Builder Tactics

In this episode, Damien sits down with Itzik Malka, Co-founder of 4M Analytics, to uncover one of the greatest threats to America’s infrastructure future: the buried utilities beneath our feet. These hidden lifelines power our daily lives, yet there’s no map that tells us where they are—leaving construction projects vulnerable to risk, delays, and cost overruns.Itzik explains how 4M is tackling this challenge head-on, using data and technology to bring visibility to the unseen and certainty to the unknown. From skyrocketing material costs and compressed timelines to the high stakes of transportation construction, this conversation explores why underground utilities remain the industry’s number one unacknowledged risk—and how solving it could reshape the future of infrastructure.https://www.4manalytics.com/

In this episode of Builder Tactics, host Damien Edwards sits down with Chad Gill, founder of VAs for Construction, to explore a groundbreaking topic that’s shaking up the industry: how blue-collar workers are using AI on the construction site.Together, they explore real-world applications of artificial intelligence by field teams — from streamlining punch lists and tracking job progress to automating repetitive administrative tasks and enhancing communication between the office and the field. Chad shares stories from the trenches, discusses the resistance and excitement AI is generating among tradespeople, and highlights the surprising ways virtual assistants and AI tools are already making a difference for foremen, supers, and site teams.About Chad Gill: Chad Gill is a former contractor with 23+ years of hands-on experience in the construction industry. Now, as the founder of Laminin Coach and VAs for Construction, Chad helps leaders and their teams become AI-enhanced. By focusing on practical applications, he empowers organizations to leverage AI for better decision-making, improved workflows, and measurable results. He’s also a speaker, known for his talk “Blue Collar AI”, which explores practical ways AI is transforming the skilled trades and construction industry.    Chad is passionate about showing leaders that AI isn’t about complexity or futuristic technology—it’s about small, everyday actions that add up to huge impact. Website: https://www.vas4construction.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-gill-99042a37/ Contact: chad@laminincoach.com Phone: 804-938-7915  

In today’s episode, I share some exciting news about rebranding the podcast to better align with my evolving creative projects and deeper mission. This isn’t just a name change — it’s a renewed vision that reflects the journey we’re all on toward balance, leadership, and clarity in the chaos of life and construction.You'll also get an exclusive listen to Chapter 1 of my new book, Building Zen — a personal and powerful reflection on finding peace, purpose, and presence, even in the most intense moments.I’d love to hear what resonates with you. Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and join the conversation.https://a.co/d/68s6AUJ

Welcome to The Construction Management Podcast! As we kick off 2025, we want to take a moment to focus on what you are going to do with the new year. If you're tuning in, chances are you already have a growth mindset—a drive for professional and personal development that will shape your success this year and beyond.In this episode, we're diving deep into goal setting, motivation, and sustaining a growth mindset in construction management and beyond. We cover what professional development means and why it’s crucial for your career. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, improving leadership skills, or simply looking to level up in 2025, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you set clear goals and make them happen.🎧 Tune in and start building the foundation for your best year yet!

During this episode, we dive into Chapter 8 of the recently updated book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we explore the essential skills of time management for builders.I hope your year started off right, and you are achieving all of your 2025 goals.For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

During this episode, we dive into Chapter 6 of the recently updated book, *Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we unpack the essential elements of accounting for builders. I hope you all have a fantastic holiday season, set some New Year resolutions, and achieve your goals for 2025. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Join me for an insightful episode as we dive into Chapter 5 of the recently updated book, *Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we unpack the essential elements of contracts between builders and trade companies, shedding light on how these agreements lay the groundwork for successful projects. Maintaining positive control over your construction site starts with a solid understanding of the legal requirements that govern your trades and your company. Whether you’re a seasoned construction manager or just starting out, this knowledge is critical to ensuring your project's success. Tune in as we explore the complexities of construction contracts and elevate your management skills! For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

Chapter 4 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of how to manage your job site. And what it takes to portray yourself as competent and in charge of managing construction projects. Job site management includes the appearance of your job site, traffic and delivery control, safety, stormwater and pollution control, and a whole lot more. Maintaining positive control of your construction site is critical to the success of your project and essential for every construction manager. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

This is another relaunch of a lost episode. In this episode, Jason and I discuss job site management, specifically trash. Trash is a plague on job sites and must be eradicated or at least cleaned up. Enjoy.

This is episode #2 from 2018. When we switched platforms, we lost a bunch of shows. Fortunately, I was able to dive deep into the archives and recover some of them. Today's podcast is about time management and how you can effectively manage your time and the time of your trade partners.

This is chapter 3 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of Pre-Construction planning and the steps to take to ensure your project's success from the start. Pre-construction planning includes reviewing the drawings and submittals, assessing the physical site, reviewing the budget, and holding pre-construction meetings. Each step is critical to the success of your project and essential for every construction manager. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

This is chapter 2 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of the technical and soft skills required for success in construction management. For the full audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

This is chapter #1 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes an introduction to the size and complexity of the construction industry and an explanation of the current state of our profession, Construction Management. For the full audiobook, go to Audible.com; for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/iyIwzLc.

Damien and Jason discuss how to evaluate your skill set and organize your professional development efforts.

Damien and Jason discuss the challenges of managing trade partners and how to build relationships with them. They also provide a framework for what to do when they are underperforming.

This is a classic from the archives, Jason and Damien talk with a listener about their experience with a difficult boss and give their perspective on how to move forward.

Damien and Jason discuss how to gain respect as the new guy in the job site and establish yourself as part of the team. Note: This was a previously released episode inadvertently removed from the line up during integration.

Damien and Jason discuss the state of the industry, the effect of interest rates, and how to prove your worth in a very competitive market.

Damien and Jason discuss not getting ripped off. In classic style they are all over the map but spewing words of wisdom for any aspiring construction manager. I haven't tested the sound , so good luck.

Today on the show Damien and Jason host Lyv Guimond from Lyvwell. Lyv shares some awesome advice and strategies for staying centered and focused. She also explains how to minimize dailey stress and maximize your feeling of empowerment.