Feed Me Your Construction Content

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Ever wished you could peer into the minds of hiring managers, and understand what truly influences their decisions? Well, we're giving you the golden ticket! Join us as we decode the hiring process, guided by the insightful experiences of our guest, Carolyn. Together, we explore her personal journey of navigating the job market, the power of effective networking, and the crucial importance of sincerity in interviews. We also delve into the rigorous interview process she underwent, highlighting how it remains crucial even when you have an "in" at a renowned corporation. 

Navigating from the candidate's perspective to the employer's viewpoint, we unearth the significance of honesty and transparency in selecting the right job that aligns with your goals. We also touch upon the concept of hiring for skillsets, and the warning signs that a job might not be a sustainable choice. Carolyn shares her wisdom on the profound impact of mentoring, and how it can steer one's career path towards success. 

Finally, we dive into the realm of job postings and hiring strategies. We question the effectiveness of traditional job postings and explore the value in candidates who embody a growth mindset. We discuss the disheartening practice of ghosting potential candidates, and how it inevitably reflects on the reputation of employers. As we wrap up, we explore the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit within the team, the significance of alignment with company values, and much more. So, get ready to uncover a fresh perspective on the modern job market and the intricacies of the hiring process.

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Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Ever wondered what unexpected troubles can arise when building a house in a 55+ community? We bring you a fascinating conversation with our special guest, Diane, who illuminates us with her experiences of such a venture. She shares her journey of how an initial flat, promising piece of land transformed into a steep, unusable backyard due to inadequate grading. We delve into her revelation of the dangers lurking when the right drainage system is missing. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the ins and outs of construction processes and the absolute importance of getting answers in writing.

But there's more to the story than just grading. We also explore the ripple effects of making the wrong grading decisions and how they can potentially harm neighboring houses. The importance of on-site supervision lies at the heart of this discussion, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project. If navigating through the challenges of building isn't enough, Diane also takes us into the trials of living under the rules of an HOA, a reality many residents in these communities face.

Then, we shift gears and venture into the vibrant side of rural living. Diane regales us with stories of local wildlife encounters, including the unexpected adventure of bear sightings! We also touch on the necessary precautions people take, such as nuisance permits, and discuss the ramifications of shooting a bear. As we wrap up, we get a peek into the world of podcast editing, and our quest for the perfect sound bites. So, join us for an eclectic blend of construction wisdom, community dynamics, and a dash of rural adventure!

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Ready for a slice of home construction reality? Join us as we pull back the curtain on our latest house project, where triumph and challenge go hand in hand. Brace yourselves for a tale of navigating through seven inspections, acing five but tripping on two. Imagine hunting for an elusive euphor rod, with an inspector in tow, and the comedy of errors that ensued! Feel the thrill as we recount how the very presence of the inspector helped us spot and rectify niggling but crucial details that could have slipped through the cracks.

We're not just building a house; we're crafting a high-quality, energy-efficient haven. Listen to our air-sealing strategies, the tweaks made to our original blueprint, and the unexpected detours that led to a better version of our dream home. We also explore a hypothetical scenario; what if our project superintendent moonlighted? Or if this was a townhouse project? As we wrap up, we cast our gaze towards the horizon, looking at the next milestones on this exciting journey. Join us for an episode packed with knowledge, personal experiences and sprinkles of humor!

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Welcome to our rollercoaster ride of house building! We're your hosts, Josh and Carolyn, and this week we're giving you an all-access, behind-the-scenes look at our personal home construction project. Picture this: we're knee-deep in framing, installing a gigantic vinyl slider, coordinating trades, and making countless critical decisions. Hear about the time we almost made a blunder, missing two anchor bolts, and how luck came into play. And yes, we managed to stay under budget on our lumber, despite the changes we made!

