Construction Genius

Eric Anderton
  • 4.8 (162)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
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

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    Listen, Plan, Build: A Blueprint for Smoothly Navigating Construction Disputes

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   In today's fast-paced and frequently unpredictable workplace, effective leadership and teamwork necessitate a combination of adaptation, empathy, and collaboration. One of the most crucial lessons for leaders is to strike a balance between action and deliberate planning. This entails taking a step back, listening, gathering information before making a choice, and being willing to change course along the road. A commitment to working together, especially when frustrations are high, is crucial to successful problem-solving. Doug Reitz brings over thirty years of experience in California’s construction industry, earning a respected reputation as both a seasoned builder and an influential thought leader. Beyond the billion-dollar projects his company has completed, Doug has made a lasting impact on the industry by sharing his expertise at events and workshops statewide. His focus on creating high-performing teams, cultivating resilient company cultures, and advancing industry best practices has inspired countless professionals. We start the conversation with Doug explaining how to manage yourself in a business transition and the importance of having a support system, whether it's a close-knit team or a personal board of advisors. Doug then clarified the necessity of stepping back from controlling everything and adopting a more empowered leadership style that not only helps develop a more engaged and capable team but also enables leaders to focus on broader strategic goals rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day tasks. Further, he explains the value of the Listen, Plan, Build process as a tool for balanced decision-making and how this process encourages collaboration, bringing the team together and helping to align everyone’s efforts toward a common goal. Further into the conversation, we discuss the following topics regarding successful problem-solving: the value of understanding the experiences of other people, taking slower and smaller steps, handling failures with an open mind, the power of consistency, the role of collaboration, emotional awareness, and sharing purpose in problem-solving.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [05.15] Managing yourself in a business transition. [07.08] The need for adaptability and embracing unpredictability.  [11.55] Letting go of the urge to control every detail and allowing others to take ownership. [16.39] Listen, plan, build tool. [22.28] The importance of understanding other people’s experiences.  [23.55] The downside of modern technology. [28.48] Taking small and slower steps in construction. [31.14] The role failure plays in success. [32.30] Coping with failure. [35.00] The power of consistency and relationship-building. [38.05] The importance of collaboration, emotional awareness, and shared purpose in problem-solving. [42.00] Doug’s book: A Blueprint for Constructing Success in Leadership and Life   KEY TAKEAWAYS Build a support system when facing challenges. Adapt and embrace unpredictability as a leader. Step back and empower your team as a leader. Use the listen, plan, build approach. Understand the power of collaboration and communication.  Develop empathy and curiosity as a leader.   RESOURCES Connect with Doug LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/doug-reitz/  Website - dougreitz.blog/  Instagram - instagram.com/be_a_builder_/    BUILD: A Blueprint for Constructing Success in Leadership and Life Paperback by Doug Reitz amazon.com/BUILD-Blueprint-Constructing-Success-Leadership/dp/B0DHHJJ5RD    When Work Works: Cutting-Edge Solutions for the Contemporary Workplace amazon.com/When-Work-Works-Cutting-Edge-Contemporary/dp/B0D7L356JC    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Dis

    46 min

  2. NOV 5

    The 90-Day Plan: How to Ensure New Hire Success (or Quickly Identify a Bad Fit)

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   The onboarding process is a critical phase that sets the tone for a new hire's experience and long-term organizational success. However, many businesses make the mistake of viewing onboarding as a one-time event rather than a continuous process. Common mistakes include assuming the job is complete once the new person is hired, failing to give systematic training and assistance, and failing to define clear performance objectives and goals. By overlooking these essential elements, organizations risk disengaging new hires, missing opportunities for integration, and eventually facing costly hiring mistakes.  In this week’s solo episode, Eric discusses the mistakes employers make in hiring. He starts the conversation with the first mistake: the hiring process as a one-time job. He explains how an active support system can help prevent disappointment and foster a positive start for both the new hire and the organization. Then he talks about having a structured onboarding process that can help the new employee acclimate to the organization and understand their role and responsibilities. Eric also explains how you can identify any issues early on and provide necessary support by asking about employees’ positive and negative experiences, clarity on their roles, and their ability to contribute. He also explains  “The 90-day High-Performance Dashboard,” which is a structured framework designed to guide new hires during their initial three months in an organization.    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01.02] The mistake of thinking that the hiring process is over once they are on board. [02.30] The structured onboarding process. [05.00] Ensuring the new people are adjusting to the team and culture. [05.46] The 90-day High-Performance Dashboard. [08.00] The assessment of new hires.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Recognize that hiring a new employee is just the beginning of the process, not the end. Implement a structured onboarding process for new hires. Prioritize ongoing check-ins with new hires during their first month.  Assess a new hire's fit within the first 90 days. Encourage open communication during the onboarding process. You're relieved that you've made a new hire. Now, don't let them slip through the cracks. Use the 90 Day High-Performance Dashboard to get them up to speed and focused on how to succeed in their new role: Get them clear on what's most important   Ensure action and accountability Deepen your relationship with them Click this link and download the 90 Day High-Performance Dashboard: https://www.constructiongenius.com/high-performance-in-a-new-role Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me

