Construction Conversations

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Honest, in-the-field conversations with builders, leaders, and innovators shaping the future of construction. From foremen to founders, each episode unpacks real challenges, emerging tech, and the human side of building better.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 32 – Executive – Strategic Insights on Scaling Prefab and Industrialized Construction with Fouad Khalil

    In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss the current state of industrialized construction, exploring the challenges and opportunities within the industry. They emphasize the importance of curiosity and education in driving innovation, while also addressing the labor shortages that are pushing for more efficient construction methods. The discussion touches on the balance between standardization and customization, the role of general contractors, and the need for process knowledge in modern construction practices. The conversation concludes with insights for young professionals looking to make their mark in the industry. Subscribe to Our Newsletter: https://constructionbriefs.substack.com/

    58 min

  2. 27 JAN

    Ep. 31 - From Jobsite to Startup: The Hard Truth About Building Construction Tech With Cameron Page

    In this engaging conversation, Cameron Page shares his journey from a construction background to founding ClearStory, a construction tech company. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from the field to tech, the importance of empathy in understanding industry needs, and the evolution of his startup. The discussion also touches on the integration of AI in construction, the cultural clash between traditional construction practices and modern tech, and the future of the industry. Cameron emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation for young professionals in the field. Check Out Planera: https://www.planera.io/ Check Out Trunk Tools: https://trunktools.com/

    52 min

  3. 13 JAN

    Ep. 30 - The Brutal Truth About Construction Tech Nobody Wants to Admit with Michael Zeppieri

    In this conversation, Lars, Stephen, and Michael discuss various themes surrounding technology, construction, and personal experiences. They explore the importance of relationships in construction, and the role of technology and AI in the industry. Michael shares insights on the disconnect between C-suite executives and field workers, emphasizing the need for a human touch in technology and the value of craftsmanship. The discussion also touches on the future of construction, the importance of field experience, and the aspiration for a more efficient and fulfilling work environment.

    48 min

  4. 23/12/2025

    Ep. 29 - Precon in the Age of AI: What Actually Matters Now with Patrick Murphy and Jeremy Crumley

    In this conversation, Stephen Poppe hosts Patrick Murphy and Jeremy Crumley to discuss the evolving landscape of pre-construction in the construction industry, particularly focusing on the integration of technology and AI. They explore the increasing value of pre-construction services, the impact of technology on efficiency and productivity, and the importance of data strategy. The discussion also touches on the future role of general contractors and offers advice for the next generation entering the construction field.

    50 min

  5. 09/12/2025

    Ep. 28 – Surviving the Next 5 Years: What Young PMs Must Know About AI with Dr. Sarah Buchner

    In this engaging conversation, Sarah Buchner, CEO of Trunk Tools, shares her journey from a blue-collar worker on a farm to leading a tech startup in the construction industry. The discussion covers the cultural differences in construction practices between Europe and the US, the importance of feedback from field workers, and the role of AI in transforming workflows. Sarah emphasizes the need for collaboration over competition in the construction tech space and highlights the significance of data ownership and intellectual property. She offers valuable advice for young professionals to leverage AI for career growth and reflects on the future of construction, advocating for a balance between technology and human skills.

    49 min

  6. 18/11/2025

    Ep. 27 – Leadership at Hyperscale: Why Culture Beats Process in Today's Data Centers with Tim Straub

    In this episode, Tim Straub, Senior Technical Program Manager at Google, discusses his transition from general contractor to owner-side leadership, how that shift changed his approach to quality and commissioning, and the challenges of delivering data centers in the fast-paced AI/ML era. Tim covers leadership through influence, the evolving priorities of testing and lifecycle risk, labor and equipment constraints, and practical advice for young engineers: seek to understand, adopt a growth mindset, and be patient.

    49 min

  7. 21/10/2025

    Ep. 26 – Construction Tech Masterclass: What Three Decades Teaches About Sales and Service with Al Ricci

    In this episode, Stephen sits down with Al Ricci, Global Director of Customer Success at Oracle, for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with Canadian Thanksgiving and porchetta — and ends with three decades of hard-earned lessons from the frontlines of construction tech. Al shares how empathy became his most powerful leadership strategy, why sales and customer success must work hand in hand, and what founders often miss when building customer-centric teams. Together, they trace the industry’s evolution from point solutions to SaaS, explore how AI is reshaping entry-level roles, and unpack what it really means to build long-term trust between vendors and contractors. Whether you’re leading a startup, managing a team, or rethinking your approach to growth, this episode offers timeless insights on people, process, and progress in construction tech.

    53 min

  8. 23/09/2025

    Ep. 25 - Field First, Tech Second: How BIM Became McCarthy’s Digital Backbone with Alex Belkofer

    Alex Belkafor shares his journey from project engineer to leading digital strategy at McCarthy, explaining how a field-first approach to BIM and VDC drives better project planning, integration with owners, and streamlined construction delivery. He discusses measuring value through reduced downstream risk (the "cost of goals not scored"), the rise of connected jobsite technologies, the promise and caution of AI and data, and practical advice for the next generation entering construction technology.

    46 min
See All (32)

About

Honest, in-the-field conversations with builders, leaders, and innovators shaping the future of construction. From foremen to founders, each episode unpacks real challenges, emerging tech, and the human side of building better.

Information

  • Creator
    Build Better Media
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Construction Conversations

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