Activating Curiosity | Leading Change in the Construction Industry

Ryan Ware - Construction Change Management and Leadership Coach

Activating Curiosity | Leading Change in the Construction Industry is the podcast for forward-thinking AEC and construction leaders who want to elevate their leadership in change management, strengthen construction leadership development, and navigate change management in construction with clarity, connection, and confidence. Hosted by Ryan Ware — AEC industry coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Connective Consulting Group and Connective Coaching — the show dives into conversations with innovators and industry shapers around one powerful question: What’s the most important problem you’re trying to solve — and why? Each episode uncovers real stories, hidden challenges, and practical tools to help you lead through change, build psychologically safe teams, and respond with agility in an industry transforming faster than ever. New guest episodes drop twice per month, along with bonus insights designed to help you activate curiosity in your leadership immediately. Listen. Follow or subscribe. Share it with someone navigating change. Let’s build what’s next — together. If you’d like to support the show or explore partnership opportunities, visit the Support page to learn more. ⭐ If the podcast resonates, leaving a rating or review helps more future construction industry leaders discover it.

  1. Overcoming Resistance: Embracing the Human Side of Modular Construction Innovation

    4D AGO

    Overcoming Resistance: Embracing the Human Side of Modular Construction Innovation

    Summary  In this episode, Ryan Ware sits down with Ali Salman of Workspace Modular Structures, a seasoned entrepreneur, to explore the transformative potential of prefab and modular construction within the construction industry. They discuss how overcoming resistance to change and adopting a proactive mindset is essential in driving innovation and addressing major infrastructure challenges globally. The conversation highlights the crucial role of change management in the construction industry and how leadership development supports this transition. Ali emphasizes the importance of productization in construction for scalability and improved market fit, underscoring the need for more disruptive leaders and entrepreneurs in the AEC industry. The episode also delves into how curiosity-driven leadership and continuous learning can empower professionals to navigate the human side of change management effectively. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on integrating change leadership principles and innovative strategies into their construction business practices. Whether you're interested in construction leadership development, modular construction innovation, or managing change in leadership, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration for leading change confidently in today’s evolving construction landscape. Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Ali Salman and His Journey 03:44 The Transformative Power of Modular Construction 11:49 The Need for Change in Construction Practices 18:57 Opportunities in Prefab and Modular Solutions 23:24 The Role of Technology in Construction 28:40 Future of Modular Construction and Industry Growth 39:40 Challenges and Opportunities in Modular Construction 57:28 Creating Better Communities through Infrastructure Guest  Ali Salman is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur, and operator building transformative companies across legaltech, franchising, and industrialized construction. As an active partner in Lawtiq.com, founder of Global Franchise Brokers, and CEO of Workspace Modular, Ali’s work sits at the intersection of innovation, scale, and real-world problem solving. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-salman-8a141312/ https://workspacemodular.ca/ Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    1h 7m
  2. Curiosity-Driven Change Leadership in the Construction Industry

    FEB 19 · BONUS

    Curiosity-Driven Change Leadership in the Construction Industry

    Summary Mini Series Part 5: In this episode, Ryan Ware explores the critical role of curiosity in leading change management within construction projects and advancing construction leadership development. Building on the first four foundational C's of change—choice, control, clarity, and commitment—he delves into how activating curiosity empowers construction leaders to navigate industry challenges with psychological safety and a growth mindset. Listeners will discover how embracing curiosity fosters innovative learning and enhances problem-solving in construction leadership and change management. The conversation underscores change management in the construction industry as a continuous journey, inspiring construction managers and leaders to cultivate curiosity in their teams and organizations. With practical guidance applicable to construction leadership training and coaching, this episode equips you to lead change boldly, fostering psychological safety and ongoing growth in the dynamic AEC industry. Key takeaways include strategies to overcome change resistance, the importance of psychological safety to fuel curiosity, and how curiosity-driven leadership can transform construction business leadership and unlock organizational potential. Tune in to activate your curiosity and master leading change effectively in your construction projects and teams. Chapters 01:09 Recap of the first Four C's of Change 04:58 The Importance of Curiosity 05:55 Psychological Safety and Curiosity 11:33 Defining Curiosity and Its Challenges 17:40 The Power of Ignorance and Learning 21:55 Shifting Perspectives: From Judgment to Curiosity 27:02 Curiosity as a Continuous Journey 31:16 Change as a Constant Journey 32:43 Conclusion and Reflection on the Five C's Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    29 min
  3. Reducing Friction in Construction Decision-Making Without Replacing Expertise

    FEB 10

    Reducing Friction in Construction Decision-Making Without Replacing Expertise

    Summary In this episode of Activating Curiosity, Ryan Ware and UpCodes Co-Founder and CEO Scott Reynolds explore how technology and AI are transforming change management and leadership in construction projects by reducing friction in decision-making processes without replacing professional expertise. They examine the impact of digital construction tools and systems in overcoming common construction industry challenges, such as time scarcity, information silos, and regulatory complexity, all while supporting construction leadership development and fostering resilience across teams. Listeners will gain insights into how modern digital workflows and building code compliance platforms function as decision infrastructure, helping architects, engineers, and builders make more informed choices under pressure and navigate industry change effectively. This conversation is ideal for AEC professionals seeking to elevate their leadership in construction change management and innovation. Scott Reynolds also shares his unique perspective from a background in architecture and extensive experience in global cities, emphasizing the importance of bridging expertise with technology to enhance construction business leadership and project outcomes. Tune in to discover strategies for leading through change and leveraging AI in construction management within an evolving built environment. Chapters 03:46 From Architecture Practice to Technology Problem-Solving 09:29 The Hidden Friction in Construction Decision-Making 15:21 Building Systems That Support Choice, Not Defaults 26:46 How AI Can Reduce Friction Without Replacing Expertise 39:20 Product Selection, Manufacturers, and Real-World Constraints 57:36 Defining Success in a Technology-Enabled Built Environment Guest Scott Reynolds is the CEO and co-founder of UpCodes, the developer of a comprehensive compliance and product research platform that makes code libraries more accessible. Scott’s background in architecture and extensive experience working in some of the largest cities in the world, including New York City and Hong Kong at world-class architecture firms, provides him with a unique perspective into the challenges AEC professionals face when accessing building codes and ensuring compliance.  https://up.codes/ Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    1h 14m
  4. Micro Hospitals, Macro Impact: Leading Change in Construction for Rural Healthcare

    JAN 27

    Micro Hospitals, Macro Impact: Leading Change in Construction for Rural Healthcare

    Summary  In this episode of Activating Curiosity | Leading Change in the Construction Industry, Ryan Ware explores how micro hospitals are expanding access to healthcare in rural communities—and what this shift reveals about leading change in complex construction environments. Ryan is joined by Peter Nicholson, Co-Founder and CEO of Modern Clinical Planning, for an insightful conversation focused on healthcare infrastructure, construction leadership development, and construction innovation. Together, they discuss best practices in construction change management, including standardized design, modular construction, and technology-enabled planning, showcasing how these approaches reduce costs, accelerate delivery, and effectively scale facilities in resource-constrained rural settings. The discussion also highlights key leadership behaviors necessary for managing change resistance and guiding teams through uncertainty in the AEC industry. Listeners will gain valuable insights on construction change management best practices, leadership for change in healthcare projects, and the broader impact of construction leadership on community health, talent attraction, and operational resilience. Whether you’re a construction executive, project manager, or change coach within the AEC industry, this episode offers actionable perspectives on leading change with clarity, curiosity, and purpose, helping you master the complexities of construction leadership and industry challenges. Chapters 01:17 – Framing the Rural Healthcare Access Problem 03:44 – Hospitals as Products, Not One-Off Projects 07:45 – Accessibility, Affordability, and Smart Technology 11:09 – A New Delivery Model for Rural Healthcare Construction 18:27 – Capital, Mindset, and Resistance to Change 51:39 – Redefining Success: Wellness Over Profit Guest Peter Nicholson is a healthcare planner with over 35 years of experience designing and delivering hospitals and life science facilities worldwide. He specializes in integrating advanced medical technologies and has led projects for Harvard teaching hospitals, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, and other global healthcare systems. He is currently the CEO of a startup offering pre-designed, fully equipped micro hospitals as a scalable product to improve the affordability and accessibility of healthcare delivery.  https://www.modernclinicalplanning.com/ Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    1h 1m
  5. Commitment Isn’t Motivation: How AEC Leaders Keep Change Alive

