Constructive Behaviors

In this episode of *Constructive Behaviors*, Barb Allen sits down with Dr. Richard Bruce , Associate Professor of Construction Management at the University of Central Missouri . With experience in higher education, workforce development, and the construction industry, Richard brings a unique perspective to a conversation about the Sticky Rungs from Barb's book, OneLadder to Leadership . Together,...

In this episode of the Constructive Behaviors Podcast , Barb Allen sits down with Kelly Price , founder of Thrive HR , to explore the "Missing Rungs" from Barb's newly released book, OneLadder to Leadership . Together, they discuss how vague feedback, unclear expectations, and poor communication can unintentionally stall employee growth and advancement... and what both leaders and climbers can do...

In this intentionally timed Mental Health Awareness Month episode, Barb welcomes Dr. Ashley Smith back to the Constructive Behaviors Podcast for a conversation around mental health, construction culture, and leadership… while simultaneously tying it to the Sticky and Slippery Rungs from Barb’s book, OneLadder to Leadership.  This episode explores: • the mental load of constantly feeling like...

What happens when a driven, ambitious woman who has spent her entire career climbing suddenly realizes she needs to stop long enough to breathe? In this episode, Barb sits down with construction industry leader, speaker, and business advisor Kelli Paskert for a conversation that starts with leadership ambition and career growth… and eventually lands on something many high performers struggle with:...

You may have heard about my new book, OneLadder to Leadership . Now here’s your chance to get a closer look inside! In this quick 15-minute episode, I walk you through the core concepts behind the book and why I wrote it. Whether you are working to move up or leading others who are, this episode will start to connect some dots. I’ll cover: What is actually keeping people from advancing, even when...

In this episode of the Constructive Behaviors Podcast, I sit down with Kimberly Sauceda to talk about what it really takes to build strong relationships at work-and why those relationships are often the difference between teams that struggle and teams that thrive. Kimberly shares her journey from leading roles in major companies like Apple and Logitech to becoming an executive coach focused on hel...

In EP 77, I sit down with Erika Scherman , owner of MC Tool and Safety , to talk about her unexpected path into construction and what it means to run a business in this industry. We get into how ownership gives her a unique perspective on the products being put in front of customers every day, and the responsibility that comes with choosing what actually works in the field. We also talk about the...

In EP 76, I sit down with Shannon Seipe l to talk about the power of relationship capital, what it is, how it's built, and why it matters more than most people realize. Shannon shares her unexpected path into the construction industry, how she built credibility from the ground up, and the role relationships played in shaping her career. We break down the difference between mentorship and sponsorsh...

In this episode, I’m joined by Renae Sams , Founder, Executive Director of Build-Her.org , and author of Build-Her, Be Heard . We talk about her path into construction, the challenges that shaped her confidence, why she launched Build-Her, and how storytelling impacts recruitment, retention, and belonging for Women in Construction. Renae also shares the heart behind her book and the message she ho...

In EP74, Shannon Vogel , owner of Reach Social and founder of Tall Poppy , joins me to talk about her new workbook Say More and the power of rediscovering who you are. ( Say More was featured in the 14%ers October Anniversary box!) We dig into how the workbook helps women navigate people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, and the loss of self that often comes with working in predominately male indu...

What happens when safety gear finally fits women the way it should? It increases safety and changes more than comfort...it changes confidence, credibility, and culture. In this episode, Michele Moran , Senior Portfolio Leader at J.J. Keller & Associates , talks about how the company decided to start designing a safety line for women. From attending Women in Construction events to gathering han...

30 years ago today, I woke up to the sound of my roommate screaming in the middle of the night. That moment changed me, and it shapes how I advocate for safety in the workplace. In this episode, I share the story of that night, how it shaped certain aspects of my life, and how I bring that experience to work when advocating for workplace safety. This episode is meant to highlight why open communic...

Today's chat is with Sharron Halpert , founder of Halpert Life Safety Consulting . Sharron not only leads the "Build Better Crew" but is also the creator of the Firestop Coffee Break trainings. As we talk about her career and life experiences, learn how Sharron went from vagabond to passionate advocate for fire safety. Let's dive into her journey, explore her passion for fire safety, and learn how...

