Construction Genius

Eric Anderton

Thomas Edison said, "Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration."

  • 32 minutes 39 seconds
    Strategic Accounting: The Untapped Blueprint to Profit, Protection, and Peace of Mind

    Timothy Wingate Jr., founder and president of G+F Business & Financial Consulting, is a licensed Enrolled Agent and construction accountant specializing in tax planning and financial consulting for construction companies.

    In today's conversation, Timothy discusses key accounting and tax strategies, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right accounting method—favoring the completed contract or percentage of completion methods over cash-based accounting. He highlights common misconceptions, such as poor tracking and back-office inefficiencies, and explains how accrual accounting provides better financial insight.

    Timothy also covers tax planning mistakes, including improper entity selection and failure to pay oneself a salary, recommending S corporations for tax advantages. He shares strategies such as Section 179 deductions, retirement planning, and corporate tax credits. Additionally, Timothy addresses IRS audits, fraud prevention, and the necessity of proactive financial planning. Concluding, he offers insights on selecting the right CPA and shares a success story of a transformed construction company.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    [01:47] Choosing the Right Accounting Method 

    [04:19] Steps to Implement Accrual Method

    [09:10] Tax Strategies and Equipment Purchases 

    [10:13] Maximizing Returns and Minimizing Tax Liabilities 

    [13:56] IRS Audits and Red Flags

    [17:26] Preventing Fraud and Maintaining Financial Integrity

    [22:38] Client Communication and Support 

    [27:00] Personal Motivation and Client Success Stories

     

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    1. Use the completed contract or percentage of completion method for better financial tracking.

    2. Implement systems for accurate receipt capture, invoicing, and expense coding.

    3. Consider an S corporation for tax savings if revenue exceeds $1M.

    4. Utilize Section 179 to deduct equipment purchases and reduce taxable income.

    5. Use company cards with spending limits and digital payment tools.

     

    RESOURCES

    Connect with Timothy Wingate:

    G+F Business & Financial Consulting

    LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/twingatejr/

    LinkedIn – G+F Business & Financial Consulting

    Instagram – G+F Business & Financial Consulting

    Facebook – G+F Business & Financial Consulting

    @GplusF – YouTube

    Timothy’s Restaurant Recommendation:  Lynora's

     

    Resources to Help You Win in Construction

    📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com

    ☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me

    🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

     

    1 April 2025, 11:00 am
  • 45 minutes 58 seconds
    Snapping Lines Through Grief and Grit: A Woman’s Rise in Commercial Construction

    Pat Miller, owner of Blue Diamond Construction, has over 30 years of expertise in commercial carpentry and metal framing. An award-winning author of Kicking Karma's Ass, she inspires others with her resilience. She also hosts Behind the Blueprint and was recognized as an Outstanding Woman Builder in 2024. 

    In today's conversation, she shares insights into the challenges of being a subcontractor, including coordination among trades and dealing with ineffective superintendents. Pat emphasizes the importance of clear communication and prefers working with contractors with whom she has an established relationship. She discusses her approach to coordination meetings, direct problem-solving with subcontractors, and meeting deadlines. On business development, Pat highlights networking, attending trade conventions, and leveraging relationships with non-competing professionals. She also shares her journey of building and rebuilding her business, overcoming personal loss, and maintaining resilience. 

    HIGHLIGHTS

    [01:08] Pat's Business Background 

    [03:48] Structuring Coordination Meetings 

    [06:55] Handling Subcontractors and Coordination Issues 

    [09:38] Business Development and Networking 

    [12:42] Effective Networking Strategies 

    [28:00] Building and Rebuilding the Business 

    [36:29] Overcoming Grief and Continuing the Business

     

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    1. Kick-off with a structured meeting, then maintain direct communication instead of excessive formal meetings.

    2. Tackle performance problems on-site first, giving a short window to improve before escalating.

    3. Attend industry events and trade conventions with non-competing business contacts to maximize opportunities.

    4. Adapt to personal and professional challenges by focusing on rebuilding, networking, and avoiding family business conflicts.

    5. Women in construction should assert themselves, prove their capabilities, and pursue opportunities despite biases.

     

    RESOURCES

    Connect with Pat Miller: 

    Website: patmiller.net

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patricia-pat-miller

    Company: bluediamondconstructionnj.com/

    Book: KICKING Karma's Ass: Unbelievable Stories of Strength, Resilience, and Perseverance, All Told with a Twist of Humor

     

     

    Resources to Help You Win in Construction

    📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com

    ☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me

    🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

    25 March 2025, 11:00 am
  • 33 minutes 56 seconds
    Stronger, Healthier, Better: Fitness & Business Lessons from a Gym Design Expert

    Chris Howell, CEO and Founder of SPX, is at the forefront of luxury gym design, blending aesthetics with functionality to create immersive fitness experiences. SPX crafts wellness spaces for high-end hospitality groups and multi-family residences, integrating cutting-edge equipment with innovative interior design.

    In today's conversation, Chris shares insights into his career transition from Wall Street to fitness, influenced by his athletic background in lacrosse at Hofstra University. He emphasizes the importance of nutrition over exercise, sustainable fitness routines, and balancing cardio with strength training.

    Chris also discusses gym design strategies, highlighting early collaboration with architects and the challenges of translating vision into execution. He delves into the sauna and cold plunge routines, injury rehabilitation, and the business strategy of targeting ideal clients. His approach underscores incremental changes for long-term health and success, both in fitness and business.

     

    HIGHLIGHTS

    [00:06] Gym Design Firm Overview 

    [01:56] Athletic Background and Career Transition 

    [04:21] Sauna and Cold Plunge Usage 

    [07:38] Nutrition and Fitness Challenges 

    [13:55] Balancing Cardio and Weights

    [18:01] Managing Injuries and Rehabilitation 

    [21:12] Business Goals and Strategy 

    [25:17] Finding the Right Client Avatar 

    [29:14] Incremental Changes in Fitness and Nutrition 

     

    RESOURCES:

    Connect with Chris Howell:

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chrishowell16/

    Website: spxgymdesign.com/

     

    Restaurant Recommendations in NYC

    Emily: https://www.pizzalovesemily.com/

    Catch Steak: https://www.catchrestaurants.com/location/catch-nyc/

     

    Resources to Help You Win in Construction

    📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com

    ☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me

    🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

     

     

    18 March 2025, 11:00 am
  • 51 minutes 53 seconds
    When Information is Free, Vision is Priceless—AI and the Future of Construction Leadership

    Sean Devine is an entrepreneur, programmer, logistics expert, and the founder & CEO of XBE LLC. This enterprise software company offers an operations and business management platform tailored to large, vertically integrated construction companies. In the road building industry, XBE serves 40 major contractors, including companies with quarries, asphalt plants, ready mix-plants, crews, and trucks. His company's core mission is to seamlessly integrate the physical and financial aspects of construction operations into one cohesive system. He joined us today to talk about AI and the future of construction leadership. 

     

    Key takeaways 

    ✅ Trust your executives and managers to do daily operations.

    ✅ Acknowledge that you cannot predict the future and uncertainty can lead to opportunities if approached correctly.

    ✅ Optimize multiple outcomes instead of betting on one specific outcome.

    ✅ Acknowledge the uncertainty of the situation with your team and partners.

    ✅ Hire people who can quickly adapt, learn, and apply new knowledge across various areas.

    ✅ Trust your intuition when faced with uncertainty.

     

    Highlights

     

    [05:07] Sean explains the rapid decrease in the cost of intelligence due to advancements in artificial intelligence.

    [13:35] The challenges of balancing immediate responsibilities with long-term strategic goals.

    [20:00] Sean shares major changes in estimating and planning over the next three to five years.

    [23:22] The rapid and unexpected changes brought about by AI and technology. 

    [28:17] Intuition as a tool for uncertainty. 

    [39:56] The need for leaders to provide ambition and faith to their teams.

    [41:49] The importance of leadership in directing execution. 

    [45:50] Building trust and confidence in relationships.

     

    Resources

    Connect with Sean Devine

    LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/seandevine-xbe/ 

    Website - x-b-e.com/

     

    Resources to Help You Win in Construction

    📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com

    ☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me

    🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

     

    11 March 2025, 11:00 am
  • 35 minutes 32 seconds
    Winning Before You Build: How Thoughtful Planning and Clear Communication Drive Profitable Projects

    Clint Padgett is the CEO and President of Project Success, Inc., an author and host of The Conversation with Clinton M. Padgett podcast. With extensive expertise in project management, he helps organizations improve execution, collaboration, and communication to drive successful outcomes in complex projects across various industries.

