I'm The Gaffer

Gavin Coyle
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I'm The Gaffer

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. 4D AGO

    Master Lean Construction with Barry Connolly | I’m the Gaffer

    Revolutionize your construction business with lean principles! In the Episode" I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Barry Connolly, Contracts Manager at GEM Construction, to explore lean construction. Learn how Barry’s journey and lean strategies improve predictability and efficiency. Subscribe and like to join the community, and share your thoughts below! Key Points: Barry shares lean implementation tips and benefits for SMEs. Episode Highlights: 00:16–Advice: Start with a lean construction or white belt course 01:07–Barry’s lean expertise and operational background 03:57–White belt training and early lean adoption 05:26–Lean goal: Predictability and waste reduction 07:19–Six-week pull plan for design and procurement 09:17–Milestone boards for project phase monitoring 11:45–Constraint management and root cause analysis 18:34–Goal: Faster unit weathering with timber frame 23:19–Software shift: Asta and Coplan for lean planning 25:40–Lean tips for small van businesses 29:27–Myth: Lean doesn’t cost jobs, boosts predictability 51:59–Outro: Praise for Barry’s passion and openness For more information about anything in this episode, head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 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. I’m The Gaffer, available on: Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

    54 min

  2. JUL 1

    Stay Focused in Construction: Avoid Distractions | I’m the Gaffer

    Master focus on your construction business! In the Episode " I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle dives into the importance of staying focused on your core services and avoiding distractions like unrelated add-ons (e.g., CCTV for electricians). Learn how branching out can confuse staff, damage your brand, and risk safety, especially for SMEs. Gavin shares strategies, such as strategic partnerships and the power of a living business plan, to guide growth without losing your lane. Subscribe and like to join the community, and drop your thoughts below! Key Points: Gavin discusses the pitfalls of diversifying beyond core skills, the value of partnerships, and the necessity of a business plan for SME construction owners. Episode Highlights: 00:10–Intro: Gavin introduces the focus on construction 00:40–Example: Electricians adding CCTV and the risks 01:10–Impact: Confusion in paperwork, systems, and language 01:40–Risks: Brand damage and health/safety issues 02:10–Challenge for SMEs: Staying focused on strengths 02:39–Gavin’s example: Pressure to add site managers 03:09 – Complexity: Learning new roles and industries 04:05–Equipment and training challenges 05:02–Strategic partnerships as an alternative 05:31–Clear client contracts to avoid confusion 06:00–Risks of unreliable partners damaging reputation 06:57–Long-term vision: Potential company amalgamation 07:27–Example: Carpentry vs. roofing conflicts 07:56–Capacity limits and cultural consistency 08:24–Walking away from tempting contracts 08:53–Evolving with a business plan over time 09:22–Benefits of SWOT analysis and regular reviews 10:20–Offer: Free business plan templates 10:48–Insights from business planning (e.g., cashflow issues) 11:15–Using data for pricing and target adjustments 11:45–Warning: Diversion can destroy SMEs 12:15–Value of staying in your lane for reputation 12:44–Outro: Subscribe, like, and stay tuned For more information about anything in this episode, head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 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. I’m The Gaffer, available on: Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

    14 min

  3. JUN 24

    Automating Timesheets for Construction Success | I’m the Gaffer

    Boost your construction business with automated timesheets! In the Episode of I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle dives solo into the critical topic of timesheets. Learn why tracking labor costs is your biggest expense, can save you from budget disasters, especially with the compound effect of untracked time. Gavin shares practical advice on choosing construction-specific mobile or desktop apps, leveraging free versions for SMEs, and even hiring a graduate to test them. Discover how automation improves efficiency, saves money, and frees you to focus on clients. Subscribe and like to join the community, and share your thoughts below! Key Points: Gavin explores the impact of untracked time on project budgets, the benefits of industry-specific apps, and simple steps to implement timesheet automation for small to medium enterprises. Episode Highlights: 00:00–Intro: Gavin introduces the topic of timesheets 00:20–Importance of tracking labor costs and budget 00:50–Compound effect of untracked time (e.g., 20 minutes daily) 01:20–Issues with discrepancies in lunch, break, and downtime 01:50–Detrimental effects of poor timesheet tracking in construction 02:20–Advice: Use construction-specific mobile/desktop apps 02:50–Benefits of MVPs tailored to the construction language 03:20–Narrowing down to 2-3 apps focused on timesheets 03:50–Avoiding complexity with unused features for SMEs 04:20–Free app versions for small teams (under 5 employees) 04:50–30-day free trials for scaling users/complexity 05:20–Overcoming tech fears: Apps are user-friendly 05:50–Tip: Hire a construction graduate to test apps 06:20–Gathering feedback from teams on preferred features 06:50–Transitioning from paper or trust-based models 07:20–Benefits of automation: Efficiency, savings, client focus 07:50–Outro: Subscribe, like, and stay safe For more information about anything in this episode head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 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. I’m The Gaffer, available on: Applehttps://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

    6 min

  4. JUN 16

    Revolutionizing Events: Innovation with Richard Goulding | I’m the Gaffer

    Shake up the events industry with innovation! In the Episode " I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Richard Goulding, Director at Exhibition Vision Event Services (Midlands) Ltd. Richard shares his 20+ year journey from radio DJ to events innovator, revealing how his company survived COVID with house removals and now leads with a game-changing online stand design tool. Learn how this tool saves time, boosts efficiency, and sets new standards for exhibition stands at venues like ExCeL. Perfect for event pros and SMEs! Subscribe for more insights, and share your thoughts in the comments! They Discuss: Richard’s unconventional start in events via a radio demo, his rise to overseeing exhibition projects, and surviving COVID with logistics pivots. The conversation explores the events industry’s size (billions), lack of regulation, and Richard’s new software to streamline stand design, reducing back-and-forth by days. Episode Highlights: 00:16 – Outsourcing software to a web designer 00:44 – Communication challenges with the designer 01:12 – Intro: Gavin welcomes Richard Goulding 01:39 – Richard’s start: Radio DJ to events 03:36 – Early career: Electronics and DJing 05:03 – 20+ years in the events industry 06:28 – Lack of regulation in events 09:22 – Industry worth billions 11:46 – Post-COVID growth and staff loss 12:49 – Survival with house removals 16:39 – Inefficiencies in stand design 23:29 – New online stand design system 24:25 – Time savings with 3D visuals 27:20 – Customer-driven software development 30:43 – Potential to license software 38:30 – Addressing last-minute stands 40:54 – Lessons for new exhibitors 46:47 – Curveball: Favorite book or film 47:16 – Regret: Employing staff earlier 48:43 – Fun fact: Birmingham City FC announcer 51:30 – Website: exhibitionvision.co.uk 52:59 – Outro: Praise and future plans For more information about anything in this episode , head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 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. I’m The Gaffer, available on: Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety #ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast #podcastclips

    54 min

  5. JUN 10

    Industrial Relations & Mental Health in Construction with Stuart Wallis | I’m the Gaffer

    Transforming construction with better relations and mental health support! In The Episode I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Stuart Wallis, Associate Director: Industrial Relations at Mace Group. Stuart shares his 30-year journey from factory shop steward to shaping Mace’s industrial relations strategy, tackling modern slavery in supply chains, and pioneering mental health initiatives like the Lions Barber Collective. Learn how Mace sets benchmarks for workforce wellbeing, from right-to-work checks to free on-site haircuts that spark life-changing conversations. Perfect for construction pros and SMEs! Subscribe for more insights and share your thoughts in the comments! They Discuss: Stuart’s career evolution, including union work and high-profile projects like Heathrow Terminal 5. He defines industrial relations as managing workforce relationships and mediating supply chain issues. The conversation dives into combating modern slavery with innovative checks that blocked 147 unauthorized workers, and his personal stand against unpaid labor. Stuart also explores mental health, revealing his ADHD and depression diagnoses, and how the Lions Barber Collective’s pop-up shops save lives. Episode Highlights: 00:00–Intro: Gavin welcomes Stuart Wallis 01:30–Stuart’s background: From factory to Mace Group 04:00–Key career moments: Heathrow and HS2 06:30–Defining industrial relations: A politician on site 09:00–Mediating supply chain challenges 12:30–Mace’s IR standard and union collaboration 15:00–Modern slavery in construction 17:00–Right-to-work checks: Blocking 147 unauthorized workers 20:00–Duty of care and legislative shifts 23:00–Culture and worker conditions 25:00–Confronting unpaid labor: A personal story 28:00–Mental health focus: Two suicides a day in construction 32:00–Lions Barber Collective: Free haircuts, deep talks 35:00–Stuart’s mental health journey: ADHD and depression 40:00–Life experiences shaping his approach 43:00–Family health challenges and Mace’s support 45:00–Breaking the stigma: Talk early 47:00–A tragic loss and its impact 49:00–Favorite books: Peter Kay and Alex Ferguson 50:00–Hidden talent: Pantomime pirate and weasel 52:30–Regret: Seeking teen mental health help 54:00–Connect with Stuart and future guests 55:30–Outro: Thanks, and future plans Connect with Stuart Wallis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartwallis/ At Mace, his team is pioneering an Industrial Relations Strategy that reshapes the engagement and wellbeing of our workforce across the supply chain. With a robust skill set in union negotiations and human resources, his role as Associate Director ensures that they are not only comply with industry standards but set new benchmarks for excellence. Stuart's commitment extends to mental health advocacy as a Construction Patron for The Lions Barber Collective, where alongside passionate colleagues, they elevate mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Championing a culture that prioritizes the safety and health of every worker aligns with Mace's values and my professional ethos; ensuring everyone Goes Home, safe and well. Mental Health Resources: Lions Barber Collective: http://heretotalktraining.com/ An award-winning training program teaches people how to have safe conversations with those struggling with mental health, connecting them to the support they need. Genius Within CIC: https://geniuswithin.org/ Trusted neurodiversity partner. Offering Neurodiversity Awareness Training, eLearning, Coaching, and the Genius Finder Pro profiling tool. Amazing especially for SMEs wanting to get the best out of their employees and give their employees the best chance to succeed. For more information about anything in this episode head to a...

    56 min

  6. JUN 2

    First 3 Hires for Construction Business Success | I’m the Gaffer

    Starting a construction business? Don’t hire wrong! In the Episode of I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle delivers a solo masterclass on choosing your first three hires to build a strong foundation. Discover why a project manager, skilled tradesperson, and office admin are key to moving from survival mode to sustainable growth. Gavin shares practical tips on hiring for attitude and fit, avoiding cheap labor pitfalls, and setting your business up for success. Perfect for new construction entrepreneurs! Subscribe for more insights, and share your hiring tips in the comments! They Discuss: Gavin emphasizes the critical role of your first hires as the backbone of your construction business. He explains why a project manager is essential for coordination, a skilled tradesperson sets the quality standard, and an office admin handles paperwork to keep you compliant and paid. He advises hiring for attitude over cost, warns against premature roles like estimators, and highlights the long-term value of a strong team. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Intro: Why your first hires matter 01:30 – The “why”: Team shapes culture and success 03:00 – Hire #1: Project manager, Your coordination expert 05:00 – Why coordination is key in construction 07:00 – Hire #2: Skilled tradesperson, Your quality anchor 09:00 – Hire #3: Office admin Mastering paperwork chaos 11:00 – Traits to seek: Detail-oriented and analytical 13:00 – Avoid cheap hires: Quality over cost 14:00 – Long-term savings of strong hires 15:00 – Wrap-up: Build your foundation For more information about anything in this episode, head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 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.   I’m The Gaffer, available on: Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety #ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast #podcastclips

    10 min

  7. MAY 27

    Construction Efficiency Secrets: Nick Coubray on Precision & Waste Reduction

    Want to boost efficiency in your construction projects? In Episode 68 of I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle sits down with Nick Coubray, CEO of Howick Ltd in New Zealand, to uncover game-changing strategies for construction efficiency. Nick shares how his company’s roll-forming steel framing systems are accurate to ±0.5mm, slash material waste, streamline workflows, and save time. From his journey in a family business to deploying machines in 85 countries, Nick offers practical tips for roofers, plumbers, and electricians to optimize daily operations. Learn how early planning, supply chain collaboration, and smart material choices can transform your projects. Subscribe for more construction insights, and share your efficiency hacks in the comments! They Discuss: Nick’s path from shop floor to CEO of Howick Ltd, a family business since 1978, specializing in precision steel framing machines. They explore reducing material and time waste, improving site safety through process control, and coordinating trades to avoid costly rework. Nick shares real-world examples, like pre-cut carpets and adjustable studs that cut labor by up to 70%, and addresses challenges like inaccurate slabs and the industry’s “race to the bottom” pricing Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Intro: Gavin introduces Nick Coubray and construction efficiency 02:30 – Nick’s backstory: Growing up in Howick Ltd’s family business 06:00 – Howick’s roll-forming machines: Precision steel framing explained 10:00 – Global footprint: Machines in 85 countries, from Mongolia to the Pacific 14:00 – Efficiency tips for trades: Planning and supply chain collaboration 18:00 – Case study: Pre-cut materials save 10% on costs 22:00 – Fixing slab accuracy to avoid downstream issues 26:00 – The downside of “race to the bottom” pricing 30:00 – Safety and waste reduction through modular construction 35:00 – Adjustable studs: Cutting labor by 70% For more information about anything in this episode head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 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. I’m The Gaffer, available on: Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety #ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast #podcastclips

    46 min

  8. MAY 20

    Business Health Analytics: Ray Murphy on Systems, Delegation & Growth

    Is your construction business thriving or just surviving? In the Episode of I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Ray Murphy, CEO of Acona Business Coaching and a seasoned construction industry veteran, to unpack the secrets of business health. From his journey as an accountant-turned-construction leader to navigating the 2007 08 recession, Ray shares actionable insights on using analytics to monitor your business, building systems to avoid chaos, and mastering delegation to prevent burnout. They discuss why chasing turnover can backfire, how to track key metrics like gross profit, and the power of saying “no” to protect your resources. Subscribe now for more expert tips, and tell us your favorite takeaway in the comments! Ray’s evolution from a reluctant accountant to co-founding an £8.5M construction firm with Colin Norman, including hard-won lessons from the recession. They explore why small businesses often lack planning and systems, the risks of overextending on big projects, and how monitoring costs can reveal inefficiencies. Ray also introduces practical tools like the task matrix to delegate effectively and stress the importance of working “on” your business, not just “in” it, for sustainable growth Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Ray Murphy, construction expert and business coach 02:30 – Ray’s journey: From accountant to plant manager at John Lelliott 06:00 – Building a £3.5M plant hire division in his 20s 10:00 – Transition to marketing and co-founding Sutherlands 14:00 – Recession lessons: Restructuring during 2007–08 18:00 – Why small businesses lack systems and health checks 22:00 – Analytics 101: Monitoring gross profit and costs 25:00 – The danger of chasing turnover without capacity 28:00 – Saying “no” to protect your business 30:00 – Delegation: Using the task matrix to free up time For more information about anything in this episode, head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 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. I’m The Gaffer, available on: Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety #ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast #podcastclips

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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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    76
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Gavin Coyle
  • Show Website
    I'm The Gaffer

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