Ever wondered about the tiny, yet crucial details that go into building a home? We're breaking it down for you. From ensuring the roof was dried in to prevent rain damage, to the challenge of getting the trunk lines to the right side of the house - we've got stories to share. We'll also reveal how we juggled the push and pull of designing a home and the importance of coordinating trades, walking the job twice a day, and double-checking every single proposal. Plus, we'll share why we chose white oak stair treads and the role of inspection in home building. Buckle up; it's going to be a thrilling ride!

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Are you buried under a mountain of emails? Struggling to keep your inbox organized and losing precious time in the process? That's about to change. In this episode, we tackle the all-pervading issue of email inefficiency, specifically in the construction industry, and share some practical tips to help you reclaim your time. We’ll explore why emails often feel overwhelming, the benefits of dedicating a specific block of time to manage them, and why it's critical to view emails as information rather than tasks. By understanding the true purpose of emails, we believe you can enhance your productivity significantly.

As we delve deeper into the email conundrum, we explore the power of organization and effective communication. Clear and concise subject lines, the creation of project-specific folders, and the importance of brevity and clarity in communicating with clients and vendors are all touched up on. We'll help you decipher how to keep the main message in focus, ensuring that you can wade through your inbox at lightning speed without missing any crucial information.

But we're not stopping there. This episode also takes you on a journey through the art of effective email communication and managing distractions. We discuss how easy it is to waste time with poorly crafted emails, the importance of mindful CC'ing, and the idea of setting specific times to check emails and communicating that to your team. You'll also learn the benefits of setting out-of-office notifications during your email catch-up time to maintain focus. We believe that these insights will help you master the art of efficient email communication, leading to a more organized and productive work life. So, tune in, and let's conquer the chaos together!

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Are you tired of the ceaseless race to outperform yourself at work, often wondering if your effort is visible or valued? We've been there too. That's why this episode is dedicated to unpacking the complexities of managing workload and expectations while striving to give your best. We tackle the influence of arrival and departure times on perceptions, the necessity of unplugging, and the tactical art of letting others know about your work without sounding boastful. Oh, and we'll also be sharing game-changing tips on how to steer clear from the constant influx of emails that can seriously hamper your productivity.

On a quest for perfection at work? We get it. But let's take a moment to question - does every task require a perfect outcome, or can we redefine perfection to mean effective completion? In this candid chat, we explore this thought, and more. We discuss how empowering your team can work wonders in boosting efficiency and adding value to business. We'll give you a fresh perspective on saving time and elevating your role through smart effort, not hard labor. And, as our special guest, Carolin suggests, we'll discuss the power of dedicating just 15 minutes every morning to set the tone for the day and map out accomplishments. So, buckle up and get ready to revolutionize the way you work.

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Ever wondered if there's a more efficient way to maximize your career growth? We've got some insights for you! This episode offers an in-depth exploration of the 80/20 principle and its significance when transitioning to a new job or field. We share experiences about the initial phase where giving 110% seems necessary to get the hang of things, whether it's through overtime, self-learning, or even training programs. But, what happens when you hit a plateau? Is continuously pushing yourself the best approach? Tune in as we dissect these concerns for both salaried and commission-based roles.

Are you grappling with work-life balance and the looming fears of burnout especially in a new or unfamiliar job? You're not alone. In our discussion, we navigate these challenges and turn the spotlight on the importance of identifying and focusing on tasks that bring the most value. It's all about leveraging the 80/20 principle for a balanced and progressive career! We also redefine productivity and time management in the context of the workplace. Remember, it's not always about the time spent but the results obtained. Let's rethink the way we work and create more fulfilling careers! Don't miss out on this enlightening chat!

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Journey with us as we tackle the intricate world of custom home building in our latest episode. Unexpected hurdles, like window realignment and redesigning under-stair storage, are just part of the excitement, and we're sharing it all with you. The role of quality building materials, like engineered wood products and laminated veneer lumber, can't be overstated. However, their delayed delivery can create a ripple effect on timelines, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability in construction projects.

