Hoots on the Ground | The Lean Builder

In this no-bullshido episode, Adam Hoots chops it up with Mississippi’s own Boone White, a farm-raised boy, Christ‑follower, husband, dad of three, and unapologetic agitator for change. He is a General Superintendent with ICM Construction in Oxford, Mississippi. Boone traces his path from the old “yell‑and‑cuss” era to a worker-first approach powered by Last Planner, Takt, and disciplined make-ready planning. From Houston to Mississippi, he breaks down how humility and curiosity, not just grit, unlock flow, safety, and calmer, more predictable jobs. The duo tackles integrating CPM/Takt/Last Planner, empowering trades to innovate, training the next wave of supers, and focusing on the real constraint: human-centered leadership. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Grit isn’t a strategy; when paired with humility and curiosity, we can design a better workflow. CPM, Takt, and Last Planner can (and should) work together to plan for flow. The top constraint is leadership capacity: developing people, not just schedules. Celebrate field-driven improvements—innovation snowballs when it’s recognized. Safer, cleaner, clearer sites = respect for people and better project outcomes. KEY QUOTES: “Grit gets you started; humility and curiosity get you flow.” “When trades own the plan, safety and predictability show up.” “CPM, Takt, and Last Planner aren’t rivals—they’re instruments in the same orchestra.” “Clean, calm, and clear is what respect for people looks like in the field.” RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED: The Lean Builder | www.theleanbuilder.com | Blog, book, resources, and a hub for the lean construction community. LCI – Lean Construction Institute | www.leanconstruction.org | Training, events, and thought leadership. Outbuild | www.outbuild.com | Scheduling platform aligning Last Planner, CPM, and Takt. “The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement” & “It’s Not Luck: Marketing, Production, and The Theory of Constraints” — Eliyahu Goldratt | Theory of Constraints fundamentals. “Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss without Losing Your Humanity” — Kim Scott | Care personally, challenge directly. “Bottleneck Rules: How to Get More Done (When Working Harder Isn’t Working” — Clarke Ching | Practical focus on constraints. GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: Adam Hoots | LinkedIn  | Podcast host for Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions. Boone White | LinkedIn | General Superintendent with ICM Construction and an advocate for Lean Construction and worker-first leadership. ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction.

In this no-bullshido episode of Hoots on the Ground, host Adam Hoots reconnects with Jesse “Chuy” Hernandez—the plumber’s son turned foreman, GC leader, consultant, author, and unapologetic “selfish servant.” Jesse shares his journey from apprentice to industry thought leader, tying sobriety, service, and Lean thinking together. He breaks down his three leadership lessons—zoom level, time horizon, and lingo—and shows how those same gaps cause project failures. Adam and Jesse also tackle problem-solving, the power of listening with eyes and ears, the myth of the “indispensable superintendent,” and why sometimes the fastest fix is deciding something isn’t a problem. They preview the upcoming LCI Congress, scheduled for October 20-24, 2025, in Arlington, Texas, including Jesse’s “Sweat Equity Improvement” workshop, and close with his next mission: training for a full Ironman to prove ordinary people can do extraordinary things. Key takeaways include: ·        Leadership maturity evolves through zoom level, time horizon, and lingo — meet people where they are, not where you want them to be. ·        The fastest way to solve a problem? Decide it’s not a problem — and focus on the ones that truly matter. ·        Lean isn’t about efficiency—it’s about building people’s problem-solving capabilities through improving work. ·        Listening with your eyes and ears is the highest-leverage technology in construction; forget the dashboards, pay attention to people. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        The Lean Builder | https://theleanbuilder.com/ | Blog, book, resources, and a hub for the lean construction community. ·        LCI – Lean Construction Institute | https://leanconstruction.org/ | Training, events, and thought leadership in Lean Construction. ·        LCI Congress 2025 | https://congress.leanconstruction.org/ | Annual gathering of lean-minded builders and leaders in Arlington, TX. ·        “Becoming the Promise You Are Intended to Be” by Jesse Hernandez | https://www.depthbuilder.com/books | Inspiring lessons on leadership, service, and growth. ·        “Lean in Love” by Jesse Hernandez and Jennifer Lacy | https://www.depthbuilder.com/books | Exploring Lean principles through the lens of human connection. ·        “Learnings and Missteps” Podcast, Hosted by Jesse Hernandez | https://www.learningsandmissteps.com/ | Featuring stories from the trades and beyond. ·        “Brace Me: The Lean Framework for Love and Leadership” by Sam Sinclair | https://www.amazon.com/BRACE-ME-Lean-Framework-Leadership/dp/B0FJJPJ34F | A superintendent’s perspective on building, resilience, and leadership. GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/ | Podcast host for Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions. ·        Jesse “Chewy” Hernandez | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessedepthbuilder/ | Author, Speaker, Consultant, and Advocate for Human-Centered Leadership and Lean Construction. ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction.  