    10 min

  3. OCT 29

    The Art of Managing Large-Scale Projects in Multicultural Teams

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me There are distinct opportunities and problems when working with a multicultural workforce, particularly on large projects. When teams come together from different backgrounds with different perspectives, talents, and experiences, harnessing this diversity can boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. However, successful collaboration necessitates a deliberate commitment to communication and trust-building. Setting common goals and encouraging open conversation is critical for managing the complications that result from different cultural norms and expectations. Our guest today is Bisrat Degefa, CEO & Co-Founder of TruBuild, an AI-powered construction software designed to simplify construction projects. He is a construction expert with vast worldwide expertise. His career began in the UK on rail projects before transferring to Qatar for the Doha Metro Gold Line project. He later managed digital engineering in Kenya and worked on major projects in India, North America, and South America. His team at TrustBuild is pioneering breakthrough AI solutions to reinvent project planning and execution, moving the industry forward. He joined us today to talk about the art of managing large-scale projects in multicultural teams. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02:18] Bisrat’s journey through the construction industry. [05:15] The willingness to adapt new technologies: the difference between the Middle East and the USA. [08:22] Bisrat’s professional journey through Kenya, India, North America, Canada, and the Middle East. [12:29] A journey influenced by specific goals and opportunities. [16:28] Navigation through a shared mindset between different races, ethnicities, and cultures. [17:10] Consistent issues on large-scale projects. [20:26] Federation from a design and project management perspective. [25:04] Why the UK is best at handling conflict. [27:08] Building trust in different cultures. [30:40] Handling the failures of entrepreneurship. [37:00] Addressing pain points of owners.   KEY TAKEAWAYS It’s important to foster a shared mindset in diverse teams. Prioritize effective communication within large teams to minimize rework. Ensure the communication of the potential impacts on quality and processes clearly to stakeholders.  Focus on establishing clear communication and aligning on common goals. If a mistake is identified, act quickly to rectify it and communicate transparently with stakeholders about the issue.  RESOURCES Connect with Bisrat LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bisrat-s-degefa/  Website - trubuild.io/

    42 min

  4. OCT 22

    Entrepreneurial Highs and Lows: Building Businesses in Construction and Beyond

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me In a fast-paced world, a healthy work-life balance is essential for sustaining mental health and productivity. As people handle the responsibilities of their professional lives, they frequently face problems that can contribute to stress and burnout. It is crucial to surround oneself with supportive networks, embrace adaptability, and practice effective communication. Individuals who prioritize mental health and meaningful connections can live a more rewarding and balanced life, increasing their productivity in both personal and professional realms. Bryce Wuori is an MPM, Asphalt Scientist, and the CEO at Pavewise, a web-based software to maximize productivity and improve project quality. He specializes in asphalt paving and believes that technology will be the key to future success in the infrastructure industry. Bryce has been acknowledged nationwide as an asphalt expert who is currently achieving significant success by incorporating project variables into asphalt pave quality methods to boost project income. He joined us today to talk about the entrepreneurial highs and lows in the construction industry.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS   [02:27] Bryce's Construction Roots [06:58] The two factors people need to be a good business person.  [10:08] Mental Health in Construction [14:10] How communicating and sharing emotions help to reduce stress.  [19:22] Bryce’s first construction company. [24:20] Understanding Pavewise and the technology behind it. [26:34] Recognizing business opportunities [30:30] The process of selling a business. [33:02] Shifting into a venture-backed software company. [35:40] Adjusting to a new role in software.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Surround Yourself with Learners Master Communication Accept What You Can't Control Talk About Your Feelings Choose the Right Partners Embrace Guidance and Collaboration   RESOURCES Connect with Bryce LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bryce-w-89818b237/  Website - pavewisepro.com/

