re holding you and your team back? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1532 - How Takt Complies with Lean Core 2
02/04/2026
Ep.1532 - How Takt Complies with Lean Core 2
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains how Takt Planning fully aligns with Lean Core #2: Stability and Standardization. He walks through why chaos cannot be improved, how CPM creates constant variation, and why Takt’s zone-based, time-based flow is the only way to achieve real stability on a construction project. By holding start dates, reducing overproduction, and creating clean, standardized work environments, Takt turns instability into a repeatable, improvable system. What you'll learn in this episode: Why stability is impossible without flow and why Takt enables both. How holding start dates reduces variation and prevents overproduction. How Takt reduces waste, overburden, and unevenness through level flow. Why standardized zones enable first-run studies, leader standard work, and quality checks. Jidoka, buffers, and visible problems make continuous improvement possible. If stability and standardization are missing on your project, is the issue really the people or the system you’re using? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1531 - Choosing Clients, Feat. Mark Story
01/28/2026
Ep.1531 - Choosing Clients, Feat. Mark Story
In this episode, Jason Schroeder and Mark Story dive into the crucial concept of selecting the right clients for long-term success. They explore the idea of working with companies that prioritize people, customers, and then profits following a sustainable, growth-minded approach. Mark reflects on a recent project where, by shifting focus to people and collaboration, the team was able to achieve remarkable results, such as completing buildings ahead of schedule. Jason and Mark discuss the importance of investing in your people, guiding them through leadership, and shifting from short-term cost-cutting to long-term growth strategies. What you'll learn in this episode: Why selecting clients who prioritize people leads to better long-term results. How investing in people and leadership creates a thriving work culture and enhances productivity. The importance of trusting your team, giving them responsibility, and coaching them to success. Why focusing on profits at the expense of people leads to a toxic work environment. How scaling businesses with the right mindset ensures a prosperous future for both employees and clients. Are you prioritizing short-term profits, or investing in your people for long-term success? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1530 - How Takt Complies with Lean Core 1
01/27/2026
Ep.1530 - How Takt Complies with Lean Core 1
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains how Takt fully complies with Lean Core 1: respect for people, nature, and resources. He walks through why Takt is a people-centered system that limits overburden, exposes problems visually, and replaces blame with system fixes, unlike CPM, which hides issues and punishes workers. Jason also connects Takt to Japanese Lean principles like hitozukuri (making people before making things), standard work, total participation, and finishing with pride and craftsmanship. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Takt is the ultimate respect-for-people scheduling system. How Takt replaces blame with visible system improvement. How zones, buffers, and rhythm prevent overburden and chaos. Why CPM hides problems while Takt makes them solvable. How Lean principles like hitozukuri, monozukuri, and ikigai show up in real Takt execution. If your scheduling system truly respected people, what would change tomorrow on your project? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1529 - 3S & 5S - Sort, Straighten, Sweep, Standardize, Sustain
01/27/2026
Ep.1529 - 3S & 5S - Sort, Straighten, Sweep, Standardize, Sustain
In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down 3S and 5S. Sort, Set in Order, Sweep/Shine, Standardize, and Sustain and explains why cleanliness is the foundation of safety, quality, and flow. He shares why many teams fail by treating 5S as cosmetic instead of cultural, and how stability and standardization make problems visible so they can actually be solved. Jason also explains why some teams start with 3S first, and how daily cleanliness habits unlock continuous improvement and respect for people. What you'll learn in this episode: The difference between 3S and 5S and when each should be used. Why cleanliness is a prerequisite for safety and quality not an afterthought. How standardization makes problems visible instead of hiding them. Why clean environments change human behavior and enable total participation. How daily 3S/5S habits lead directly to Kaizen and continuous improvement. If cleanliness reveals the truth about your system, what is your current environment telling you right now? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1528 - Standards Must Not Slip
01/27/2026
Ep.1528 - Standards Must Not Slip
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains why standards must not slip, not in the office, not in the field, and not during a Lean transformation. He connects respect for people to consistent expectations: when everyone is treated with the same rules, facilities, cleanliness standards, and conduct, teams align; when people are treated as “less,” you get resentment and rebellion. Jason also shares real examples of how strong leaders held the standard without being toxic through clear expectations, training, visible standard work, and fair consequences because letting standards slide slowly pulls the whole company back to old behaviors. What you'll learn in this episode: Why treating craft and leadership as equal is proven through shared standards and conditions. How slipping standards creates a slow slide back to the old way of operating. What leaders can do to hold the standard without being mean: clarity, training, visuals, support. Why “fear of being disliked” leads to weak leadership and harms the team. How accountability can be handled positively through role fit, coaching, or reassignment when needed. Where are you allowing “just this once” to become the new normal and what standard do you need to protect starting today? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1527 - Organize Your People around Value Streams
01/26/2026
Ep.1527 - Organize Your People around Value Streams
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains why most companies struggle with flow when they’re organized around departments and what changes when you reorganize people around value streams instead. He shows how “department islands” create handoff friction, local efficiency, and competing priorities, while value-stream organization aligns business development, pre-con, operations, and support functions around what the customer actually needs delivered. The result is better flow, clearer ownership, repeatable systems, and performance metrics that measure the end-to-end outcome, not just how busy each department is. What you'll learn in this episode: What a value stream is and why it matters more than department efficiency. How siloed departments create waste, friction, and broken handoffs. How organizing by geography (podium/skin/tower) mirrors value-stream thinking on projects. Why value-stream organization enables repeatable systems and better support for crews. How to measure performance by value-stream outcomes instead of local department metrics. Where in your company are people optimized for department “efficiency,” when what you really need is flow all the way to the customer and 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1526 - Water Spiders in Construction
01/26/2026
Ep.1526 - Water Spiders in Construction
In this episode, Jason Schroeder introduces the concept of water spiders in construction and explains why this overlooked role is critical to maintaining flow. Borrowed from Lean manufacturing, a water spider is a dedicated support function that keeps crews installed without interruption by handling logistics, materials, information, and waste. Jason breaks down how this role reduces variation, prevents overburden, and protects Takt rhythm while challenging the industry to stop paying for chaos instead of investing in flow. What you'll learn in this episode: What a water spider is and why the role exists in Lean systems. How water spiders eliminate motion, waiting, and variation on jobsites. Why crews searching for materials is a sign the system is broken. How pre-kitting, zone-based delivery, and just-in-time logistics protect Takt. Why ignoring this role leads to delays, waste, and hidden project costs. Are your crews installing or are they constantly on treasure hunts because no one is protecting the flow? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1525 - The Layout of the Space
01/23/2026
Ep.1525 - The Layout of the Space
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains why the layout of space whether on a jobsite or in a manufacturing facility can quietly become your most limiting constraint if it isn’t designed on purpose. Through real-world examples from modular manufacturing and construction sites, he shows how poor layouts choke flow, create bottlenecks, and force costly rework. The core message is simple: design the production system first, then design the space to support it otherwise the space will control you instead of the other way around. What you'll learn in this episode: Why space layout often becomes the hidden bottleneck in production and construction. How to design the production system first and let it dictate the layout of the space. The role of flow, bottlenecks, and Takt thinking in designing manufacturing and jobsite layouts. How poor site layouts create excess motion, transportation, and wasted cost. Why beginning with the end in mind prevents trailers, conexes, and equipment from blocking progress. Where is your space limiting your flow and what would change if you redesigned the layout to support the work instead of fighting it? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1524 - Overproduction Triggers Instability
01/22/2026
Ep.1524 - Overproduction Triggers Instability
Overproduction is the hidden root of instability on jobsites, and it’s one of the fastest ways to trigger every other form of waste. In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains how producing too much too early creates excess inventory, extra movement, defects, rework, waiting, and even physical strain on crews. Using a real story and field examples, he shows why one-piece flow, staying inside your Takt rhythm, and bringing materials just-in-time are the only ways to protect flow and keep the job stable. What you'll learn in this episode: Why overproduction and excess inventory trigger the other wastes on a project. How batching work (or materials) creates defects, rework, motion, and waiting. Why building “ahead” of your Takt rhythm creates damage risk and punchlist instability. How staging materials too early blocks access, slows production, and kills flow. What “just-in-time” material delivery looks like from vendor to laydown to zone. If overproduction is creating chaos, what would change if your crews only built what was needed where it was needed, right when it was needed? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1523 - Holding Start Dates
01/22/2026
Ep.1523 - Holding Start Dates
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains why “holding start dates” is one of the most important discipline moves a superintendent can make on a Takt-based project. He breaks down how moving trades up “because someone finished early” creates variation, disrupts rhythm, overburdens crews, and actually extends total project duration even when it feels like you’re speeding things up. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Takt requires start-to-start rhythm, not “pull” that waits on the trade in front without target times. How moving start dates creates variation that increases overall duration and throughput time. Why forcing trades to accelerate triggers sandbagging, distrust, and overburdening the workforce. How holding buffers protects finishing work: punch, cleaning, training, and demobilization. Why changing start dates also disrupts supply chains for materials, information, and resources. Where on your project are you creating chaos by “moving things up,” instead of protecting the rhythm that actually finishes the job sooner? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1522 - Scaling in Construction, Feat. Mark Story
01/22/2026
Ep.1522 - Scaling in Construction, Feat. Mark Story
In this episode, Jason Schroeder and Mark Story dig into what it really takes to scale a construction business because winning bigger work is easy compared to delivering it. They explain why companies fail when they scale revenue without scaling people, why “panic hiring” destroys projects, and how the only reliable path is to work backwards: define the target, then build the training systems, meeting cadence, and leadership capability to match it. What You'll Learn In This Episode: Why scaling work without scaling people creates predictable project failure. How to “work it backwards” from growth targets to the training and leadership capacity required. Why panic hiring and “winging it” on big jobs leads to toxic behavior and blown outcomes. How consistent meeting systems and long-term planning blocks create stability and recovery. Why training camps beat incentives and how building people prevents write-downs and burnout. If you’re trying to grow, are you building the system and the people first or just hoping the next big job won’t expose the gaps? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1521 - What Stability Looks Like
01/20/2026
Ep.1521 - What Stability Looks Like
Jason breaks down what stability actually looks like on a construction project and why it takes courage, clarity, and decisive leadership to create it. Using real-world examples from the Bioscience Research Laboratory, he explains how clean, safe, organized environments don’t happen by accident and why most teams avoid the discipline required to achieve them. This episode challenges leaders to move past fear and indecision and intentionally build stability as the foundation for excellence. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: What true stability looks like on a real construction project. Why humans are not naturally wired for cleanliness, order, and finishing. How fear and hesitation prevent leaders from creating stability. What clean, safe, and organized sites signal to workers and trade partners. Why stability must be enforced before collaboration can work. How lean leaders create discipline without chaos or burnout. What elite projects do differently from day one. Why spotless environments are common across high-performing organizations. If you want better performance, stop waiting for buy-in and start setting standards. Stability is not optional, it’s the entry requirement for improvement. Decide what “clean, safe, and organized” means on your project, enforce it consistently, and lead with confidence. That’s how real progress starts. 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1520 - You Can’t Improve Anything in Chaos
01/20/2026
Ep.1520 - You Can’t Improve Anything in Chaos
