Hoots on the Ground | The Lean Builder

In this wide-ranging episode of Hoots on the Ground with No Bullshido, Adam Hoots connects with Derek Sinnott, a self-described pracademic from Wexford, Ireland. Derek is a civil engineer-turned-academic at SETU (South East Technological University), a Lean coach, and the Chair of the Supply Chain Sustainability School in Ireland. Adam and Derek first crossed paths in Japan, and the conversation that unfolded there clearly stuck — because Derek showed up in Ireland when Adam brought a team of Clemson students over for a construction competition, and that says everything you need to know about who Derek is. Derek opens up about his background growing up on a farm, finding his footing in engineering after struggling through secondary school, and ultimately discovering his true calling in training, coaching, and developing people across the construction industry. The conversation dives deep into: •       Why the biggest inefficiency in construction is the illusion of collaboration •       The difference between being efficient and being effective when coaching teams •       What sustainability really means in Ireland — and why it goes way beyond green building •       The supply chain as the true value-delivery engine of every project •       Why early contractor involvement is critical, and what it looks like when done well •       How asking good questions leads to better relationships — and better buildings Derek also shares his deep respect for trade workers and frontline teams — the people who actually put nail to formwork — and reflects on what real respect for people looks like in practice. He talks about the power of simply walking the job and being curious rather than coming in with a fixed agenda. They also revisit the ASCE student competition that brought Adam's Clemson team to Ireland (earning two third-place trophies and a Best Speaker Award), explore the possibility of teaming up for the upcoming November competition, and Derek teases a podcast of his own on the horizon. This episode is equal parts Lean philosophy, sustainability education, and authentic human connection — a reminder that no matter what ocean separates us, we're all telling the same story in different accents. KEY TAKEAWAYS: •       Collaboration ≠ More Meetings: Real collaboration means breaking down silos and sharing learning, not just scheduling more conversations. •       Coach, Don't Consult: The most effective intervention isn't solving problems for teams — it's helping them develop the ability to solve their own. •       Sustainability Is Bigger Than Green: ESG — environmental, social, and governance — means taking care of your people, your community, and running an ethical business. •       Supply Chain Is Everything: The trade partners and vendors who install and deliver are the true value-creators. Educating and supporting them is how projects succeed. •       Decisions Made Early, Lived With Long: The choices made in pre-construction shape 90% of cost, schedule, and quality outcomes, and ripple through the building's entire lifecycle. •       "Can't" Is a Four-Letter Word: Derek's most despised phrase — there's always a path forward, even when there are constraints. •       Better, Faster, Together: The motto of Lean Construction Ireland and a philosophy that puts people first in pursuit of continuous improvement.   EPISODE QUOTES (paraphrased): •       "The biggest inefficiency in construction is the illusion that collaboration has taken place." •       "The most efficient thing is to just go solve it. But the most effective thing is to step back and coach." •       "I get disappointed when a group doesn't challenge me — that means nothing is landing." •       "Good looks like better than before." •       "Can't — that word drives me absolutely bananas." •       "We're always in pursuit of perfection. I'm not sure what that looks like, but it's an awful lot better than what we do at the moment." •       "It's not about being soft. It's just: how are you doing?"   RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: • Lean Construction Ireland  • Supply Chain Sustainability School    • SETU (South East Technological University, Ireland) • Associated Schools of Construction Region 8 (ASC) Competition   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: •   Derek Sinnott — Executive Coach & Strategic Advisor to CEOs & Senior Leaders in the Built Environment | Chair | MC | Speaker | Author | Director (https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-sinnott) • Adam Hoots  — Host/Producer of Hoots on the Ground and Lean builder focused on respect for craft and field leadership.(https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/)   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.

Lean at the Crossroads: Culture, Community, and Congress with Elizabeth Taylor (Episode 94) In this heartfelt and high-energy episode of Hoots on the Ground with No Bullshido, Adam Hoots sits down with Elizabeth Taylor, National Director of Lean at JE Dunn Construction and 2026 LCI Congress Co-Chair, to talk about leadership, culture, and what it really means to build community in construction. Elizabeth shares her journey from project management to Lean coaching, including her AMAZING Lean experience on the Williston Rec Center project in North Dakota, where living onsite and stumbling through The Last Planner System® created lifelong relationships and a powerful example of what Lean culture can truly look like. The conversation dives deep into: •       The difference between Lean tools and Lean culture •       Why relationships accelerate project performance •       How to move from "doing Lean" to being a Lean organization •       The importance of field-first thinking and supporting trade workers •       What it takes to lead at scale inside a national construction firm Elizabeth also opens up about personal loss, vulnerability, and how the Lean community has supported her during one of the most difficult seasons of her life. This episode goes beyond business, it's about humanity, leadership courage, and creating intentional spaces where people belong. Check out Elizabeth illustrating true vulnerability, live in person as she handles the questions from Hoots. They also preview the 2026 LCI Congress in Atlanta, themed "Lean at the Crossroads: Building the Future Together." Elizabeth shares insights into this year's four tracks: 1.    Next Generation Delivery Integration 2.    Field First Lean: Tools, Flow & Daily Improvement 3.    Becoming a Lean Organization Through Culture & Learning 4.    Whole Team, Whole Project Integration   If you've ever wondered what Congress looks like behind the curtains, whether your story is worth sharing, this episode is your sign to step up. Abstracts are due Thursday, March 5th. Don't wait. Submit to speak here: https://congress.leanconstruction.org/abstract-submission/ This one is part Lean strategy, part leadership masterclass, and part reminder that we can't do life, or construction, alone.   Key Takeaways: •       Lean Is More Than Tools: Last Planner may start the journey, but culture and trust sustain it. •       Relationships Drive Results: Teams that cook dinner together and problem-solve together build projects differently. •       Vulnerability Is Leadership: Real culture change starts when leaders model openness and humanity. •       Field First Matters: Trade workers carry the weight of poor systems—Lean must serve them. •       Lean at Every Level: Personal, project, organizational, and industry-wide transformation are all connected. •       Congress Is Community: LCI isn't just about sessions—it's about conversations, connection, and shared 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: •       Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Congress 2026  — Atlanta, GA •       JE Dunn Construction National Lean Program •       Signia Hotel and conference Center  (LCI Congress 2026 venue area)   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: •       Elizabeth Taylor — National Director of Lean, JD Dunn Construction | 2026 LCI Congress Co-Chair (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmckiernan/) •       Adam Hoots  — Host/Producer of Hoots on the Ground and Lean builder focused on respect for craft and field leadership (https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/)   EPISODE QUOTES (paraphrased): •       "Lean tools are easy to grab onto. Culture is what makes them work." •       "You can't tell me it won't work. I've seen it work." •       "We're all just humans doing construction." •       "We can't do this thing called life alone." •       "Don't say 'we can't.' That's where the work starts." •       "Make it visual. Make it simple. That's how you get everybody on the same page."

