Elevate Construction

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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder unpacks the real tension between high, medium, and low performers—and why those groups often clash even when nobody is trying to be "mean." He shares a story from inside his own organization, explains how high performers experience a real human need when they're paired with someone moving at a different standard, and why resentment and criticism often come from how people feel around excellence. What you'll learn in this episode: Why high performers and mid/low performers often can't "mesh" without alignment. How different work standards trigger real emotional reactions—and why that's normal. Why blame and criticism can be a defense mechanism when people feel "not enough". When "segregation" (separating roles/teams) is a flow decision, not a moral statement. What leaders can do: train, align direction, or reset the system so performance expectations are clear. Where in your team do you need better alignment and training—so high performers aren't carrying frustration, and others aren't stuck feeling defeated? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder responds to a listener asking for a practical, step-by-step way to implement Lean on real projects. Jason explains the six-part structure of his new "Elevating Construction the Lean Way" series, then shares his bigger vision: recording real jobsite, step-by-step "how-to" training—from primary control and site setup to meeting systems—so teams can see exactly what "Lean in the field" looks like. He also makes the point that Lean only works when leadership is truly aligned and willing to go all in, together. What you'll learn in this episode: The 6-part framework Jason uses to define Lean in construction. Why "how-to" Lean requires real projects, real crews, and real documentation — not theory. What a step-by-step jobsite video series could cover (from control points to site setup and signage). Why Lean implementation needs leadership alignment and authority—not side efforts. How Jason is building tools, content, and opportunities to showcase Lean at the GC and trade partner level. If you wanted to build Lean "for real" on your site, what would you start documenting and standardizing 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down a common scheduling trap: believing you can be behind in some areas because you're "ahead" somewhere else. He explains why being ahead in a few zones usually creates gaps, not true acceleration, and why most projects only recover when teams pause, map it out, and get back into flow. The real goal isn't pockets of speed — it's stability, leveling, and synchronized trade flow across the whole project. What you'll learn in this episode: Why being "ahead" in one area usually turns into gaps, not schedule recovery. How mapping the sequence reveals constraints you can't see in your head. Why the project's pace is set by the slowest zones and constraints, not the fastest crew. What it means to stabilize, level work, and re-enter flow instead of chasing shortcuts. How to think in synchronized "trains" of trades moving together at a consistent rhythm. If you're "ahead" somewhere but behind elsewhere, are you actually gaining time—or just creating a gap you'll pay for later? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder challenges the concept of "no school supers"—superintendents who believe they can simply "wing it" on the job without any formal education or training. Jason explains how this mindset is not only dangerous but also incredibly destructive to the construction industry. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mentors, reading, and continuous education to truly succeed in the field. What you'll learn in this episode: Why "winging it" without education leads to poor leadership and destructive practices. The difference between "old school" supers who keep learning and "no school" supers who don't. How to avoid panic, push, and rushing by gaining proper training and knowledge. Why continuous learning is crucial to understanding principles of safety, quality, and production. The impact of not investing in education on project success and team dynamics. What can you do today to start learning and growing as a leader, rather than just "figuring it out" on your own? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason Schroeder dives into a powerful realization about Lean and the concept of throwing people away. He challenges the belief systems that support the idea of people being expendable, whether it's in capitalism, religion, or societal structures. By tying Lean to a deeper respect for humanity, Jason explains why Lean cannot succeed in environments that perpetuate disrespect, and how this toxic mindset is preventing Lean from thriving in the United States. What you'll learn in this episode: Why Lean is incompatible with the idea of throwing people away. The harmful impact of toxic capitalism, religious beliefs, and societal systems on Lean adoption. How respect for people is at the core of Lean's success. The role of institutions and beliefs in creating waste and hindering progress. Why companies that truly care for people are the only ones successfully implementing Lean. What steps can you take today to start respecting the value of every individual and eliminate the mindset that people are expendable? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason Schroeder challenges the common misconception that being "kind" on a project site means avoiding discipline. He argues that true kindness is about creating an environment where workers can succeed—by enforcing safety, cleanliness, and discipline. Drawing on lessons from military leadership and personal experiences, Jason explains how leadership and structure, far from being harsh, are the most respectful and kind ways to support workers on a construction site. What you'll learn in this episode: Why leadership and discipline are forms of respect on the job site. How creating a clean, organized work environment shows true kindness. The importance of clear communication and safety systems in fostering success. Why avoiding zero tolerance or structure is disrespectful to workers. How to establish a stable, predictable environment that helps workers perform at their best. How can you create a more supportive and structured environment on your job sites to truly show kindness to your team? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder discusses the importance of self-reform on construction projects, focusing on the critical elements needed for success. He explores how well-executed self-performed work, when supported with proper planning, materials, leadership, and quality control, can greatly improve project outcomes. Jason emphasizes the need for clear communication, leadership alignment, and a commitment to finishing tasks thoroughly to ensure everything flows smoothly on-site. What you'll learn in this episode: How to create a successful self-reform plan with proper scope, safety, and logistics. The significance of having the right leadership and foreman alignment on-site. Why quality control should be integrated into every stage of construction. How to prevent bottlenecks by identifying and addressing limiting factors. The key to efficient material and tool management for self-performed crews. What can you do today to better support your self-reform teams and ensure they have everything they need for 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder discusses the importance of effective site utilization, also known as logistics planning, on construction projects. He dives into the details of optimizing material flow, vertical transportation, and organizing site spaces for maximum efficiency. Drawing from his experiences, Jason emphasizes the role of cleanliness, design, and clear logistical systems in creating a smooth, productive construction site. What you'll learn in this episode: How cleanliness serves as a litmus test for project control. The difference between designing a site and discovering it as you go. Why material flow and sequencing are critical for efficiency. How to optimize vertical transportation for better crane and hoist use. The importance of staging areas and layout in maintaining smooth operations. How can you start improving your site's logistics today to avoid waste and inefficiency? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason Schroeder discusses the key elements that ensure a project's safety culture is strong and effective. He shares insights learned from his time at Hensel Phelps and his approach to building a zero-tolerance safety culture out of respect, not punishment. From setting the tone on-site to creating job-specific safety plans, Jason emphasizes practical steps for construction leaders to foster an environment where safety is top priority. What you'll learn in this episode: How to own and lead a safety culture on a construction site. The importance of job-specific, visual safety plans and pre-task planning. How controlling a project site with clear signage improves safety. Why being strict but fair is crucial for maintaining site discipline. The role of senior leaders in ensuring the safety program is well-resourced. What actions can you take today to set a higher standard of safety on your projects? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason unpacks one of the most overlooked forces quietly destroying schedules, safety, and morale on construction projects: variation. Drawing from real field experience, lean principles, and hard-earned lessons, he explains why buffers alone are not enough and why prevention and stability must come first.  What you'll learn in this episode: Why variation is one of the biggest hidden drivers of chaos, delays, and burnout on projects. The difference between preventable and non preventable variation and why that distinction matters. How preparation, prefabrication, and pre planning create stability before work ever starts. Why relying on buffers without reducing variation is a losing strategy. How stable environments protect safety, quality, mental health, and production. As you reflect on your own projects, ask yourself this: how much variation are you unknowingly allowing, and what would change if stability became your top priority? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

