I'm The Gaffer

Gavin Coyle
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Management
  • Updated Weekly

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer this podcast is for you. Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building industry. As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

  1. 2d ago

    The Human Business: Why People Matter More Than Profit

    Welcome to a new episode of I'm The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ What if the biggest mistake leaders make is punishing mistakes? In this episode, Glenn Bostock, Founder of SnapCab and author of The Human Business, joins Gavin Coyle to share how changing the way he treated employees transformed his company culture, improved innovation, and helped build a thriving manufacturing business. From rewarding employees for identifying mistakes to creating a workplace built on kindness, authenticity, and purpose, Glenn explains why businesses should focus on helping people thrive, not simply maximizing profit. Whether you're a business owner, construction leader, project manager, entrepreneur, HR professional, or team leader, this conversation offers practical leadership lessons you can apply immediately. You'll learn:Why rewarding mistakes creates stronger teamsHow fear prevents innovation and continuous improvementThe leadership lesson that changed Glenn's business foreverHow one employee mistake saved the company hundreds of thousands of dollarsWhy people are motivated by purpose more than fearHow to build a workplace where employees actively solve problemsThe three core values behind SnapCab's company cultureWhy money should be a tool, not the ultimate goal of business 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps00:00 Rewarding mistakes instead of punishing them 00:47 Introduction to Glenn Bostock & employee engagement 03:18 Learning disabilities and the leadership lesson that shaped SnapCab 12:41 The employee mistake that changed everything 14:49 Why Glenn rewarded an employee with a trip to Hawaii 16:18 Building a culture that rewards problem solving 18:09 Why rewarding mistakes removes fear 23:40 Why money is a tool, not the goal 38:28 What success really means in business 41:26 The biggest lesson Glenn would teach his younger self Connect with Glenn Bostock🌐 SnapCab https://snapcab.com/ 📖 The Human Business (Amazon) https://www.amazon.in/Human-Business-People-First-Lasting-Success/dp/B0GCHGXDBF 🔗 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennbostock/?skipRedirect=true About Coyle GroupCoyle Group provides safety outsourcing and managed services for high-impact projects across wind, utilities, power generation, engineering, and construction. With over 25 years of experience, 100+ safety professionals, and more than 1 million safety hours completed, Coyle Group helps organisations deliver projects safely and compliantly. Learn more: https://coyle-group.com/ About the PodcastI'm The Gaffer, hosted by Gavin Coyle, features conversations with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and subject matter experts covering construction, engineering, leadership, business growth, safety, procurement, project delivery, and workplace culture. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ImTheGafferPodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, construction, business growth, workplace culture, employee engagement, engineering, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. #ImTheGaffer #Leadership #EmployeeEngagement #BusinessCulture #CompanyCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #Manufacturing #LeanManufacturing #BusinessGrowth #Construction #Entrepreneurship #Management #Innovation #WorkplaceCulture #HumanBusiness

  2. Jul 7

    Why Businesses Keep Losing Government Tenders (And How to Win)

    Welcome to a new episode of I'm The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you're a contractor, construction business owner, project manager, engineer, estimator, consultant, or SME looking to win more government and public sector work, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply to your next tender. In this episode, Jason Cooney, Director of Tsaks Consulting, joins Gavin Coyle to break down the tender process—from deciding whether to bid, writing stronger responses, pricing competitively, using AI effectively, and understanding what buyers are really looking for. You'll learn: How to quickly assess whether a tender is worth pursuingThe biggest mistakes businesses make when bidding for government contractsWhy social value has become a major scoring factorHow to structure stronger, more consistent tender responsesThe role of AI in tender writing—and where human expertise still mattersWhy buyers don't always choose the cheapest bidPractical pricing strategies that protect your profit while remaining competitiveHow to improve your chances of winning government and public sector contracts 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps00:00 Check the mandatory criteria first 01:30 Introduction to Jason Cooney 05:26 First steps after receiving a tender 10:37 Tender trends: innovation, AI & whole-of-life costs 13:10 Why social value can make or break your bid 18:06 Building consistent tender responses 21:35 Creating a winning tender response library 25:28 Inside the buyer's mindset 31:19 Why buyers want you to succeed 37:09 Pricing strategies and pricing buffers Connect with Jason CooneyTsaks Consulting (Australia) https://thetenderteam.com.au/ Tsaks Consulting (UK & Europe) https://tsaks.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-cooney/ About Coyle GroupCoyle Group provides safety outsourcing and managed services for high-impact projects across wind, utilities, power generation, engineering, and construction. With 25+ years of experience, 100+ safety professionals, and over 1 million safety hours completed, Coyle Group helps organisations deliver projects safely and compliantly. Learn more: https://coyle-group.com/ About the PodcastI'm The Gaffer, hosted by Gavin Coyle, features conversations with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and subject matter experts covering construction, engineering, leadership, business growth, safety, procurement, and project delivery. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ImTheGafferPodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more conversations on construction, tendering, procurement, leadership, safety, engineering, and business growth. #ImTheGaffer #GovernmentTenders #TenderWriting #Construction #Procurement #ConstructionBusiness #PublicSector #BusinessGrowth #ProjectManagement #ConstructionLeadership #Contractors #Engineering #SMEs #TenderManagement #GovernmentContracts

