In this no-bullshido episode of Hoots on the Ground, Adam Hoots hangs out in Kyoto, Japan, with the one and only Thomas LaMay, a project leader at DPR Construction who’s got Lean systems and people-first thinking down to a science. What starts as a chat about bucket list experiences at the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC 33) turns into a full-on masterclass on designing better production systems—and better lives for the people doing the work. Thomas dives into the importance of caring for the people on the job, from the simple things (like clean port-a-potties and shaded break tents) to big ideas like integrating Mental Health First Aid, and team health assessments. The two explore how systems thinking, Last Planner System®, Takt planning, and location-based management aren’t just tools—they’re opportunities to make construction more human.

Key takeaways include:

• Respect for people starts with the basics — Clean toilets, shaded break areas, and rest show genuine care for those doing the work.
• Design your system or someone else will — Intentional production systems (with flow, visual signals, and collaboration) beat chaos every time.
• Mental health is a safety issue — Treat it with urgency, awareness, and proactive tools like mental health first aid and daily empathy walks.

This one’s for every builder who gives a damn about people more than just deadlines. Because, as Thomas says, “If you don’t design your production system, someone else will—and you may not like what they choose.”

ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction.

RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• The Lean Builder | www.theleanbuilder.com | Blog, book, resources, news, events, and a hub for the Lean community.
• International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC) | www.iglc.net | Access to 30+ years of Lean construction conference papers and research.
• LCI – Lean Construction Institute | www.leanconstruction.org | Training, events, and thought leadership in Lean Construction.
• “Geotechnical Insights for a Productive Production System for Earthwork” by Kim Simmons, Thomas LaMay, and Paz Arroyo | https://iglc.net/Papers/Details/2333 | Presented at IGLC 33
• “Strategic Takt Planning” by Dr. Iris D. Tommelein & Samir Emdanat | https://iglc.net/Papers/Details/2315 | Presented at IGLC 33 (NOTE: the equation is shown on Page 5)
• Video of Equation Work by Dr. Tommelein | https://photos.app.goo.gl/NtuyxzzCQzw1wuCGA | Recorded by Adm at IGLC 33
• Mental Health First Aid USA | www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org | Certification and resources for recognizing and responding to mental health challenges.
• “A Construction Suicide” by Thomas LaMay and Brian Winningham | https://www.rangerwinnie.com/post/a-construction-suicide | A poignant, raw, real story on how a worker’s suicide impacts an entire construction crew. (A TLB special chapter excerpt from Thomas and Brian’s upcoming book!)
• The Center For Construction Research and Training - Opioid Resources  | https://www.cpwr.com/research/research-to-practice-r2p/r2p-library/other-resources-for-stakeholders/mental-health-addiction/opioid-resources/
• “The Knowing-Doing Gap” by Jeffrey Pfeffer and Robert Sutton | www.jeffreypfeffer.com/books | Exploring why knowledge often fails to translate into action.
• 4D BIM & Takt Planning Resources | Tools to integrate time, location, and coordination planning.

GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Adam Hoots | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/ | Podcast host, Lean Construction Shepherd at ConstructionACHEsolutions.
• Thomas LaMay | https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaslamay/ | Project Leader at DPR Construction, Lean Construction Advocate, Speaker, and Mental Health Champion in the field

In this episode, host Adam Hoots connects with Dominic Desmarais, a Canadian mechanical engineer and Lean Construction enthusiast with more than two decades of experience. Recorded live from Kyoto, Japan, at The International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC) 33, Dominic shares insights from his profound Lean journey, his passion for bridging the traditional divides between thinkers and doers, and the critical interplay of mind, hands, and heart in the workplace.

Dominic examines the fundamental importance of human motivation and respect in the construction industry, drawing compelling analogies between workplace motivation and the intrinsic joy of sports. He emphasizes how authentic human connection, creativity, and physical engagement transform mundane tasks into meaningful activities.

Key takeaways include:

·       Understanding the essential "trinity" of mind, hands, and heart to drive motivation and productivity in construction.

·       How genuine respect and human-centered thinking dramatically improve job satisfaction and outcomes.

·       Real-world reflections from Japanese construction sites, highlighting cultural differences in discipline, safety, visual management, and worker care.

·       Dominic's practical insights on recognizing beneficial change (kaizen) versus neutral or harmful change in construction processes.

·       Powerful examples of visual management and operational excellence observed in Japan that can be practically implemented on Western job sites.

Dominic thoughtfully challenges traditional Western paradigms, urging construction leaders to dismantle artificial divisions between thinkers and doers, cultivating environments where people can thrive and deliver exceptional value. He advocates for intentional cultural reflection, understanding that true "Lean" practices may differ significantly depending on regional and organizational starting points.

ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction.

RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:• The Lean Builder | Blog, book, resources, news, and events | www.theleanbuilder.com • IGLC (International Group for Lean Construction) | https://iglc.net/

GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:• Adam Hoots | Podcast host for Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhoots/ • Dominic Desmarais | Lean Practitioner, Mechanical Engineer, and Advocate for Human-Centered Construction Excellence | Director of Lean Construction with Graham | https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominic-desmarais-p-eng-680b4236/

In this insightful episode of Hoots on the Ground with No Bullshido, Adam Hoots is joined by Hal Macomber, a respected leader, coach, and influential figure in the field of Lean Construction. Hal shares over 35 years of experience pioneering Lean practices, offering profound insights into continuous flow construction, human-centered leadership, and the power of engaging frontline workers. Hal reflects on the industry's progress, emphasizing that while Lean has made significant strides, substantial work remains to integrate its core principles universally. He introduces the concept of "Continuous Flow Construction," explaining the critical importance of designing projects with a clear operational rhythm or "Takt," thereby dramatically improving efficiency and reducing project duration. Key insights from this episode include:

• How continuous flow construction, designed around Takt time, can revolutionize project delivery by dramatically reducing cycle times, sometimes from weeks to mere hours.
• The essential role of operational science, including Little's Law, the Law of Bottlenecks, the Law of Variation, and Kingman's Formula, in enhancing production planning and control.
• The true meaning of "Kaizen," emphasizing personal and collective growth through continuous learning and improvement, extends beyond simply eliminating waste.
• The critical need to equip trade workers, whom Hal respectfully refers to as "performers," with the skills, mindset, and agency to execute Lean principles in the field effectively.
• The limitations of traditional scheduling methods (e.g., CPM) necessitate the adoption of collaborative, inclusive scheduling practices that fully integrate Lean methodologies.

Hal highlights the transformational power of true worker agency and engagement, urging leaders to foster environments where frontline workers actively contribute to problem-solving and continuous improvement. He challenges conventional wisdom by asserting that push methods are never beneficial, advocating instead for a system based entirely on pull and flow. Through stories and practical advice, Hal and Adam encourage listeners to shift from rigid, hierarchical structures toward empathetic, human-centered approaches that harness the full potential of every team member.

This episode is a crucial listen for construction leaders, Lean practitioners, and anyone passionate about driving deep, sustainable improvement through genuine human engagement and systemic thinking. NOTABLE EPISODE QUOTES:

• “Continuous flow construction isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about human engagement and empowerment.” – Hal Macomber
• “Real Kaizen is using every opportunity to grow ourselves, not just the system.” – Hal Macomber
• “Don’t just respect people—respect human nature.” – Hal Macomber

ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction. RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        The Lean Builder | Blog, book, resources, news, and events.

·        Toyota Kata | Methodology for systematic continuous improvement.

·        Little’s Law, Law of Variation, Law of Bottlenecks, and Kingman’s Formula (overview of all laws) | Operational science fundamentals.

GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        Adam Hoots | LinkedIn  | Podcast host, Lean Construction Shepherd at ConstructionACHEsolutions.