This episode isn't just about the physical structure, it's about the mental and emotional strength required, too. We open up about our experiences with pressure and rejection in this demanding industry. It's a tough playground, but maintaining focus, giving 100% to your craft, and managing expectations can help weather the storm. Also, we've got a juicy teaser for you. There's an upcoming interview with a disruptive recruiter who's creating a splash in the social media sphere - you won't want to miss this! Join us for this engaging, informative, and entertaining episode.

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Ever felt the sting of rejection in your professional life and didn't know how to handle it? Well, you're not alone, and this episode is just for you. We'll walk you through the tough terrain of overcoming professional disappointments, drawing from our personal experiences and the power of acknowledging our feelings. Learning to cope with rejection, maintain professionalism, and seek constructive feedback are just some of the survival skills we'll explore. We'll also delve into the importance of ambition, self-reflection, and constant growth, reminding you not to let setbacks derail your career.

What if we told you that every setback, every rejection, every disappointment is merely a stepping stone leading you closer to your ultimate career goal? This episode isn’t just about overcoming rejection, it’s about aligning your career goals with the right opportunities. We'll share insights on understanding your long-term career aspirations and making strategic decisions to achieve them. Not one to pull punches, we'll bring up the uncomfortable truth of the importance of networking and staying true to your core values. And interestingly, we'll show how overcoming setbacks isn't exclusive to our professional lives, but can also be applied to a completely different field like home construction. We'll draw parallels between managing a monumental project and the professional world, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of journaling. Tune in, and let’s navigate the daunting landscape of rejection and setbacks together.

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE

We appreciate any and all feedback so feel free to send a text.

Get ready for some exciting updates on our construction project in this week's podcast episode! We're diving into the progress we've made, the challenges we've faced, and the importance of effective communication with contractors.

In the latest developments, we encountered some delays with the block foundation installation due to the scorching hot weather. But let me tell you, the workers showed incredible meticulousness and attention to detail. We're really impressed with their dedication.

Now, let's talk about the bricks. Initially, Joshua had a different preference, but we ended up choosing a different type that turned out to be a great fit for the project. Sometimes, unexpected changes lead to the best outcomes!

Moving forward, we have county inspections for the foundation and projection coming up. It's crucial to ensure we have enough support underneath the block foundation. We did face a challenge with the stem wall rebar being missed, but we quickly communicated with the contractor and got it resolved in time. Phew!

One of the highlights of this episode is our meeting with a plumber. They came prepared with important questions about the project, and we were able to contribute valuable insights from the design aspect. We even discussed the possibility of a dog washing station and its potential location. Planning ahead is key in construction projects, my friend!

Joshua also shares his thoughts on hiring and firing based on our company's core values. He recently had to let someone go who wasn't aligned with our values, which puts more pressure on him as we have a smaller team. But he firmly believes that sticking to our core values will make a big difference in the long run.

We also touch on the importance of upgrading our payroll service to free up time for other tasks. By taking purchasing responsibilities off one individual, we can focus on driving production and quality in the field. It's all about optimizing our resources, my friend!

And let's not forget the hiring process. Joshua shares a story about a candidate who decided to stay in the multifamily industry instead of joining our custom home building team. He respects their decision and wishes them the best. It's all about finding the right fit for both parties, even if it means going separate ways.

We also have a good laugh about an interview Joshua had with a recruiting firm that seemed unaware of the differences between Charlotte and Charlottesville. It's important to do your research, my friend!

To wrap it up, it's been a tough week, but we're looking forward to blowing off some steam. Join us in this episode to catch up on all the exciting and challenging moments of our construction project. Trust me, you won't want to miss it!

Hit us up with any feedback or questions at: [email protected]

Support the show

Carolyn can be found on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-mcmahon-937b89158
Joshua can be found on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamcmahon15
Email for feedback, questions, complaints, etc:
[email protected]

Daily Journal: https://amzn.to/41p9aKE