In this no-bullshido episode of Hoots on the Ground, Adam Hoots hangs out in Kyoto, Japan, with the one and only Thomas LaMay, a project leader at DPR Construction who’s got Lean systems and people-first thinking down to a science. What starts as a chat about bucket list experiences at the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC 33) turns into a full-on masterclass on designing better production systems—and better lives for the people doing the work. Thomas dives into the importance of caring for the people on the job, from the simple things (like clean port-a-potties and shaded break tents) to big ideas like integrating Mental Health First Aid, and team health assessments. The two explore how systems thinking, Last Planner System®, Takt planning, and location-based management aren’t just tools—they’re opportunities to make construction more human. Key takeaways include: Respect for people starts with the basics — Clean toilets, shaded break areas, and rest show genuine care for those doing the work. Design your system or someone else will — Intentional production systems (with flow, visual signals, and collaboration) beat chaos every time. Mental health is a safety issue — Treat it with urgency, awareness, and proactive tools like mental health first aid and daily empathy walks. This one’s for every builder who gives a damn about people more than just deadlines. Because, as Thomas says, “If you don’t design your production system, someone else will—and you may not like what they choose.”   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The Lean Builder | www.theleanbuilder.com | Blog, book, resources, news, events, and a hub for the Lean community. International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC) | www.iglc.net | Access to 30+ years of Lean construction conference papers and research. LCI – Lean Construction Institute | www.leanconstruction.org | Training, events, and thought leadership in Lean Construction. “Geotechnical Insights for a Productive Production System for Earthwork” by Kim Simmons, Thomas LaMay, and Paz Arroyo | https://iglc.net/Papers/Details/2333 | Presented at IGLC 33 “Strategic Takt Planning” by Dr. Iris D. Tommelein & Samir Emdanat | https://iglc.net/Papers/Details/2315 | Presented at IGLC 33 (NOTE: the equation is shown on Page 5) Video of Equation Work by Dr. Tommelein | https://photos.app.goo.gl/NtuyxzzCQzw1wuCGA | Recorded by Adm at IGLC 33 Mental Health First Aid USA | www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org | Certification and resources for recognizing and responding to mental health challenges. “A Construction Suicide” by Thomas LaMay and Brian Winningham | https://www.rangerwinnie.com/post/a-construction-suicide | A poignant, raw, real story on how a worker’s suicide impacts an entire construction crew. (A TLB special chapter excerpt from Thomas and Brian’s upcoming book!) The Center For Construction Research and Training - Opioid Resources  | https://www.cpwr.com/research/research-to-practice-r2p/r2p-library/other-resources-for-stakeholders/mental-health-addiction/opioid-resources/ “The Knowing-Doing Gap” by Jeffrey Pfeffer and Robert Sutton | www.jeffreypfeffer.com/books | Exploring why knowledge often fails to translate into action. 4D BIM & Takt Planning Resources | Tools to integrate time, location, and coordination planning.   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: Adam Hoots | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/ | Podcast host, Lean Construction Shepherd at ConstructionACHEsolutions. Thomas LaMay | https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaslamay/ | Project Leader at DPR Construction, Lean Construction Advocate, Speaker, and Mental Health Champion in the field

