In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with Mick Hawes, founder of Builders Business Black Belt. Mick shares his journey from being an electrician to becoming a business coach for residential builders, with a mission to eliminate pain points in the construction industry.

Mick Hawes is a seasoned coach, entrepreneur, and host of the podcast The Toolshed dedicated to helping builders and building business owners achieve greater success. With over 20 years in the industry, Mick transforms the way builders operate, focusing on increasing profits, reclaiming time, and fostering personal growth. Mick's holistic approach emphasizes positive mindset, efficient processes, and strong client relationships. Mick’s practical strategies and insightful coaching have made Builders Business Blackbelt a trusted resource for builders looking to transform their businesses.

Mick's links

https://buildersbusinessblackbelt.com.au

https://bit.ly/JoinTheToolshed

Website

Introduction to the Construction Champions Podcast (00:00:00) - The host, Ron Nussbaum, introduces the Construction Champions podcast and welcomes the guest, Mick, to discuss what it means to be a construction champion.

Mick's Background and Journey (00:00:53) - Mick shares his background, including how he got into the construction industry, his experience as a professional musician and insurance salesman, and how he eventually started his own coaching business for residential builders.

What Makes a Construction Champion? (00:04:20) - Mick discusses the importance of construction business owners and leaders working on themselves first in order to be a great example and leader for their team. He emphasizes the need to prioritize self-care and not neglect one's own well-being.

The Management Matrix and Treating Team Members as Individuals (00:09:52) - Mick explains a management matrix framework that looks at four different levels of team member experience and maturity, and the importance of tailoring one's leadership approach to each individual rather than treating everyone the same.

Promoting the Wrong People and Discovering Team Member Passions (00:13:17) - The discussion turns to the common construction industry practice of promoting top performers into leadership roles without considering if they actually want or are suited for that responsibility. Mick emphasizes the importance of having open conversations to understand each team member's true interests and abilities.

The 6 Types of Working Genius and Aligning Team Members (00:16:12) - Mick introduces the concept of the 6 types of working genius from Patrick Lencioni's work, and how understanding one's own and one's team's strengths and weaknesses can help align people in the right roles.

Creating a Fun, Productive Work Environment (00:25:39) - The conversation concludes by discussing ways to make the construction work environment more fun and enjoyable for employees, without sacrificing productivity, through open communication, creative ideas, and focusing on team member happiness.

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews David Hurley, the founder of Home Pro Booster - a company that partners with construction and home service professionals to help them build an online presence and boost their marketing.

About David

David Hurley, a successful tech entrepreneur who has had 3 successful exits. He grew up in a construction family (dad and mom), and has done everything from electrical to framing, roofing to plumbing. Knowing, firsthand, the pitfalls business owners face when it comes to marketing their home service business, David put his knowledge and experience in the website and marketing field to good use and started Home Pro Booster.

David's links

http://homeprobooster.com/

Website

What makes a "construction champion" - the 4 key pillars (00:05:14)

The construction industry's resistance to technology and digital marketing (00:10:08)

The importance of a professional online presence and branding for contractors (00:13:46)

How HomePro Booster simplifies digital marketing for construction businesses (00:21:25)

embracing technology, professionalism in construction, construction industry, David Hurley, Construction Champions Podcast, tech adoption, professional standards, construction success, modernizing construction, project outcomes, Ron Nussbaum, construction practices, balancing innovation and tradition

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with Patrick Nelson, the founder and CEO of Loyalty Point Leadership. Patrick shares his insights on what it takes to be a true construction champion, drawing on his experiences in the military and working with construction companies of all sizes.

About Patrick

Patrick's links

NEW BOOK - https://loyaltypointleadership.com/book/

www.LoyaltyPointLeadership.com

Website

Why leadership skills are critical for success, beyond just technical expertise (00:02:05)

Overcoming the "authority figure" mindset when taking on a leadership role (00:06:57)

The importance of leading through influence rather than just position or title (00:05:19)

Addressing safety challenges and the role of relationships on the jobsite (00:14:04)

Changing the legacy mindset around safety in construction (00:21:20)

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with guest Brent Lee to discuss leadership, communication, and building a foundation for tomorrow's construction leaders. Brent shares his insights on what makes a true "construction champion" and how companies can invest in their employees to drive long-term success.

About Brent

Brent Lee is a distinguished Marine Corps veteran with seven years of dedicated service, during which he was deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq. Throughout his military career, Brent honed his skills in leadership and communication, applying them effectively in various challenging environments. His experiences in these high-stakes situations have equipped him with a unique perspective and a versatile skill set.With an impressive track record spanning over 19 years, Brent has continually demonstrated his ability to lead and inspire in diverse and demanding contexts. He holds a Master's degree in Adult Education and Corporate Training, as well as a Bachelor's degree in Business Management. Brent's extensive education is complemented by multiple professional certifications, including being a John Maxwell Executive Program Leader and a Behavioral Analysis (DISC) Consultant and Trainer. These credentials affirm his status as a true expert in his field.From navigating the rugged mountains of Afghanistan to thriving in the corporate world of the United States, Brent's career is marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for leadership. His diverse experiences have enabled him to apply advanced theories and concepts across a broad range of environments.Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brent is deeply committed to serving his community. He actively participates in the Wounded Warrior Project, supporting fellow veterans, and volunteers at his local church, where he contributes his time and energy to various community initiatives. In his leisure time, Brent enjoys practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and exploring the great outdoors, staying true to his adventurous spirit.Brent's motto, "Striving to build the foundation for tomorrow's leaders," reflects his unwavering dedication to empowering others and fostering future leaders.

