Builder Tactics

Data doesn't create better decisions. Leaders do. In this episode of Builder Tactics , Damien Edwards explores how construction and production leaders can move beyond simply reporting metrics and start using data to anticipate problems, identify opportunities, and drive action. Learn the difference between leading and lagging indicators , how to build driver trees that connect business outcomes to...

Thinking Like an Executive: Strategic Thinking and Vision What separates a great operational leader from an executive leader? Perspective. In this episode of Builder Tactics , Damien Edwards explores how construction professionals can move beyond managing today's projects and begin thinking strategically about tomorrow's organization. Learn practical techniques for systems thinking, horizon planni...

Long before anyone offers you the next title, people have already decided what they think of you. That's executive brand, and it's built in the meetings you're not in, the conversations you don't hear, and the way people describe working with you when your name comes up. In this episode of Builder Tactics, we break down what executive brand actually is (hint: it's not your LinkedIn photo), why vis...

You didn't get promoted to keep doing the same job at a bigger scale — you got promoted to build the people who can do it without you. In this episode of Builder Tactics, host Damien Edwards breaks down why authority stops working the higher you climb, and what actually replaces it: influence. You'll learn the three dimensions of executive influence — Credibility, Connection, and Clarity — and fiv...

In this episode, we discuss why technical expertise and operational success alone aren’t enough for executive leadership. You’ll learn how to transition from solving daily problems to developing people, building systems, creating strategy, and leading with an enterprise-wide perspective.

In this episode of Builder Tactics , we break down how to understand your value to an employer in a way that actually matters: results, impact, and proof —not just effort and long hours. You’ll learn how to measure what you bring to the jobsite, how to communicate it with confidence, and how to make sure your work doesn’t stay invisible. Whether you’re a superintendent, construction manager, or tr...

In this episode, Damien sits down with Itzik Malka, Co-founder of 4M Analytics, to uncover one of the greatest threats to America’s infrastructure future: the buried utilities beneath our feet. These hidden lifelines power our daily lives, yet there’s no map that tells us where they are—leaving construction projects vulnerable to risk, delays, and cost overruns. Itzik explains how 4M is tackling t...

In this episode of Builder Tactics , host Damien Edwards sits down with Chad Gill, founder of VAs for Construction, to explore a groundbreaking topic that’s shaking up the industry: how blue-collar workers are using AI on the construction site . Together, they explore real-world applications of artificial intelligence by field teams — from streamlining punch lists and tracking job progress to auto...

In today’s episode, I share some exciting news about rebranding the podcast to better align with my evolving creative projects and deeper mission. This isn’t just a name change — it’s a renewed vision that reflects the journey we’re all on toward balance, leadership, and clarity in the chaos of life and construction. You'll also get an exclusive listen to Chapter 1 of my new book, Building Zen...

Welcome to The Construction Management Podcast ! As we kick off 2025, we want to take a moment to focus on what you are going to do with the new year. If you're tuning in, chances are you already have a growth mindset—a drive for professional and personal development that will shape your success this year and beyond. In this episode, we're diving deep into goal setting, motivation, and sus...

During this episode, we dive into Chapter 8 of the recently updated book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we explore the essential skills of time management for builders. I hope your year started off right, and you are achieving all of your 2025 goals. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to h...

During this episode, we dive into Chapter 6 of the recently updated book, *Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we unpack the essential elements of accounting for builders. I hope you all have a fantastic holiday season, set some New Year resolutions, and achieve your goals for 2025. For the entire audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback...

Join me for an insightful episode as we dive into Chapter 5 of the recently updated book, *Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. In this chapter, we unpack the essential elements of contracts between builders and trade companies, shedding light on how these agreements lay the groundwork for successful projects. Maintaining positive control over your construction site start...

Chapter 4 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of how to manage your job site. And what it takes to portray yourself as competent and in charge of managing construction projects. Job site management includes the appearance of your job site, traffic and delivery control, safety, stormwater and pollution co...

This is another relaunch of a lost episode. In this episode, Jason and I discuss job site management, specifically trash. Trash is a plague on job sites and must be eradicated or at least cleaned up. Enjoy.

This is episode #2 from 2018. When we switched platforms, we lost a bunch of shows. Fortunately, I was able to dive deep into the archives and recover some of them. Today's podcast is about time management and how you can effectively manage your time and the time of your trade partners.

This is chapter 3 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of Pre-Construction planning and the steps to take to ensure your project's success from the start. Pre-construction planning includes reviewing the drawings and submittals, assessing the physical site, reviewing the budget, and holding pre-constructi...

This is chapter 2 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes a detailed description of the technical and soft skills required for success in construction management. For the full audiobook, go to https://a.co/d/0AFfWbR for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/8Ri1Mh6

This is chapter #1 from the recently rewritten book Builder Tactics: A Practical Guide to Construction Management. It includes an introduction to the size and complexity of the construction industry and an explanation of the current state of our profession, Construction Management. For the full audiobook, go to Audible.com; for the paperback or digital version, go to https://a.co/d/iyIwzLc.

Damien and Jason discuss how to evaluate your skill set and organize your professional development efforts.

Damien and Jason discuss the challenges of managing trade partners and how to build relationships with them. They also provide a framework for what to do when they are underperforming.

This is a classic from the archives, Jason and Damien talk with a listener about their experience with a difficult boss and give their perspective on how to move forward.

Damien and Jason discuss how to gain respect as the new guy in the job site and establish yourself as part of the team. Note: This was a previously released episode inadvertently removed from the line up during integration.

Damien and Jason discuss the state of the industry, the effect of interest rates, and how to prove your worth in a very competitive market.

Damien and Jason discuss not getting ripped off. In classic style they are all over the map but spewing words of wisdom for any aspiring construction manager. I haven't tested the sound , so good luck.