Soft As Steel

Host Dennis Doran and guest Stephanie Paul discuss the critical role of soft skills and compassionate leadership in professional development. They explore the DISC assessment tool's utility in understanding personal behaviors and enhancing communication. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of humor in blending behavioral styles and the need for individuals to be open to coaching. The conversat...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Doran talks with Steve Griggs, a seasoned landscape designer, about the significance of soft skills in the construction industry. Steve emphasizes the value of hands-on leadership, personal accountability, and the joy of creating beautiful landscapes. He discusses the importance of respect, integrity, and effective communication, as well as...

In this episode, host Dennis Doran speaks with Shelley Armato, CEO and co-founder of My Smart Plans. Shelley discusses the creation of her software service as a response to the chaos and lack of accountability in the construction industry. She emphasizes the importance of communication, transparency, and data-driven decision-making in improving project outcomes. Despite resistance, Shelley's c...

Dennis Doran talks with Chris Scheiblein, an employee assistance professional from the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Helping Hands Program. They discuss the critical issues of mental health, addiction, and suicide in the construction industry, highlighting the need for support, education, and a culture of compassion and inclusivity. Chris shares his personal recovery journey an...

In this podcast episode, Dennis Doran interviews Cathy Dolan-Schweitzer, President of Health Well Done, about her unique approach to leadership in the construction industry. Cathy, who started as a special education teacher and transitioned to construction project management, emphasizes the importance of soft skills, team-building, and putting people first—especially in healthcare projects. She sh...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Doran talks with Barb Allen about her 26-year career in construction. Starting as an apprentice carpenter, Barb rose to become a success coach and gender diversity consultant. She shares her struggles with resistance and bullying as a woman in a male-dominated field and her efforts to overcome unconscious biases. Barb and Dennis discuss the...

Dennis Doran interviews Palmina Whelan , an aviation industry veteran with over 25 years of experience. Palmina discusses her role as the capital program director for the new Terminal One project at JFK airport, emphasizing passenger-centric design and the integration of technology and art. She addresses the impact of her position on promoting diversity and inclusion within the construction indust...

In this podcast episode, host Dennis Doran interviews Doreen Bartoldus, a seasoned professional in the construction industry. Doreen discusses her 45-year career journey, starting as a draftsperson and rising to a leader in a male-dominated field. She recounts being labeled "bossy" and how she embraced her role as the boss. The episode delves into the challenges of increasing women's r...

Dennis Doran interviews Jesse Hernandez, a construction professional and podcaster. Jesse discusses his role as a "mind shifter" in the construction industry, his journey into podcasting, and the importance of problem-solving skills in construction. He also addresses the perception of construction as hard, dirty work and shares his experiences in engaging high school students in the indust...

In this podcast episode, host Dennis extends holiday greetings from the YMCA in Savannah, where he interviews Lovelight, the senior program director, and Richard Johnson, a staff member. The episode focuses on their stories and insights into their work at the YMCA, highlighting the impact they have on the community and the roles they play within the organization. The conversations with Lovelight a...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Doran interviews Kabri Lehrman-Schmid , a lead project superintendent at Hensel Phelps, a recognized industry leader. The discussion revolves around the importance of soft skills in the workplace, particularly in the construction industry. Topics include the role of a superintendent, the concept of psychological safety, effective communicat...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, Dennis Doran interviews Sandy Hamby, CEO of Moca Systems Touch Plan. They discuss the underrepresentation of women in the construction industry, the importance of social justice and fairness, and the impact of AI on the sector. Sandy shares her experiences of cultural work within her company and how it led to a redefinition of their core values. The co...

Dennis Doran interviews Alastair Boulding, a construction sciences and management teacher and master tradesperson. They discuss the challenges of attracting young people to the trades, the importance of diversity in the industry, and the role of representation in leadership positions. Al shares his experiences and insights from his 20 years in the trades, his apprenticeship journey, and his curren...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Doran interviews David Dahlinger, a young engineer with experience in the construction industry. They discuss the importance of soft skills, generational friction in the industry, and the challenges faced by engineering students entering different industries. Dahlinger emphasizes the need for companies to align their vision with the persona...

In this podcast episode, Dennis Doran and Jonathan Goldhill discuss the challenges faced by small and medium-sized family businesses, particularly in the construction industry. They focus on the concept of a "disruptive successor" and the importance of leadership development, succession planning, and implementing effective business processes. They also explore the role of coaches in helpin...

Dennis Doran welcomes guest Adam Hoots, an experienced professional in the architectural and construction industry. Adam discusses his background and his research on lean principles in construction management. They emphasize the importance of treating all participants with respect and dignity, promoting a culture of safety and psychological well-being, and addressing mental health issues in the in...

Dennis Doran introduces Manny Carrillo, founder and inventor of the Safety Anchor Post. Manny, with his extensive experience in the construction industry, discusses the challenges faced by workers and the need for secure anchoring solutions. He shares his journey of developing the Safety Anchor Post, overcoming obstacles, and gaining validation for his invention. Manny emphasizes the importance of...

Dennis Doran welcomes Bryon Stephens, co-founder of Pivotal Growth Partners (PJP), a franchise development company. They discuss PJP's model, challenges in the construction industry, and the importance of culture and leadership principles. Bryon explains how PJP helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses and emphasizes the significance of company culture in a franchise company. They also touch...

Dennis Doran interviews Aaron Prill, Vice President of Construction at Cologix, Inc . They discuss the importance of soft skills in the construction industry and how they contribute to building strong relationships. Aaron emphasizes the value of love, inclusion, social justice, and leadership in his work. He shares personal experiences with dyslexia and how he has overcome challenges in his learni...

In this episode, host Dennis Doran introduces his guest, Angel lyke-Osuji, who works in the construction industry. They discuss Angel's background and career journey, emphasizing the importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence in the workplace. Angel shares her experiences and insights on effective communication, understanding nonverbal cues, and the significance of empathy in leaders...

In this podcast episode, Dennis Doran interviews "Tats," the co-founder and CEO of Castagra Products and host of the Specified Growth podcast. They discuss the importance of soft skills in leadership, particularly the skill of listening. Tats shares his journey of becoming a better listener through podcasting and emphasizes the need to fight biases and distractions. They also talk about th...

In this episode, Dennis Doran engages in a conversation with Ryan Maibach and Ethan Uhl from Barton Mallow. They discuss the challenges of staffing mega-projects like Ford and the need for human capital in the construction industry. They also touch on the cyclical nature of the industry and the importance of sustainability and diversity in the workforce. The conversation further delves into the pr...

Dennis Doran interviews Ryan Maibach, President and CEO of Barton Malow, and Ethan Uhl, General Superintendent at Barton Malow. They discuss the values and soft skills embraced by Barton Malow and their impact on the construction industry. Ryan and Ethan share their personal experiences and the company's approach to developing their workforce and fostering growth. They also emphasize the impor...

Dennis Doran welcomes guest Eric Miller, the founder of EMC (Eric Miller Consultants). They discuss the importance of soft skills, emotional intelligence, and building connections in both personal and professional relationships. Eric shares his insights on transformational leadership, the power of love and inclusivity, and the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. They also touch on t...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Doran introduces his guest, Brent Wilcox, a director at OAC Services, a design and construction management firm. Brent shares his passion for his work and helping clients bring their visions to life. They discuss the changing landscape of the construction industry and the importance of soft skills in driving effective change. They also touc...