Ep.1516 - 10X

Lean implementation doesn't start with a program, it starts with the leader, and it has to be driven from the top. In this episode, Jason gives a passionate reminder that you can't delegate lean to a VP, a lean director, a consultant, or a committee and expect it to stick. He breaks down why lean must become the company's main operating system, not a side project, and why real change requires authority paired with daily example. If you want lean to work at scale, this is the mindset shift. What you'll learn in this episode: Why lean must be led by the top leader not delegated How "lean as a side job" guarantees failure The difference between influence and authority when implementing change Why committees and decision-by-group create chaos instead of improvement What daily lean leadership looks like in real life If you're the leader, what are you personally doing every day to prove lean is the operating system, not a slogan? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

Lean isn't a 1.0 program it's a pursuit, and if you think you're "done," you haven't even started scratching the surface. In this episode, Jason challenges you to go 10 times further than what most teams call "lean," with a vision for truly advanced planning, logistics, visual systems, and training that creates real muscle memory in the field. He also shares what he's building next with Last Planner content and why "good enough" is the enemy of great on modern projects. If you want a hopeful push to keep improving and live a remarkable life, this one's for you.  What you'll learn in this episode: Why "lean 1.0" is only the starting point and what 10x implementation really looks like How to think about next-level Last Planner execution (2.0, 3.0) instead of the "old way" Why the industry must train and mass-produce construction professionals to match today's demand What advanced jobsite systems could include: visual controls, logistics queuing, tracking, drones, and daily real-time visuals How to stay motivated, keep learning, and build momentum without burning out. If you could take your current "lean" effort 10 times further, what would you change first? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down the real levels of Lean implementation inside an organization and why "Lean instant pudding" (just add water) is a lie. He explains the phases of Lean development over time, what it actually takes to move from participation to real implementation and culture maturity, and why most attempts fail when leaders want results without doing the work.  What you'll learn in this episode: The 3 phases of Lean implementation and why it takes time to mature. Why leaders who want "instant pudding" results usually aren't committed to real change. The two requirements Jason sees in every company that succeeds with Lean: caring about people + obsession with improvement. Why "fake Lean" hurts the industry and gives Lean a bad name. How leaders must model the behaviors (training, systems, improvement habits) for Lean to stick. Are you trying to "install Lean," or are you willing to build the kind of culture where Lean can actually take root and sustain itself? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder shares a simple "secret" that prevents a ton of workplace (and relationship) conflict: if two people are doing the same things, they'll step on each other's toes and contention is guaranteed. He ties that lesson to real examples from project teams, business partnerships, and home life, then connects it to a key Lean idea: when multiple people are responsible for something, it often doesn't happen so clear ownership and clear role boundaries matter. What you'll learn in this episode: Why overlapping responsibilities create friction, frustration, and constant conflict. How to define clear work assignments while still staying "shared-responsibility" as a team. Why PM/Super pairs (and leadership partners) fight when they're both trying to run the same lane. The Lean takeaway: one clear owner is often the difference between "done" and "never happens". A practical mindset shift to reduce drama and increase production: clarify roles before you escalate emotions. Where are you "stepping on toes" right now and what would change if you clearly owned separate lanes? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason Schroeder explains "the podcast effect" how teaching what you're learning forces clarity, strengthens recall, and accelerates real-world implementation. He shares how researching and recording episodes (and YouTube trainings) creates a powerful learn-teach-learn cycle, then contrasts implementers with critics who talk big but don't "show me" real field results. What you'll learn in this episode: How the learn-teach-learn cycle helps you retain and apply what you study. Why implementation matters more than criticism—and what "show me" really means. How to spot "Lean talk" that isn't backed by real field practice. Why systems must evolve—freezing methods in time turns them into classical management. How consistency can accidentally create a false urgency that impacts your life and relationships. Where are you feeling urgency right now and is it truly urgent, or just a thought driving you? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

In this episode, Jason Schroeder shares a simple "secret" that prevents a ton of workplace (and relationship) conflict: if two people are doing the same things, they'll step on each other's toes—and contention is guaranteed. He ties that lesson to real examples from project teams, business partnerships, and home life, then connects it to a key Lean idea: when multiple people are responsible for something, it often doesn't happen—so clear ownership and clear role boundaries matter. What you'll learn in this episode: Why overlapping responsibilities create friction, frustration, and constant conflict. How to define clear work assignments while still staying "shared-responsibility" as a team. Why PM/Super pairs (and leadership partners) fight when they're both trying to run the same lane. The Lean takeaway: one clear owner is often the difference between "done" and "never happens". A practical mindset shift to reduce drama and increase production: clarify roles before you escalate emotions. Where are you "stepping on toes" right now and what would change if you clearly owned separate lanes? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder unpacks the real tension between high, medium, and low performers—and why those groups often clash even when nobody is trying to be "mean." He shares a story from inside his own organization, explains how high performers experience a real human need when they're paired with someone moving at a different standard, and why resentment and criticism often come from how people feel around excellence. What you'll learn in this episode: Why high performers and mid/low performers often can't "mesh" without alignment. How different work standards trigger real emotional reactions—and why that's normal. Why blame and criticism can be a defense mechanism when people feel "not enough". When "segregation" (separating roles/teams) is a flow decision, not a moral statement. What leaders can do: train, align direction, or reset the system so performance expectations are clear. Where in your team do you need better alignment and training—so high performers aren't carrying frustration, and others aren't stuck feeling defeated? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder responds to a listener asking for a practical, step-by-step way to implement Lean on real projects. Jason explains the six-part structure of his new "Elevating Construction the Lean Way" series, then shares his bigger vision: recording real jobsite, step-by-step "how-to" training—from primary control and site setup to meeting systems—so teams can see exactly what "Lean in the field" looks like. He also makes the point that Lean only works when leadership is truly aligned and willing to go all in, together. What you'll learn in this episode: The 6-part framework Jason uses to define Lean in construction. Why "how-to" Lean requires real projects, real crews, and real documentation — not theory. What a step-by-step jobsite video series could cover (from control points to site setup and signage). Why Lean implementation needs leadership alignment and authority—not side efforts. How Jason is building tools, content, and opportunities to showcase Lean at the GC and trade partner level. If you wanted to build Lean "for real" on your site, what would you start documenting and standardizing first? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder breaks down a common scheduling trap: believing you can be behind in some areas because you're "ahead" somewhere else. He explains why being ahead in a few zones usually creates gaps, not true acceleration, and why most projects only recover when teams pause, map it out, and get back into flow. The real goal isn't pockets of speed — it's stability, leveling, and synchronized trade flow across the whole project. What you'll learn in this episode: Why being "ahead" in one area usually turns into gaps, not schedule recovery. How mapping the sequence reveals constraints you can't see in your head. Why the project's pace is set by the slowest zones and constraints, not the fastest crew. What it means to stabilize, level work, and re-enter flow instead of chasing shortcuts. How to think in synchronized "trains" of trades moving together at a consistent rhythm. If you're "ahead" somewhere but behind elsewhere, are you actually gaining time—or just creating a gap you'll pay for later? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw  

In this episode, Jason Schroeder challenges the concept of "no school supers"—superintendents who believe they can simply "wing it" on the job without any formal education or training. Jason explains how this mindset is not only dangerous but also incredibly destructive to the construction industry. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mentors, reading, and continuous education to truly succeed in the field. What you'll learn in this episode: Why "winging it" without education leads to poor leadership and destructive practices. The difference between "old school" supers who keep learning and "no school" supers who don't. How to avoid panic, push, and rushing by gaining proper training and knowledge. Why continuous learning is crucial to understanding principles of safety, quality, and production. The impact of not investing in education on project success and team dynamics. What can you do today to start learning and growing as a leader, rather than just "figuring it out" on your own? If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode.  And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊). Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels: · Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg  · LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt · LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured · LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw