Construction Genius - podcast cover

Construction Genius

Thomas Edison said, "Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration." This show interviews hard-working construction company owners and executives who share their wisdom, perspectives, and lessons learned from decades of experience bidding, planning, and building profitable projects. Topics include leadership, strategic planning, conflict resolution, niche identification, succession planning, talent management, business development, and business growth. Industry expert, Eric Anderton also shares his insights about how construction company owners can increase project profit by improving communication, running productive meetings, and attracting, developing, and retaining talented leaders. Tune in each week and get practical inspiration for how to build people, projects, and profits. "I know of no genius but the genius of hard work." John Ruskin
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Episodes

Forget Hierarchy — How This Construction Company Runs as a True Team

What happens when leadership isn’t about control but about a shared goal? What if the future business world looks more like a team, not a hierarchy? As more companies reconsider the traditional structures, models like worker cooperatives and employee-owned cooperatives are gaining momentum. They offer a way to codify culture, share decision-making, and maintain purpose beyond the founder’s occupancy. These models present an agreeable alternative in a time when millions of small businesses face u...

Jun 24, 202534 minEp. 336

The Fighter Pilot Mindset Every Construction Leader Needs for Safer, Faster Projects

In today’s episode of Construction Genius, we dive deep into a powerful leadership framework that can transform how you run your construction projects — the Fighter Pilot Mindset based on John Boyd’s legendary OODA loop. In fast-paced, high-risk environments — whether it’s a fighter jet or a complex construction site — the speed and quality of your team’s decision-making can make or break project outcomes. Yet many construction leaders today face persistent challenges: ✅ Bridging the gap between...

Jun 17, 202538 minEp. 335

Speed, Quality, Cost: Using AI to Finally Get All Three in Construction

The construction industry is currently at a significant juncture where the industry’s traditional practices begin to converge with new cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence. AI helps teams to uncover insights, streamline operations, and improve decision-making, making it an emerging powerful partner rather than a tool. Trevor Schick is the CEO of Slate Technologies, a company revolutionizing the construction industry through AI-driven decision support tools. He brings a unique p...

Jun 10, 202535 minEp. 334

From Stigma to Support: Fixing the Mental Health Crisis in Construction

Dan Lester, Vice President of Field Culture and Inclusion at Clayco, brings a powerful voice to the conversation around mental health in the construction industry. Focusing on total health and well-being, Dan emphasizes that mental health is about managing everyday and extreme stress. Dan shares findings from a 2024 Clayco study showing that 54% of tradespeople reported anxiety or depression in the past year, yet many still feel ashamed to talk about it. Dan attributes this to stigma, pride, and...

Jun 03, 202550 minEp. 333

How to Win Negotiated Projects in Construction Without Competing on Price

If you’re serious about winning more work, building trust with clients, and leading your sales team with confidence, let’s talk. I’m offering a free 10-minute call to help you pinpoint exactly where your sales process is breaking down—and what to do about it. 👉 Book your 10-minute call here: https://10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me/ Don’t wait for the phone to ring. Let’s get proactive, strategic, and focused on what actually works in construction sales. Winning negotiated projects in constructi...

May 27, 202520 minEp. 332

From Bad Plans to Brilliant Builds: Practical Applications of AI in Construction

As in any other industry, artificial intelligence is becoming a vital tool in construction, reforming how projects are designed, planned, and executed. It can help construction companies with critical challenges like skilled labor shortages by empowering junior employees with expert knowledge ingrained in digital tools. As the industry evolves, AI stands out as a practical, approachable tool that delivers efficiency and innovation. However, it’s important to note that AI is not a ‘know-all’ but ...

May 20, 202543 minEp. 331

Aggressive Patience: The Strategic Art of Family Business Succession

Family business succession is not just about changing the leadership; it’s a delicate balancing act between maintaining the legacy and embracing innovation. Both founders and successors face the challenges of navigating deep personal attachments, generational differences, and the emotional weight of letting go and stepping up. A genuine succession requires more than a solid plan: it demands trust, humility, and the discipline to lead by example. Joining us today is Dimitri Sidiropoulos. Dimitri ...