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 analogies between workplace motivation and the intrinsic joy of sports. He emphasizes how authentic human connection, creativity, and physical engagement transform mundane tasks into meaningful activities. Key takeaways include: ·       Understanding the essential "trinity" of mind, hands, and heart to drive motivation and productivity in construction. ·       How genuine respect and human-centered thinking dramatically improve job satisfaction and outcomes. ·       Real-world reflections from Japanese construction sites, highlighting cultural differences in discipline, safety, visual management, and worker care. ·       Dominic's practical insights on recognizing beneficial change (kaizen) versus neutral or harmful change in construction processes. ·       Powerful examples of visual management and operational excellence observed in Japan that can be practically implemented on Western job sites. Dominic thoughtfully challenges traditional Western paradigms, urging construction leaders to dismantle artificial divisions between thinkers and doers, cultivating environments where people can thrive and deliver exceptional value. He advocates for intentional cultural reflection, understanding that true "Lean" practices may differ significantly depending on regional and organizational starting points. ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:• The Lean Builder | Blog, book, resources, news, and events | www.theleanbuilder.com • IGLC (International Group for Lean Construction) | https://iglc.net/ GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:• Adam Hoots | Podcast host for Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/ • Dominic Desmarais | Lean Practitioner, Mechanical Engineer, and Advocate for Human-Centered Construction Excellence | Director of Lean Construction with Graham | https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominic-desmarais-p-eng-680b4236/

In this insightful episode of Hoots on the Ground with No Bullshido, Adam Hoots is joined by Hal Macomber, 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 Construction," explaining the critical importance of designing projects with a clear operational rhythm or "Takt," thereby dramatically improving efficiency and reducing project duration. Key insights from this episode include: How continuous flow construction, designed around Takt time, can revolutionize project delivery by dramatically reducing cycle times, sometimes from weeks to mere hours. The essential role of operational science, including Little's Law, the Law of Bottlenecks, the Law of Variation, and Kingman's Formula, in enhancing production planning and control. The true meaning of "Kaizen," emphasizing personal and collective growth through continuous learning and improvement, extends beyond simply eliminating waste. The critical need to equip trade workers, whom Hal respectfully refers to as "performers," with the skills, mindset, and agency to execute Lean principles in the field effectively. The limitations of traditional scheduling methods (e.g., CPM) necessitate the adoption of collaborative, inclusive scheduling practices that fully integrate Lean methodologies. Hal highlights the transformational power of true worker agency and engagement, urging leaders to foster environments where frontline workers actively contribute to problem-solving and continuous improvement. He challenges conventional wisdom by asserting that push methods are never beneficial, advocating instead for a system based entirely on pull and flow. Through stories and practical advice, Hal and Adam encourage listeners to shift from rigid, hierarchical structures toward empathetic, human-centered approaches that harness the full potential of every team member. This episode is a crucial listen for construction leaders, Lean practitioners, and anyone passionate about driving deep, sustainable improvement through genuine human engagement and systemic thinking. NOTABLE EPISODE QUOTES: “Continuous flow construction isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about human engagement and empowerment.” – Hal Macomber “Real Kaizen is using every opportunity to grow ourselves, not just the system.” – Hal Macomber “Don’t just respect people—respect human nature.” – Hal Macomber   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        The Lean Builder | Blog, book, resources, news, and events. ·        Toyota Kata | Methodology for systematic continuous improvement. ·        Little’s Law, Law of Variation, Law of Bottlenecks, and Kingman’s Formula (overview of all laws) | Operational science fundamentals. GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | LinkedIn  | Podcast host, Lean Construction Shepherd at ConstructionACHEsolutions. ·        Hal Macomber | LinkedIn  | Lean construction pioneer, influential Lean coach, and mentor.

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 technician, Rene credits Ryan’s mentorship for his rapid career growth, showcasing the power of support, faith, and the right opportunities to shape a leader. The conversation highlights: ·        The importance of mentorship in the construction industry and how the right guidance can unlock potential. ·        How trust, faith, and accountability play a key role in developing teams and growing as a leader. ·        Why human connection and empathy matter more than technical skills when driving positive workplace culture. ·        The evolution of leadership from a traditional, rigid mindset to a more people-focused approach. ·        Lessons from extreme ownership and intentional leadership inspired by Jocko Willink and Timothy Keller. ·        Adapting Lean principles to real-world scenarios, ensuring that tools serve the system, not the other way around. Through heartfelt storytelling, Ryan and Rene demonstrate that leadership is not about titles but about empowering others. Their mentor-mentee relationship embodies what it means to “pay it forward,” ensuring that knowledge and wisdom don’t die with experience but fuel future leaders' growth. ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        The Lean Builder | Blog, book, resources, news, and events. ·        Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink | Leadership and discipline strategies for success. ·        Timothy Keller’s Teachings | Wisdom on leadership, faith, and service. ·        The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle | The importance of being present. ·        San Antonio Water System (SAWS) | Infrastructure and water management in Texas. GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | LinkedIn | Podcast host, Lean Construction Shepherd at ConstructionACHEsolutions. ·        Ryan Taylor | Superintendent at SAWS | Leader in construction operations and mentorship. ·        Rene Duron | LinkedIn  | Construction Specialist at SAWS, Podcast Editor at Duron Styles. EPISODE QUOTES: ·        "The way up is down. The way to true power is to give up power in order to serve." – Timothy Keller ·        "Smile through the suck." – Ryan Taylor & Rene Duron ·        "Mentorship isn’t about supervision; it’s about seeing potential and fueling it." – Adam Hoots ·        "Be present. Work hard. Show up with a smile." – Lessons from Ryan’s mother, Barbara Nefford This episode is a must-listen for those passionate about leadership, Lean principles, and mentorship in construction. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, this conversation will leave you inspired to empower others and be the change you seek.