  3. Jun 23

    Why Some Architecture Firms Are Going Out of Business

    Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you're a construction business owner, architect, engineer, contractor, project manager, developer, or someone involved in designing and delivering projects, this conversation offers valuable insights into architecture, construction, entrepreneurship, AI, leadership, and the future of the built environment. In this episode, Lance Cayko joins Gavin Coyle to discuss why architects need to reconnect with the construction industry, how builders and architects can work more effectively together, the impact of AI on professional services, and why understanding construction can make you a better designer and business owner. You'll learn: Why architects need stronger relationships with builders, subcontractors, and the people actually delivering projects How spending time in the field can improve designs, reduce mistakes, and earn respect from trades Why many architecture firms struggle with business, profitability, and long-term growth How AI is changing architecture and why practical construction experience is becoming more valuable Why Lance believes architects should reclaim the role of the master builder and take a bigger role in construction projects 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps 00:00 Why builders earn more than architects 01:12 Introduction to Lance Cayko 02:27 Starting in construction at age 13 08:54 Why entrepreneurship and architecture rarely go together 12:10 The ego problem in architecture 15:08 Why architects don't talk to tradespeople 17:29 How subcontractors improved architectural drawings 21:44 AI and the future of architecture 31:00 Why architectural firms are going out of business 38:00 Why owners and clients suffer from poor collaboration 40:52 Knowing what you know now 42:07 The book that changed Lance's life Connect with Lance Cayko LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lance-cayko-1227031a/ Inside The Firm Podcast https://insidethefirmpodcast.com/ F9 Productions https://www.f9productions.com/ About Coyle Group Coyle Group provides safety outsourcing and managed services for high-impact projects across wind, utilities, power generation, engineering, and construction. With 25+ years of experience, 100+ safety professionals, and 1M+ safety hours completed, Coyle Group helps projects run safely and compliantly. Learn more: https://coyle-group.com/ About the Podcast I’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, safety, engineering, construction, and business success. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more insights for construction business owners, architects, engineers, contractors, project leaders, developers, and industry professionals. #ImTheGaffer #Architecture #ConstructionIndustry #Architects #ConstructionLeadership #BuildingDesign #ConstructionManagement #ConstructionBusiness #ProjectManagement #AIInConstruction #ConstructionTechnology #Entrepreneurship #ArchitectureBusiness #GeneralContractor #ConstructionPodcast

  4. Jun 16

    Why Great Engineers Focus on Prevention, Not Just Problem Solving

    Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you're a construction business owner, engineer, project manager, contractor, safety professional, or someone responsible for delivering projects, this conversation offers valuable insights into engineering leadership, safety, technology, and the future of the industry. In this episode, Craig Montz joins Gavin Coyle to discuss what makes a great engineer, why the industry needs more engineering talent, how technology is transforming project delivery, and why preventing problems is more valuable than simply solving them. You’ll learn: Why engineering is a rewarding career with endless opportunities What qualities make a great engineer Why safety should be considered during design, not after construction starts How asking better questions leads to better project outcomes Whether construction projects are being over-engineered How BIM and 3D modelling are changing project planning Why technology and AI are becoming essential engineering tools Why experienced engineers focus on preventing problems, not just fixing them How engineering firms can attract and retain top talent Why leadership is often about listening instead of providing solutions Why Craig believes he should have bet on himself earlier in his career 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps 00:00 Problem solving vs problem prevention 01:30 Introduction to Craig Montz 05:15 How engineering firms attract top talent 07:52 What makes a great engineer? 09:37 Why engineering logic improves safety 10:36 Are projects being over-engineered? 15:23 The qualities of a modern engineer 16:03 How BIM and technology are transforming construction 18:44 The leadership lesson behind problem prevention 20:00 Building projects virtually before construction begins 26:14 How AI helps engineers make better decisions 27:25 Engineering salaries and specialist career opportunities 32:05 Leadership lessons from managing people 35:00 The future of engineering and technology 37:50 Knowing what you know now, what would you do differently? Connect with Craig Montz LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigmontz/ Company Website https://mcclurevision.com/ About Coyle Group Coyle Group provides safety outsourcing and managed services for high-impact projects across wind, utilities, power generation, engineering, and construction. With 25+ years of experience, 100+ safety professionals, and 1M+ safety hours completed, Coyle Group helps projects run safely and compliantly. Learn more: https://coyle-group.com/ About the Podcast I’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, safety, engineering, and success in the construction industry. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more insights for construction business owners, engineers, project leaders, and industry professionals.

