Construction Genius

This episode offers a practical roadmap for leaders aiming to integrate AI while enhancing judgment, collaboration, and decision-making in construction!

Luca Dellanna, a management advisor and bestselling author, discusses the real-world applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the construction industry. Luca emphasizes how AI can streamline operations by reducing errors, minimizing rework, and improving planning efficiency. The discussion explores using general-purpose AI tools like ChatGPT, with Luca advocating their accessibility and value for key personnel involved in project planning and proposal development.

Furthermore, Luca delves into AI's role in enhancing clarity, acting as a "sounding board" for ideas, and helping with pre-mortem analysis to anticipate project failures. Luca shares strategies for crafting effective AI prompts, drawing parallels between prompt engineering and team delegation. He also tackles privacy concerns and advises trusting reputable vendors and anonymizing sensitive data.

The conversation rounds out with insights on using AI for negotiation prep, meeting summaries, and internal documentation, stressing the importance of human oversight. Looking ahead, Luca underscores the need for companies to future-proof their workforce by developing AI literacy and sharing best practices.

HIGHLIGHTS

[02:07] Integrating AI in Construction

[04:56] Identifying Key Areas for AI Integration

[06:42] Creating Effective AI Prompts

[12:15] Addressing Privacy Concerns with AI

[14:04] Using AI for Pre-Mortem Analysis

[16:52] AI's Role in Replacing Workers vs. Improving Judgment

[23:25] Future-Proofing Workforce with AI Skills

[25:45] AI in Negotiation and Meeting Summaries

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Leverage tools like ChatGPT to reduce blind spots and improve clarity in job planning and bid writing.

2. Write detailed prompts with clear goals and success metrics to get more useful AI responses.

3. Ask AI to simulate project failures and identify risks before starting.

4. Use AI to draft meeting notes, then review for accuracy and add key details.

5. Teach staff to prompt effectively and share AI best practices across your company to future-proof your workforce.

RESOURCES:

Connect with Luca Dellanna:

Luca on X:@DellAnnaLuca

LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/dellannaluca/

Website: luca-dellanna.com/

Mentioned in the episode:

The simpler way to get your team to use AI: luca-dellanna.com/posts/ai-faster-adoption

Never Split the Difference: amazon.com/Never-Split-Difference-Negotiating-Depended

Restaurant Recommendation: http://lnx.plinetajarin.it/

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, lets connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here:https://10minutes.youcanbook.me

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If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And dont forget to leave a reviewit helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

The winds are changing, and uncertainty is knocking at your door! The market is shifting, and the anxiety is real. But right now? Now is your moment. In this week’s solo episode, Eric dives into what it takes to lead when the economy feels unstable, how to keep your head clear, your team steady, and your business thriving. Eric presents us with five essential principles that will help leaders focus on what they can control and lead with confidence, clarity, and calm. Let’s break it down. 

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:45] Self-mastery in the midst of economic uncertainty. 
[03:49] Going back to the foundations. 
[04:50] The role of long-term commitments in uncertain times. 
[06:22] Treasuring cash by cutting unnecessary costs. 
[11:13] Focus on optimizing the execution of current projects. 
[16:53] Leading with optimism, personal discipline, and human connection. 

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!

Effective leadership is about more than just navigating teams to success. It involves building trust, clear communication, and emotional intelligence. Influential leaders set clear expectations, provide necessary coaching, and focus on finding solutions during challenging times. Furthermore, they identify and value the importance of personal well-being and embrace practices to manage stress and maintain a positive mindset, which leads to a supportive, high-performing organizational culture. 

Johnathan Peavy brings 20 years of experience building complex facilities to his role as operations manager for Robins & Morton, a national leader in healthcare construction. As executive of the Miami—Fort Lauderdale office, Peavy oversees projects at eight medical campuses in South Florida, with contracts totaling more than $1 billion. With a background in civil engineering, Peavy’s cross-discipline expertise makes him a unique asset to the construction process, and he takes pride in knowing the healthcare facilities under his purview have a lasting impact on the community. Peavy is a graduate of Auburn University and holds multiple credentials, including LEED AP and USACE CQM-C designations. He joined us today to talk about the importance of trust, accountability, and vulnerability in leadership to build teams.

HIGHLIGHTS

[00:43] Johnathan’s background and career journey. 

[06:13] The balance between maintaining a family-like atmosphere and pushing for high-performance.

[10:22] Johnathan explains how he handle the loss of his mentor and the challenges of taking over. 

[15:17] Johnathan’s approach to managing internal conflicts. 

[18:27] The shift of mindset from handling individual projects to overseeing multiple projects. 

[21:00] The importance of collaboration and communication. 

[27:02] The importance of being open and direct during difficult conversations. 

[30:08] Johnathan explains the importance of structure, balance, and self-care in managing a busy day. 

[34:34] Presenting opportunities for improvement. 

[38:32] Advice for leaders who are stepping into senior roles. 

[44:01] The importance of vulnerability and emotional management in leadership.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Set clear expectations and define what success look like for both the individual and the company. 

2. Be open and vulnerable with your team, especially when faced with tough circumstances. 

3. Take time to meet with team members with all levels and show that you value their contributions. 

4. Shift from control to influence when handling a larger team. 

5. Start with clear communication by discussing expectations from the very beginning. 

6. Be direct and open when facing difficult conversations. 

7. Provide chances to improve employee performance before deciding to part ways. 

RESOURCES

Connect with Johnathan Peavy

LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/johnathan-peavy-leed-ap-66a1429 

Website – robinsmorton.com/ 

Instagram - instagram.com/robinsmorton/

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!

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!