I'm The Gaffer

Hosted by Gavin Coyle

Business Management EducationInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

115

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

About the show

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer this podcast is for you. Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes and failures, and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building industry. As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 16, 202644 min

Why Great Engineers Focus on Prevention, Not Just Problem Solving

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you're a construction business owner, engineer, project manager, contractor, safety professional, or someone responsible for delivering projects, this conversation offers valuable insights into engineering leadership, safety, technology, and the future of the industry.In this episode, Craig Montz joins Gavin Coyle to discuss what makes a great engineer, why the industry needs more engineering talent, how technology is transforming project delivery, and why preventing problems is more valuable than simply solving them.You’ll learn:Why engineering is a rewarding career with endless opportunitiesWhat qualities make a great engineerWhy safety should be considered during design, not after construction startsHow asking better questions leads to better project outcomesWhether construction projects are being over-engineeredHow BIM and 3D modelling are changing project planningWhy technology and AI are becoming essential engineering toolsWhy experienced engineers focus on preventing problems, not just fixing themHow engineering firms can attract and retain top talentWhy leadership is often about listening instead of providing solutionsWhy Craig believes he should have bet on himself earlier in his career🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps00:00 Problem solving vs problem prevention01:30 Introduction to Craig Montz05:15 How engineering firms attract top talent07:52 What makes a great engineer?09:37 Why engineering logic improves safety10:36 Are projects being over-engineered?15:23 The qualities of a modern engineer16:03 How BIM and technology are transforming construction18:44 The leadership lesson behind problem prevention20:00 Building projects virtually before construction begins26:14 How AI helps engineers make better decisions27:25 Engineering salaries and specialist career opportunities32:05 Leadership lessons from managing people35:00 The future of engineering and technology37:50 Knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?Connect with Craig MontzLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigmontz/ Company Websitehttps://mcclurevision.com/ About Coyle GroupCoyle Group provides safety outsourcing and managed services for high-impact projects across wind, utilities, power generation, engineering, and construction.With 25+ years of experience, 100+ safety professionals, and 1M+ safety hours completed, Coyle Group helps projects run safely and compliantly.Learn more: https://coyle-group.com/About the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, safety, engineering, and success in the construction industry.Listen on:Apple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsitehttps://www.imthegaffer.comSubscribe for more insights for construction business owners, engineers, project leaders, and industry professionals.

June 2, 202651 min

Why Inclusion in Construction Is More Than an HR Policy | Anne Okafor

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you're a construction business owner, contractor, project leader, safety professional, or someone responsible for building better teams, inclusion is not just an HR policy or a box-ticking exercise.In this episode, Anne Okafor, Founder of Okaforia Limited, joins Gavin Coyle to discuss what an inclusive construction industry really looks like and why it matters for safety, quality, culture, recruitment, reputation, and business performance.You’ll learn:Why inclusion affects everyone in constructionWhy diversity and inclusion cannot sit only with HRWhy company culture has to start from the topHow poor workplace culture can affect safety and qualityWhy small everyday behaviours can become bigger problemsWhy job adverts and recruitment processes may put people offWhy inclusion is not just about hiring more womenHow inclusive teams can help produce better buildings and better productsWhy ESG and client expectations are making this topic more importantWhy being inclusive starts with being a decent human being🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps00:00 Why diverse teams create better products01:53 Introduction to Anne Okafor03:46 Anne’s journey into construction06:12 What does an inclusive construction industry look like?07:24 Legal requirements and industry standards09:31 Why inclusion cannot be an afterthought11:18 Is diversity and inclusion just HR?19:23 Diversity and inclusion as safety near misses22:53 Why safety is physical and emotional27:08 Why inclusion is more than women in constructionConnect with Anne OkaforLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anneokafor/Website https://www.anneokafor.com/ About the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry.Listen on:Apple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsitehttps://www.imthegaffer.comSubscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders.#ImTheGaffer #ConstructionBusiness #ConstructionLeadership #ConstructionIndustry #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusionInConstruction #WomenInConstruction #ConstructionCulture #HealthAndSafety #WorkplaceCulture #ESG #Leadership

