Welcome to Episode 86 of I'm The Gaffer!

Host Gavin Coyle dives into a critical topic: nurturing new entrants and apprentices in the construction industry. This solo episode explores how to onboard, train, and mentor the next generation of leaders or skilled tradespeople. With practical insights on work ethic, structured programs, and cultural development, Gavin provides a roadmap for building a sustainable talent pipeline. Tune in for actionable advice to shape the future of construction!

Prioritize Work Ethic: Technical skills can be taught, but drive is essential.

Plan Thoroughly: Invest time in structured onboarding to reduce risks.

Realistic Expectations: Keep job specs practical for new entrants.

Empower Mentors: Train supervisors to guide and inspire new talent.

Assess Deeply: Use multiple interviews to uncover true potential.

[00:10] Intro: Nurturing new talent with Hustro.com support.

[00:39] Building a talent conveyor belt for future leaders.

[01:07] The importance of work ethic over technical skills.

[02:06] The hiring process: Business cases and recruitment strategies.

[03:29] Connecting with universities for new entrants.

[04:55] Crafting practical job specifications.

[06:49] Developing an academy-style onboarding program.

[09:13] Mentoring: Learning from supervisors and pacing new hires.

[11:37] Balancing enthusiasm with a measured work pace.

[13:06] Collaborative commitment to training new talent.

[14:34] Managing turnover with clear contracts and programs.

[16:29] Creating a mentor workshop for project managers.

[17:57] Enhancing interviews with personal and behavioral questions.

[18:49] The value of multiple interview stages.

[20:17] Learning from recruitment failures.

[21:15] Call for feedback and community support.

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, offering invaluable lessons and tips that provide a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

Website http://imthegaffer.com/

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

Welcome to Episode 85 of I'm The Gaffer!

Host Gavin Coyle teams up with Michelle Carr, Director of Construction Alchemy and H Squared Construction Ltd, for a riveting dive into the Quantity Surveyor (QS) role. With her wealth of experience, Michelle sheds light on trust issues, unethical practices, contract challenges, and the skills gap, delivering powerful strategies to transform construction projects and businesses. This episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to elevate their industry knowledge!

Key Takeaways

Cultivate Trust: Ethical QSs thrive by prioritizing fairness over cost cuts.

Harness Contracts: Negotiate contracts to shield all parties from disputes.

Plan Smart: A week of upfront planning saves months and major costs.

Tailor Roles: Align QS tasks with individual strengths for optimal results.

Streamline Payments: Use clear, standardized applications for faster approvals.

Timestamps

[00:16] Exposing the conning in construction and contract pitfalls.

[00:45] Introducing Michelle Carr: Director of Construction Alchemy and H Squared Construction Ltd.

[01:13] Michelle’s path: From childhood invoices to QS expertise with Sally.

[07:46] Founding Construction Alchemy to train better QSs.

[14:33] QS pressures: Balancing cost cuts with efficiency.

[19:41] Trust issues: A cultural challenge in the QS role?

[24:52] Value of pre-start workshops and early planning.

[38:29] Case Study: Restructuring a QS team for 10x productivity.

[46:08] Contracts as tools: Effective negotiation and use.

[48:02] Life lessons: What Michelle would change.

[49:05] Favorite book: The Buddha and the Badass – Spirituality meets business.

[50:29] Why contact Michelle? Solutions for chaos or growth.

[51:28] Closing insights: Gap analysis and project improvements.

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

Website http://imthegaffer.com/

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

Systemizing Your Construction Business | I’m the Gaffer. In this episode, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Ian Morris, a seasoned director, to reveal how to systematize your business, plan for succession, and leverage Simpro software. Perfect for Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your thoughts below!

Insights from Ian Morris on succession planning and business systemization.

Exploring software adoption with Simpro and industry networking strategies.

00:10 – Systemizing work for succession and training handover.

00:20 – Ian Morris designing himself out of his job.

01:50 – Ian Morris welcomed, sharing his career beginnings.

10:00 – Transition from unsuccessful partnership to solo work.

20:30 – Succession planning discussions with his son.

27:40 – Systemizing for a hands-off business model.

41:10 – Introduction to Simpro job management software.

53:30 – Networking via Bright Opportunities WhatsApp group.

58:20 – Ian’s mentoring and contact details shared.

59:50 – Emphasis on sticking to business strengths.

