The CM Mentors Podcast

Matt Graves & Kyle Grandell
  • 5.0 (10)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The CM Mentors Podcast

The CM Mentors Podcast is an informative, entertaining, and interactive experience for construction managers by construction managers. Each week, Matt Graves of Construction Yeti and Kyle Grandell of Dell Management have an Industry Expert Guest and have a conversation about a construction project management-specific topic and career guidance. While the target audience is Entry to Mid-level construction professionals, the conversations hold value for every experience level. The format is split between a normal Podcast discussion with the guest, Kyle, & Matt, and an open Q&A with the Live Audience. For more information on the podcast, the upcoming guest recording schedule, learn how to be in the Live Audience/ Q&A, and subscribe to the Construction Curiosities Newsletter head to: https://constructionyeti.substack.com/ constructionyeti.substack.com

  1. OCT 16

    Revolutionizing Construction: Remote Management, Tech Trends & Workforce Shifts

    Episode Summary: In this episode, hosts Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell take a break from guest interviews to catch up with each other and dive deep into some of the key trends impacting the construction management industry today. From discussing the challenges of balancing remote project management with on-site supervision to evaluating the potential future of AI and technology in construction, this conversation covers a wide range of topics relevant to anyone in the field. They also reflect on the growing importance of work-life balance in the industry, the impact of evolving workforce dynamics, and what resiliency means for the construction industry as it faces both economic shifts and labor shortages. Key Topics Covered * Remote Construction Management: Can construction projects be managed fully remotely? Matt and Kyle explore the pros, cons, and the role of technology in bridging the gap between on-site and remote work. * Technology Trends in Construction: A discussion on the latest advancements in AR, VR, drones, and AI in the industry, and whether the tech is mature enough to replace traditional on-site supervision. * Workforce Shortages & Changing Generational Values: How shifting work preferences, like the desire for work-life balance, are reshaping the industry and the way companies approach hiring and retention. * The Future of Construction Management: Speculations on what changes, such as potential tax reforms on overtime pay, could mean for the roles and responsibilities of construction professionals. * Building Resiliency in Uncertain Times: Matt and Kyle share their thoughts on how to remain resilient as an industry in the face of economic uncertainty, with insights for both business owners and younger professionals. Get in Touch: Matt and Kyle encourage listeners to share their feedback on the show format. Do you enjoy the candid chats between the hosts, or prefer episodes featuring guest interviews? Let them know on social media or leave a comment! Additionally, if you're interested in seeing live episodes via LinkedIn, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Watch the interview on YouTube: Hosts: * Matt Graves * Kyle Grandell Tune in for this insightful, unscripted conversation, and be sure to subscribe for more content from the CM Mentors Podcast! Get full access to Construction Yeti at constructionyeti.substack.com/subscribe

    45 min

  2. OCT 1

    The Hunt: Inside Secrets to Hiring Top Construction Talent with Ted Keyport, Headhunter with Keyport Search

    Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the CM Mentors Podcast, hosts Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell sit down with Ted Keyport, a seasoned headhunter, and Principal at Keyport Search, who specializes in finding top talent in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Ted provides behind-the-scenes insights into the recruitment process, covering key challenges, trends, and strategies for success in construction management and skilled trades hiring. You will learn what differentiates successful candidates and how companies can attract the best talent in a competitive market. Key Topics Covered * Ted Keyport's career journey: From teaching English abroad to launching a successful recruiting firm. * How COVID-19 shaped Ted's decision to start his own headhunting business. * Recruitment challenges and opportunities in the construction and manufacturing sectors. * The importance of progressive career growth and showcasing it effectively during interviews. * Differences between old-school and new-school recruiting approaches. * What makes for a successful hire: communication skills, preparation, and the importance of asking the right questions in an interview. * Advice for young professionals in the construction industry looking to stand out in a competitive job market. * How to work with recruiters and update your LinkedIn profile for maximum visibility. Watch the interview on YouTube: Guest Summary: Ted Keyport is a principal headhunter at Keyport Search, specializing in recruiting for the engineering and manufacturing sectors. With a background in both recruiting and running his own firm, Ted brings a wealth of experience in finding and placing top-tier talent across a range of industries. Known for his direct, practical approach, Ted helps companies source skilled professionals while guiding candidates to navigate the job market successfully. How to Connect with Ted Keyport: * Email: ted@keyportsearch.com * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedkeyport/  Hosts: * Matt Graves * Kyle Grandell Stay Connected: * Follow, like, and share the CM Mentors podcast on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and Streamyard. * For any upcoming projects, job opportunities, or to be a guest on the show, DM us on social media Get full access to Construction Yeti at constructionyeti.substack.com/subscribe