Jason explains a hard truth many teams avoid: you cannot improve chaos. Through real project stories, he shows why coaching tasks and pushing harder never works when a site is disorganized, unsafe, and unstable. This episode breaks down why cleanliness, order, and standards are not optional and why stability must come before any attempt at improvement. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: Why improvement efforts fail when a project is chaotic. How cleanliness, safety, and organization create real control on a project. Why projects finished in chaos stay late, over budget, and burned out. The role of stability and standardization as the foundation of improvement. How lean thinking collapses without a clean, safe, organized environment. Why “bright ideas” don’t matter if the system isn’t stable. How 5S directly supports production, flow, and reliability. The visual difference between improvement in chaos vs. improvement with standards. If you want to apply this immediately, stop trying to fix outcomes and start fixing the environment. Clean the site. Remove excess inventory. Organize the laydown. Make safety and order non-negotiable. Once the project is stable, then and only then continuous improvement 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1519 - Iterations & Checks
01/20/2026
Ep.1519 - Iterations & Checks
Jason continues the conversation about feedback and expectations, then pivots into a key operational lesson: iterations and checks. Using real experiences managing freelancers, he explains why fast, frequent updates beat “big batch” deliveries every time, and how lack of transparency creates stress, wasted effort, and broken trust. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: Why “batching” work until the last minute creates stress, rework, and distrust. How fast iterations and frequent checks keep projects aligned and moving. The difference between a top performer and a “black cloud” teammate in execution. What transparency looks like in real work: mockups, previews, updates, and questions. How silence and non-responsiveness make leaders wonder if work is even happening. Why getting feedback early protects both the worker and the customer. How to build one-piece flow thinking into communication and deliverables The mindset shifts from “turn in perfect work once” to “show progress and adjust”. If you want to apply this immediately, start one habit today: send progress updates early and often. Don’t wait until you think it’s perfect. Show the draft, ask the questions, get the check, and adjust. That’s how you build trust, protect the schedule, and become the person everyone wants to work with. 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1518 - A Reply to Nat M. Zorach
01/20/2026
Ep.1518 - A Reply to Nat M. Zorach
A negative review hits Jason’s CPM book, and instead of ignoring it, he breaks it down point by point. In this episode, you’ll hear the difference between thoughtful critique and sloppy “cheap seats” commentary, plus why Jason believes CPM’s underlying mindset creates predictable waste, even when people claim they’re “hybridizing” it. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: How to respond to negative feedback without letting it derail the mission. Why anonymous reviews can reward careless behavior and hurt valuable work. The difference between critique that helps and critique that just tears down. Jason’s core argument about CPM: it drives overburden, WIP, rushing, and instability. Why “we don’t use pure CPM” doesn’t hold up in real owner/legal/arbitration settings. What it actually costs to edit and produce books, and why “self-published” isn’t an insult. A challenge to critics: publish something, propose a better system, and stand behind it. If this episode hit home, take the next step and audit how you give feedback to people on your team. Don’t do cheap-seat commentary. Be specific, be fair, and bring a solution. 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1517 - The Leader Drives Lean
01/10/2026
Ep.1517 - The Leader Drives Lean
Lean implementation doesn’t start with a program, it starts with the leader, and it has to be driven from the top. In this episode, Jason gives a passionate reminder that you can’t delegate lean to a VP, a lean director, a consultant, or a committee and expect it to stick. He breaks down why lean must become the company’s main operating system, not a side project, and why real change requires authority paired with daily example. If you want lean to work at scale, this is the mindset shift. What you'll learn in this episode: Why lean must be led by the top leader not delegated How “lean as a side job” guarantees failure The difference between influence and authority when implementing change Why committees and decision-by-group create chaos instead of improvement What daily lean leadership looks like in real life If you’re the leader, what are you personally doing every day to prove lean is the operating system, not a slogan? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1516 - 10X
01/10/2026
Ep.1516 - 10X
Lean isn’t a 1.0 program it’s a pursuit, and if you think you’re “done,” you haven’t even started scratching the surface. In this episode, Jason challenges you to go 10 times further than what most teams call “lean,” with a vision for truly advanced planning, logistics, visual systems, and training that creates real muscle memory in the field. He also shares what he’s building next with Last Planner content and why “good enough” is the enemy of great on modern projects. If you want a hopeful push to keep improving and live a remarkable life, this one’s for you. What you'll learn in this episode: Why “lean 1.0” is only the starting point and what 10x implementation really looks like How to think about next-level Last Planner execution (2.0, 3.0) instead of the “old way” Why the industry must train and mass-produce construction professionals to match today’s demand What advanced jobsite systems could include: visual controls, logistics queuing, tracking, drones, and daily real-time visuals How to stay motivated, keep learning, and build momentum without burning out. If you could take your current “lean” effort 10 times further, what would you change first? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1515 - Lean Instant Pudding
