Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered how a simple miscommunication can snowball into a major setback on a construction site? Brace yourself for an eye-opening discussion where we dissect the everyday frustrations and obstacles that leave many in the construction industry at their wit's end. We recount real-world experiences, like an uncooperative cabinet installer and a flooring misalignment that slipped through the cracks, to underline the need for robust communication and proactive problem-solving. You'll get an insider look at the "First Time Quality" initiative, where trades graded each o ..read more

Send us a Text Message. What happens when you couple the searing heat of the construction site with the burning self-doubt of imposter syndrome? This episode unravels the dual challenges of physical and mental endurance in the construction industry. Join us as we share firsthand accounts of battling extreme temperatures, emphasizing the critical need for hydration and practical tips to stay cool. Then, we pivot to delve into the often silent struggle of limiting beliefs that plague our minds. We'll discuss overcoming the fear of failure and self-doubt, emphasizing the importance of self-confid ..read more

Ever faced a construction challenge that seemed impossible to solve? We did too—imagine a bedroom floor so out of level it felt like a funhouse attraction! In this episode, we recount how a listener's kind words reignited our passion for this podcast and share our innovative solution to that flooring issue without tearing the whole place apart. Our journey underscores the necessity of a problem-solving mindset in the construction world, setting the stage for a deep dive into the crucial topic of building inspections. Tune in as we unravel the intricacies of preparing for various building insp ..read more

Ever wondered how to strike the perfect balance between celebrating a national holiday and meeting crucial construction deadlines? Join us as Carolyn and Joshua McMahon share their unique insights on managing Independence Day festivities while keeping construction projects on track. Discover the cultural nuances involved, including how non-American workers also take the day off, and learn about the pivotal "closing season" in construction. We'll unpack strategies for a strong finish, from hiring specialized punch crews to understanding the financial implications that can affect project budgets ..read more

Ever wondered how setbacks can be powerful catalysts for growth? Join us as we share personal stories, like applying for jobs we weren't qualified for, to illustrate the concept of "failing forward." This episode sheds light on how viewing mistakes as learning opportunities can build resilience and success. We talk about the importance of fostering a culture where errors are not feared but embraced as part of the learning process. Reflecting on leadership and parenting, we discuss how allowing others to navigate their own failures can lead to stronger, more independent individuals. Ready to t ..read more

Have you ever wondered how an aspiring toy marketer found his calling in the home building industry? Join us as we sit down with Brad Hobert, a veteran home builder who shares his rollercoaster journey from a family business collapse to becoming an industry consultant and bestselling author. Brad's experiences during the late 2000s housing recession offer valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability that every builder can relate to. His infectious positivity and knack for storytelling make this episode both enlightening and immensely entertaining. We also dive into Brad’s collaborative boo ..read more

What does it take to succeed in a male-dominated industry? Melody Hackett, a construction powerhouse with 34 years of experience, joins us to share her incredible journey from the field at Finer Homes to Vice President of Operations and Procurement at Eagle Construction. Melody opens up about the challenges and triumphs of managing essential departments and over 300 trade partners across multiple locations. Her candid reflections and humorous anecdotes provide a rare glimpse into the often gritty, always vibrant world of construction leadership. Next, we delve into a deeply personal and inspi ..read more

Feeling the sands of the beach still between our toes, we, Carolyn and Joshua McMahon, tackle the post-vacation blues head-on. Ever experienced that bittersweet moment when the calm of your holiday collides with the rush of returning to work? We get it. That's why this week's heart-to-heart chat delves into the rejuvenating powers of taking time off and the art of smoothly transitioning back to the grind. We share how we prep our construction teams for our absence and the importance of acknowledging their hard work, ensuring we don't undermine their efforts upon our return. In a candid reflec ..read more

Ever wondered how a bundle of decisions can cement into the walls of your dream home? Strap in as we recount our journey through the maze of production home building, where every tick of the clock counts. You'll get a first-hand account of the rigidity and rush that come with a builder's schedule – imagine having just one week for structural tweaks and a single day to nail down those design details. We'll lay bare the rollercoaster of emotions, from the highs of envisioning your future abode to the heart palpitations induced by looming deadlines. And if you've ever pondered the price of change ..read more

Embark on a journey with us, Carolyn and Joshua McMahon, as we unravel the intricate tapestry of construction processes, transforming a cacophony of decisions into harmonious homes. It's a tale of transition, from the methodical beat of high-volume production builders to the improvisational rhythm of semi-custom and full-custom construction, where pre-construction scheduling becomes the cornerstone of project harmony. In this episode, we lay bare the challenges that can arise when clients dance to their own beat, dismissing deadlines as mere suggestions, and the domino effect it has on starts ..read more