Constructive

Seth Kalkman
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Management
  • Updated Semiweekly

A Construction / Technology sandwich hosted by Seth with innovators and thought leaders providing transformative ideas shaping the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Each episode brings a new guest and explores cutting-edge strategies, emerging technologies, and best practices, offering listeners actionable insights to drive positive change in their projects and organizations. Join us on this journey to build a more efficient, sustainable, and forward-thinking AEC sector.

  1. Sep 21

    57 - Molly & Aaryn Abbott - The 30% Price Increase That Sparked an AI-Native Software Platform

    The conversation delves into the intersection of technology and construction, exploring the early career paths of the speakers, their transition to software and tech, the adoption of technology in construction, a startup initiative, and the challenges faced along with intuition in the industry. The conversation delves into the birth of a partnership, the challenges faced in the construction industry, and the pivotal decision to pivot the business model to address customer needs. It also explores the role of AI in construction data and the objective of software systems in the industry. Takeaways The evolving relationship between technology and constructionThe importance of intuition and adaptability in the construction and tech industry Pivoting to address customer needs is crucial for business success.The source of truth in construction projects should be the project itself, not individual software systems. Chapters 00:00 The Marriage Between Tech and Construction03:09 Early Career Paths08:10 Transition to Software and Tech13:13 Adoption of Technology in Construction18:10 Startup Initiative and Setbacks21:47 Challenges and Intuition22:41 The Birth of a Partnership23:06 Y Combinator and the Pivot24:18 Exploring the Construction Industry25:36 Challenges with Initial Product Adoption26:52 Pivoting to Address Customer Needs27:40 Customer Frustrations with Legacy Software29:15 Renewal and Dissatisfaction with Procore32:27 Decision to Engage Constructible36:34 Market Validation and Product Development39:57 The Role of AI in Construction Data48:59 Serving the Project and Community51:38 Objective of Software Systems

  2. Sep 7

    56 - Bullshido Ladders, Ditches, Dialysis, sticky notes and the Socio-Technical with Adam Hoots

    The conversation covers Adam Hoots' journey from childhood to becoming a construction industry leader, emphasizing the importance of respect for workers and the human side of construction. It delves into the transition from technical work to management, the impact of personal health challenges, and the focus on creating a positive work environment for flow and productivity. The conversation covers the themes of communication in construction, the purpose behind construction work, the significance of the Old Dog community, and the role of pain and suffering in character development. It also delves into the use of AI in construction and the importance of knowledge transfer and learning from past projects. Takeaways Respect for workersTransition from technical work to managementImpact of personal health challengesCreating a positive work environment for flow and productivity Communication in constructionPurpose and significance of construction workThe Old Dog community and its role in knowledge transferThe role of pain and suffering in character developmentThe use of AI in construction and knowledge transfer from past projects TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Intro & The Mission of Construction 01:00 - Dirt, Ditches, and Developing Field Respect 04:00 - The Corporate Ladder is "Bullshito" 06:10 - Early Days as an Assistant Project Engineer 10:10 - The Industry-Wide Scheduling Fallacy 12:10 - Why Communication is the Real Production System 19:20 - Dialysis, Kidney Transplant, and the Turning Point 22:30 - The Clemson Case Study: Why Pushing Tactics Fails 28:00 - The Ono Circle: Seeing People, Not Just Work 29:25 - Designing Personal Performance Systems for Trade Workers CONNECT WITH ADAM HOOTS: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/

