Management Under Construction

Summary

In this conversation, Brad Wyant and Dee Davis discuss the evolution of meetings throughout their careers, emphasizing the importance of making meetings productive and efficient. They share personal experiences and insights on how to run effective meetings, take meaningful minutes, and ensure accountability through action items. The discussion also covers the role of technology in meetings, best practices for meeti...

Summary

In this episode of the Management Under Construction podcast, Brad Wyant and Dee Davis delve into the complexities of difficult conversations, exploring the reasons why they are often avoided and the emotional dynamics involved. They discuss personality styles, the impact of fear and discomfort, and provide strategies for effective communication. The hosts emphasize the importance of preparation, setting the right ...

Summary

In this episode of Management Under Construction, hosts Brad Wyant and Dee Davis discuss the critical importance of well-written Requests for Proposals (RFPs) in the construction industry. They explore the differences between RFPs and Requests for Qualifications (RFQs), share personal experiences with the bidding process, and emphasize the need for clear communication and detailed documentation. The conversation co...

Summary

In this episode of the Management Under Construction podcast, Brad Wyant and Dee Davis delve into the complexities of change orders in the construction industry. They discuss the importance of understanding change orders, the psychological factors influencing cost estimations, and the impact of low bidding on project costs. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of building trust between contractors and owners, ...

Summary

In this episode of Management Under Construction, Dee Davis and Brad Wyatt engage with Sharron Halpert, a fire stopping expert, to explore the critical aspects of fire stopping in construction. They discuss personal journeys into the field, the importance of understanding fire safety regulations, and the legal responsibilities contractors face. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication among ...

Summary

In this episode, Brad Wyant and Dee Davis discuss the challenges facing the construction industry, including flat productivity, safety concerns, and slow technological adoption. They explore the impact of specialization, the architect-contractor relationship, and various contracting hazards that hinder efficiency. The conversation also delves into moral hazards and learned selfishness within the industry, emphasizi...

Summary

In this episode, Brad Wyant and Dee Davis discuss the often-overlooked aspect of sustainability on job sites, particularly focusing on job site trailers. They explore the cultural attitudes towards cleanliness, the importance of creating a positive work environment, and the need for better waste management practices. The conversation highlights innovative solutions for reducing single-use items and emphasizes the r...

Summary

This conversation explores the multifaceted world of business travel, discussing its evolution, personal experiences, economic impacts, rising costs, and sustainability practices. The hosts share insights on navigating travel anxiety, dining expenses, and tips for maximizing rewards and benefits while traveling for business.

Takeaways

• Business travel has significantly changed since COVID-19.
• Personal preferenc...

Have you ever worked with a recruiter in your job search? Its wild out there right now! In this episode we are joined by Bryce Batts of Career Collective to examine the advantages of working with a professional recruiter as a job seeker and as an employer, as well as to discuss what is happening in the current job market. Bryce provides many tips for job seekers in putting your best foot forward in your job search. 

F...

ESG reporting means Environmental, Social and Governance, it is the way that companies that can quantify their level of responsibility to their shareholders. In this episode we explain what ESG reporting is and how we may see this grow in the future. We also examine the pros and cons of ESG reporting, its impacts to business and the environment, including examining the question - can you take environmental measures too far...

Isn't it our responsibility as leaders to take care of our people? One of the least taught skills in management and adulting in general is how to manage stress that comes at us from every direction in life. If you aren't managing your own stress, how can you perform well at work, show up for your family when you are needed, or be happy in your relationships?  In this episode Dee & Brad discuss what stress manageme...

In Episode 9 Dee & Brad explore how your company can be 24% more profitable - you heard me! When we throw people into the deep end with no training and then sit back and expect results, we are making a bet that will take a long time, or may never pay off. The sink or swim culture - you know the one, where you are hired, receive no training and are expected to "just know" what you are supposed to do. The construction in...

In this episode Dee & Brad welcome construction leader Harry Reynolds to the discussion about the advanced degree Masters in Business Administration, or MBA. We discuss what to expect, how an MBA program is quite different than a traditional masters degree, and what costs and benefits you could expect if you decide to pursue one for yourself. We also discuss the value of continuous learning, and how you can gain plenty...

Warning: this episode may be an uncomfortable topic, and have a few bad words in it - proceed only if you want to be a better human being and help men end the madness! In this episode Brad and Dee cover the sensitive topic of male toxicity and how it is impacting men and women in the workplace and in our daily lives. We discuss the "man card", and the ever moving goal post of what it is to be a man. We discuss how these ma...

In this episode Dee & Brad explore the complicated world of working parents. Parents have many challenges beyond raising kids to deal with including school schedules, work demands, return to office, and sick kids. Employers have a complicated web of ever changing laws, regulations and expenses to balance with employee needs and client demands. We also explore the dollars and cents of being a working parent and the gend...

What does made in the USA really mean, and how has it evolved? In this episode Brad & Dee share their personal stories and examine the history and definitions and labeling. We also dive into the pluses and minuses of importing and what we can each do in our various roles to influence a better result in our lives and on our projects.

Takeaways

• Made in the USA has evolved over time, reflecting changes in manufacturi...

The mental health crisis in the construction industry has reached a fever pitch. Dee & Brad review some alarming figures and discuss the many contributing factors to stress in the industry as well as some very personal stories. This episode speaks to everyone in the industry from the first year apprentice to trade contractors, GCs, and Owners and is a must listen. There is much we can do to contribute to being part of ...

In this episode Brad & Dee explore the speed to market we experience in the construction industry and the impacts that this has on design and construction. Is rushing design worth it? It is said that slower is faster, let's explore that idea and examine the pressures being put on the industry from various areas and take a critical look at the real cost of rushing to break ground.

Takeaways

• Design issues and change...