Learnings and Missteps by Depth Builder

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, Jesse reconnects with Megan Shapiro, an accomplished lawyer and repeat guest. They discuss her evolving career and ventures, including launching the Converge Construction Summit and her business coaching initiatives. Megan shares insights on navigating setbacks, growing her network, and intentionally serving her community. With candid stories of her unique branding journey and strategic goals, this episode offers inspiration for professionals looking to leverage their skills and passion for greater impact in their industries.

00:00 Overcoming Setbacks and Learning from Failures

00:18 Introducing the Guest: Megan Shapiro

02:10 The Power of Branding and Personal Style

03:36 Embracing the Pink Blazer: A Branding Journey

06:43 Building a Community and Networking

11:54 The Importance of Tenacity and Resilience

13:09 Creating and Marketing Online Courses

16:41 The Value of Authentic Engagement

21:06 In-Person Networking and Building Relationships

26:20 Exploring New Ventures: Do It Like a Lawyer

31:15 From Conversation to Workshop

31:44 The Make Your Case Workshop

32:29 Challenges with Male Audiences

33:14 Success with Women-Focused Workshops

34:08 Resilience and Rejection

35:41 Expanding Influence and Impact

40:02 Balancing Law and Business

42:43 The Converged Construction Summit

53:47 Future Plans and Intentional Growth

58:23 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

Ever feel overwhelmed by your to-do list? That sensation of drowning in tasks while your most important work gets pushed aside? You're not alone—and there's a solution hiding in plain sight.

In this eye-opening episode, Jesse breaks down a deceptively simple framework for identifying exactly which tasks in your life and business should be automated or outsourced. Using a visual "bucket and drops" system, you'll discover how to categorize your work, break large responsibilities into manageable components, and analyze frequency patterns to make strategic delegation decisions.

What makes this approach different isn't just the practical methodology, but Jesse's candid acknowledgment of the real barrier most professionals face: "The solution for getting comfortable with the idea of outsourcing or automating is reps." He shares personal examples from his own podcast production journey, revealing how he transitioned from doing everything himself to focusing solely on the interviews while delegating all other aspects to his team.

The brilliance of this system lies in its scalability. Whether you're considering hiring your first virtual assistant or looking to reclaim hours each week through strategic automation, this framework provides a clear path forward. Jesse offers specific tactics for getting started, including how to use AI tools to identify automation opportunities and how to begin with lower-risk monthly tasks if you're hesitant about letting go.

Ready to stop doing work that others could handle better? Want to invest more time in developing your unique gifts? This episode delivers the practical roadmap you need to make it happen. Listen now and take the first step toward working smarter, not harder.

Check out the Video for all the details

Learn all about the Self First Framework

Revolutionize your Routine with the Daily Domination Board

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, host Jesse interviews Joseph Richards, the owner and chief takeoff officer at Flooring Takeoffs. Joseph discusses his unique career path, transitioning from an English teacher to a business owner, and the challenges he faced along the way. He talks about the importance of transparency, learning from mistakes, and the role of AI in the estimating world. The discussion also delves into the value of social media in growing a business, the significance of transferable skills, and the necessity of being able to delegate tasks in order to scale effectively.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

02:46 Joseph Richards' Journey to Flooring Takeoffs

05:07 Challenges and Learning in the Estimating World

15:18 Starting a Business: Support and Initial Steps

20:31 Delegation and Scaling the Business

28:30 Finding the Right Clients and Staying in Your Lane

34:32 The Struggles and Cycles of Editing

36:30 Teaching vs. Creating: Finding the Balance

39:12 The Importance of Social Media Presence

47:41 Navigating AI in Estimation

56:52 Joseph Richards' Services and Insights

01:00:29 The Promise You Are Intended to Be

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, host Jesse engages with Dr. Alejandra Rodriguez-Mielke, an expert in talent development and organizational analysis, who offers insights on cultural competence and adaptability. Dr. Alejandra shares her journey from Monterey, Mexico, to the United States, highlighting the importance of learning and teaching throughout her career. She emphasizes the significance of interpersonal skills, understanding cultural scripts, and being respectfully curious to thrive in diverse workplaces. This enlightening discussion delves into how cultural awareness can impact workplace dynamics, especially in safety, and offers valuable advice for young professionals seeking growth. Tune in to gain practical tips on overcoming fear, embracing flexibility, and fostering meaningful connections at work.

Connect with Alejandra: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandramielke/

00:00 Introduction and Adapting to Change

00:44 Meet Dr. Alejandra Rodriguez Mielke

02:43 The Power of Curiosity and Action

04:52 Organizational Analysis and Human Dynamics

15:04 Challenges in Leadership and Management

29:10 Cultural Competence and Personal Growth

32:30 From Teen Dreams to Professional Realities

33:08 Embracing Human Connections Beyond Credentials

34:04 Understanding and Developing Cultural Competence

36:03 Cultural Differences and Workplace Safety

37:40 Respectful Curiosity and Cultural Cruise Control

39:08 Personal Stories of Cultural Cruise Control

47:13 The Courage to Connect and Overcome Rejection

53:38 Final Thoughts and How to Connect with Dr. Alejandra

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

The Guilt-Free Future Planning method helps prioritize personal goals that consistently get pushed aside when we're busy making things happen for everyone else. This three-step process—Brain Dump, DAMN Matrix, and Walking the Plank—creates a framework for getting your goals out of your head, prioritizing them, and committing to action.

• Brain Dump: List all your goals in three categories—business/professional growth, personal growth, and meaningful connections
• Focus only on what YOU want, not what others expect of you
• DAMN Matrix: Prioritize goals based on impact (high/low) and effort (high/low)
• Start with high impact/low effort goals to build momentum
• Walking the Plank: Commit to goals one at a time in priority order
• Block time in your calendar specifically for your personal goals
• This method is part of a larger Self-First Time Mastery approach
• Momentum matters more than completion—just start making progress

If you want to try this method, download the template using the link provided. For those who prefer learning with community, sign up for the full Self-First Time Mastery workshop where we'll cover guilt-free future planning, strategically selfish scheduling, and daily domination.

Check out the Video Demonstration on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EXj7NpfBpzo

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

In this insightful episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, host Jesse interviews Kabri Luhrman Schmid, a nationally recognized construction influencer and project superintendent at Hensel Phelps. Kabri shares her 18-year journey in the construction industry, focusing on complex projects and redefining leadership. The conversation delves into her approach to jobsite leadership, emphasizing the importance of creating environments where workers feel valued and empowered to contribute. Kabri discusses the concept of psychological safety, the role of effective communication, and the impact of building trust within teams. She also touches on the challenges and rewards of being a change agent in a traditionally rigid industry. Throughout the episode, Kabri's authentic passion for people and process improvement shines through, making this a must-listen for anyone in the construction field.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

02:32 Diving into Job Site Leadership

04:11 Personal Experiences and Leadership Style

06:59 Challenges and Consensus Building

10:55 Impact of Leadership on Job Sites

11:07 Listener Shoutout and Feedback

12:45 Early Career Lessons and Mentorship

14:27 The Importance of Listening and Learning

21:12 Creating a Learning Environment on Job Sites

27:31 The Value of Human-Centric Leadership

30:12 The Impact of Long-Term Industry Experience

30:41 Championing Mental Health and Wellbeing in Construction

32:00 Building Relationships and Overcoming Friction

32:53 The Power of Small Actions in Creating Change

34:09 Navigating Leadership and Performance Evaluations

47:06 The Importance of Psychological Safety

52:58 Authentic Leadership and Industry Recognition

57:41 Final Thoughts and Connecting with the Audience

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, Jesse revisits a conversation with Heather Jones of Archer Estimation and Consulting. Heather shares her insights on battling estimator burnout and stress, her journey to starting a business with her husband, Jake, and their lifestyle as digital nomads. They discuss the impact of traveling on reducing work stress, the importance of learning the local language, and how they manage their business on the go. Heather emphasizes the need for personal growth to better serve others and hints at unique approaches to improving the construction industry.

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Meet Ms. Heather Jones

02:47 The Journey to Lima, Peru

05:13 Starting Archer Estimation and Consulting

06:34 Becoming Digital Nomads

08:49 Learning and Adapting Abroad

12:33 Tips for Traveling and Language Barriers

12:55 Shoutout and Time Management Workshop

15:46 Stress and Burnout in Estimating

17:06 Balancing Work and Travel

18:29 Roles and Responsibilities in the Business

22:48 Challenges in the Estimating Industry

32:25 Incentive Structures and Project Performance

34:33 Starting a Business: The Cheat Code

36:35 The Importance of Personal Touch in Business

43:40 Balancing Work and Personal Life

56:07 The Ripple Effect of Positive Change

01:02:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

We explore a comprehensive time management framework designed specifically for high achievers who excel at delivering for others but struggle to prioritize themselves. This system helps you honor personal commitments without sacrificing performance, using a three-phase approach that reduces stress and increases focus.

• The Self-First Time Mastery Framework addresses the common problem of deprioritizing personal goals
• Guilt-Free Future Planning helps extract priorities from your mind and organize them based on impact and effort
• Strategically Selfish Scheduling transforms priorities into calendar commitments using the "Firebox" prioritization matrix
• Daily Domination techniques include visualizing work, capturing distractions in the "Squirrel Cage," and setting firm task limits
• Knowing your daily task capacity (suggested: seven per day) dramatically improves your say-do ratio and credibility
• Important but not urgent tasks like sleep, exercise and nutrition often get sacrificed but eventually become emergencies if neglected
• The framework can be applied even with demanding jobs by focusing on the time spaces you control

If you're interested in joining a workshop to implement this framework, there are three upcoming cohorts with a maximum of 15 people per group. 

Sign up for the workshop: https://www.depthbuilder.com/do-the-damn-thing

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

Reclaiming the Voice of Professional Moms with Chelsea Boateng

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, host Jesse interviews Chelsea Boateng, founder of The Professional Parent. Chelsea shares her expertise in helping high-achieving women navigate the intersection of professional and motherhood identities. They discuss the mental and emotional load carried by mothers, the importance of reclaiming one's voice, and the steps women can take to design a life that aligns with their values and desires. Chelsea emphasizes the need to break free from societal and cultural conditioning to create a balanced life. The conversation is insightful and filled with personal anecdotes and practical advice for women looking to redefine their successes and find joy in their accomplishments.

Connect with Chelsea at:

Facebook: @The Professional Parent

Instagram: @the_professional_parent

Tik-Tok: @the_professional_parent

 https://calendly.com/thriveforwardcoaching/30min

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:45 Chelsea's Background and Mission

02:22 Challenges of Balancing Motherhood and Career

04:58 Personal Experiences and Reflections

06:59 Communication and Relationship Dynamics

16:44 Strategies for Effective Communication

29:51 Owning Your Business and Breaking Cycles

30:13 Balancing a Dream Job and Personal Relationships

31:51 Setting Alarms for Relationship Check-ins

33:59 The Emotional Labor of Women

40:20 Reclaiming Your Voice and Values

49:23 The 12-Week Transformation Program

53:24 Connecting with Chelsea for Coaching

56:28 The Promise You Are Intended to Be

01:00:00 Final Thoughts and Free Book Offer

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be 

Overcoming Fear: Helping Leaders Speak with Confidence

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, host Jesse interviews Jimmy Cannon, a voice and public speaking coach from the UK. Jimmy shares his journey from being a performer and singer to becoming a specialist in helping leaders speak without fear. The conversation covers the importance of energy, finding sincerity, and overcoming performance anxiety. Jimmy discusses his work with clients across various industries, helping them find their confidence and improve their communication skills. Key topics include the impact of mindfulness techniques, the concept of psychological flexibility, and the importance of being sincere rather than just authentic. The episode also includes listener shoutouts and personal anecdotes from both Jesse and Jimmy about their experiences with public speaking and leadership.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
00:43 Meet the Expert: Jimmy Cannon
04:15 Jimmy's Journey: From Performer to Coach
06:49 Understanding Performance Anxiety
09:06 Techniques to Overcome Speaking Fears
13:41 Real-Life Applications and Success Stories
27:47 The Power of Positive Thinking
28:11 Overcoming Life's Challenges
28:39 Embracing Opportunities
29:25 Building Confidence in Communication
30:55 Helping Professionals Speak Up
32:24 Voice and Confidence Connection
33:45 Success Stories and Client Transformations
39:35 Clarity, Precision, and Confidence
48:13 The Importance of Sincerity
55:16 Final Thoughts and Resources

Lets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab

Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be