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for

you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, offering invaluable lessons and tips that provide a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

What's Holding Back Growth In Construction? | I’m the Gaffer! In this episode, host Gavin Coyle welcomes James Dunne, Managing Director - BDW Southampton at Barratt Developments plc, sharing over 18 years of leadership experience. Explore labor shortages, digital transformation, and the critical role of mental health in construction. Perfect for Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your thoughts below!

Insights from James Dunne on leadership at Barratt Developments.

Tackling labor shortages and digitalization in construction.

Open dialogue on mental health and personal growth.

00:10 – Labor shortage: 65% of bricklayers over 45, 10% under 25.

00:20 – James Dunne’s 18+ years in leadership roles.

00:30 – Transition to helping others via Barratt Developments.

02:10 – Journey from apprentice to Managing Director.

06:20 – Navigating the 2007 financial crisis.

15:20 – Debate on middle management roles.

17:40 – Ensuring credible feedback from senior managers.

21:10 – Promoting a learning culture over blame.

25:20 – Empowering teams to solve issues independently.

27:40 – Reflecting on micromanagement pitfalls.

33:10 – Post-Grenfell focus on quality assurance.

35:10 – Digitalization benefits for SMEs.

40:10 – UK housing labor shortage challenges.

46:20 – Personal burnout and value of therapy.

50:10 – Advocating for mental health in construction.

56:20 – Would seek professional help earlier.

58:20 – Favorite movie: A Bronx Tale; book: A Short History of Nearly Everything.

59:40 – Connect with James Dunne via LinkedIn.

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

In this episode, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Brendan Mullan, Founder of Starcoz Consulting, who shares transformative insights on leadership, the STARS framework, and digital integration for construction SMEs. Perfect for Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your thoughts below!

Insights from Brendan Mullan, Founder of Starcoz Consulting, on transforming construction businesses.

Leveraging the STARS framework for SME growth and efficiency.

Practical strategies for leadership and digital integration in construction.

00:16 – Brendan discusses how the lack of structure impedes digital technology adoption in construction.

01:13 – Brendan’s transition from corporate success to founding Starcoz Consulting to support SME owners.

02:40 – The tipping point: Frustration with persistent industry issues drove Starcoz Consulting’s creation.

07:04 – Addressing consultant stigma and Starcoz Consulting’s hands-on approach with construction expertise.

09:29 – How the STARS framework scaled Starcoz Consulting’s business from €1M to €4.5M in 18 months.

11:48 – The “perfect storm” of legacy paperwork and poor digital implementation in SMEs.

16:39 – Linking personal well-being to business success, a core focus at Starcoz Consulting.

25:57 – Importance of pre-start meetings for project handovers, a Starcoz Consulting best practice.

29:53 – Challenges of absent ownership and benchmarking performance with Starcoz Consulting’s methods.

37:22 – Setting performance metrics to enhance team productivity, a Starcoz Consulting strategy.

42:56 – Lessons from curveballs: Prioritizing people, a principle at Starcoz Consulting.

49:10 – Brendan’s advice: Trusting real-world experience over theory, a Starcoz Consulting philosophy.

53:26 – How to connect with Starcoz Consulting for a free discovery session and scorecard.

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

 I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

Unlock leadership secrets in construction! In The Episode "I’m the Gaffer," host Gavin Coyle welcomes Brian Brogen, Chief Inspiration Officer at Build Consulting Services, host of The Build Your Success Podcast, and founding author at Voices for Leadership. Brian shares practical insights on leadership, culture, and personal growth in construction. Perfect for Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your thoughts below!

Key Points:

Developing leadership skills from craftsmanship.

Balancing structure, culture, and brand in construction.

Long-term strategies for team motivation and growth.

Episode Highlights:

00:14 – Recognizing leadership potential in skilled craftspeople

01:38 – Brian’s introduction and passion for practical leadership

02:37 – Key traits of effective leadership and the SWIF model

08:56 – Overcoming comfort zones and adapting leadership styles

17:46 – Long-term planning vs. short-term goals

22:35 – Importance of systems and processes in leadership

36:20 – Defining culture as organizational behavior

39:34 – Linking culture and brand for project success

42:56 – Curveballs: Lessons learned and treating people better

44:55 – Favorite books: Speed of Trust and Turn the Ship Around



I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

Master building a brand in construction! In The Episode I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Peter Finn, Owner & Managing Director of MDS Construction Ltd, TV builder, and presenter of Constructive Voices podcast. Peter shares his journey from Room to Improve to co-presenting RTE’s Home Rescue, plus insights on branding, collaboration, and workforce challenges. A must for Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your thoughts below!

Key Points:

Peter’s TV journey and the evolution of Home Rescue.

Strategies for Personal Branding and Industry Representation.

Addressing the labor shortage and inspiring the next generation.

Episode Highlights:

00:14 – Evolution from secretive trades to the communication age

01:37 – Peter’s introduction and commitment on-site

02:03 – Peter’s TV background with Room to Improve and Home Rescue

09:05 – Building a personal brand and inspiring content creation

17:30 – Balancing social media with core construction work

27:37 – Evolution of construction: luxury and sustainability

32:51 – Labor shortage and the need for new talent

41:42 – Tapping into cross-transferable skills for training

43:11 – Curveballs: Reflections on profit and career choices

44:40 – Peter’s hidden sporting achievements

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

Unlock waste management secrets for construction! In the Episode of I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Alasdair Meldrum, Managing Director of Albion Environmental Ltd, from Scotland. Alasdair shares 35 years of waste expertise, tackling construction waste challenges and sustainability trends. Perfect for exploring Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your thoughts below!

Key Points:

Alasdair’s journey from landfill management to consultancy.

Strategies to reduce waste and improve site efficiency.

The role of education in sustainable waste practices.

Episode Highlights:

00:14 – Challenges with household vs. construction waste collection

01:10 – Alasdair’s background and Albion Environmental’s growth

05:27 – Mismanagement of construction waste and the waste hierarchy

12:13 – Lack of awareness about skip destinations

19:43 – Hidden costs of waste beyond disposal fees

24:50 – Importance of waste segregation and training

34:09 – Misconceptions about recycling markets

40:02 – Case studies on waste audits and awareness training

43:47 – Curveballs: Reflections and personal insights

49:59 – How to connect with Alasdair

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for

you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast

Discover how AI transforms construction efficiency! In the Episode I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Nick Bartella and Agustino, co-founders of Revalate, from Canada. They unveil an AI tool reducing admin burdens for SMEs, enhancing estimating, and boosting time management. Ideal for those exploring Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your insights below!

Key Points:

Revalate’s AI tools for estimating, financials, and change orders.

Reducing time-consuming tasks to improve field focus.

Custom solutions and cultural adaptation to AI.

Episode Highlights:

00:17 – AI’s role in simplifying estimating and paperwork

01:14 – Revalate’s mission to centralize business functions

05:16 – AI innovations in bid and financial management

10:43 – Real-time job costing with time sheet integration

15:58 – Overcoming cultural resistance to AI adoption

24:40 – Leveraging AI for better communication and innovation

27:01 – Case studies on data-driven client benefits

32:14 – Why a fixed savings model didn’t work

36:12 – Learnings from early MVP testing

43:54 – Downtime activities and life reflections

Connect with Nick Bartella & Agustino (Revalate):

Website: revalate.com

AI Tools: promo.revalate.com/ai-expense-agent

promo.revalate.com/ai-estimating-agent

Book a Call: Available via website

Exclusive Offer: Use promo code GAVIN10OFF for 10% off for I’m the Gaffer followers!

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast 

Unlock Delegation and Growth Strategies for Construction Success! In the Episode " I’m the Gaffer, host Gavin Coyle welcomes Jerry Aliberti, Principal at Pro-Accel, from New York. Jerry shares his 22-year construction journey, transitioning to executive coaching to help owners overcome risks and scale. Perfect for SMEs navigating Construction Industry Trends. Subscribe and like to join our community, and share your thoughts below!

Key Points:

Jerry’s journey from field leadership to construction coaching.

Strategies for delegation, confidence, and risk management.

Insights on mental health and sustainable business growth.

Episode Highlights:

00:14 – Importance of delegation and building confidence

01:13 – Jerry’s background and Pro-Accel’s mission

04:56 – Why construction owners need unbiased coaching

07:04 – Challenge of time poverty and breaking business identity

15:12 – Leveraging AI for better decision-making

17:05 – Strategic acquisitions to diversify business

24:54 – Crisis and risk management strategies

32:01 – Scaling to free up personal time

34:51 – Addressing mental health and substance abuse in construction

39:14 – Roadmap for business restructuring

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer, this podcast is for

you.

Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building

industry.

As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

I’m The Gaffer, available on:

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety

#ImTheGaffer #constructionpodcast  #construction #constructionbusiness #safetytips #business #podcast #podcastclips