    During today's conversation, Clint discusses the challenges of communication in construction projects, emphasizing that software is a tool, not a solution. He highlights the pitfalls of one-way communication and the importance of conversations in solving problems. Clint also explores the impact of silos, avoidance of confrontation, and strategies for preparing for difficult discussions. He stresses thorough planning, clear handoffs between estimating and project management, and prioritizing bottlenecks. Moreover, Clint shares advice on structuring a project manager's week, effective subcontractor communication, and regaining control in chaotic projects. Finally, he offers insights on distinguishing top project managers and handling unreasonable project owners.

     

    Key takeaways 

    ✅ Avoid one-way communication; have direct discussions to solve problems faster. ✅ Encourage cross-team discussions to improve planning and execution. ✅ Remove ambiguity by involving all stakeholders in the planning process. ✅ Structure project managers' weeks with clear priorities and bottleneck checks. ✅Ensure transparent communication between estimating and project management for smoother transitions.

     

    Highlights

    [01:19] Challenges of Communication in Construction Projects 

    [02:54] Avoidance of Confrontation and Silos 

    [04:33] Preparing for Confrontations 

    [06:49] Importance of Planning in Construction 

    [08:18] Sources of Gray in Projects 

    [11:29] Structuring a Project Manager's Week

    [11:48] Prioritizing Bottlenecks

    [12:49]Communicating with Subcontractors

    [16:10] Regaining Control in Chaotic Projects

    [24:24] Separating A-Level Project Managers 

    [28:30] Planning Meetings and Dealing with Unreasonable Owners 

     

    Resources

    Connect with Clint:

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/clintpadgett/

    Website: clintonmpadgett.com/

     

    Resources to Help You Win in Construction

    📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/

    ☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me/

    🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

     

    4 March 2025, 11:00 am
  • 37 minutes 57 seconds
    The Hidden Cost of Bad Onboarding (And How to Get It Right)

    Hiring a great candidate is one thing. Keeping them engaged, productive, and committed? That’s where most companies fall apart. 24% of new hires quit within weeks when onboarding is a mess. But when it’s done right, 69% stay for at least three years.

    In this episode, Manja Horner, founder of Boost LD, breaks down how to create an onboarding experience that: 

    ✅ Eliminates Day One Confusion – So new hires don’t feel like an afterthought. ✅ Builds Instant Team Chemistry – Without forced, cringeworthy team-building exercises. ✅ Filters Out Bad Fits Early – Before you waste months training the wrong person. ✅ Gets Employees Contributing Fast – Because a long orientation doesn’t pay the bills.

    This isn’t another fluffy HR discussion. It’s a deep dive into how construction leaders can get new hires up to speed faster, improve retention, and avoid costly hiring mistakes.

     

     

    Key Takeaways

    1. Most Companies Get Onboarding Wrong (Here’s Why)

    • They don’t have a structured plan.

    • New hires arrive to zero direction—no mentor, no schedule, no sense of belonging.

    • The unspoken rule is: Figure it out yourself. (Which leads to expensive turnover.)

    2. How to Create an Onboarding Process That Actually Works

    • Pre-boarding starts before Day One – A welcome email, a checklist, and clear expectations prevent awkward first impressions.

    • The First Day Focus:

      • A proper welcome from leadership (not just HR).

      • A mentor or peer buddy—not just the boss.

      • A walk-through of “unwritten rules” (break times, expectations, team norms).

    • The First Week:

      • Start with job-relevant tasks—don’t just drown them in paperwork.

      • Introduce key players and give context on why their role matters.

    3. The 30, 60, 90-Day Reality Check

    • Hiring mistakes happen—but they shouldn’t take a year to fix.

    • How to structure the first three months to evaluate if a new hire is really a fit.

    • The DCOM Framework for diagnosing performance issues:

      • Direction – Did they get clear instructions?

      • Competence – Do they have the skills?

      • Obstacles – Are there barriers stopping them?

      • Motivation – Do they even want to be there?

    4. When to Show a New Leader the Hard Truth

    • Every company has problems—how soon should you expose them to a new hire?

    • Balancing cultural immersion with immediate strategic involvement.

    • How to leverage their fresh perspective before they become “just another employee.”

    5. What to Do When a New Hire Replaces a Popular Leader

    • Navigating team loyalty. If the previous boss was loved, the new one has an uphill battle.

    • Identifying the “informal leader” in the team—and turning them into an ally.

    • Why trust-building must come before hard changes.

    6. The Fastest Way to Get a New Hire Up to Speed (Even in a Technical Role)

    • Capturing deep expertise before senior employees leave.

    • The Camcorder Method: Using video documentation for faster knowledge transfer.

    • Why hiring someone without technical knowledge requires intentional training.

     

    Guest: Manja Horner

    📍 Founder, Boost LD – Specializing in HR and training solutions for skilled trades. 🔗 Website: boostld.com

    Connect win Manja on Instagram: @manja_horner 📥 Free Resource: Click this link and download the Onboarding Checklist: https://share.hsforms.com/17JmdisCfRBCjt4UQStu_ugs8p18

     

     

    Resources to Help You Win in Construction

    📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/

    ☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me/

    🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

    25 February 2025, 11:00 am
  • 32 minutes 19 seconds
    Jiu-Jitsu Selling: How to Flow with Resistance and Close Big Deals in Construction

    Sales isn’t about brute force—it’s about strategy, adaptability, and control. Just like in jiu-jitsu, the best salespeople don’t fight resistance head-on; they flow with it, turning objections into opportunities. In this episode of Construction Genius, Sean Ginsburg breaks down how to apply combat sports principles to high-ticket construction sales. From mindset to execution, this conversation will help you close more deals, build stronger relationships, and dominate your market.

    🔑 Key Takeaways

    🥋 Position Before Submission: Controlling the Sale

    • The best closers don’t chase deals—they control conversations by asking the right questions.

    • High-ticket sales require patience and positioning—just like setting up a submission in jiu-jitsu.

    • If you don’t control the negotiation, you will get submitted.

    💪 Handling Rejection Like a Fighter

    • Expect resistance—just like in training, you’re going to get “choked out” before you learn how to win.

    • Repeated rejection isn’t failure; it’s feedback. Train, drill, and refine your approach.

    • Objections are a sign of interest, not rejection. Lean into them and use them to strengthen your pitch.

    ♟️ Sales Is Chess, Not Checkers

    • Selling a construction project is a long-term game—every move must be strategic.

    • Follow-up is the ultimate weapon—80% of sales happen between the 5th and 12th contact.

    • The best salespeople own their industry—they don’t just pitch; they educate, advise, and lead.

    🛠️ The 7 Non-Negotiables for Closing a Deal 1️⃣ Decision makers in the room—don’t waste time with people who can’t say “yes.” 2️⃣ They have the money—qualify your prospects upfront. 3️⃣ They believe in the product—if they don’t, your pitch needs work. 4️⃣ They trust you—conviction and credibility close deals. 5️⃣ They’re confident in your company—show them you can deliver. 6️⃣ A clear written offer—remove ambiguity. 7️⃣ Urgency to buy—without urgency, deals stall indefinitely.

    🚀 Mastering the Art of the Close

    • Salespeople kill deals, not prospects. If a deal isn’t closing, look in the mirror.

    • Most salespeople hear objections and panic. The best slow down, ask deeper questions, and uncover the real issue.

    • Every sales conversation is a series of moves—just like rolling in jiu-jitsu, you need to anticipate and counter with precision.

    📈 The 3 Daily Habits of Elite Salespeople 1️⃣ Train like a fighter—role-play, rehearse, and refine your craft every day. 2️⃣ Build an unstoppable pipeline—if your pipeline is full, you’ll never be desperate. 3️⃣ Follow up like your career depends on it—because it does.

    🔥 Your Next Step Apply these principles for the next 12 months, and watch your sales numbers transform. It’s not about being slick—it’s about being strategic.

     

    🔗 Connect with Sean Ginsburg 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sean.ginsburg/

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

     

     

    Resources to Help You Win in Construction

    📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/

    ☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me/

    🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

    18 February 2025, 11:00 pm
  • 37 minutes 28 seconds
    From Ground Zero to Luxury Resorts: Designing Spaces That Transform Lives

    Kevin Kennon is an internationally renowned architect with over 40 years of experience, specializing in environmentally sustainable and innovative design. As the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC Inc., Kevin leads the development of zero-carbon emission luxury eco-resorts in remote wilderness locations worldwide, merging design excellence with ecological responsibility. His extensive portfolio includes projects like the 1.5 million square foot Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Museum in Seoul, and multiple award-winning Bloomingdale’s stores. Additionally, he led United Architects, a finalist in the prestigious World Trade Center design competition, further solidifying his impact on architectural innovation.

    Kevin’s expertise spans adaptive reuse, urban planning, and large-scale developments, with projects featured in the permanent collection of MoMA, New York. He has earned over 40 international design awards and is a sought-after thought leader, contributing to discussions on urban development, climate change, and sustainable architecture. His work extends beyond architecture; as an expert witness and lecturer at leading institutions like Yale and Columbia, he brings a multidisciplinary approach to his craft.

     

    🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

    • How Kevin’s upbringing and exposure to architecture from a young age influenced his career path.

    • The unexpected ways literature and anthropology have shaped modern architectural thought and Kevin’s personal design philosophy.

    • The key characteristics that define good architecture and how it impacts urban environments and the people who inhabit them.

    • Why community-driven design is essential in making architecture more inclusive and meaningful for residents.

    • How modern sustainability efforts, technology, and AI are changing the way architects approach design.

    • The shift towards collaboration in construction and why architects and contractors must work together more effectively.

     

    💡 Key Takeaways

    1. Architecture is More Than Just Aesthetic – Great architecture isn’t just about how a building looks, but how it functions, impacts the community, and integrates with its surroundings.

    2. Sustainability Must Go Beyond Surface-Level Solutions – True green architecture requires deeper innovation than just adding vegetation to a building’s exterior.

    3. Collaboration is the Future – The adversarial nature of traditional construction practices is being replaced by a more cooperative approach that benefits all stakeholders.

    4. Technology is Reshaping Architecture – AI and robotics are set to revolutionize design and construction processes, demanding a shift in how architects and builders work.

     

    📚 Resources:

    Connect with Kevin: 

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

    Website: https://www.kdcaia.com

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kevinkennonarchitects1041

     

    Restaurant Recommendation: https://www.viacarota.com

     

    📘 Ready to Lead Smarter? Check out Eric’s book, Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies. It’s packed with insights to help you tackle the unique challenges of construction leadership. Get your copy here.

    🎓 Want to Level Up Your Leadership? Explore The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader. This hands-on course helps construction professionals master leadership skills like productivity, conflict resolution, and team management. Learn more about the course here.

    📞 Interested in Coaching? Book a 10-minute call with Eric to explore how his coaching for construction executives can help you and your business thrive. Schedule your call now.

     

    11 February 2025, 11:00 am
  • 55 minutes 24 seconds
    Adversary or Ally? How Owner's Reps and Contractors Team Up to Deliver Great Projects

    In this episode of Construction Genius, we’re joined by Zach Rapaport, founding principal of Meerkat, a real estate development consultancy focused on the hospitality segment.Meerkat offers strategic advisement for fractional development partnership insight and early stage exploration of a new deal/rebrand, as well as project leadership for development/renovation stage management.

    Zach started his career on the construction side, working with GCs to build compelling projects in the hospitality space. Following his stint in construction, he made the shift to real estate development and has been in that space since, breathing life into new and existing hospitality concepts. Having held VP tenure in-house with Life House Hotels, Selina, and Joe & The Juice, he is familiar with getting minimally resourced ventures off the ground efficiently and sustainably.

    With the majority of a typical project’s budget being construction (and the inherent risk associated with the process that requires a watchful eye), Zach and his team brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that keeps clients comfortable with the direction being taken for their company’s strategy via fractional development partner consulting as well as a project’s design & development via management.

     

    🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

    • Zach's Path to Construction: Discover how Zach's unique background led him into the construction industry and how his diverse experiences have shaped his approach to development.

    • From General Contractor to Owner’s Rep: Understand the challenges and learning curves Zach faced while transitioning from a general contractor to an owner's representative, and how this shift has influenced his perspective on project management.

    • What Makes a Contractor Stand Out?: Learn the key traits and practices that Zach believes differentiate successful contractors, including effective communication, speed, and quality of work.

    • Breaking the Owner’s Rep Barrier: Gain insights into how contractors can build trust and establish strong relationships with owner's representatives to enhance collaboration and project outcomes.

    • Best Practices for Site Reporting & Communication: Explore the importance of thorough site visits, detailed reporting, and proactive communication in ensuring project success and client satisfaction.

    • Handling Delays & Change Orders Effectively: Discover strategies for managing unexpected challenges, communicating delays, and handling change orders in a way that maintains trust and keeps projects on track.

    • Managing Conflict & High-Stakes Decisions: Learn how to navigate conflicts and make critical decisions under pressure, drawing from Zach's experiences in high-stakes project environments.

    • Red Flags That Make an Owner’s Rep Walk Away: Identify common pitfalls and warning signs that can deter an owner's representative from continuing a partnership with a contractor.

    • How Contractors Can Vet Their Clients: Understand the importance of contractors qualifying their clients to ensure alignment of values, expectations, and project goals before entering into agreements.

    • The Story Behind Meerkat Development & Closing Thoughts: Hear the origin story of Meerkat Development, its core values, and Zach's final thoughts on fostering successful collaborations in the construction industry.

     

    💡 Key Takeaways

    • Proactive and transparent communication is crucial for building trust and ensuring project success.

    • Balancing speed and quality requires meticulous planning and a commitment to excellence.

    • Understanding the perspectives of both contractors and owner's representatives can lead to more effective collaboration and better project outcomes.

     

    📚 Resources:

    Connect with Zach

    Website: https://www.meerkatdevelopment.com/

    LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachrapaport/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meerkatdevelopment/

     

    Zach’s Restaurant Recommendations in New York City: 

    Scarr’s Pizza https://www.scarrspizza.com/

    Wayan https://www.wayan-restaurants.com/new-york

    McSorley’s https://mcsorleysoldalehouse.nyc/

     

     

    📘 Ready to Lead Smarter? Check out Eric’s book, Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies. It’s packed with insights to help you tackle the unique challenges of construction leadership. Get your copy here.

    🎓 Want to Level Up Your Leadership? Explore The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader. This hands-on course helps construction professionals master leadership skills like productivity, conflict resolution, and team management. Learn more about the course here.

    📞 Interested in Coaching? Book a 10-minute call with Eric to explore how his coaching for construction executives can help you and your business thrive. Schedule your call now.

     

    4 February 2025, 11:00 am
  • 50 minutes 41 seconds
    Crafting a Perfect Exit Strategy: A Guide to Selling Your Business Internally

    Selling a construction company is one of the most significant decisions a business owner will face. In this episode of Construction Genius, Eric Anderton sits down with Tony Moayed, founder of TriCorp Group and President at TMCS, Inc., to uncover the strategic and emotional journey of transitioning his business to new leadership.

    Tony didn’t choose the highest bidder—he chose a path that prioritized loyalty, culture, and his company's legacy. If you’re considering selling your business or planning for retirement, this episode is packed with actionable insights and hard-earned lessons.

    🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    1. Why Internal Over External?

      • Tony’s decision to forgo millions from external buyers to protect his company’s culture.

      • The risks and rewards of selling internally.

    2. Timing the Transition:

      • How Tony’s planning process evolved over nearly a decade.

      • The importance of starting early and avoiding a rushed exit strategy.

    3. Structuring the Deal:

      • Innovative financial mechanisms that allowed employees to buy in without upfront cash.

      • Avoiding common tax pitfalls with the help of the right advisors.

    4. Selecting the Right Leaders:

      • Tony’s criteria for choosing successors were loyalty, capability, and independence.

      • The "three-legged stool" approach to leadership: operations, estimating, and accounting.

    5. Navigating Challenges:

      • Managing client relationships during the transition.

      • How Tony maintained trust while stepping back from day-to-day operations.

      • Lessons from past partnerships and how they shaped this deal.

    💡 Key Takeaways:

    • A successful exit is about more than money—it’s about legacy, culture, and the people who make your business thrive.

    • A well-structured internal sale can benefit everyone involved when handled with foresight and care.

    • The role of trust, both in leadership and in navigating the complexities of a business sale.

    📚 Additional Resources:

    🎧 Don’t miss this episode if you’re:

    • A construction business owner considering your exit strategy.

    • Curious about the benefits and challenges of an internal sale.

    • Looking for practical advice on leadership transitions and preserving company culture.

    📘 Ready to Lead Smarter? Check out Eric’s book, Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies. It’s packed with insights to help you tackle the unique challenges of construction leadership. Get your copy here.

    🎓 Want to Level Up Your Leadership? Explore The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader. This hands-on course helps construction professionals master leadership skills like productivity, conflict resolution, and team management. Learn more about the course here.

    📞 Interested in Coaching? Book a 10-minute call with Eric to explore how his coaching for construction executives can help you and your business thrive. Schedule your call now.