In this insightful episode, Adam Hoots welcomes Tom Fuduric, 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 revealed plans for a new course on mental health in construction, addressing the industry's critical need for mindfulness, kindness, and respect. Key takeaways include: The role of trust and care in fostering collaborative and safe work environments. How intentionality and strategic communication help develop strong teams and individuals. Why love and genuine care are foundational to building trust in the workplace. The industry's growing focus on mental wellness and creating positive cultures. Tom provides actionable advice on leadership, feedback, and understanding one’s purpose. His thoughtful perspectives remind us of the profound impact we can make by prioritizing respect for people in construction. ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction.   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        The Lean Builder | Blog, book, training, resources, news, and events. ·        The Team of a Lifetime | Sally Love’s insights on building high-performing teams.   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | LinkedIn | Podcast host for Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions. ·        Tom Fuduric | LinkedIn | Clemson University Lecturer, Human Resources & Safety Professional, Construction Industry Veteran.

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 delves into his personal growth journey, influenced by mentors, his faith, and a strong dedication to connection and service. He emphasizes the importance of leadership and the benefits of fostering a growth mindset within the construction industry. Kent also highlights the significance of building and nurturing relationships across various sectors of the industry, which he views as crucial for successful project management and team dynamics. The dialogue further explores Kent's experiences and contributions to Lean construction, emphasizing the approach as a dual pursuit of process enhancement and people development. Kent’s narrative demonstrates how integrating Lean principles leads to better project outcomes and a cohesive, empowered workforce. He stresses the importance of transparency, respect, and collective problem-solving, showcasing these elements as vital to advancing the construction industry. This episode serves as a powerful testament to the ethos of Lean construction and its practitioners. Kent’s stories and insights underscore the potential of Lean methodologies to not only transform projects but also to foster a strong, united construction community. His commitment to continuous improvement and respect for all team members resonates deeply, offering valuable lessons for anyone interested in the field of construction management.   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:  ●       www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ●       Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ●       Kent Hedges | https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenthedges/ | Large Capital Projects & Design Integration with Medxcel Facilities Management

In this episode, Adam Hoots engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Matt Graves, known for his pioneering work with Construction Yeti 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 discussion delves into the origins and aspirations behind the Construction Yeti platform and the CM Mentors Podcast. Matt speaks candidly about the challenges and motivations that fueled these initiatives, aiming to foster a supportive community within the construction sector. They explore the importance of trade collaboration, the integration of technology, and the utilization of digital marketing and social media as tools to modernize the industry and enhance networking and learning opportunities. A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to addressing the knowledge transfer between seasoned professionals and newcomers in the field. Adam and Matt emphasize the value of mentorship, the need for upskilling, and the strategies to prepare for the impending labor challenges. Moreover, they reflect on personal growth, the benefits of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and the transformative power of collaborative efforts in driving industry-wide change. Throughout the episode, Adam and Matt discuss future directions for their respective projects, sharing a vision for expanding their impact through collaborative projects and initiatives. This episode is not just a narrative of individual journeys but a call to action for the construction industry to adopt a more inclusive, innovative, and people-focused approach to building the future.   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website ·        https://www.constructionyeti.com/ | All things construction in a fun way! ·        https://www.instagram.com/constructionyeti/?hl=en | Construction Yeti Instagram ·        https://www.tiktok.com/@yetigraves | Construction Yeti Tik Tok ·        https://linktr.ee/constructionyeti | All Things Construction Yeti GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ·        Matt Graves | https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-graves-pmp/ | Founder and Content Creator at Construction Yeti ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.

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 individual and professional development. He emphasizes the paramount importance of respect, efficacious team dynamics, and the principle of perpetual learning. Joe meticulously articulates the challenges and successes associated with the adoption of Lean principles, showcasing his commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and team cohesion within the construction sector. Joe highlights the imperative necessity for a paradigmatic cultural shift within the construction industry, concentrating on accurate scheduling, advocating for a balanced work-life integration, and the essential act of acknowledging and appreciating the workforce to mitigate the sector's skilled labor deficit. Through sharing his experiences, he conveys a deep passion for construction and a commitment to education, discussing the unique experiences and obstacles of maintaining equilibrium between his professional obligations and his role as a dedicated parent. His insights into fostering a healthy work-life balance, alongside promoting respect and value for workers, pinpoint critical areas for industry improvement and personal growth. The conversation further delves into the extensive influence of Lean methodologies on the construction sector, including the improvement of communication, the encouragement of constructive conflict, the establishment of feasible expectations, and the foregrounding of mental health. Joe's narrative serves as a persuasive advocacy for the virtues of respect, humility, and authenticity. Through surmounting the intricacies of the construction industry and personal advancement, Joe's account stands as a compelling testament to the transformative power of Lean principles, both in professional settings and personal life, underlining the significant impact of these methodologies on industry standards and individual well-being. You are going to want to know Joe as he leads the construction industry to some serious change through his many hats!  ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:  ·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ·        Joe Pryor | https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-pryor-56b1366b/ | Vice President of Field Operations, Rudick Construction Group

During this episode, Mack Story dives into exactly who he is and where he came from! Hoots talks about all the amazing content that Mack puts out daily with his company, Blue Collar Leadership. Mack talks about his wife, Ria, and mentions her story, which you can see in her TEDx Talk linked below. He discusses how he and Ria got started with their speaking and consulting careers. He talks about his love for her and how strong that is and where it came from. Mak also dives into how all his problems were caused by himself! He tells about his son, Eric, who hated Mack from age 15 – 19. Mack then found this leadership information from a John Maxwell conference. Then by modeling what Maxwell teaches, he was able to repair and rebuild that relationship with his son. Further, he takes us down his journey of giving up alcohol and profanity back in 2012. Mack references Stephen Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and how it changed his entire life! Between stimulus and response, there is a choice. Mack gets Hoots to open up on some of the problems that he is facing at home! Mack’s personal stories allow him to self-reflect and discover some of the next steps that he can take to work on his patience. Tune in to find out more about how to develop patience both at work and/or at home. Cheat code: Don’t forget to grab your pause button! Mack claims that everything he talks about is Character Development. Character is the ability to meet the demands of reality! Mack is a wealth of knowledge and gives that knowledge out to others constantly. He enjoys talking with people and making a difference in blue-collar workers’ lives!  This is an absolute cannot-miss episode with Mack. His one-liners are fantastic, and you will be inspired to a better life after allowing this episode to settle in. As Mack says, “You can’t climb the mountain with base camp Character.” Keep Climbing!   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:  ·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website ·        https://bluecollarleadership.com/ | Mack & Ria Story’s company ·        https://youtu.be/7953w5yQ1uo?si=DCvyOV6Xg90OZjfF | Ria Story’s TEDx Talk “Bridges Out of the Past: A Survivor’s Lessons on Resilience” ·        https://www.maxwellleadership.com/ | John Maxwell Leadership Training ·        The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ·        Mack Story | https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackstory/ | Developing the Blue-Collar Workforce and those who lead them.®│Author of 15 Books│Leadership Speaker│Trainer