    42 min

  5. OCT 15

    Why Walking Out of Meetings Makes Your Company More Productive

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me In this week’s episode of the “Construction Genius” podcast, we discuss productivity tips relevant to the construction industry based on Elon Musk’s 2018 email to Tesla employees.  Eric starts the discussion with what Elon Musk considers the blight of larger organizations: excessive meetings. He explains why it’s important only to hold large meetings if they provide value to all present. He then shows why it is acceptable to leave a meeting if you are not contributing. Prioritizing your time effectively is important in the workplace. Next, he talks about two major factors regarding communication in the workplace: avoiding acronyms and jargon and direct communication. Avoiding acronyms is important because not everybody has the knowledge of them that differs to specific fields, and it’s important to build a culture where team members can communicate directly across levels, bypassing unnecessary chains of command. The next important tip is to prioritize common sense in decision-making. Be willing to adapt or change outdated company rules when they no longer serve a purpose and encourage a culture where employees feel empowered to challenge and improve practices for better outcomes.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01:57] Excessive Meetings - The blight of big organizations.  [02:58] Leaving a meeting if not adding value.  [03:29] Reduce using acronyms.  [04:20] Direct communication.  [06:04] Interdepartmental communication. [07:02] Common sense as the guide. [07:34] Build a culture open to change and make a better place for employees.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Only hold large meetings if they provide value to everyone involved. If you’re not adding value to a meeting, it’s acceptable to leave. Avoid acronyms and jargon to ensure everyone understands. Promote a culture where team members can communicate directly across levels. Ensure that communication flows freely between departments. Be open to changing company rules that no longer make sense.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Kickass Business Meetings Ebook: www.constructiongenius.com/kam

    11 min

  6. OCT 8

    Bulletproof Your Bottom Line: How to Fund Uninsured Risks Without Hurting Cash Flow

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me An 831(b) plan, commonly known as captive or microcaptive insurance, is intended to help business owners reduce unfunded liabilities. SRA utilizes the 831(b) Tax Code to create tax-deferred risk mitigation and give business owners greater peace of mind. Van Carlson is the founder and CEO of SRA 831(b), with 25 years of experience in the risk management industry. His goal is to continue SRA's upward growth while also developing novel products for the market. He joined us today to discuss how to fund uninsured risks without hurting cash flow. We start the conversation with Van explaining the 831(b) risk management strategy along with the benefits businesses can gain from it. Then we talk about the significance of motivation in financial advice. Risk management should be the primary focus rather than merely seeking tax advantages to avoid potential scrutiny from the IRS. Van then kindly explains the common mistakes people make when setting up an 831(b), especially in the construction industry: proper ownership structure and motivation. We then pay attention to the challenges of exiting an 831(b) plan, where Van explains how they make a simple exiting process. Further down to the conversation, we discuss the following topics regarding 831(B) risk management strategy: solvency testing, the services 831(b) provides and are unavailable through traditional insurance options, alternatives for 831(b), and the type of businesses that might not be suitable for an 831(b).   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02:13] What is 831(b) risk management strategy?  [04:43] What 831(b) provides for construction companies [08:52] The importance of the motivations behind financial advice  [10:35] The common mistakes [14:33] Solvency testing [18:41] Challenges of exiting an 831(b) plan  [20:31] What unique services do 831(b) offer that aren’t available through conventional insurance options? [26:23] The types of companies aren’t suitable for the 831(b) [27:17] Alternative risk management strategies [28.48] The red flags  KEY TAKEAWAYS Evaluate Motivations  Clarify Ownership Structures  Prioritize Risk Management  Participate in Solvency Testing  Choose the Right Insurance Agent   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Van LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/vancarlson/ Website - 831b.com/