    28 January 2025, 11:00 am
  • 47 minutes 55 seconds
    Building Tomorrow: Modular Construction's Role in Solving the Housing Crisis

    Meet Otis Odell, a principal at HED, an architecture design, engineering, and planning firm across eight offices in the USA. He oversees the National Business Leader role for housing and mixed-use projects. He leads a team within a company of approximately 450 people across nine offices, working in various sectors, including affordable housing, workforce housing, market-rate housing, luxury housing, student housing, senior housing, and hospitality. His experience in modular construction dates back to the late 1980s, when he worked as a young project architect on a modular project. He has closely followed the rise and fall of the modular industry and remains a strong advocate for its potential, particularly in light of current industry challenges.

    We start the conversation with Otis sharing his background and role in the industry. He then shared his thoughts on modular construction becoming more viable due to the increasing challenges faced by the construction industry, such as rising costs and labor shortages. According to him, the key to success lies in effective collaboration between the design team and the fabrication team. He also discusses how learning from past failures has helped the industry understand the importance of standardization, communication, and empathy for the different partners involved. We then move towards the housing projects and their significant impact on communities, where Otis explains the fundamental role houses play in people's lives, as they provide not only shelter but also security, community, and a sense of belonging. We also talk about how the relationship between individuals and their homes varies between cultures, with American culture frequently highlighting the transactional nature of housing, whilst other cultures place a greater emphasis on community and collaborative living.

    Further into the conversation, we dive into the power of storytelling. Storytelling is a crucial tool in moving projects forward, as it helps connect ideas, goals, and experiences in a meaningful way. Every project has a distinctive story that can be leveraged to foster trust, motivate action, and propel achievement. According to Otis, by understanding and listening to a client’s needs, you can craft a narrative that aligns with their aspirations and demonstrates your capability to deliver the desired results.

    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

    [14:43] Otis’s background and his role in the industry.

    [06:31] Insights on modular construction's viability.

    [11:40] Contractual structures and owner involvement. 

    [13:44] Navigating regulatory complexities in California housing. 

    [17:27] Housing projects and their significant impact on communities. 

    [23:17] The importance of embracing diversity. 

    [24:47] The power of storytelling. 

    [29:11] The relationship between sustainability and cost in construction projects.

    [34:23] Developing trust and collaboration among all parties. 

    [41:54] The future of modular construction.

     

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    1. Professionals in architecture and fabrication should be willing to collaborate more openly and understand each other's perspectives. 

    2. Regularly monitor and advocate for relevant legislation.

    3. When working on housing projects, it’s important to understand the community’s values and needs.

    4. Focus on creating spaces that promote community integration.

    5. Making a conscious effort to interact with individuals from different backgrounds can greatly expand one’s perspective and enhance personal growth.

    6. Always start by listening carefully to the needs and goals of those you're working with. 

    7. Create a foundation of trust by clearly defining the project’s goals and the key drivers of success.

     

    RESOURCES

    Connect with Otis

    Website - https://hed.design/people/jerome-otis-odell 

    LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerome-odell-aia-leed-ap-390833118/

    Restaurant Reccomendation: https://www.tavernettadenver.com/menus/

    Additional Construction Genius episode to listen to: Katerra: The Rise and Fall of a Billion Dollar Construction Start Up https://www.constructiongenius.com/podcast/katerra-the-rise-and-fall-of-a-billion-dollar-construction-start-up/

     

    THE SHIFT

    Imagine making the shift from building projects to truly leading people.

    You’ve taken projects from start to finish—now it’s time to build a team of people who can do the same.

    In construction, authentic leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and guiding people.

    The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader is a no-BS, hands-on course I designed specifically for construction professionals ready to make that transition.

    The Shift is all about mastering the skills that matter:

    • Direct, clear communication.

    • Handling tough conversations with confidence.

    • Guiding your team toward quick, practical solutions.

    • Setting the standard for high performance.

    And let’s be honest—you’re busy.

    That’s why I’ll also give you the tools to manage your time and energy efficiently so you can lead without getting overwhelmed.

    This course combines a self-paced masterclass with highly practical materials to help you shift from managing projects to leading people.

    Click the link to learn more about The Shift, including a detailed description, free bonuses, and testimonials from construction leaders like you who have already made the shift: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/

     

     

    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

    Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me

     

    21 January 2025, 11:00 am
  • More Episodes? Get the App