In this absolutely, positively NO Bullshido kickoff episode, Adam Hoots sits down with Brian Chiles and Mike Chiles—two brothers with deep roots in relationships, leadership, and Lean thinking lived out in the real world. Brian came into construction from a teaching/coaching and project management background; Mike brings 20+ years in the industry, raising four kids while remaining relentless about respect for people and building teams that work together. This conversation is equal parts family, field, and flow. The Chiles Bros unpack why Lean is not a tool, why relationships are the real work, and how the best leaders "feed the hungry" instead of wasting energy trying to convince people who don't want it. They talk about being curious, not judgmental, the difference between explaining tools vs. teaching them, and why the 87/13 (character over competency) shows up, whether you like it or not. If you're trying to build trust, reduce conflict, and lead people—not just tasks—this one is a straight shot of Old Dawg wisdom with a Lean Geek edge. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  •       Feed the Hungry: Stop spending 80% of your time trying to win over the 20% who don't care. Find the receptive people and build momentum through them. •       Tools Don't Stick Without Trust: It's easy to explain A3, 5S, and planning tools. It's hard to teach them without relationships and psychological safety. •       Optimize the Whole: The best projects don't pit field vs. office. They create one team—shared reality, shared plan, shared wins. •       Be Curious, Not Judgmental: Great leaders pause before reacting, look for the system issue, and consider what wounds/stress might be driving behavior. •       87/13 Leadership: Your character is influencing people whether you intend it or not—choose whether that influence builds trust or triggers defensiveness. EPISODE QUOTES (paraphrased): •       "Find the hungry—and feed them. Don't waste your fire on people who don't want it." •       "It's easy to explain the tools. Teaching them takes trust." •       "You can feel the health of a weekly work plan meeting the same way you can feel a locker room." •       "People protect their wounds, but they'll brag about their scars." •       "Your character is influencing the jobsite whether you mean it to or not—lead for good." RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: •       Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Congress — relationship-fueled learning, community, and recharge. https://leanconstruction.org/ •       Old Dawg Lean Thesaurus (Adam Hoots & Buddy Brumley) — Lean terms translated for the field (Old Dawg + Lean Geek). https://www.amazon.com/Old-Dawg-Lean-Thesaurus-Making/dp/B0C6W48CKF •       Everything I Learned About Lean I Learned in First Grade — reminder that Lean is simple when you stop overcomplicating it. https://www.amazon.com/Everything-About-Learned-First-Grade/dp/1934109347 •       Ted Lasso — "Be curious, not judgmental." https://tv.apple.com/us/show/ted-lasso/umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy •       The Tipping Point (Malcolm Gladwell) — connectors, influence, and how ideas spread. https://www.amazon.com/Tipping-Point-Little-Things-Difference/dp/0316346624 •       Dave Ramsey — simple wisdom delivered in a way people can actually apply. www.ramseysolutions.com •       Scrum / Felipe Engineer-Manriquez — learning a "new toy," then applying it with people-first intention. https://www.theebfcshow.com/ •       Mac Story / Blue-Collar Leadership — 87/13 and character-driven leadership (referenced throughout). https://bluecollarleadership.com/ GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: •       Adam Hoots | LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots Host of Hoots on the Ground, The Lean Builder voice from the field. •       Mike Chiles | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-chiles/  — Project Director at JE Dunn Construction - Construction leader, people-first builder, husband and father of four, Lean community connector. •       Brian Chiles | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianchilesmas/ — Lean Specialist at JE Dunn Construction - Lean specialist and former coach/teacher turned builder of teams, trust, and jobsite flow. 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, Adam Hoots sits down with "Old Dog" Jeff Reilly—a devoted father, husband, and superintendent with Mill Creek Residential Trust whose leadership philosophy bridges family, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement. From his Boston union roots to leading modern Lean projects, Jeff shares how lessons from his ancestors, parents, and mentors shaped his mindset on respect, environment, and the true meaning of Kaizen. Together, Adam and Jeff dig deep into what it means to balance family, work, and wisdom in today's construction world. They explore how true leadership comes from presence—not just productivity—and why the best Lean builders know that mentors don't always know that they're mentors. From developing young leaders to honoring the OG Old Dawgs Buddy Brumley and Mondo 3K, this conversation reminds us that Lean is more than tools—it's a mindset built on humanity, humility, and legacy. Key Takeaways: • Family-First Leadership: Jeff draws strength from his union roots and family traditions, building teams the same way his parents built him: with presence, purpose, and pride. • Kaizen with Purpose: Lean isn't about checklists or buzzwords; it's about creating environments that respect people, improve daily, and flow with intention. • Mentors Matter: Every worker is conditioning someone else; be self-aware enough to model the example you wish you'd had.   