Brent's links

https://www.skilleddevelopment.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@SkilledDevelopment/featured

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557788168344

Website

The $31 billion annual cost of communication breakdowns in construction [00:04:45 - 00:05:20]

Using DISC assessments to improve self-awareness and communication [00:09:19 - 00:10:33]

The role of personal values in driving passion and purpose [00:12:50 - 00:14:43]

Embracing discomfort and change as a path to growth [00:18:22 - 00:19:49]

Keywords: communication skills, leadership, construction industry, Brent Lee, Construction Champions Podcast, team management, project efficiency, effective communication, inspiring leadership, Ron Nussbaum, leadership strategies, team success, communication practices, construction leadership

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Brent Darnell, an expert in emotional intelligence and performance training for the construction industry. Brent has been teaching these critical people skills since 2000, with a focus on helping construction professionals achieve peak levels of mental, physical, and emotional performance.

About Brent

Brent Darnell is undoubtedly a transformative figure in the construction industry, pioneering the integration of emotional intelligence and soft skills into a traditionally male-dominated and technically focused field. His journey from being a third-generation construction worker to becoming an influential educator and thought leader reflects his deep understanding of the industry& it's needs and challenges.

Brent's Links

www.brentdarnell.com

https://www.brentdarnell.com/online-courses

Website

For CRM Solutions: BUILD12

What makes a "construction champion" - those who challenge the status quo and drive positive change in the industry (00:02:45)

The importance of embracing change and growth, rather than just waiting for change to happen (00:04:34)

The need to improve workforce development and make construction a more attractive industry for younger generations (00:05:15)

Brent's work helping construction companies transform their workforce's health and wellness habits (00:11:01)

The parallels between construction work and professional athletics, and the need to treat workers like "athletes" (00:16:14)

Addressing mental health, substance abuse, and the industry's historical stigma around these issues (00:19:59)

Recommendations for how construction companies can better support and care for their workforce (00:23:23)

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum is joined by Jennifer Castenson, Partnerships Manager at construction project management software company Buildxact. They dive into the key attributes of a "construction champion", the transformative potential of AI and technology in the industry, and strategies for driving change and collaboration.

About Jennifer

Jennifer Castenson serves as the vice president of ambassador and industry partner programs for Buildxact, providing leadership and collaboration through technology to drive a higher level of efficiencyfor builders and dealers. She develops and curates' content to be a catalyst for innovation with stakeholders involved in residential construction. She also is a contributing writer to Forbes.

Jennifer's links

Buildxact: https://www.buildxact.com/us/?utm_campaign=ent_ip_const_champs_podcast&utm_medium=enterprise&utm_source=construction_champs&utm_content=partner

Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jennifercastenson/?sh=40d4f2c84400

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-castenson-a650801/Twitter: https://twitter.com/patitzj

Website

Embracing change, collaboration and working with diverse stakeholders

Breaking down industry silos and "casting in concrete" mentalities

The role of technology and AI in construction (00:11:08)

Automating tasks, improving efficiency and reducing errors

Empowering homeowners with information and smarter decision-making

Enhancing communication and reducing "telephone game" issues

Strategies for driving innovation and progress (00:19:32)

Educating and equipping contractors and homeowners

Leveraging technology to improve speed, accuracy and profitability

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Roxxann Sczepanik, an executive recruiter at Joseph Chris Partners.

About Roxxann

What makes a "construction champion" - the importance of resilience (00:02:08)

Recruiting and developing talent from high schools and the military (00:05:15)

The challenges veterans face translating their skills to civilian jobs (00:07:56)

The importance of company culture and "culture fit" in hiring (00:16:50)

Reasons new hires may not succeed and the value of mentorship programs (00:24:26)

In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum interviews John Glover, a fractional integrator and business coach who helps small businesses implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). John shares his entrepreneurial journey, from taking over his family's janitorial supply business to eventually selling his stake and becoming an EOS implementer.

About John

As a former small business owner, I understand the complexities of running the day-to-day business while trying to work “on” your business. This gives me a tremendous advantage as a business coach because I’ve walked in your shoes. My 30+ years as an entrepreneur started with a family business that grew into a partnership and eventually ended with the successful sale of the business. More importantly, I wasintroduced to the Integrator role by Gino Wickman, who served as our Implementor in ourcompany’s EOS journey back in 2012.

John's links

www.coreintegrationcoaching.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-glover/

Website

(00:03:16) Bringing on a business partner, challenges of merging two companies

(00:03:53) Discovering the EOS system and the "visionary" vs "integrator" roles

(00:05:45) What makes a "construction champion" - the importance of leadership and mentorship in the trades

(00:11:33) Simplifying leadership and management with the EOS framework

(00:15:08) John's role as a fractional integrator - modeling the integrator role for visionary owners

(00:24:52) The benefits of the EOS system for creating accountability and healthy leadership teams

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Paul Neal, an expert in commercial real estate financing for construction businesses. Paul shares his insights on the benefits of construction companies owning their own commercial real estate, rather than leasing, and how this can help build long-term wealth and business stability.

About Paul

Paul's links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-neal-tea/

https://vpc.capital/

Website

[00:02:05] What makes a "construction champion" - someone committed to quality, lasting work that makes a difference

[00:03:09] The benefits of construction companies owning their own commercial real estate vs. leasing

[00:06:04] How owning commercial real estate is similar to buying a personal home, but with additional financial advantages

[00:09:44] Addressing common myths and misconceptions about the difficulty and down payment requirements for buying commercial property

[00:15:38] Paul's book "Unleash Your Business" and the process he uses to guide first-time commercial real estate buyers