May 13, 202546 minEp. 330

From Dictator to Coach: The Leadership Shift Every Construction Owner Must Make to Win in 2025

Today, Eric explores the essential shift in leadership from the outdated command-and-control style to a coaching-focused approach. Eric addresses common leadership myths, emphasizes the power of trust, and outlines practical frameworks for effective coaching conversations. He highlights tools like the 90-Day High-Performance Dashboard to help leaders set goals, track progress, and foster accountability. With actionable advice on asking the right questions and creating a supportive culture, Eric ...

May 06, 202524 minEp. 329

No Ego, No Surprises: The Succession System That Actually Works

What is the greatest remark in your leadership? Is it what you’ve left behind, or is it what you’ve built? Brad DesJardin, retired president of DesCor Builders, joins today’s episode to explore a succession system that works, embedded with values, clarity, and trust. Through the lens of the construction industry, we discuss how to create a lasting impact by planning with purpose, raising the right people, and letting go at the right time. Whether you are a founder thinking about taking the next ...

Apr 29, 202554 minEp. 328

AI Without the B.S.: Sharpen Proposals, Cut Rework, Win More Work — Fast

This episode offers a practical roadmap for leaders aiming to integrate AI while enhancing judgment, collaboration, and decision-making in construction! Luca Dellanna, a management advisor and bestselling author, discusses the real-world applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the construction industry. Luca emphasizes how AI can streamline operations by reducing errors, minimizing rework, and improving planning efficiency. The discussion explores using general-purpose AI tools like Chat...

Apr 22, 202531 minEp. 327

5 Proven Ways Contractors Can Thrive During an Economic Downturn

The winds are changing, and uncertainty is knocking at your door! The market is shifting, and the anxiety is real. But right now? Now is your moment. In this week’s solo episode, Eric dives into what it takes to lead when the economy feels unstable, how to keep your head clear, your team steady, and your business thriving. Eric presents us with five essential principles that will help leaders focus on what they can control and lead with confidence, clarity, and calm. Let’s break it down. HIGHLIG...

Apr 15, 202522 minEp. 326

The Human Foundation: How a Construction Executive Learned to Build Teams, Not Just Structures

Effective leadership is about more than just navigating teams to success. It involves building trust, clear communication, and emotional intelligence. Influential leaders set clear expectations, provide necessary coaching, and focus on finding solutions during challenging times. Furthermore, they identify and value the importance of personal well-being and embrace practices to manage stress and maintain a positive mindset, which leads to a supportive, high-performing organizational culture. John...

Apr 08, 202542 minEp. 325

Strategic Accounting: The Untapped Blueprint to Profit, Protection, and Peace of Mind

Timothy Wingate Jr., founder and president of G+F Business & Financial Consulting, is a licensed Enrolled Agent and construction accountant specializing in tax planning and financial consulting for construction companies. In today's conversation, Timothy discusses key accounting and tax strategies, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right accounting method—favoring the completed contract or percentage of completion methods over cash-based accounting. He highlights common misconceptio...

Apr 01, 202533 minEp. 324

Snapping Lines Through Grief and Grit: A Woman’s Rise in Commercial Construction

Pat Miller, owner of Blue Diamond Construction, has over 30 years of expertise in commercial carpentry and metal framing. An award-winning author of Kicking Karma's Ass, she inspires others with her resilience. She also hosts Behind the Blueprint and was recognized as an Outstanding Woman Builder in 2024. In today's conversation, she shares insights into the challenges of being a subcontractor, including coordination among trades and dealing with ineffective superintendents. Pat emphasizes the i...