    35 min

  7. OCT 1

    The Blueprint for ESOP Success: Planning, Patience, and Clear Communication

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) are a topic many construction companies consider when planning their business transitions. ESOPs are a proven strategy that allows owners to leverage the wealth they’ve built through hard work and dedication. Kelly Finnell, J.D., CLU, AIF, is one of the nation’s premier Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) consultants. For over four decades, he has been assisting business owners in creating and implementing ESOPs. He has spent decades discussing ESOPs with corporations and groups, giving presentations at over 300 conferences and meetings in the United States and internationally in London and Sydney. His company, Executive Financial Services, is a national ESOP consulting firm founded in 1981 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Their diverse team of experienced professionals is focused on utilizing Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for Ownership Succession Planning and possesses deep expertise in this specialized area. He joined us today to talk about the process of building a successful ESOP. We start the conversation with Kelly explaining the biggest challenge in ESOPs: understanding what an ESOP is. Kelly further shares that business owners, especially in the construction industry, need to be patient and prepared for a steep learning curve. An ESOP serves both as a qualified retirement plan and as a liquidity strategy for current owners. Kelly then explains who would best fit ESOPS, saying that it is typically best suited for business owners seeking a gradual exit over five to eight years. For owners wanting to walk away and not look back, a third-party sale would be more appropriate. We then pay attention to the cultural transition that comes with an ESOP. Kelly shares that companies that prioritize maintaining their culture after a sale are ideal candidates for an employee stock ownership plan. Unlike third-party sales, which often lead to cultural shifts that can alienate both employees and customers, an ESOP facilitates an internal transition that helps preserve the existing culture. Further into the conversation, we cover the following topics regarding building a successful foundation for ESOP: ESOP failures and how to avoid them, the initial steps of getting familiar with ESOP, how to address the challenges that come with active and inactive children in a family-owned business, how to navigate personal guarantees.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.01] Understanding what an ESOP is.  [06.21] Risks to be aware of when building a foundation for ESOP. [08.39] The standard time frame for exiting a company.  [10.50] The importance of effective communication when implementing an ESOP. [15.15] How to keep employees engaged in the ESOP process during the early years? [18.03] Cultural transition and ESOP.  [25.08] Avoiding ESOP failure.  [27.26] The first steps of getting familiar with ESOP. [31.11] Retirement planning.  [33.48] Addressing challenges regarding active and inactive children in a family-owned business.  [38.17] Navigating personal guarantees.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Consider your desired level of involvement post-sale when choosing an exit strategy. Effective communication and education are crucial when implementing an ESOP. Celebrate and Educate Prioritize Company Culture Start with Education and Expert Guidance   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems in

    44 min

  8. SEP 24

    Maximizing Success in Pre-Construction: How to Improve Collaboration, Affordability, and Certainty of Outcome

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me It’s a common misconception that pre-construction consists solely of estimating costs based on drawings and coordinating subcontractor bids. Pre-construction might begin with feasibility studies and initial concepts, which help determine what is financially viable. It comprises a wide range of tasks until building begins, with designs finalized and budgets secured. The pre-construction phase involves a large amount of work. Today, we are joined by Steve Dell’Orto, the founder & CEO of ConCntric, a cloud-based construction software platform for pre-construction and construction cost estimating. With 26 years of experience in the construction industry, Steve is well-equipped to drive digital transformation in this field. He is dedicated to using his expertise to enhance innovation and technology in real estate and construction. Together with his team, Steve aims to make the built world more affordable, predictable, and sustainable, positioning them to significantly impact the future of the industry. He joined us today to discuss ways to maximize pre-construction success while also improving collaboration, affordability, and outcome certainty. Steve starts the conversation by explaining what pre-construction is and how people mistakenly view pre-construction as merely estimating costs. Steve then kindly shares the importance of the alignment of all stakeholders around common objectives, saying that successful project delivery relies on effective communication and collaboration, ensuring that everyone understands the value being provided and works towards the shared goal of a high-quality outcome. We also talk about the role of technology in renovating the construction industry. By integrating workflows and automating procedures, you may improve communication, save time, and allow skilled workers to focus on their strengths. Collaboration and transparency in gathering ideas from many stakeholders can result in substantial advancements and innovation throughout the industry. As we continue our conversation, we focus on the following aspects of the pre-construction process: the primary problem, the non-linear nature of pre-construction, risk mitigation prior to construction, the black-box approach, and the role of AI in the construction industry.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01.56] Steve’s career journey at Clark Construction Group. [05.12] What is pre-construction? [08.07] Impact of the lack of financial commitment.  [12.31] The impact of a good pre-construction process.  [16.08] The importance of aligning all stakeholders around common objectives. [20.52] Careful selection of partners and clear communication.  [23.40] The importance of leveraging technology to modernize the construction industry. [27.00] Augmenting existing expertise.  [31.04] The main pain problem in the pre-construction process.  [36.15] How the non-linear nature of pre-construction influences data quality and decision-making. [39.30] Mitigating risks before construction.  [42.07] The black-box approach.  [44.00] The difference between information and data. [45.13] The role of AI in construction.  [48.32] The biggest shift in construction regarding technological application.    TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Always put yourself in the client's shoes Focus on the Total Cost of Ownership Prioritize Transparency and Structure Embrace Technology for Efficiency Gradual Integration of Technology   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership,

    55 min
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4.8
out of 5
162 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Eric Anderton
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2024
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Construction Genius

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