In this episode, Hoots delves into the spiritual dimensions of both business and personal growth. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Bob Emiliani's book, Management Mysterium: The Quest for Progress, he shares how this book has framed his understanding of the spiritual side of the construction industry. No this is not what you’re thinking when it comes to religion! Think more broadly… Hoots then takes us on a journey through Eckhart Tolle's book, The Power of Now, discussing how being present in the moment has become a profound aspect of his life. He explores the concept of separating oneself from the being and reflects on the role beliefs play in shaping our experiences. A significant part of the discussion revolves around Tolle’s concept of the "pain body" and its influence on responses, especially in the construction world. Hoots shares how he's been intentional about being present, not just in business but also in his personal relationships. He talks about his own pain body of being short-tempered and too quick to respond with anger. The episode also touches on practical steps, including the incorporation of mindfulness practices like meditation into daily routines. Hoots discusses the transformative effects of these practices on his life and urges listeners to consider the power of intentional choices. He even gives a cheat code on what has helped him become more mindful over the last several weeks. Join Hoots in this enlightening episode as he explores the spiritual side of construction, offering valuable insights into the art of being present and its positive impact on personal and professional development.   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website Irrational Institutions: Business, Its Leaders, and The Lean Movement | by Dr. Bob Emiliani Being Present with Yourself with Matt Ohley (Hoots Podcast: Episode 73) The Uncommon Communicator podcast | by James Gable The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People | by Stephen R. Covey, Jim Collins Blue-Collar Leadership: Leading from the Front Lines | by Mack Story Headspace | meditation app “It’s Not About the Nail” video | by Jason Headley GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions  

This episode of Hoots on The Ground, Lean Builder Nation gets an introduction to the man behind the stories on LinkedIn, Mr. Matt Ohley! (Note: Not OH-LAY!, Oh-lee!) Matt talks about the challenges he faced growing up in the legal system! He talks a lot about living in the present time, not in the past and not in the future, but in the present. He goes through how he discovered the importance of this concept and how he goes about accomplishing this difficult principle. Matt discusses the real life of working in the trades and giving your body for the project’s sake. He gives us an example of when he was HIM! Hoots prompts Matt to talk more about the time he built an intricate drainage project that he had to take over from someone else. Matt talks about how he broke through some of the things he suffered. He gets vulnerable about discovering common patterns in his life that he wasn’t fond of and how he challenged his 43-year-old self to make some changes. When he started talking to a professional, he was able to have success with making positive changes in his life. From there he started to read and learned how to be human and navigate this thing called life! Matt lets the viewers better understand how he was able to deal with his big issues. He recommends a book called The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. “You are not your mind” is one of the major takeaways that Hoots has and is still thinking about as these show notes are being typed up! You are not your thoughts. You can observe and control what you think about. This concept gets easier with practice. Matt runs us through a practical example of what his days look like. The first thing he does is hit the snooze button at 3:30 am, so don’t confuse him with Jocko or David Goggins! His meditation routine is the most important part of his day to get it in the right mindset and place to take on the day! From barefoot standing on the ground to breathing techniques and cold shower treatments, he has experimented with it all! No matter what, he starts the day by being present with himself! Hoots and Matt discuss the Hawthorne Effect to increase production within the construction industry. To better understand, tune in to the whole episode to catch some of the wisdom that Matt is laying down.   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website  GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ·        Matt Ohley | https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-ohley-a89769107/ | Construction Manager, Tampa Division, Ajax Paving Industries of Florida

This is a must-watch episode of “Hoots on the Ground” with No Bullshido as we highlight ‘The Manny Hoyo!’ Manny is a Senior Superintendent with Skanska who works in the Boston area and shares how he spreads his gifts and talents to the world. Manny talks about how his upbringing has helped him become a better superintendent in the field. He also talks about being a senior superintendent with anxiety and being introverted, both require a daily battle. Manny dives into his recommendations for a Clemson course titled, “Building High Performing Teams” that Hoots is developing with other leaders within the university. Manny recommends that psychological safety and de-escalating tension would be at the top of the list of topics to cover in that course. Manny and Hoots dive into the hierarchy of construction and both dare to scratch the surface of this real-life concept in the industry. Manny talks about the phrase “command and control” and how there is a place and a time for that philosophy of management, but there are better ways most of the time. Those times and places where command and control matter include safety incidents or owner-strict delivery schedules and processes. Hoots coins “The Manny Rule”: Treat people like you should! Manny also challenges the phrase “hurt people,” as he comes from a hurt background and does everything he can not to spread that hurt. Manny remembers a project where he was a young assistant superintendent, and he helped come up with a much better plan to move a 22,000lb masterpiece of a painting. This painting was a Fresco painting of the men and women who built the museum that Manny’s team was renovating. Instead of relocating the painting using rollers, Manny’s idea of moving it with a crane proved to be the smart way to put less stress on the wall. Manny talks about the environment that was created around him that allowed him the courage to speak up in the moment with that idea. Manny says, “Be a croissant, not a bagel!” Tune in to find out exactly what that means. Hoots questions if we are starting to discuss Emotional Intelligence!?! Comment below and let us know if that’s what we got into! As Manny sails boats in his free time, Hoots asks him to better understand how sailing relates to scheduling and Lean Construction. Manny and Hoots close the podcast with a quick discussion on “respect for people” and what the phrase means. Manny also shouts out Chris Kelly, one of his construction idols, who taught him the most within the industry. And don’t use the phrases “I, me, or mine” or “progress over perfection” around Manny. Looking forward to the feedback from his podcast with this Master Builder, Manny Hoyo!   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ·        Manny Hoyo | https://www.linkedin.com/in/manny-hoyo-18304a20/ | senior superintendent with Skanska    

In this episode of The Lean Builder’s Hoots on the Ground podcast, we get to know James Glass with Turner Construction out of the Dallas, TX office. James started in the industry as a laborer, and he has learned much from his time supporting The Boy Scouts of America. He is still involved to this day without having children or grandchildren involved. His 40+ year career path in the construction industry took him from a laborer to a senior superintendent running large-scale work. James gives his advice on the best path to get started in the construction industry in today’s market! James takes us down his personal Lean Construction journey—both positive and negative. He talks about how Lean failed on his first project but by continuing to apply Lean, the process and principles have benefitted his career tremendously. James makes the statement, “You cannot force the project to fit Lean, you must modify Lean to make Lean fit the project.” He gives some great tips on how to get Lean moving forward quickly on your project, especially on your first attempt. Many of the best aspects of Lean thinking are actions or ideas that he has been doing for a while, but now with Lean, he has words for the process or tool. Being able to have a common language with other superintendents helps make his processes better. James dives into how Lean is much more than the Last Planner System®. James practices and uses the Lean tools but refuses to use the Japanese word of Ohno Circle; instead, he refers to these as the Observation Circle. James talks about how patience and respect are key to getting things done but also knows the days when you must speak up and be more direct. Lean is one tool to help people change (and embrace change) on construction projects. James talks about how we only must manage three things in construction: money, risk, and relationships. James talks about how the old-school, traditional way of thinking stays right on his shoulder and how it still takes effort today to bottle that up and find a better way. A great episode for anyone trying to convert an old-school, traditional-thinking superintendent!   ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | Podcast Host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ·        James Glass | https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-glass-91b13318/ | Senior Project Superintendent with Turner Construction Company

This is a can’t miss episode of The Lean Builder’s Hoots on the Ground podcast! During this episode, Julie Dolan, Brian Winningham, and Adam Hoots summarize their findings and learnings from the previous Construction Suicide Prevention episodes (check out Episodes 65-67 on our Podcasts page to give them a listen). The team uses a liberating structure known as “WHAT? SO WHAT? NOW WHAT?” They run through the experience that they just had together – the What, while they discover the So What of the conversation and turn each of those learnings into action by completing the Now What category. The learnings are real and come from real people, with real experiences, on real project sites. All of us are working together to make the construction industry a better place for learning. By listening to this episode, you can capture all the takeaways from the previous episodes that were issued to date. With the help of Manny Hoyo, Buddy Brumley, Sam Sinclair, and Joe Pryor, the team was able to unearth some amazing nuggets and examples of how to spread kindness on project sites. That is the word that came to fruition naturally in every episode – KINDNESS! The industry is lacking kindness. The Now What concluded the episode with Adam Hoots making the promise to submit a research paper to the ASC International conference. Julie is going to start putting together a coloring book of images that promote spreading kindness through the industry. Brian made the commitment to write a book on how to insert kindness into the industry. Listeners, we are asking you to hold each of us accountable for getting these projects done in a timely manner! Please feel free to reach out to us and ask how the commitments are coming! Thank you for tuning into this amazing session. ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website ·        Mural board referenced | https://app.mural.co/t/achesolutions5607/m/achesolutions5607/1697811781073/94ef28b01b9904773f9edbb111e2554ad700f88f?sender=u2a19ae07b88075e257a73527 GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: ·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions ·        Brian Winningham | https://www.linkedin.com/in/fielddrivenlean/ | Owner of Field Driven Lean and Author of Ranger Winnie ·        Julie Dolan | https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliedolan/ | Core Team Member with LCI Ohio Valley CoP and Lean Practice Leader with SSOE Group