Mar 25, 202546 minEp. 323

Stronger, Healthier, Better: Fitness & Business Lessons from a Gym Design Expert

Chris Howell, CEO and Founder of SPX, is at the forefront of luxury gym design, blending aesthetics with functionality to create immersive fitness experiences. SPX crafts wellness spaces for high-end hospitality groups and multi-family residences, integrating cutting-edge equipment with innovative interior design. In today's conversation, Chris shares insights into his career transition from Wall Street to fitness, influenced by his athletic background in lacrosse at Hofstra University. He empha...

Mar 18, 202534 minEp. 322

When Information is Free, Vision is Priceless—AI and the Future of Construction Leadership

Sean Devine is an entrepreneur, programmer, logistics expert, and the founder & CEO of XBE LLC. This enterprise software company offers an operations and business management platform tailored to large, vertically integrated construction companies. In the road building industry, XBE serves 40 major contractors, including companies with quarries, asphalt plants, ready mix-plants, crews, and trucks. His company's core mission is to seamlessly integrate the physical and financial aspects of cons...

Mar 11, 202552 minEp. 321

Winning Before You Build: How Thoughtful Planning and Clear Communication Drive Profitable Projects

Clint Padgett is the CEO and President of Project Success, Inc., an author and host of The Conversation with Clinton M. Padgett podcast. With extensive expertise in project management, he helps organizations improve execution, collaboration, and communication to drive successful outcomes in complex projects across various industries. During today's conversation, Clint discusses the challenges of communication in construction projects, emphasizing that software is a tool, not a solution. He highl...

Mar 04, 202536 minEp. 320

The Hidden Cost of Bad Onboarding (And How to Get It Right)

Hiring a great candidate is one thing. Keeping them engaged, productive, and committed? That’s where most companies fall apart. 24% of new hires quit within weeks when onboarding is a mess. But when it’s done right, 69% stay for at least three years. In this episode, Manja Horner, founder of Boost LD, breaks down how to create an onboarding experience that: ✅ Eliminates Day One Confusion – So new hires don’t feel like an afterthought. ✅ Builds Instant Team Chemistry – Without forced, cringeworth...

Feb 25, 202538 minEp. 319

Jiu-Jitsu Selling: How to Flow with Resistance and Close Big Deals in Construction

Sales isn’t about brute force—it’s about strategy, adaptability, and control. Just like in jiu-jitsu, the best salespeople don’t fight resistance head-on; they flow with it, turning objections into opportunities. In this episode of Construction Genius, Sean Ginsburg breaks down how to apply combat sports principles to high-ticket construction sales. From mindset to execution, this conversation will help you close more deals, build stronger relationships, and dominate your market. 🔑 Key Takeaway...

Feb 18, 202532 minEp. 318

From Ground Zero to Luxury Resorts: Designing Spaces That Transform Lives

Kevin Kennon is an internationally renowned architect with over 40 years of experience, specializing in environmentally sustainable and innovative design. As the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC Inc., Kevin leads the development of zero-carbon emission luxury eco-resorts in remote wilderness locations worldwide, merging design excellence with ecological responsibility. His extensive portfolio includes projects like the 1.5 million square foot Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Mus...

Feb 11, 202537 minEp. 317

Adversary or Ally? How Owner's Reps and Contractors Team Up to Deliver Great Projects

In this episode of Construction Genius, we’re joined by Zach Rapaport, founding principal of Meerkat, a real estate development consultancy focused on the hospitality segment.Meerkat offers strategic advisement for fractional development partnership insight and early stage exploration of a new deal/rebrand, as well as project leadership for development/renovation stage management. Zach started his career on the construction side, working with GCs to build compelling projects in the hospitality s...

Feb 04, 202555 minEp. 316

Crafting a Perfect Exit Strategy: A Guide to Selling Your Business Internally

Selling a construction company is one of the most significant decisions a business owner will face. In this episode of Construction Genius, Eric Anderton sits down with Tony Moayed, founder of TriCorp Group and President at TMCS, Inc., to uncover the strategic and emotional journey of transitioning his business to new leadership. Tony didn’t choose the highest bidder—he chose a path that prioritized loyalty, culture, and his company's legacy. If you’re considering selling your business or planni...

Jan 28, 202551 minEp. 315

Building Tomorrow: Modular Construction's Role in Solving the Housing Crisis

Meet Otis Odell, a principal at HED, an architecture design, engineering, and planning firm across eight offices in the USA. He oversees the National Business Leader role for housing and mixed-use projects. He leads a team within a company of approximately 450 people across nine offices, working in various sectors, including affordable housing, workforce housing, market-rate housing, luxury housing, student housing, senior housing, and hospitality. His experience in modular construction dates ba...

Jan 21, 202548 minEp. 314

Challenging the Status Quo: How Innovation Drives Growth in a Construction Business

In the competitive construction industry, innovation plays a crucial role in driving growth and success. Construction companies can differentiate themselves by adopting creative strategies, such as managing material supply chains and cultivating solid, business-like relationships with clients and subcontractors. The key to growth lies in continuously adapting, improving processes, and maintaining an agile mindset. Innovation lowers risk while simultaneously opening doors to new prospects and mar...

Jan 14, 202540 minEp. 313

Committed to Construction: Insights from an Aspiring Construction Leader

When it comes to pursuing a profession in your field of passion, age is only a number. Starting a career in the construction industry requires a combination of perseverance, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills. As you navigate this field, it’s essential to embrace a mindset of consistently showing up, no matter the challenges. Communication is key for smooth transitions between estimating and project management. Past experiences, like customer service, help build empathy and teamwork. ...

Jan 07, 202519 minEp. 312

The Secret Sauce to Building a Killer Construction Career

Career growth is a continuous process that requires both personal initiative and organizational assistance. To have a great career, you must approach your work with curiosity, always seeking fresh knowledge and ideas. Active listening to others, particularly those with more experience, enables you to learn useful insights and form lasting relationships. Equally vital is the mindset of contributing and aiding others, whether by assisting your team or understanding the wider picture of your organi...

Dec 31, 20241 hr 3 minEp. 311

Breaking the 'Everything Is Awesome' Syndrome: Smarter Inspections, Safer Sites

Construction safety is a top issue that necessitates a shift in thinking and approach to properly manage hazards and safeguard workers. Traditional safety indicators, such as the recordable incident rate, have been widely used, but they only reveal part of the story. To effectively enhance safety results, contractors must look beyond this data and focus on detecting and mitigating high-risk exposures that could result in significant injuries or fatalities. Meet David Tibbetts, Chief Safety Offic...

Dec 24, 202437 minEp. 310

How to Get Rich Without Getting Lucky

In the pursuit of wealth and success, it is easy to become engrossed in conventional wisdom and the pressure to comply with industry standards. True success, on the other hand, is frequently characterized by your ability to stand out rather than fit in. Long-term success is based on a strong blend of competence and authenticity. The world is hungry for people who are genuinely skilled and capable, and if you can consistently deliver on your promises, you can carve out a distinct place for yourse...

Dec 17, 202455 minEp. 309

Ballers Ball: How to Create and Sustain a High Performance Culture

Creating a high-performance work culture necessitates a clear focus on individual contributions, skill development, and common goals. It also involves cultivating an inclusive workplace in which all employees, regardless of background or personal beliefs, can thrive. At the heart of such a culture is the recognition that success is driven by performance rather than equality of outcomes. A company must provide equal opportunity for all employees, encouraging them to bring their best efforts, abil...

Dec 10, 202435 minEp. 308

Brand, Culture, and Growth: A Marketing Blueprint for Construction Leaders

Growth marketing is about navigating the noise, understanding what truly matters to your audience, and pushing the envelope to deliver meaningful, targeted experiences. For organizations hoping to succeed in today's fast-paced digital world, growth marketing is more crucial than ever. At its core, growth marketing is not only about recruiting new customers; it's about developing long-term relationships, harnessing data, and continuously improving your strategy. Nichole Gunn is the Global Chief M...

Dec 03, 202430 minEp. 307
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