  5. Jun 2

    What Does an Inclusive Construction Industry Really Look Like?

    Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you're a construction business owner, contractor, project leader, safety professional, or someone responsible for building better teams, inclusion is not just an HR policy or a box-ticking exercise. In this episode, Anne Okafor, Founder of Okaforia Limited, joins Gavin Coyle to discuss what an inclusive construction industry really looks like and why it matters for safety, quality, culture, recruitment, reputation, and business performance. You’ll learn: Why inclusion affects everyone in construction Why diversity and inclusion cannot sit only with HR Why company culture has to start from the top How poor workplace culture can affect safety and quality Why small everyday behaviours can become bigger problems Why job adverts and recruitment processes may put people off Why inclusion is not just about hiring more women How inclusive teams can help produce better buildings and better products Why ESG and client expectations are making this topic more important Why being inclusive starts with being a decent human being 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps 00:00 Why diverse teams create better products 01:53 Introduction to Anne Okafor 03:46 Anne’s journey into construction 06:12 What does an inclusive construction industry look like? 07:24 Legal requirements and industry standards 09:31 Why inclusion cannot be an afterthought 11:18 Is diversity and inclusion just HR? 19:23 Diversity and inclusion as safety near misses 22:53 Why safety is physical and emotional 27:08 Why inclusion is more than women in construction Connect with Anne Okafor LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anneokafor/ Website https://www.anneokafor.com/ About the Podcast I’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders. #ImTheGaffer #ConstructionBusiness #ConstructionLeadership #ConstructionIndustry #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusionInConstruction #WomenInConstruction #ConstructionCulture #HealthAndSafety #WorkplaceCulture #ESG #Leadership

  6. May 26

    Mental Health Support in Construction | Mary Grady & Alan Worrall

    Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you work in construction, health and safety, contracting, site management, or lead teams on site, this episode is an important conversation about mental health, support, and looking out for people before they reach crisis point. In this episode, Gavin Coyle is joined by Mary Grady and Alan Worrall for an important conversation about mental health support in the construction industry and the work of the Lighthouse Charity in Ireland. They discuss why construction workers need support before crisis point, how employers and HSE professionals can spot the signs, and why a quiet chat can sometimes make a major difference. You’ll learn: Why mental health support matters in construction How the Lighthouse Charity supports workers and families Why financial pressure is a major issue for many workers How mental health first aid and peer support can help Why the Make It Visible van is creating real conversations on site How employers can build support into workplace culture 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps 00:00 Mental health first aid in construction 01:11 Introduction to Mary Grady and Alan Worrall 03:31 What the Lighthouse Charity does 03:43 Built by construction workers, for construction workers 04:28 Financial struggles and support requests 05:15 Alan’s role in health and safety 08:33 Why HSE professionals are important signposts 11:14 Rising need for mental health support 16:07 The impact of suicide in construction 17:35 Mental health of health and safety professionals 23:20 Why construction-specific support matters 28:02 The importance of communication and connection 34:04 Wellbeing beyond the basics 40:44 Encouraging proactive support in the workplace Find out more about Summer Lunch 2026: Purchase tickets or tables: https://lighthousecharity.org/events/ireland-summer-lunch-2026/Bid for auction items online: https://app.galabid.com/lighthouse-charity/itemsYou can’t attend but would like to make a donation?: https://lighthousecharity.org/donate Companies interested in partnering with The Lighthouse Charity can become a Company Supporter, set up a Lighthouse Day Fundraiser, or learn more about the charity. Contact: Mary Grady Email: mary.grady@lighthousecharity.org Role: Partnership Manager, Ireland East Region More info: https://lighthousecharity.org/lighthouse-charity-company-supporter/ Connect with Mary Grady LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-grady/ Connect with Alan Worrall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-worrall-190646135/ Lighthouse Charity Website: https://www.lighthousecharity.org/ About the Podcast I’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more insights for construction business owners, contractors, health and safety professionals, and construction leaders. #ImTheGaffer #ConstructionMentalHealth #LighthouseCharity #ConstructionIndustry #HealthAndSafety #MentalHealthAwareness #ConstructionSafety #WorkplaceWellbeing #MentalHealthFirstAid #ConstructionLeadership #SiteSafety #ConstructionWorkers #WellbeingAtWork #HSE #ConstructionSupport

  7. May 12

    Revenue Is Not Profit: Financial Lessons for Contractors | Daniel Bamper

    Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you're a contractor, tradesman, roofer, HVAC business owner, or home service business owner, more revenue is not always the answer. In this episode, Daniel Bamper, Founder of Black Belt Ledgers, joins Gavin Coyle to discuss why construction businesses need better financial structure, clearer job costing, stronger cashflow tracking, and smarter margin control. Daniel works as a fractional CFO for contractors, tradesmen, and home service businesses, helping owners understand their numbers before small problems become expensive ones. You’ll learn: Why contractors need more than tax reports and bookkeeping Why cashflow can feel tight even when revenue looks strong How job costing helps contractors protect profit Why construction margins leave little room for mistakes How to track marketing beyond views and impressions Why calls, estimates, and booked jobs matter more than vanity metrics Why seven-figure businesses need weekly financial visibility How warranties can affect cashflow and tax strategy Why AI can improve efficiency but cannot replace judgment How one roofer made $100K less in revenue but added $400K to profit margins Why better systems can help contractors grow without simply doing more work 🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps 00:00 Construction margins and profit leaks 01:12 Introduction to Daniel Bamper 03:11 Daniel’s journey into construction finance 06:31 Why growing contractors outgrow old systems 08:55 Marketing numbers every contractor should know 13:18 Why contractors need accounting systems 18:10 Why contractors need to track warranties 25:15 Can AI replace financial advisors? 31:39 How one roofer added $400K to profit margins 43:28 Episode wrap-up Connect with Daniel Bamper Website https://blackbeltledgers.com/ Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-bamper/ LinkedIn About the Podcast I’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders. #ImTheGaffer #ConstructionBusiness #ContractorGrowth #ConstructionLeadership #ContractorFinance #Cashflow #ProfitMargins #JobCosting #ConstructionManagement #BusinessSystems

  8. May 5

    How Construction Businesses Can Find Hidden Risks Before They Cost Money | Bryan Guess

    Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️ If you're a construction business owner who only reacts when projects go wrong, you may already be losing money, time, and control without realising it. In this episode, Bryan Guess, Founder and Principal Consultant of Bartizan Strategic Group, joins Gavin Coyle to discuss how construction companies can identify hidden risks, improve systems, protect margins, and avoid costly mistakes before the damage is done. You’ll learn: Why project problems are often symptoms, not the real issue Why construction businesses need to look at risk before it hits How a risk register can protect your business Why “I don’t have time” is a dangerous excuse How documentation can prevent costly mistakes Why warranties and O&M manuals matter more than many owners realise How poor systems create repeat problems Why throwing more people at a project is often just a Band-Aid How to deal with high-performing but difficult team members Why structure, strategy, and systems matter in construction leadership Sponsored by Hustro.com Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software. Spend 75% less time on inspections and reports and streamline your construction documentation. Start and claim 2 months free using code “GAVIN” → https://hustro.com/gavin 🎯 Episode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters) 00:00 Sponsored by Hustro.com 01:20 Introduction to Bryan Guess 02:23 The story behind Bartizan Strategic Group 04:34 Bryan’s gap analysis approach 08:32 Why construction companies need a risk register 09:04 Working on the business vs in the business 14:13 The Washington DC roof leak case study 16:48 The importance of documentation and detective work 20:48 Why O&M manuals matter at handover 23:38 Why warranties should be checked before repairs 29:20 How Bartizan Strategic Group supports project-based businesses 31:02 Why processes must change as companies scale 34:46 Why tribal knowledge creates business risk 38:27 Managing a difficult but high-performing project manager 43:20 Bryan’s favourite books 46:04 Where to connect with Bryan Guess 48:18 Episode wrap-up Connect with Bryan GuessWebsite https://bartizan.group/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-guess/ About the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry. Listen on: Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Website https://www.imthegaffer.com Subscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders. #ImTheGaffer #Construction #ConstructionBusiness #ContractorGrowth #ConstructionLeadership #ConstructionRisk #BusinessSystems

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I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer this podcast is for you. Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building industry. As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

Information

  • Creator
    Gavin Coyle
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    119
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Gavin Coyle
  • Show Website
    I'm The Gaffer