  3. Aug 17

    55 - A Bridge Between Owners and Builders with Scott Kimpland

    The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including virtual backgrounds, industry perspectives, career experiences, and the future of the construction industry. Scott Kimpland shares insights on the construction industry, the role of technology, and the impact of owners on industry trends. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities for trade contractors and the potential for technological transformation in the industry. The construction industry is experiencing a shift in power dynamics, with trade contractors gaining more leverage and control over their projects. Technology and innovation are driving significant changes in the industry, offering opportunities for improved efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and problem-solving. The future of the industry holds promise for greater collaboration, productivity, and value creation through the adoption of advanced technologies and strategic partnerships. Takeaways Construction industry trends are influenced by the demands and initiatives of owners.The role of technology in the construction industry is evolving, with a focus on innovation and transformation.Trade contractors are positioned to survive and thrive in the industry, leveraging their valuable resource of skilled labor. Trade contractors are gaining more leverage and control over construction projects.Technology and innovation are driving significant changes in the construction industry. Chapters 00:00 Virtual Backgrounds and Industry Perspectives03:01 Industry Insights and Career Experiences09:01 The Role of Technology in Construction15:00 Challenges and Opportunities for Trade Contractors20:00 The Future of the Construction Industry25:24 Empowerment of Trade Contractors29:42 Resilience and Problem-Solving in Construction35:18 Collaboration and Future of the Industry47:14 Impact of Technology and Innovation

  4. Aug 16

    54 - Lego Data Wars With AJ Waters

    The conversation covers AJ Waters' journey from his love for Legos to his career in construction tech, highlighting the challenges and successes in adopting technology in the construction industry. It also delves into the themes of tech implementation, data utilization, and the impact of technology on construction workflows. The conversation covers the importance of learning from failures, the evolving perception of the construction industry, marketing tech to the construction industry, the role of AI in construction, and the significance of systems of record. It also delves into the future of AI in construction and the importance of change management champions. Takeaways Tech implementation should prioritize people, process, and then technology.Data utilization in construction projects is a critical challenge that needs to be addressed.The impact of technology on construction workflows has both positive and negative aspects. Learning from failures and making adjustments is crucial for successful tech rollouts.The construction industry is evolving, and there is a need to change the perception of the industry.Understanding the context of the job site and focusing on outcomes is essential when marketing tech to the construction industry.The role of AI in construction is not just about technology but also about understanding use cases and outcomes.Systems of record are vital in the AI age, and the future of AI in construction will involve a human judgment layer and a feedback loop.Change management champions play a crucial role in successful tech rollouts, and they need to be present at both the lower and executive levels of the organization. Chapters 00:00 From Legos to Construction Tech01:54 Transition to Engineering and Construction Management03:50 Transition to Construction Tech09:11 Customization vs. Standardization in Construction Tech12:04 Challenges and Successes in Tech Adoption19:02 The Role of Owners and Field Workers in Tech Development21:54 Tech Rollouts and Implementation Challenges23:29 Learning from Failures and Making Adjustments24:52 Evolving Perception of the Construction Industry29:15 Marketing Tech to the Construction Industry32:49 The Role of AI in Construction36:00 The Future of AI in Construction and Systems of Record44:49 The Importance of Change Management Champions

  5. May 22

    53 - Is Construction Tech Failing the Subcontractor? And How to fix it with Steve Silva

    What makes a top-tier corporate analyst walk away from high-rise office comfort to step into the high-stress world of concrete layout and heavy civil engineering? In this episode of Constructive, host Seth catches up with Cal Poly alumnus Steve Silva to talk about his incredible transition from Accenture consulting to field-hardened entrepreneurship. Steve pulls back the curtain on the tight margins of heavy civil contracting, recounting the intense logistical nightmares of high-stakes concrete pours and why he eventually liquidated his 401k to bet on his own vision. Now focused entirely on software development, Steve breaks down how his platforms, Offloadit and Checkit, are leveraging AI and OCR to eliminate landfill waste, prevent stolen material transactions, and put a hard stop to vendor fee erosion for the small subcontractors building our world . Tune in to discover how AI-native tools are finally replacing "caveman" paper workflows! Show Credits & Music: Music Track (Royalty Free): https://www.bensound.comArtist: Lunar YearsLicense code: HRBO9NC4SPARNNZH

    53 - Is Construction Tech Failing the Subcontractor? And How to fix it with Steve Silva

  6. May 22

    52 - Construction’s Storytelling Problem, How to Win Owner Trust feat Matt Rumsey Courageous Idiot

    How do you go from sweeping job sites and hauling trash to sitting at senior leadership tables managing multi-million dollar portfolios? In this episode of Constructive, host Seth sits down with industry veteran Matt Rumsey to dismantle the biggest clichés in the business. Matt challenges the viral LinkedIn myth that construction productivity hasn't evolved , explaining why safer sites mean our baseline metrics are actually better than ever . We dive deep into the weight of making tough leadership transitions, how to navigate project management friction , and why tech companies need to build for the field workers—not just the CEOs . Plus, Matt shares a surprising look at why AI won't replace your job, but will drastically elevate it . Hit play for a refreshing, human-first look at the reality of building great things ! Show Credits & Music: Music: https://www.bensound.comArtist: Benjamin TissotLicense code: EBEXIJM0PQLM90NZ

    52 - Construction’s Storytelling Problem, How to Win Owner Trust feat Matt Rumsey Courageous Idiot

  7. Jan 17

    51 - Stop Selling, Start Serving with Ken Harms

    In an industry often defined by hard data and low bids, how do you actually win work without "selling out"? In this episode of Constructive, I sit down with Ken Harms, a construction industry veteran with over 40 years of experience, to discuss the transition from technical project management to the human side of business development. Ken recently authored the book, Building Trust and Winning Work, where he argues that winning work has less to do with the physical proposal and everything to do with how you show up for your clients and build authentic relationships. We dive deep into the "Doer-Seller" model, the psychological hurdles of trust, and why the phrase "stay in your lane" is a creativity killer for construction firms. Key Topics Covered: The Trust Hurdle: Why being likable and competent isn't enough if you break your word.Service over Selling: Shifting your mindset from "making a sale" to being of radical service to the client.The Power of Curiosity: Why you should walk into a client meeting with a legal pad and six questions instead of a glossy brochure.Coaching & Mentorship: Why even the best in the industry—like Steph Curry—still need a coach to stay on top of their game.AI in Construction: How to use AI as a force multiplier for research without losing the essential "face-to-face" human connection.Whether you're an APM looking to accelerate your career or a C-suite executive rethinking your corporate strategy, Ken’s insights offer a blueprint for winning work with integrity. Connect with Ken Harms: Book: Building Trust and Winning WorkLinkedIn: Kenneth HarmsMusic by Bensound.comLicense code: JT4WZ4TPKR0WYGNMArtist: Lunar Years

    51 - Stop Selling, Start Serving with Ken Harms

  8. Jan 8

    50 - Bonding 101 with Gary Eastman from Swiftbonds / Axcess Surety

    In this episode of Constructive, we sit down with Gary Eastman, President of SwiftBonds and Axcess Surety. Bonding is the "oxygen" of the construction industry, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood parts of the business. If you have ever felt stuck at a certain revenue ceiling, Gary explains how to unlock the next level of your company. We discuss why a surety bond is a guarantee—not insurance—and how it acts as the key to graduating from small residential jobs to major public and commercial projects. Gary shares tactical advice on managing your books, the importance of "velocity of money," and how to avoid the "red flags" that kill your bonding capacity. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Surety Secret: Why bonding is a three-party guarantee and how it differs from risk-sharing insurance. Scaling Your Capacity: The three tiers of bonding and how to move from "credit-based" to "full underwriting". The $1M Strategy: A thought experiment on how to take $50,000 and turn it into a million-dollar bond line in two years. Future-Proofing: How AI and data analytics are replacing the "retiring 50-year veteran" to keep projects efficient and safe. SwiftBonds: swiftbonds.com Axcess Surety: axcess-surety.com Music: https://www.bensound.comLicense code: DSEV5SKEXGAJTELKArtist: Roman Senyk Connect with Gary EastmanMusic Credits

    50 - Bonding 101 with Gary Eastman from Swiftbonds / Axcess Surety
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

A Construction / Technology sandwich hosted by Seth with innovators and thought leaders providing transformative ideas shaping the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Each episode brings a new guest and explores cutting-edge strategies, emerging technologies, and best practices, offering listeners actionable insights to drive positive change in their projects and organizations. Join us on this journey to build a more efficient, sustainable, and forward-thinking AEC sector.

Information

  • Creator
    Seth Kalkman
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Seth Kalkman
  • Show Website
    Constructive