    58 min

  3. SEP 17

    Habits, Tools, and Time-Saving Hacks for Construction Professionals with Jared Agee

    Episode Summary: In this episode of the CM Mentors Podcast, hosts Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell sit down with Jared Agee, Senior Project Support and Analysis at Nestlé Purina USA, to explore his diverse career in the construction industry. From starting on a farm to navigating the intricacies of industrial projects, Jared shares his personal journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way.  * In Part 1, the conversation dives into daily productivity habits and the practical tools that help construction professionals stay on track.  * Part 2 highlights Jared’s unique career path, moving from building inspections to high-level project management, while shedding light on the challenges he faced transitioning between roles in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.  * In Part 3, Jared discusses his international experiences, the importance of adopting cutting-edge project management strategies, and the critical role of mentorship in shaping the next generation of construction leaders.  With a blend of practical advice, career insights, and industry knowledge, this episode offers valuable takeaways for professionals at all stages of their construction careers. PART 1: Mastering the Daily Grind: Habits, Tools, and Time-Saving Hacks for Construction Pros In this episode of the CM Mentors podcast, Matt and Kyle chat with Jared Agee, Senior Manager of Project Support and Analysis at Nestle Purina. Jared shares insights from his extensive experience in construction management, industrial projects, and his personal take on leadership and strategy. The episode covers a range of topics including the challenges of email management in construction, mastering new skills, and the future of modularization in the industry. With Jared’s diverse background, the discussion is both practical and visionary, offering tips and strategies for overcoming the day-to-day challenges faced by construction professionals. Episode Highlights: * Rapid Fire: Getting to Know Jared * Favorite way to unwind: Enjoys family time and home construction projects. * Construction tool he’d like named after him: A specialized Caterpillar gator used for soil improvement. * Daily routine: Uses a "5-3-1" system to prioritize tasks for the day, focusing on key accomplishments. * Email Management in Construction * Jared shares his email management strategies, including reading emails in reverse order and using tools like Outlook’s threading function to stay organized. * Matt and Kyle chime in with their own experiences, with Matt advocating for the “done” folder system for email organization. * Mastering a Construction Skill: ModularizationJared discusses his interest in modularization as a skill that could revolutionize construction, offering time savings and safety benefits, especially in challenging environments like the northern U.S. during harsh winters. * Favorite Trade and Its Impact Jared highlights his admiration for electrical trades and the vast differences between residential, commercial, and industrial electrical work. He points out the critical role of electricians in automation and modern building systems. PART 2: From the Ground Up: Jared Agee's Career Path and Lessons Learned in Construction Management In this second part of the CM Mentors podcast, Matt, Kyle, and Jared delve into Jared’s journey from growing up on a farm to becoming Senior Project Support and Analysis Manager at Nestle Purina. They explore how Jared’s diverse career path, which included roles in construction management, municipal inspections, and structural steel projects, provided him with a unique perspective on project management, industrial construction, and the importance of analytical thinking. The episode also emphasizes the value of proper planning, the dangers of complacency, and how modularization can transform the construction industry. Episode Highlights: * Jared’s Career JourneyJared shares his career story, starting from his farm upbringin

    59 min

  4. SEP 3

    Building Tomorrow: Navigating Networks and Mentorship with TEXO's Ashlyn Smith

    Episode Summary: In this episode of the CM Mentors podcast, hosts Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell chat with Ashlyn Smith, the VP of Member Services at TEXO Association. TEXO combines two of the largest national construction associations, AGC and ABC, under one roof, providing invaluable resources to its members. Ashlyn shares her unique career journey, the importance of association engagement, and how TEXO supports the construction industry, particularly for younger generations. Key Topics Discussed: * Ashlyn's career path from interior design to VP of Member Services at TEXO * The role and benefits of TEXO Association, combining 2 National Chapters * The importance of strategic alignment and member engagement within associations * How TEXO supports workforce development and mentorship through programs like the Young Constructors Council * The evolving construction industry and the integration of new generations and technology * The importance of building and maintaining professional networks for career growth * How TEXO caters to both small and large companies with tailored resources * The role of technology in construction and TEXO's Technology Committee Watch the interview on YouTube: About Ashlyn Smith: Ashlyn Smith, the VP of Member Services at TEXO Association, brings a wealth of experience in association management and professional development. With a background in interior design and a passion for mentorship, Ashlyn is dedicated to supporting the construction industry and its next generation of leaders. At TEXO, she works to align strategic goals with member needs, providing valuable resources and fostering a strong professional community. Connect with Ashlyn: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlyn-smith-m-ed-04101364/ * Email: Ashlyn@texoassociation.org Hosts: * Matt Graves * Kyle Grandell Sponsored by: Dell Management - Providing construction management services and owner’s representation for Fortune 500 companies in the manufacturing sector. Contact via email or LinkedIn for more information. Stay Connected: * Follow, like, and share the CM Mentors podcast on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and Streamyard. * For any upcoming projects, job opportunities, or to be a guest on the show, DM us on social media Get full access to Construction Yeti at constructionyeti.substack.com/subscribe

    40 min

  5. AUG 20

    Reviving the Past: How Pravo Construction Mastered Re-Use Renovation

    Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the CM Mentors Podcast, hosts Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell sit down with Drew Hanish, CEO of Pravo Construction, based out of Austin, TX. Drew shares his journey from a small town in North Texas to becoming the CEO of a thriving construction company that specializes in commercial construction and Re-Use renovation. The conversation gives into the challenges and rewards of historical renovation projects, the importance of building strong client relationships, and how Pravo Construction has navigated industry changes since its inception in 2016. Drew also offers valuable advice for the next generation of construction professionals, emphasizing the importance of asking questions and learning from industry veterans. Key Topics Discussed: * Drew Hanish's background and journey into construction management. * The founding and growth of Pravo Construction. * Challenges and strategies in historical renovation and adaptive reuse projects. * The importance of early contractor involvement in complex renovation projects. * Shifting from a general approach to a niche focus on historical renovation. * The role of project management software in improving efficiency. * Insights on maintaining repeat clients and building lasting relationships. * The future of construction with AI tools and advanced project management systems. * Advice for young professionals entering the construction industry. Watch the interview on YouTube: About Drew Hanish: Drew Hanish is the CEO of Pravo Construction, a company specializing in commercial construction and historical renovation projects based in Austin, TX. With a degree in Construction Management from the University of Minnesota and a background in high-tech manufacturing construction, Drew has led Pravo Construction since its founding in 2016. Under his leadership, Pravo has become known for its expertise in adaptive reuse and complex renovation projects. Drew is passionate about construction and committed to mentoring the next generation of industry professionals. Connect with Drew: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-hanish/ * Pravo Construction Website: https://pravoconstruction.com/ Hosts: * Matt Graves * Kyle Grandell Sponsored by: Dell Management - Providing construction management services and owner’s representation for Fortune 500 companies in the manufacturing sector. Contact via email or LinkedIn for more information. Stay Connected: * Follow, like, and share the CM Mentors podcast on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and Streamyard. * For any upcoming projects, job opportunities, or to be a guest on the show, DM us on social media Get full access to Construction Yeti at constructionyeti.substack.com/subscribe

    50 min

  6. AUG 6

    From Basics to Brilliance: The Key to Engineering and Construction Success with Kathryn Mattox

    Episode Summary: In this episode, hosts Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell speak with Kathryn Mattox, Senior Manager of Capital Governance for Nestlé USA. Kathryn shares her extensive career journey, from her beginnings in chemical engineering to her current role at Nestlé. She talks about her experiences with gender bias in the construction and engineering industries, her involvement in women’s mentorship programs, and the importance of fundamentals in the workplace. Kathryn also offers valuable advice for women in the industry and emphasizes the need for gender intelligence. Key Topics Discussed: * Introduction to Kathryn Mattox: * Background in chemical engineering from the University of Dayton. * Career journey through Proctor & Gamble, Kraft, and Nestlé. * Current role in Capital Governance at Nestlé USA. * Gender Bias in Industry: * Kathryn's personal experiences with gender bias on job sites. * Stories highlighting challenges faced by women in engineering and construction. * The importance of setting boundaries and having prepared responses to inappropriate comments. * Women in Engineering and Manufacturing: * Creation and growth of Nestlé’s Women Engineering Leadership Team and Women in Manufacturing Organization. * Impact of these programs on fostering community and support among women in the industry. * Career Advice and Mentorship: * Advice for women and new professionals facing bias and challenges. * Importance of preparing responses to bias and setting professional boundaries. * Value of diverse teams and gender intelligence in different work environments. * Industry Trends and Fundamentals: * The need for strong fundamentals in engineering and construction. * Observations on the generational gap in skills and the importance of mentorship. * Experiences with new technologies and balancing traditional skills with modern innovations. * Personal Insights and Philosophy: * Kathryn’s commitment to living an inspired life and inspiring others. * The role of curiosity and continuous learning in career success. * Reflections on managing job site safety and team dynamics during challenging projects. Watch the interview on YouTube: About Kathryn Mattox: Kathryn Mattox is the Senior Manager of Capital Governance for Nestlé USA. With a background in chemical engineering and extensive experience in the consumer goods industry, Kathryn has played significant roles at Proctor & Gamble, Kraft, and Nestlé. She has been a strong advocate for women in engineering and manufacturing, leading initiatives to support and mentor women in these fields. Connect with Kathryn: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-mattox-1258a92a/ For inquiries about guest opportunities, topics, or feedback, connect with us on LinkedIn or email Matt Graves at matt@constructionyeti.com Don't forget to like, follow, share, and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes and content from CM Mentors. Get full access to Construction Yeti at constructionyeti.substack.com/subscribe

    49 min

  7. JUL 16

    Matt & Kyle Catchup and Season 2 (so far) Recap

    Episode Summary: In this special episode of the CM Mentors podcast, hosts Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell take a break from their usual guest interviews to catch up on the latest happenings in their lives, discuss the progress of the season so far, and share insights on current trends and topics in the construction industry. This candid and relaxed conversation gives listeners a chance to hear the hosts' perspectives on both personal and professional fronts. Key Topics Discussed: Current Job Sites: * Matt's long-term, phased project with multiple parts and steady progress. * Kyle's recent move to Rockford, Illinois, and ongoing work on a large pet food plant in Indiana Season Highlights: * Reflections on guests like Alex and Gloria, highlighting their career transitions into construction and entrepreneurial journeys. * Recurring themes and new insights from various episodes, including estimating, cost management, and business ownership. Industry Optimism: * Positive outlook from guests despite industry challenges. * Debate on whether the optimism reflects a broader industry trend or selective guest experiences. Business and Technology: * New technologies and processes at Dell Management, including AI for social media and 360-degree imagery for project documentation. * Interest in emerging technologies like automated surveying robots from SuperDroid Robots. Challenges and Trends: * Economic and political factors influencing project funding and timelines. * The impact of COVID-19 on the industry and the gradual return to normalcy. Future Plans and Excitement: * Anticipation for delayed projects to kick off. * Emphasis on business development and new opportunities in the second half of the year. Watch the interview on YouTube: Call to Action: Don't forget to follow the CM Mentors podcast on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, Streamyard, and other platforms. If you have suggestions for topics or guests, or if you want to be a guest yourself, reach out to Matt and Kyle via LinkedIn or email. Your feedback and participation are highly valued! Thank you for listening and stay tuned for more exciting episodes and insightful conversations in the construction industry. Connect with Matt: * Email: matt@constructionyeti.com * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-graves-pmp/ Connect with Kyle: * Email: kyle@dellmanagement.com * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-grandell/ This episode is sponsored by AltCMO, the go-to fractional CMO agency specializing in the construction industry. For Senior Level, Executive Marketing Strategy and Delivery, reach out to AltCMO and benefit from their extensive experience and growing team. Get full access to Construction Yeti at constructionyeti.substack.com/subscribe

    29 min

  8. JUL 2

    Mastering Change Orders with Patrick Reiser

    Episode Summary: In this episode of CM Mentors, Matt Graves and Kyle Grandell welcome Patrick Reiser, Principal of Reiser Cost Consultants (RCC). Patrick delves into his extensive experience in commercial real estate, emphasizing the critical role of proactive cost control measures in construction projects. He highlights the importance of fair and equitable solutions for both owners and contractors, providing insights into change management, cost validation, and the intricacies of estimating. Patrick also shares his journey from various roles in the industry to starting his own consulting firm. Key Topics Discussed: Patrick Reiser’s Background: * Transition from residential building component supplier to general contractor and owner-side roles. * Launching Reiser Cost Consultants in February 2024. Proactive Cost Control: * Importance of early involvement in projects for effective cost control. * Balancing the financial interests of owners and the cash flow needs of trades. Change Order Management: * Detailed breakdown of tasks and costs to ensure transparency. * Avoiding the common pitfall of simply stating "this seems high" without factual basis. * Emphasis on agreement over scope before discussing pricing. Estimating and Cost Validation: * Handling indirect labor and means and methods in cost estimation. * The impact of material price fluctuations and labor cost increases on project budgets. Effective Communication: * Strategies for navigating contentious discussions about change orders. * Importance of clear, detailed, and logical explanations in cost-related conversations. Industry Trends and Challenges: * Variability in subcontractor approaches to indirect labor costs. * The necessity of flexible yet grounded contract language regarding change orders. Watch the interview on YouTube: About Patrick Reiser: Patrick Reiser is the Principal at Reiser Cost Consultants, leveraging his extensive experience from both the owner and contractor sides to provide equitable solutions in construction projects. Skilled in negotiation, mediation, cost validation, estimating, and constructability, Patrick holds a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Science and Technology from James Madison University. He has held various roles in the construction industry, including Director of Construction Support at Axias, Inc., Senior Cost Manager, and Construction Manager at Carr Properties. Patrick is also a speaker at industry conferences, sharing his expertise in change management and cost control. Connect with Patrick Reiser: * Website: https://reisercc.com/ * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickreiser/  This episode is sponsored by AltCMO, the go-to fractional CMO agency specializing in the construction industry. For marketing support, reach out to AltCMO and benefit from their extensive experience and growing team. Don’t forget to like, follow, and share the podcast. If you have any questions for Patrick or topics you’d like us to cover, feel free to reach out. Thank you for listening! Get full access to Construction Yeti at constructionyeti.substack.com/subscribe

    53 min
See All (50)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

The CM Mentors Podcast is an informative, entertaining, and interactive experience for construction managers by construction managers. Each week, Matt Graves of Construction Yeti and Kyle Grandell of Dell Management have an Industry Expert Guest and have a conversation about a construction project management-specific topic and career guidance. While the target audience is Entry to Mid-level construction professionals, the conversations hold value for every experience level. The format is split between a normal Podcast discussion with the guest, Kyle, & Matt, and an open Q&A with the Live Audience. For more information on the podcast, the upcoming guest recording schedule, learn how to be in the Live Audience/ Q&A, and subscribe to the Construction Curiosities Newsletter head to: https://constructionyeti.substack.com/ constructionyeti.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Graves & Kyle Grandell
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    50
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Matt Graves
  • Show Website
    The CM Mentors Podcast

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