This episode is a heartfelt reminder of what the general contractor truly owes the people on site: a safe, clean, stable, and human environment where workers feel respected and cared for. Jason reflects on real jobsite examples to show how culture, cleanliness, logistics, and daily interactions directly shape morale, safety, and pride in the work. This is not theory or fluff, it is a field-tested standard for what leadership looks like when people actually matter.  What you'll learn in this episode: Why providing a clean, safe, and organized environment is a core responsibility of the general contractor. How small, intentional acts of care create stability, trust, and pride on a jobsite. The connection between jobsite systems, worker respect, and consistent safety behavior. Why many jobsite problems are failures of systems and processes, not people. How leadership shows up daily through environment, rhythm, and human connection. As you think about your own projects, ask yourself this: if someone judged your leadership only by the environment your workers experience every day, what story would it tell? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this short but powerful episode, Jason Schroeder shares eight Japanese philosophies that can quietly reshape how you live, lead, and show up each day. These concepts focus on purpose, patience, resilience, self-acceptance, balance, and continuous improvement, offering simple wisdom that applies just as much on the job site as it does in life.  What you'll learn in this episode: How ikigai helps you identify your true reason for being beyond work or titles. Why patience and dignity during stress can change how you experience adversity. How embracing imperfections can make you stronger and more resilient. Why comparing yourself to others distracts you from your own path. How small, consistent improvements compound into meaningful life change. Which of these philosophies could you practice today to take a better next step in your life and leadership? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

When someone new walks onto a job site acting like the hero, it can derail trust, momentum, and real progress fast. In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down the "savior" mindset, why it shows up so often in construction leadership, and how it quietly damages teams instead of helping them. This is a candid, field-tested conversation about ego, significance, and the difference between adding value and diminishing people. If you lead work in the field or support teams across projects, this message will hit close to home. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the "savior" mindset shows up so often with new leaders and where it really comes from. How playing hero hurts teams, morale, and ongoing improvement efforts. The clear difference between diminishing leaders and multiplier leaders. Why honoring the work already done is essential before trying to improve anything. What real leadership looks like on a job site: clarity, training, service, and support. The next time you step onto a project, will you try to save the team or help them become stronger? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down a counterintuitive but powerful idea that explains why so many projects never truly improve: money hides waste. Through real construction examples, including data centers and everyday field decisions, Jason shows how throwing money at problems masks poor systems, bad planning, and missed opportunities for real improvement.  What you'll learn in this episode: Why excess money can prevent teams from seeing and fixing real problems. How rushed, overfunded projects often abandon lean thinking and production systems. The connection between money, time, and other resources masking waste. Why solving problems without money builds better thinking and stronger systems. What Japanese craftsmanship and preservation reveal about waste and value. If money were no longer available as a quick fix, what problems on your projects would finally be forced into the open? 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw