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 to ask one core 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 stay ahead in an industry that’s transforming faster than ever. New guest episodes drop twice per month, along with bonus insights designed to help you lead change with curiosity. Listen, follow/subscribe, share, and help us build what’s next, together. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Even $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way—it’s the easiest applause ever.”

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

    3D AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. Efficiency in Construction Leadership: How Collaboration Drives Innovation

    12/09/2025

    Efficiency in Construction Leadership: How Collaboration Drives Innovation

    Summary Ryan Ware & Brian Skripac of the DBIA dive into change leadership & leading change in construction through innovative coaching techniques & effective change management in the AEC industry. Unpacking the evolution of design build and BIM adoption in construction, virtual design, AI, emphasizing collaboration, efficiency, and technology as pivotal forces transforming project outcomes within the construction industry.  Listeners will learn how to overcome change resistance, understand the significance of communication & change management, and leverage data-driven decision-making to ensure successful project delivery. Hear expert insights on construction leadership development & construction leadership training, highlighting construction culture's critical role & the human element necessary for innovation. Practical strategies for adopting design build principles and fostering continuous learning are shared, empowering leaders to excel in their AEC industry careers. Takeaways Efficiency is key in the design and construction process.Technology can significantly improve project outcomes.Collaboration among teams leads to better project delivery.Resistance to change is often rooted in fear of risk.Communication is essential for successful project execution.Data and metrics are crucial for measuring success.Design Build promotes a collaborative approach to construction.Chapters 03:00 The Evolution of Technology in Architecture 09:04 Overcoming Resistance to Change 14:42 The Importance of LOD and Project Clarity 23:50 Quality and Innovation in Design Build 26:50 Future of Design Build in the Construction Industry 34:39 The Importance of Collaboration in Design Build 37:34 Cultural Shifts & Psychological Safety in Construction 42:04 Learning from Experience: The Value of Feedback 50:04 Aggregating Innovations for Project Success 01:01:22 Measuring Success in Design Build Projects Guest A B.S. Arch.  graduate from The Ohio State University, he brings 20 years of experience as a digital construction innovator, showing how VDC maximizes value within design-build’s whole-team approach. He specializes in uniting people, processes, and BIM-enabled technologies to improve collaboration, performance, and lifecycle outcomes across the built environment. An industry thought leader, publishe 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 12m
  7. The Illusion of Control in Leading Change: Insights for Construction Leadership

    11/25/2025 · BONUS

    The Illusion of Control in Leading Change: Insights for Construction Leadership

    Summary Mini Series Part 2: Building a Stronger Relationship with Change. In this episode of Activating Curiosity, Ryan Ware explores the illusion of control and its impact on leading change within construction leadership development and change management in construction projects. He explains why many construction professionals feel threatened by imposed change and how the desire for control, though comforting, can be misleading. Ryan emphasizes the importance of psychological safety, empathy, and curiosity in construction coaching as essential tools that foster trust, collaboration, and morale during industry transformations. By adopting curiosity-driven leadership, construction leaders can move beyond the illusion of control to gain clarity and confidence, enabling more effective influence over change. Listeners will gain insights into mastering construction leadership challenges through human-centered change management strategies and develop construction leadership confidence to navigate the evolving industry landscape. This episode is perfect for professionals aiming to revolutionize construction leadership and embrace curiosity in construction for impactful change. Tune in to learn practical leadership and management tools to lead construction teams through change with greater trust and effectiveness. Takeaways Change can feel very personal, even if you didn't make the first choice.Control is often an illusion that can hinder progress.Great leaders are present during change, providing emotional steadiness.You can influence more by releasing the control you think you have.Psychological safety is crucial for effective change management.Empathy is essential when navigating change with others.Presence in leadership fosters trust and collaboration.Self-awareness is key to understanding your relationship with change.Recognizing the illusion of control can lead to greater influence.Clarity is often elusive, but necessary for embracing change. Referenced Works & Thinkers in This Episode:  Stephen M.R. Covey — The Speed of TrustAmy C. Edmondson — The Fearless OrganizationAmy C. Edmondson — Right Kind of Wrong: How the Best Teams Use Failure to SucceedDaniel Kahneman — Thinking, Fast and SlowChapters  00:00 Understanding Control and Change05:12 The Illusion of Control10:24 Psychological Safety in Leadership15:03 The Power of Choice20:45 Letting Go to Gain Influence25:30 Building Trust Through Presence28:38 Embracing Change with CSend 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
  8. Human-Centric Leadership: The Future of Construction

    11/11/2025

    Human-Centric Leadership: The Future of Construction

    Summary In this episode, Ryan interviews Angelo Suntres, founder of 'The Human Side of Construction,' discussing the importance of empathy and human-centric leadership in the construction industry. They explore the challenges of generational change, the need for collaboration, and the impact of embracing change to create a more inclusive and effective industry. Takeaways Empathy is crucial in transforming construction leadership.Generational change requires bridging gaps between old and new mindsets.Collaboration is key to future success in construction.Human-centric leadership can improve industry productivity.Embracing change is essential for industry growth.The construction industry needs to be more inclusive.Understanding human needs can enhance workplace dynamics.Effective leadership involves recognizing and valuing employees.The future of construction relies on innovative thinking.Building a better industry requires collective effort.Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Background00:03:00 The Human Side of Construction00:09:00 Generational Challenges and Change00:15:00 Collaboration and Leadership00:21:00 Embracing Change and Inclusivity00:27:00 Future of the Industry and Closing ThoughtsRelated episodes: Ep 10: for Construction Leadership Development.  Guest  Angelo, founder of the Human Side of Construction, is a seasoned operations leader, speaker and author with a passion for improving the construction industry at the intersection of strategy and people. With a career spanning leadership roles throughout construction, Angelo brings a unique and refreshing perspective on the future of the industry. Angelo is also the author of “Human Side of Construction” and “Rebuild Construction” where he shares practical frameworks and insights for leaders navigating today’s complex business landscape. His engaging style combines storytelling, actionable strategies, and a deep understanding of human behavior, making his sessions both inspiring and practical. Whether speaking to executives or emerging leaders, Angelo’s mission is clear: to empower construction professionals to lead with connection, adaptability, and purpose in an evolving world. https://www.angelosuntres.com/ https://hso 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 to ask one core 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 stay ahead in an industry that’s transforming faster than ever. New guest episodes drop twice per month, along with bonus insights designed to help you lead change with curiosity. Listen, follow/subscribe, share, and help us build what’s next, together. If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Even $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going. ⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way—it’s the easiest applause ever.”