·        Hal Macomber | LinkedIn  | Lean construction pioneer, influential Lean coach, and mentor.

In this powerful episode of Hoots on the Ground with No Bullshido, Adam Hoots sits down with Ryan Taylor, a Superintendent at San Antonio Water System (SAWS), and Rene Duron, a Construction Specialist for SAWS and THIS podcast editor. This episode delves deep into mentorship, leadership, and personal growth in construction while reinforcing the values of trust, accountability, and human connection in the industry.

Ryan shares his journey at SAWS, where he has dedicated 25 years to the organization, developing infrastructure and the next generation of construction leaders. Once an entry-level technician, Rene credits Ryan’s mentorship for his rapid career growth, showcasing the power of support, faith, and the right opportunities to shape a leader.

The conversation highlights:

·        The importance of mentorship in the construction industry and how the right guidance can unlock potential.

·        How trust, faith, and accountability play a key role in developing teams and growing as a leader.

·        Why human connection and empathy matter more than technical skills when driving positive workplace culture.

·        The evolution of leadership from a traditional, rigid mindset to a more people-focused approach.

·        Lessons from extreme ownership and intentional leadership inspired by Jocko Willink and Timothy Keller.

·        Adapting Lean principles to real-world scenarios, ensuring that tools serve the system, not the other way around.

Through heartfelt storytelling, Ryan and Rene demonstrate that leadership is not about titles but about empowering others. Their mentor-mentee relationship embodies what it means to “pay it forward,” ensuring that knowledge and wisdom don’t die with experience but fuel future leaders' growth.

ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST: The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction.

RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        The Lean Builder | Blog, book, resources, news, and events.

·        Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink | Leadership and discipline strategies for success.

·        Timothy Keller’s Teachings | Wisdom on leadership, faith, and service.

·        The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle | The importance of being present.

·        San Antonio Water System (SAWS) | Infrastructure and water management in Texas.

GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        Adam Hoots | LinkedIn | Podcast host, Lean Construction Shepherd at ConstructionACHEsolutions.

·        Ryan Taylor | Superintendent at SAWS | Leader in construction operations and mentorship.

·        Rene Duron | LinkedIn  | Construction Specialist at SAWS, Podcast Editor at Duron Styles.

EPISODE QUOTES:

·        "The way up is down. The way to true power is to give up power in order to serve." – Timothy Keller

·        "Smile through the suck." – Ryan Taylor & Rene Duron

·        "Mentorship isn’t about supervision; it’s about seeing potential and fueling it." – Adam Hoots

·        "Be present. Work hard. Show up with a smile." – Lessons from Ryan’s mother, Barbara Nefford

This episode is a must-listen for those passionate about leadership, Lean principles, and mentorship in construction. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, this conversation will leave you inspired to empower others and be the change you seek.

In this insightful episode, Adam Hoots welcomes Tom Fuduric, a lecturer at Clemson University and a construction industry veteran with over 40 years of experience. Together, they explore how to build high-performing teams and emphasize the importance of human connections in the construction industry.

Tom shares his journey from working summers in road construction to becoming a safety and HR leader, eventually transitioning to academia. He discusses the evolution of the courses he co-instructs with Hoots at Clemson, including Building High Performing Teams and The Human Side of Construction.

The pair also revealed plans for a new course on mental health in construction, addressing the industry's critical need for mindfulness, kindness, and respect.

Key takeaways include:

• The role of trust and care in fostering collaborative and safe work environments.
• How intentionality and strategic communication help develop strong teams and individuals.
• Why love and genuine care are foundational to building trust in the workplace.
• The industry's growing focus on mental wellness and creating positive cultures.

Tom provides actionable advice on leadership, feedback, and understanding one’s purpose. His thoughtful perspectives remind us of the profound impact we can make by prioritizing respect for people in construction.

ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:

The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that matter most to those in the field. With stories from the trenches, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter, this podcast is for the men and women doing the hands-on work of construction.

RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        The Lean Builder | Blog, book, training, resources, news, and events.

·        The Team of a Lifetime | Sally Love’s insights on building high-performing teams.

GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        Adam Hoots | LinkedIn | Podcast host for Hoots on the Ground and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions.

·        Tom Fuduric | LinkedIn | Clemson University Lecturer, Human Resources & Safety Professional, Construction Industry Veteran.

In this episode of 'Hoots on the Ground,' host Adam Hoots welcomes Kent Hedges, a Lean construction advocate and manager of large capital projects at a major healthcare company. Kent shares insights from his extensive 28-year career in the construction industry, which began with a stint as a civil engineer in the Navy before transitioning to healthcare construction management. He discusses the profound impact of Lean methodologies in his work, focusing not only on eliminating waste but most importantly on improving the human aspects of construction processes.

Throughout the conversation, Kent delves into his personal growth journey, influenced by mentors, his faith, and a strong dedication to connection and service. He emphasizes the importance of leadership and the benefits of fostering a growth mindset within the construction industry. Kent also highlights the significance of building and nurturing relationships across various sectors of the industry, which he views as crucial for successful project management and team dynamics.

The dialogue further explores Kent's experiences and contributions to Lean construction, emphasizing the approach as a dual pursuit of process enhancement and people development. Kent’s narrative demonstrates how integrating Lean principles leads to better project outcomes and a cohesive, empowered workforce. He stresses the importance of transparency, respect, and collective problem-solving, showcasing these elements as vital to advancing the construction industry.

This episode serves as a powerful testament to the ethos of Lean construction and its practitioners. Kent’s stories and insights underscore the potential of Lean methodologies to not only transform projects but also to foster a strong, united construction community. His commitment to continuous improvement and respect for all team members resonates deeply, offering valuable lessons for anyone interested in the field of construction management.

ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:

The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.

RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: 

●       www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website

GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:

●       Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions

●       Kent Hedges | https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenthedges/ | Large Capital Projects & Design Integration with Medxcel Facilities Management

In this episode, Adam Hoots engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Matt Graves, known for his pioneering work with Construction Yeti and as the co-host of the CM Mentors Podcast. This conversation navigates through Matt's transformative journey within the construction industry, highlighting his transition from project management to embracing a role as an owner's representative. Matt shares his unique insights on the construction process, underscoring the critical need for a holistic perspective that goes beyond the immediate tasks to consider the broader impact on project stakeholders and end-users.

The discussion delves into the origins and aspirations behind the Construction Yeti platform and the CM Mentors Podcast. Matt speaks candidly about the challenges and motivations that fueled these initiatives, aiming to foster a supportive community within the construction sector. They explore the importance of trade collaboration, the integration of technology, and the utilization of digital marketing and social media as tools to modernize the industry and enhance networking and learning opportunities.

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to addressing the knowledge transfer between seasoned professionals and newcomers in the field. Adam and Matt emphasize the value of mentorship, the need for upskilling, and the strategies to prepare for the impending labor challenges. Moreover, they reflect on personal growth, the benefits of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and the transformative power of collaborative efforts in driving industry-wide change.

Throughout the episode, Adam and Matt discuss future directions for their respective projects, sharing a vision for expanding their impact through collaborative projects and initiatives. This episode is not just a narrative of individual journeys but a call to action for the construction industry to adopt a more inclusive, innovative, and people-focused approach to building the future.

RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        www.theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website

·        https://www.constructionyeti.com/ | All things construction in a fun way!

·        https://www.instagram.com/constructionyeti/?hl=en | Construction Yeti Instagram

·        https://www.tiktok.com/@yetigraves | Construction Yeti Tik Tok

·        https://linktr.ee/constructionyeti | All Things Construction Yeti

GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:

·        Adam Hoots | www.linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions

·        Matt Graves | https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-graves-pmp/ | Founder and Content Creator at Construction Yeti

ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:

The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.