May 26, 202646 min

Mental Health Support in Construction | Mary Grady & Alan Worrall

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you work in construction, health and safety, contracting, site management, or lead teams on site, this episode is an important conversation about mental health, support, and looking out for people before they reach crisis point.In this episode, Gavin Coyle is joined by Mary Grady and Alan Worrall for an important conversation about mental health support in the construction industry and the work of the Lighthouse Charity in Ireland.They discuss why construction workers need support before crisis point, how employers and HSE professionals can spot the signs, and why a quiet chat can sometimes make a major difference.You’ll learn:Why mental health support matters in constructionHow the Lighthouse Charity supports workers and familiesWhy financial pressure is a major issue for many workersHow mental health first aid and peer support can helpWhy the Make It Visible van is creating real conversations on siteHow employers can build support into workplace culture🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps00:00 Mental health first aid in construction01:11 Introduction to Mary Grady and Alan Worrall03:31 What the Lighthouse Charity does03:43 Built by construction workers, for construction workers04:28 Financial struggles and support requests05:15 Alan’s role in health and safety08:33 Why HSE professionals are important signposts11:14 Rising need for mental health support16:07 The impact of suicide in construction17:35 Mental health of health and safety professionals23:20 Why construction-specific support matters28:02 The importance of communication and connection34:04 Wellbeing beyond the basics40:44 Encouraging proactive support in the workplace Find out more about Summer Lunch 2026:Purchase tickets or tables: https://lighthousecharity.org/events/ireland-summer-lunch-2026/Bid for auction items online: https://app.galabid.com/lighthouse-charity/itemsYou can’t attend but would like to make a donation?: https://lighthousecharity.org/donate Companies interested in partnering with The Lighthouse Charity can become a Company Supporter, set up a Lighthouse Day Fundraiser, or learn more about the charity.Contact: Mary GradyEmail: mary.grady@lighthousecharity.orgRole: Partnership Manager, Ireland East RegionMore info: https://lighthousecharity.org/lighthouse-charity-company-supporter/Connect with Mary GradyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-grady/Connect with Alan WorrallLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-worrall-190646135/Lighthouse CharityWebsite: https://www.lighthousecharity.org/About the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry.Listen on:Apple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsite https://www.imthegaffer.comSubscribe for more insights for construction business owners, contractors, health and safety professionals, and construction leaders.#ImTheGaffer #ConstructionMentalHealth #LighthouseCharity #ConstructionIndustry #HealthAndSafety #MentalHealthAwareness #ConstructionSafety #WorkplaceWellbeing #MentalHealthFirstAid #ConstructionLeadership #SiteSafety #ConstructionWorkers #WellbeingAtWork #HSE #ConstructionSupport

May 12, 202643 min

How Contractors Can Turn Revenue Into Real Profit | Daniel Bamper

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you're a contractor, tradesman, roofer, HVAC business owner, or home service business owner, more revenue is not always the answer.In this episode, Daniel Bamper, Founder of Black Belt Ledgers, joins Gavin Coyle to discuss why construction businesses need better financial structure, clearer job costing, stronger cashflow tracking, and smarter margin control.Daniel works as a fractional CFO for contractors, tradesmen, and home service businesses, helping owners understand their numbers before small problems become expensive ones.You’ll learn:Why contractors need more than tax reports and bookkeepingWhy cashflow can feel tight even when revenue looks strongHow job costing helps contractors protect profitWhy construction margins leave little room for mistakesHow to track marketing beyond views and impressionsWhy calls, estimates, and booked jobs matter more than vanity metricsWhy seven-figure businesses need weekly financial visibilityHow warranties can affect cashflow and tax strategyWhy AI can improve efficiency but cannot replace judgmentHow one roofer made $100K less in revenue but added $400K to profit marginsWhy better systems can help contractors grow without simply doing more work🎯 Episode Highlights / Timestamps00:00 Construction margins and profit leaks01:12 Introduction to Daniel Bamper03:11 Daniel’s journey into construction finance06:31 Why growing contractors outgrow old systems08:55 Marketing numbers every contractor should know13:18 Why contractors need accounting systems18:10 Why contractors need to track warranties25:15 Can AI replace financial advisors?31:39 How one roofer added $400K to profit margins43:28 Episode wrap-upConnect with Daniel Bamper Websitehttps://blackbeltledgers.com/Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-bamper/LinkedInAbout the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry.Listen on:Apple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcast Websitehttps://www.imthegaffer.comSubscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders.#ImTheGaffer #ConstructionBusiness #ContractorGrowth #ConstructionLeadership #ContractorFinance #Cashflow #ProfitMargins #JobCosting #ConstructionManagement #BusinessSystems

