Most construction pros have heard of Lean — but far fewer truly understand it, and even fewer are putting it into practice. In this episode of The EBFC Show, we shine a light on why Lean is often misunderstood, overlooked, or completely invisible on job sites today. Join host Felipe Engineer-Manriquez and special guest Alan Boykiw as they unpack the roots of Lean, its relevance to construction, and what it really takes to make continuous improvement more than just a buzzword.

Why is Lean often misunderstood — or completely unseen — in today’s construction industry?

In this eye-opening episode of The EBFC Show, host Felipe Engineer-Manriquez sits down with Alan Boykiw, Senior Experience Architect at Nialli, to explore why Lean Construction isn’t as visible or widespread as it should be. Together, they unpack the history of Lean, bust some common myths, and share hard truths about where the industry stands on Lean adoption.

From the origins of the term “Lean” to the pressing need for change in how we plan, schedule, and collaborate — this episode gets real about what’s holding teams back, and more importantly, how to move forward.

🎯 What you’ll learn in this episode:

💡 Whether you’re just hearing about Lean for the first time or you’ve been practicing for years, this conversation offers powerful insights and practical steps for anyone ready to build smarter.

🔗 Tune in now and ask yourself: Is your team Lean… or just unseen?

💬 Want to deliver more value in your next project? This episode is a must-listen for builders, designers, owners, and anyone committed to improving construction culture.

Show Links:

Methods include the Last Planner System®, Takt Planning, and Scrum.

Leverage more free resources from the Lean Construction Blog, the EBFC Show, or the Lean Builder blog for help with foundations. Consider joining a local LCI Community of Practice to learn from peers.

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Connect with Alan Boykiw, Senior Experience Architect

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanboykiw/

Website: https://www.nialli.com/

Connect with Felipe via

Social media and Free Lean and Scrum Training Resources at https://thefelipe.bio.link 

RSM Podia Course Link: https://store.theebfcshow.com/rsm

Subscribe to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube   

Watch The EBFC Show Podcast https://click.theebfcshow.com/YouTube-Podcast

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Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

How Small Projects Can Win Big with Target Value Delivery (TVD). In this episode of The EBFC Show, host Felipe Engineer-Manriquez chats with Jason Brenner from Join about the game-changing power of Target Value Delivery (TVD) — not just for billion-dollar mega-projects, but even for more modest efforts like a $6 million infrastructure upgrade.

Together, they break down how TVD helps teams build trust, embrace collaboration, and deliver more value — regardless of project size. Jason shares real-world insights and practical strategies for navigating common challenges like audits, cost control, and stakeholder engagement. Whether you're new to TVD or looking to deepen your application of it, this conversation is packed with wisdom you can take straight to the jobsite.

🎯 What you’ll learn in this episode:

💬 Want to deliver more value in your next project? This episode is a must-listen for builders, designers, owners, and anyone committed to improving construction culture.

🔗 Listen now and let us know: What’s your biggest takeaway from this episode?

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Connect with Jason via

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-brenner-3b29524/

Website at https://join.build/

Connect with Felipe via

Social media and Free Lean and Scrum Training Resources at https://thefelipe.bio.link 

RSM Podia Course Link: https://store.theebfcshow.com/rsm

Subscribe to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube   

Watch The EBFC Show Podcast https://click.theebfcshow.com/YouTube-Podcast

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Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

“Collaboration isn't just for mega-projects.” 💬 In this powerful episode of The EBFC Show, Jason Brenner (@ Join) joins Felipe to break down how high-performing teams can achieve target value delivery (TVD) on projects of all sizes — not just the billion-dollar ones. 🏗️

With nearly 30 years of construction leadership experience (Genentech, DPR, Excel), Jason shares how he scaled from chemist to strategy exec — and what makes truly collaborative delivery not only possible, but sustainable.

💥 Topics include:

Plus, Jason and Felipe get real about:

👀 Whether you're an owner, contractor, or design pro — this convo will challenge how you think about teamwork, culture, and delivering real value in construction. 👉 Don’t miss this one. Like Jason says, “You can’t shortcut your way to collaboration.” Ready to scale smarter?