    JAN 22 · BONUS

    Commitment Isn’t Motivation: How AEC Leaders Keep Change Alive

    Summary  Mini Series Part 4: Building a Stronger Relationship with Change. In this insightful episode, Ryan Ware dives deep into the critical role of commitment within change management for construction leaders.  Focusing on the five C's—Choice, Control, Clarity, Commitment, and Curiosity—Ryan discusses how understanding these elements can empower leaders to navigate the complex dynamics of leading change in the construction industry. Learn how commitment is an ongoing process supported by a strong foundation of understanding our relationship with choice, control and clarity. Discover strategies to maintain momentum in managing change within construction teams. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on overcoming common obstacles in construction change management, the importance of regular check-ins, and how curiosity drives adaptability and innovation. This episode offers practical leadership advice and tools tailored for construction professionals striving to lead change effectively, fostering psychological safety and resilience in their projects. Whether you're focused on construction leadership development or managing change in construction projects, this conversation unpacks essential insights to help you build confidence and clarity as you lead your teams through industry challenges and transformations. Chapters 00:00 Building Stronger Relationships with Change 06:48 Understanding Commitment in Change 15:01 The Importance of Check-Ins 20:19 Navigating Challenges in Commitment 25:16 Curiosity as a Tool for Change Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    33 min
  6. Leading Change in Construction: Why Culture Matters, Not Just Technology

    JAN 13

    Leading Change in Construction: Why Culture Matters, Not Just Technology

    Summary  This episode of Activating Curiosity is for construction and AEC industry leaders navigating ongoing industry change and preparing for what’s next. Host Ryan Ware sits down with Brian Turmail, Vice President of Image for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), to explore what leading change in the construction industry will require as we move toward 2026 and beyond. Together, they unpack critical leadership challenges shaping the industry, including workforce shortages, technology adoption, economic uncertainty, and the growing need for collaboration across the AEC ecosystem. The conversation highlights why many change initiatives fail—and why empathy, communication, and human-centered leadership are essential to effective change management in construction. Ryan and Brian also explore the role of culture, care, and curiosity in building trust, reducing change fatigue, and helping teams adapt in an evolving industry. If you’re focused on construction leadership development, navigating industry challenges, or leading change with clarity and confidence, this episode offers a grounded and forward-looking perspective on the future of construction leadership. Chapters  05:00 - Challenges in the Construction Industry 15:00 - The Role of Technology and Innovation  25:00 - Cultural Shifts and Workforce Development 35:00 - Importance of Human Connection and Empathy 45:00 - Future Outlook and Call to Action Guest  Brian’s role is to develop and oversee all public, member and chapter communications, marketing, fundraising and sales activities for the 27,000 member construction trade association. He also oversees the association’s market insights and grassroots activation efforts. And he helps support the association’s workforce development efforts, including advocating for career and technical education funding and immigration reform, executing workforce recruiting campaigns in partnership with AGC chapters, creating workforce development resources for members and organizing the annual National Construction Industry HR & Workforce Development Conference, among other activities. He is a member of the board of directors of AGC Charities Inc, the association’s charitable arm, where he oversees Operation Opening Doors projects that get volunteer contractors to renovate facilities for worthwhile groups. Websites  https://www.agc.org/industry-priorities/project-innovation-delivery https://buildculture.org/ Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    1h 22m
  7. Elusive Clarity: Navigating Change Management in Construction Leadership

    12/30/2025 · BONUS

    Elusive Clarity: Navigating Change Management in Construction Leadership

    Summary  Mini Series Part 3: Building a Stronger Relationship with Change. In this episode, Ryan Ware explores change management in the construction industry, emphasizing how construction leadership development and psychological empowerment enable leaders and teams to successfully navigate transformational change. Drawing on leadership coaching expertise, Ryan dives into the critical roles of clarity, choice, and control in managing change resistance and guiding smooth transitions.  This episode highlights best practices in construction change management and offers practical coaching tools to help AEC professionals build psychologically safe teams, foster trust, and drive construction innovations. Listeners will gain valuable insights to enhance their leadership confidence and master the challenges of leading change in construction projects and the broader AEC industry. Key takeaways include the importance of commitment, transparent communication, exploring curiosity-driven approaches, and reflecting on past changes to inform future efforts. Whether you’re a construction manager or industry leader, this episode equips you with foundational strategies to revolutionize your approach to change management and leadership in construction. Takeaways  Change is a universal issue that affects everyone.Understanding choice is crucial in the change process.Control is often an illusion during change.Clarity is personal and varies from person to person.Rushing through change can lead to failure.Commitment is essential for successful change implementation.Communication is key to understanding team dynamics during change.Exploration and discovery are vital parts of the change journey.Building trust within a team enhances the change experience.Reflecting on past changes can inform future efforts. Chapters  00:00 Reflection on Choice and Control  05:14 The Importance of Clarity in Change 16:13 Navigating the Journey of Change 30:34 Commitment to Change and Its Significance Related episode Mini-Series Part 2: Control  Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    32 min
  8. Transformational Leadership in Construction: Leading Change Beyond Transactional Practices

    12/23/2025

    Transformational Leadership in Construction: Leading Change Beyond Transactional Practices

    Summary  In this episode Ryan Ware welcomes Andrea Janzen, founder of Ambition Theory leadership development for construction, to explore transformational leadership & its vital role in leading change in construction & change management for construction businesses. She shares her journey from corporate marketing to becoming a leader in construction coaching techniques, emphasizing how transformational leadership drives construction innovation & fosters inclusive, human-centered change environments in the construction industry. Discover how moving beyond transactional leadership can effectively address pressing construction industry challenges such as labor shortages & mental health, while empowering teams through construction leadership development. Learn practical insights & tools for change management and how adopting a human-centered approach can revolutionize leadership practices in this traditionally transactional field. Takeaways: Transformational leadership focuses on guiding and inspiring teams rather than dictating tasks.The construction industry is evolving, with a growing emphasis on transformational leadership.Women in construction face unique challenges, but transformational leadership can create more inclusive environments.The shift from transactional to transformational leadership requires a change in mindset and openness to new ideas.Chapters  3:58 Andrea's Journey and Ambition Theory 15:42 Transactional vs. Transformational Leadership 21:22 Transformational Leadership in Practice 26:22 Future of Leadership and Industry 56:03 Conclusion and Call to Action Guest  Andrea, Ambition Theory Founder and CEO is a Certified Executive Coach with an MBA, the host of the Ambition Theory Podcast, a Forbes contributor and a top-rated speaker. She is passionate about coaching women in construction to develop themselves, set leadership goals and get results. Since 2018, Andrea has coached and trained over 1,000 construction professionals. Before becoming a coach, Andrea was a marketing leader that worked on some of the world's best-known brands. https://ambitiontheory.com/ Podcast: https://ambitiontheory.com/the-ambition-theory-podcast/ Leadership Academy https://nawic.org/women-leading-in-construction-leadership-training-in-construction Send us your thoughts, ideas, questions Connective Consulting Group Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Follow Ryan at the following: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/ https://connective-coaching.com/ https://ryanware.me/ Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.

    1h 9m

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Activating Curiosity | Leading Change in the Construction Industry is the podcast for forward-thinking AEC and construction leaders who want to elevate their leadership in change management, strengthen construction leadership development, and navigate change management in construction with clarity, connection, and confidence. Hosted by Ryan Ware — AEC industry coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Connective Consulting Group and Connective Coaching — the show dives into conversations with innovators and industry shapers around one powerful question: What’s the most important problem you’re trying to solve — and why? Each episode uncovers real stories, hidden challenges, and practical tools to help you lead through change, build psychologically safe teams, and respond with agility in an industry transforming faster than ever. New guest episodes drop twice per month, along with bonus insights designed to help you activate curiosity in your leadership immediately. Listen. Follow or subscribe. Share it with someone navigating change. Let’s build what’s next — together. If you’d like to support the show or explore partnership opportunities, visit the Support page to learn more. ⭐ If the podcast resonates, leaving a rating or review helps more future construction industry leaders discover it.