May 5, 202651 min

How Construction Businesses Can Find Hidden Risks Before They Cost Money | Bryan Guess

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you're a construction business owner who only reacts when projects go wrong, you may already be losing money, time, and control without realising it.In this episode, Bryan Guess, Founder and Principal Consultant of Bartizan Strategic Group, joins Gavin Coyle to discuss how construction companies can identify hidden risks, improve systems, protect margins, and avoid costly mistakes before the damage is done.You’ll learn:Why project problems are often symptoms, not the real issueWhy construction businesses need to look at risk before it hitsHow a risk register can protect your businessWhy “I don’t have time” is a dangerous excuseHow documentation can prevent costly mistakesWhy warranties and O&M manuals matter more than many owners realiseHow poor systems create repeat problemsWhy throwing more people at a project is often just a Band-AidHow to deal with high-performing but difficult team membersWhy structure, strategy, and systems matter in construction leadershipSponsored by Hustro.comHustro.com – the simplest construction management software.Spend 75% less time on inspections and reports and streamline your construction documentation.Start and claim 2 months free using code “GAVIN” → https://hustro.com/gavin🎯 Episode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters)00:00 Sponsored by Hustro.com01:20 Introduction to Bryan Guess02:23 The story behind Bartizan Strategic Group04:34 Bryan’s gap analysis approach08:32 Why construction companies need a risk register09:04 Working on the business vs in the business14:13 The Washington DC roof leak case study16:48 The importance of documentation and detective work20:48 Why O&M manuals matter at handover23:38 Why warranties should be checked before repairs29:20 How Bartizan Strategic Group supports project-based businesses31:02 Why processes must change as companies scale34:46 Why tribal knowledge creates business risk38:27 Managing a difficult but high-performing project manager43:20 Bryan’s favourite books46:04 Where to connect with Bryan Guess48:18 Episode wrap-up Connect with Bryan GuessWebsitehttps://bartizan.group/LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-guess/ About the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry.Listen on:Apple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsitehttps://www.imthegaffer.comSubscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders.#ImTheGaffer #Construction #ConstructionBusiness #ContractorGrowth #ConstructionLeadership #ConstructionRisk #BusinessSystems

April 21, 202651 min

Why Small Contractors Keep Losing Money on Jobs | Roy Coughlan

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you're a construction business owner who only checks your numbers once a year with your accountant — you're running your company blind and it's costing you real money.In this episode, Roy Coughlan, entrepreneur and host of multiple top-charting podcasts, breaks down why most contractors lose money not because of lack of work — but because they don't control their numbers, systems, and pricing.You’ll learn:Why guessing job prices can wipe out your profitsThe simple financial systems many contractors still ignoreWhy no one cares about your money more than youHow contractors miss valuable tax deductionsThe 80/20 rule of AI and how it applies to businessHow AI can help with contracts, pricing, and marketingWhy contractors who adopt AI early will gain an advantageSponsored by Hustro.comHustro.com – the simplest construction management software.Spend 75% less time on inspections and reports and streamline your construction documentation.Start and claim 2 months free using code “GAVIN”→ https://hustro.com/gavin🎯 Episode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters)00:00 Introduction02:30 Roy Coughlan’s background and entrepreneurial journey06:15 Why contractors miss tax deductions08:26 Why many contractors guess job pricing10:53 How one badly priced job can wipe out profits12:53 How AI can create contracts and estimates in minutes16:11 The 80/20 rule when using AI17:08 Using AI for marketing and business growth18:02 Why AI will improve jobs rather than replace them19:41 From construction to podcasting21:44 How Roy built a podcast coaching business23:06 Why podcasting is underrated for business growth26:05 What makes a podcast successful26:42 Why promoting in the wrong places doesn’t work27:23 Using YouTube and AI tools to grow an audience28:55 Why targeting the right audience matters30:10 Marketing lessons for contractors31:57 Roy on property, business models and entrepreneurship33:06 Roy’s virtual assistant business explained34:40 Fiverr, Upwork and building long-term relationships39:18 Roy’s advice on hiring and working with contractors40:06 Why construction doesn’t have to be your only path41:29 Knowing when it’s time to change direction43:30 Roy’s advice to entrepreneurs44:26 What Roy would do differently in life45:00 Roy’s favourite book45:45 Roy’s favourite destination46:41 A surprising fact about Roy47:13 Where to connect with Roy48:00 Final message to listeners48:18 Episode wrap-upConnect with Roy CoughlanWebsitehttps://roycoughlan.com/LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/roycoughlanAbout the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry.Listen onApple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsitehttps://www.imthegaffer.comSubscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders.#ImTheGaffer #Construction #ConstructionBusiness#ContractorGrowth #ConstructionLeadership #AIInConstruction #BusinessSystems