🕒 Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Why scaling TVD is essential

🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on transforming construction practices! 🚀

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Connect with Jason via

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-brenner-3b29524/

Website at https://join.build/

Connect with Felipe via

Social media and Free Lean and Scrum Training Resources at https://thefelipe.bio.link 

RSM Podia Course Link: https://store.theebfcshow.com/rsm

Subscribe to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube   

Watch The EBFC Show Podcast https://click.theebfcshow.com/YouTube-Podcast

---

Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

What if resistance to change wasn’t a problem, but an opportunity? In this episode of The EBFC Show, Victor Ortiz and host Felipe Engineer-Manriquez explore how embracing resistance to the Last Planner System can actually drive clarity, foster trust, and create better outcomes in construction projects. 🚧

As we continue our series on mastering the Last Planner System, Victor dives deep into the practical strategies that transform this Lean Construction framework into a tool for optimizing collaboration and efficiency.

📌 Key Takeaways You’ll Gain:

If you’ve faced pushback when adopting new methods or struggled to align teams with Lean principles, this episode is for you. Learn how to turn resistance into a stepping stone for innovation and success.

🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on transforming construction practices! 🚀

Episode References:

Interrupt Buffers Blog Post link: https://www.theebfcshow.com/blog/the-interrupt-pattern-for-design-and-construction-teams/

Part 2: Fake Last Planner System with Victor Ortiz https://www.theebfcshow.com/Victor-Ortiz-LPS-Part2/ 

Part 1: Transforming Construction: Last Planner System Deep Dive with Victor Ortiz https://www.theebfcshow.com/LPS-with-Victor-part1/

Books

“Built to Fail” by Todd R. Zabelle

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3B78bWX

“How to Make Meetings Work!” by Michael Doyle and David Straus

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3RxVv0U

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Connect with Victor via

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-ortiz-671301/

Connect with Felipe via

Social media and Free Lean and Scrum Training Resources at https://thefelipe.bio.link 

RSM Podia Course Link: https://store.theebfcshow.com/rsm

Subscribe to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube   

Watch The EBFC Show Podcast https://click.theebfcshow.com/YouTube-Podcast

---

Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

In this special episode of The EBFC Show, Felipe Engineer-Manriquez is joined by a very special guest—his son, Noah Engineer-Manriquez. Together, they dive into Noah's inspiring journey of mastering Scrum, from growing up around Lean principles to co-authoring the groundbreaking book Scrum for Teens. Learn how Noah uses Scrum to tackle school projects, personal goals, and everyday life challenges.

Packed with practical insights for teens, parents, and educators, this heartwarming episode explores the power of teamwork, productivity, and self-organization. Whether you're new to Scrum or a seasoned practitioner, you'll discover valuable lessons to apply in your own life. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that blends family, learning, and the joy of making life easier, better, and more fun!

Episode Highlights:

Tune in now to hear how Noah is paving the way for the next generation of Scrum practitioners.

Noah’s Review of Felipe’s Registered Scrum Master Course

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"My trainer kept the class lively with jokes and made the class simultaneously enjoyable and insightful. I had the most fun learning in a long time due to Felipe's teaching style. He answered all of my questions and encouraged me to stop him at any point if I didn't understand something. Thank you, Felipe, for an amazing experience."

-Noah Engineer-Manriquez

Author | Registered Scrum Master

Noah’s LCI Interview

How to Master Scrum: A Teen's Guide to Success YouTube link: https://youtu.be/NJ95q7GNUxE

Book Website: https://scrumforteens.com/

Amazon Book Link: https://amzn.to/4dHZxfK

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Follow Noah’s Book Page on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/scrum-for-teens

Connect with Felipe via

Social media and Free Lean and Scrum Training Resources at https://thefelipe.bio.link 

RSM Podia Course Link: https://store.theebfcshow.com/rsm

Subscribe to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube   

Watch The EBFC Show Podcast https://click.theebfcshow.com/YouTube-Podcast

---

Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

Why is the Last Planner System often misunderstood—and how can you avoid falling into the trap of a "fake" implementation? In this insightful follow-up interview, Felipe Engineer-Manriquez and returning guest Victor Ortiz dive into the transformative potential of the Last Planner System in Lean Construction. They reveal how traditional project management inefficiencies can be resolved by treating projects as dynamic production systems, unlocking better collaboration, predictability, and efficiency.

Victor shares real-world insights and strategies for properly applying Lean principles, helping teams avoid common pitfalls and achieve meaningful results. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started in construction management, this episode is packed with actionable advice to improve costs, schedules, and team satisfaction.

Don’t miss this second installment of the series with Victor Ortiz—subscribe now and let us know how these insights are changing your approach to construction projects.

Episode References:

Transforming Construction: Last Planner System Deep Dive with Victor Ortiz Part 1 | S5 103  https://www.theebfcshow.com/LPS-with-Victor-part1/

Books

“Built to Fail” by Todd R. Zabelle

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3B78bWX

“How to Make Meetings Work!” by Michael Doyle and David Straus

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3RxVv0U

---

Connect with Victor via

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-ortiz-671301/

Connect with Felipe via

Social media and Free Lean and Scrum Training Resources at https://thefelipe.bio.link 

RSM Podia Course Link: https://store.theebfcshow.com/rsm

Subscribe to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube   

Watch The EBFC Show Podcast https://click.theebfcshow.com/YouTube-Podcast

---

Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

Join Felipe Engineer-Manriquez and returning guest Victor Ortiz as they explore the transformative power of the Last Planner System in construction management. Building on his insights from Season 4, Victor dives deeper into how this Lean Construction framework/method can resolve inefficiencies in traditional project management by viewing projects as dynamic production systems. This episode unpacks the practical implementation of Lean principles and the Last Planner System, showcasing how they enhance project predictability, reduce costs, and improve overall job satisfaction. Tune in to discover actionable strategies that make construction projects more efficient and enjoyable. Whether you're a veteran in the field or just starting out, Victor's expertise will provide you with the tools to revolutionize your approach to construction management.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment or review—we’d love to hear how these insights are shaping your construction projects!

Episode References:

The EBFC Show S4 087 YouTube link: https://youtu.be/ZbAhBnyIksw

Book

How to Make Meetings Work! by Michael Doyle and David Straus

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3RxVv0U

---

Connect with Victor via

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-ortiz-671301/

Connect with Felipe via

Social media and Free Lean and Scrum Training Resources at https://thefelipe.bio.link 

RSM Podia Course Link: https://store.theebfcshow.com/rsm

Subscribe to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube   

Watch The EBFC Show Podcast https://click.theebfcshow.com/YouTube-Podcast

---

Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

In this episode of The EBFC Show, Felipe Engineer Manriquez sits down with Emily Edelstone, a Technical Solutions Executive at Autodesk, to explore the future of construction through the lens of AI and innovative technology. Emily shares her journey from a project engineer and superintendent to her current role, highlighting the transformative power of digital tools like Autodesk's Construction Cloud, AutoSpecs, and AI-driven solutions.

Listen in as they discuss the importance of continuous improvement, the challenges and benefits of adopting new technologies, and how young generations can shape the construction industry. Whether you're an industry veteran or a tech-savvy newcomer, Emily's insights will inspire you to rethink how construction can be easier, better, and more efficient.

Key Topics:

- Emily's career path and experiences in construction

- The shift from traditional to digital workflows

- How AI and automation are transforming the industry

- Overcoming the challenges of technology adoption

- The importance of continuous improvement and innovation

- Real-world examples of Autodesk solutions in action

Links:

Autospecs demo: https://youtu.be/yMR7Hcz-fDg

Parking lot design viral video: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/eedelstone_incaseyoumissedit-ai-bim-activity-7216459839583965186-iiuq?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios

Autodesk University: https://conferences.autodesk.com/flow/autodesk/au2024/sessioncatalog/page/inperson/session/1714132898411001XqlG

Session - CS2320 | Digital Professionals Unplugged: A Panel Discussion on the Value of the Digital Role | Tuesday, Oct 15 | 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM PDT

Speakers:

Emily's Design Build Ladies Channel

via YouTube Channel at https://youtube.com/@designbuildladies?si=aiKckO3FURstD7_B

Tune in and discover how to make your construction projects smarter, faster, and more efficient! Don't forget to subscribe, hit the like button, and share this video! 🚀🔧🏛

#ConstructionInnovation #AIinConstruction #Autodesk #EBFCShow #ContinuousImprovement

Connect with Emily via 

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/eedelstone/

Connect with Felipe via

Construction Scrum (book & audiobook) via https://constructionscrum.com/

Social media at https://thefelipe.bio.link

Subscribe on YouTube to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube

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Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090. 

BONUS Episode: September is National Suicide Prevention Month in the USA. All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness.

In this special bonus episode of The EBFC Show, host Felipe Engineer-Manriquez digs deeper into the critical issue of mental health and suicide awareness in the construction industry. Featuring guests Brian Winningham and Thomas LeMay, the episode spotlights the tragic story of Alberto, a construction worker who took his own life, and explores the immense pressures faced by workers in the construction sector. Join us as we discuss actionable steps to foster a safer, more compassionate workplace and share personal experiences that underline the urgent need for mental health awareness.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:28 Meet the Guests: Brian and Thomas

01:50 Brian's Journey in Construction

04:38 Thomas's Path to Construction Leadership

11:47 The Story of Alberto's Suicide

21:38 Mental Health in Construction: A Hidden Crisis

29:45 Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action

54:59 The Power of Small Gestures

56:33 Military Insights: After Action Reviews

58:19 Leadership and Worker Safety

01:00:24 The Importance of Mental Health in Construction

01:00:54 Challenges Faced by Women in Construction

01:02:23 The Reality of Construction Work

01:09:55 The Impact of Sleep and Substance Use

01:22:39 The Role of Therapy and Self-Care

01:44:58 Building Community in Construction

01:46:37 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

A Construction Suicide - Ranger Winnie

Gatekeeper Program at Boldt

Thomas LaMay's Previous EBFC Show Interview

Connect with Brian via

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/fielddrivenlean/

Connect with Thomas via 

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaslamay/

Connect with Felipe via

Construction Scrum (book & audiobook) via https://constructionscrum.com/

Social media at https://thefelipe.bio.link

Subscribe on YouTube to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube

Explore the transformative potential of AI in the construction industry in this episode of The EBFC Show, hosted by Felipe Engineer Manriquez and featuring AI expert Marcus Turner. Dig into how AI technologies like Stanford's Storm (a powerful analytics tool) and Claude's Artifacts (AI-driven solutions) are revolutionizing construction workflows. Marcus discusses practical applications from enhancing safety and streamlining processes to ensuring first-time permit approvals. Learn how AI is not only reshaping compliance and efficiency but also how it impacts teaching and research within the industry. The conversation also addresses the challenges of workforce displacement and the unique competitive edge AI provides to smaller firms. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the future of AI in construction and join the discussion on how we can navigate this technological evolution together.

Connect with Marcus via

LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/iammarcusturner/

Construction Scrum (book & audiobook) via https://constructionscrum.com/

Social media at https://thefelipe.bio.link

Subscribe on YouTube to never miss new videos here: https://click.theebfcshow.com/youtube

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Today's episode is sponsored by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). This non-profit organization operates as a catalyst to transform the industry through Lean project delivery using an operating system centered on a common language, fundamental principles, and basic practices. Learn more at https://www.leanconstruction.org 

Elevate your construction career and enhance your company's performance by mastering the crucial aspect of building enclosure management with Field Verified's specialized training. Address the major challenge of managing building enclosures, a common source of construction failures. Get hands-on learning experience with real-world construction scenarios and mock-up installations for skill-building with leadership and team-focused strategies. By joining our course, you gain access to a proven program that not only covers technical aspects but also better practices for effective construction management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach. Visit https://fieldverified.com for more insights, or contact us at 480-719-5090.