Key Quotes: • "Presence builds people. Productivity is just the result." • "Lean isn't tools—it's how you show up for your team." • "Your kids and your crew need the same thing: your time and your attention." • "Every Old Dawg was once a young pup watching someone else." • "Environment is leadership—design a space where people can succeed."   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, and field tools for Lean practitioners. (https://theleanbuilder.com/) • This is Lean — Niklas Modig — A modern reframing of efficiency, flow, and value. (https://thisislean.com/) • Old Dawg Lean Community — Wisdom-sharing group continuing Buddy Brumley's legacy. (https://www.skool.com/olddawg) • LCI Congress — The annual gathering of Lean construction leaders shaping industry transformation. (https://congress.leanconstruction.org/)   GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: • Adam Hoots | Host of Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/) • Jeff Reilly | Superintendent with Mill Creek Residential Trust, Old Dawg Lean Leader, and builder of teams, families, and better jobsite environments. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-reilly-640b66b9/)

Recorded live inside the Lean Construction Institute's Live Podcast Booth at LCI Congress 2025, the Old Dawgs got together for an unfiltered, field‑first discussion. This fast‑moving conversation captures what decades of hard‑won (700+ years) experience have taught these seasoned Lean builders about the superiority of modern Lean construction methods over traditional methods. Led by podcast host Adam Hoots, this is one "Hoots on the Ground" episode you DO NOT want to miss! (And if you usually go audio-only for our podcasts, this one is one to WATCH – 12 Old Dawgs crammed into a podcast studio – you can see and feel the passion!) From the origins of Lean Construction to the latest experiments in production planning, the Old Dawgs trade war stories, share missteps, and reveal the practical moves that create flow, reliability, and above all respect for environments and people. You'll hear how they've adapted The Last Planner System® practices for tough schedules, why Takt thinking clarifies handoffs, and how real trust is built when leaders keep promises and elevate the voices of craft professionals. What the Old Dawgs get into during this podcast: The shift from "tools talk" to a people‑first culture that enables tools to work. How trust, psychological safety, and clear promises drive schedule reliability. Evolving Last Planner System behaviors (constraints removal, PPC as coaching, daily huddles that add value). Using Takt planning to simplify sequencing, stabilize labor, and reduce chaos at handoffs. Preconstruction to production: designing for flow, defining capacity, and right‑sizing batch sizes. Leadership on the deck: what foremen and supers need from project leaders to protect the crew's time. Respect for People in action: craft voice in planning, mental health, and creating environments where capability grows. Rapid‑fire reflections: the one behavior each Dawg would start tomorrow to improve team performance. Key takeaways include: Reliability is a relationship. When leaders make and keep clear promises, crews reciprocate—and schedules stabilize. Small, stable cadences beat heroics. Short planning horizons, visible commitments, and simple feedback loops win. Design for flow early. Define constraints and capacity in precon so production plans are realistic, not aspirational. Psych safety isn't "soft." It's the precondition for surfacing constraints, learning from misses, and improving PPC. Respect for people is the strategy. Elevating craft expertise and well‑being accelerates learning and performance. It's a lively, candid celebration of the Old Dawg community that continues to push the industry forward—reminding us that Lean is less about perfection and more about continuous learning, with dignity for the people doing the work. 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, and field resources for Lean practitioners. Old Dawgs Lean Community — www.skool.com/olddawg LCI Congress — https://congress.leanconstruction.org/ GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE: Adam Hoots | LinkedIn — Host of Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions. 12 Old Dawgs - too many to name, but we will... Boone White, ICM (Innovative Construction Management) Brian Chiles JE Dunn Construction Denver Watters, Pointcore Construction Emerson Dority, Turner Construction Company James Gable, Adolfson & Peterson Construction James Glass, Turner Construction Company Jeff Reilly, Mill Creek Residential Jordan Leytem, CoBuild Construction LR Weeden, Robins & Morton  Manny Hoyo, Skanska Mike Chiles JE Dunn Construction Sam Sinclair, Henson Robinson Company Plus, Justin, Jason, and Joe snuck in at the end.

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