01/09/2026
Ep.1515 - Lean Instant Pudding
In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down the real levels of Lean implementation inside an organization and why “Lean instant pudding” (just add water) is a lie. He explains the phases of Lean development over time, what it actually takes to move from participation to real implementation and culture maturity, and why most attempts fail when leaders want results without doing the work. What you'll learn in this episode: The 3 phases of Lean implementation and why it takes time to mature. Why leaders who want “instant pudding” results usually aren’t committed to real change. The two requirements Jason sees in every company that succeeds with Lean: caring about people + obsession with improvement. Why “fake Lean” hurts the industry and gives Lean a bad name. How leaders must model the behaviors (training, systems, improvement habits) for Lean to stick. Are you trying to “install Lean,” or are you willing to build the kind of culture where Lean can actually take root and sustain itself? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1514 - The 7 Steps to Kaizen
01/09/2026
Ep.1514 - The 7 Steps to Kaizen
In this episode, Jason Schroeder shares a simple “secret” that prevents a ton of workplace (and relationship) conflict: if two people are doing the same things, they’ll step on each other’s toes and contention is guaranteed. He ties that lesson to real examples from project teams, business partnerships, and home life, then connects it to a key Lean idea: when multiple people are responsible for something, it often doesn’t happen so clear ownership and clear role boundaries matter. What you'll learn in this episode: Why overlapping responsibilities create friction, frustration, and constant conflict. How to define clear work assignments while still staying “shared-responsibility” as a team. Why PM/Super pairs (and leadership partners) fight when they’re both trying to run the same lane. The Lean takeaway: one clear owner is often the difference between “done” and “never happens”. A practical mindset shift to reduce drama and increase production: clarify roles before you escalate emotions. Where are you “stepping on toes” right now and what would change if you clearly owned separate lanes? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1513 - The Podcast Effect
01/09/2026
Ep.1513 - The Podcast Effect
In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains “the podcast effect” how teaching what you’re learning forces clarity, strengthens recall, and accelerates real-world implementation. He shares how researching and recording episodes (and YouTube trainings) creates a powerful learn-teach-learn cycle, then contrasts implementers with critics who talk big but don’t “show me” real field results. What you'll learn in this episode: How the learn-teach-learn cycle helps you retain and apply what you study. Why implementation matters more than criticism—and what “show me” really means. How to spot “Lean talk” that isn’t backed by real field practice. Why systems must evolve—freezing methods in time turns them into classical management. How consistency can accidentally create a false urgency that impacts your life and relationships. Where are you feeling urgency right now and is it truly urgent, or just a thought driving 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
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Ep.1512 - Stepping on Toes
01/05/2026
Ep.1512 - Stepping on Toes
In this episode, Jason Schroeder shares a simple “secret” that prevents a ton of workplace (and relationship) conflict: if two people are doing the same things, they’ll step on each other’s toes—and contention is guaranteed. He ties that lesson to real examples from project teams, business partnerships, and home life, then connects it to a key Lean idea: when multiple people are responsible for something, it often doesn’t happen—so clear ownership and clear role boundaries matter. What you'll learn in this episode: Why overlapping responsibilities create friction, frustration, and constant conflict. How to define clear work assignments while still staying “shared-responsibility” as a team. Why PM/Super pairs (and leadership partners) fight when they’re both trying to run the same lane. The Lean takeaway: one clear owner is often the difference between “done” and “never happens”. A practical mindset shift to reduce drama and increase production: clarify roles before you escalate emotions. Where are you “stepping on toes” right now and what would change if you clearly owned separate lanes? 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: · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel:
/episode/index/show/elevateconstruction/id/39612405