In this special episode I take you behind the scenes of the July 14%ers Box. If you’re new to the 14%ers community, this box is a quarterly subscription curated specifically for women in construction—packed with gear that fits, swag we will actually use, and a sense of belonging for Women in Construction. I will walk you through the thought process behind each carefully selected item from the July...

In this Mental Health Awareness series, we're tackling a crucial topic: mental health in the construction industry, where suicide rates are alarmingly high. This episode's guest is Dr. Ashley Smith , a renowned psychologist and speaker with profound expertise in mental health awareness and known for her book, *" The Way I See It ". Dr. Ashley breaks down the two main pathways of suicidal ideation;...

Part TWO of my conversation with Lea Rummel on Mental Health Awareness and will remind you that behind every project, REAL PEOPLE face significant challenges.  Lea talks about creative approaches, such as: ➡️ placing mental health resource cards in portable toilets  ➡️and integrating education into first aid training to demonstrate a company or project's dedication to making mental healt...

Lea Rummel , a Mental Health Advocate and Electrical Estimator with Rudolph and Sletten dives into her INSPIRING career journey from a temporary front desk assistant to a key player in Preconstruction. We also discuss her personal experiences and how they have fueled her passion for Mental Health Awareness. the need is urgent to create open channels for discussion, accessible resources, and suppor...

Where did the idea for the 14%ers Subscription Box come from? What crazy things happened between the first idea and shipping the first box? Who is helping out behind the scenes? What vendors have I partnered with? If you are interested in the answers to any of these questions, THIS IS THE EPISODE FOR YOU! Join HERE to Join the Waitlist before the next box goes on sale! Looking for a Construction I...

Rebecca Heustess is a talented tile setter with Grazzini Brothers and the president of her local NAWIC chapter. With over 17 years of experience in the construction industry, Rebecca has NOW made the decision to transition into leadership which her company leaders have been urging her to do for quite awhile. Transitioning into leadership can be daunting. Rebecca utilized the NAWIC Leadership Acade...

In this interview with Structural Construction Manager, Casey Hoyt , he dives into actionable steps men can take to promote inclusivity in the workplace, from mindful language to raising awareness about the benefits of diversity around both plan tables and conference room tables. Heartfelt anecdotes about his journey, the role of mentors, being a girl dad, and the influence of strong women in his...

Lia Lamela is a trailblazing electrician whose journey from adversity to empowerment is nothing short of impressive. She shares her personal story of overcoming domestic violence and how an all-women apprenticeship program opened doors for her as an electrician. This conversation emphasizes the impact of how female camaraderie in this industry can transform jobsites and offices and create a sense...

It just doesn't have to be that hard! Pittsburgh architect Katelyn Rossier host of the podcast ** Mentor Dino ** and I talk from completely different angles about the complex yet crucial relationship between architects and contractors. We shed light on communication gaps and offer actionable strategies for creating collaboration in project environments. Want to hear the Mentor Dino episode where K...

Have you, or someone you know or work with, needed maternity workwear in construction? In this episode, Svetlana Blancher , the founder of Rugged Peach Workwear , and I dive into the often-overlooked world of maternity clothing and PPE for pregnant women in the construction industry. Svetlana is on a mission to redefine women's workwear experience during pregnancy and postpartum, and has a new lin...

🗝️How do you capitalize on what 2024 taught you about YOURSELF? A part 2 from the last episode, let's dive into The Power of No, The Need for Connection, and the Importance of Accountability and Reminders to help you capitalize on what you learned about yourself in 2024...to THRIVE in 2025. Looking for a Construction Industry Speaker that has Real Construction Experience? Someone your audience can...

🎙️✨ End-of-year reflections are here! Let’s ask ourselves: “What did I learn about MYSELF this year, and how can I capitalize on that for 2025?” 🌱 Looking for a Construction Industry Speaker that has Real Construction Experience? Someone your audience can truly relate to? Check out my Keynotes at ConstructionBarb.com and let's start a conversation to ensure your next event gets rave reviews! Bar...