April 14, 202653 min

The $200K Business Trap: Why Construction Owners Struggle to Scale | Chaz Wolfe

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you're a construction business owner stuck around £200k–£300k in revenue and constantly firefighting staff problems, cash flow pressure, and operational chaos — you're likely overstaffed, under-systemised, and bleeding money.In this episode, Chaz Wolfe, serial entrepreneur and founder of Gathering The Kings, breaks down how construction business owners build companies that run without them — instead of businesses that consume their time, cash, and family life.You’ll learn:- Why a $200k construction business with 3–5 employees is massively overstaffed- The $300k revenue threshold before hiring becomes necessary- Why most owners remain the bottleneck even with 10–15 employees- The four-step system to remove yourself from daily operations- Why hiring before fixing systems is costing you serious money- How predictable profit becomes the driver of long-term family wealthSponsored by Hustro.comHustro.com – the simplest construction management software.Spend 75% less time on inspections and reports and streamline your construction documentation.Start and claim 2 months free using code “GAVIN”→ https://hustro.com/gavin 🎯 Episode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters)00:00 Introduction01:38 Chaz Wolfe’s entrepreneurial background03:30 Why many business owners become the bottleneck11:32 Building a business that runs without you14:17 The $200K business hiring mistake20:25 Why owners must get out of the weeds21:06 Building systems and SOPs to scale27:00 Market size vs marketing problems in construction31:30 Teaching entrepreneurship to kids42:14 Chaz’s favourite book: Think and Grow Rich43:30 Helping entrepreneurs build freedom through systemsConnect with Chaz WolfeWebsitehttps://gatheringthekings.comLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chaz-wolfe-86767054/ About the PodcastI’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to share real insights on leadership, growth, and success in the construction industry.Listen onApple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsitehttps://www.imthegaffer.comSubscribe for more insights for construction business owners and leaders.—#ImTheGaffer #Construction #ConstructionBusiness #ContractorGrowth #ConstructionLeadership #BusinessSystems #ConstructionOperations

March 31, 202645 min

Poor Communication Is Costing Your Construction Business

Welcome to a new episode of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️If you're a construction business owner trying to scale but constantly feel like stress, staff problems, and chaos increase as the business grows — this episode explains why your current thinking is holding your company back.In this episode, Anil Gupta, international mindset mentor and business advisor, breaks down why the thinking that gets a construction business to £1M turnover will never get it to £10M, £50M, or beyond — and how poor leadership awareness creates stress, poor decisions, and expensive operational mistakes.You’ll learn:- Why construction businesses collapse when owners keep solving every problem themselves - The real reason growth from £1M to £10M requires completely different thinking - How poor communication and emotional reactions damage teams and client relationships - The simple leadership rule that reduces stress by up to 80% when running projects and teams - Why most construction businesses become unsellable because the owner is the entire system - The delegation framework that stops managers bringing you problems all day Sponsored by Hustro.comHustro.com – the simplest construction management software.Spend 75% less time on inspections and reports and streamline your construction documentation.Start and claim 2 months free using code “GAVIN”→ https://hustro.com/gavinEpisode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters)00:16 Podcast sponsor: Hustro.com01:01 Introduction – Gavin Coyle and Anil Gupta03:39 The promise of the podcast: less stress and better results05:20 Why planning your future matters in business07:10 Awareness, clarity and focus in leadership10:07 Why the thinking that builds a £1M company won’t build a £10M company10:42 Using AI tools like ChatGPT for business planning12:27 A simple technique to reduce stress as a business owner16:17 Communication strategies when dealing with clients and teams17:35 “Be so amazing you cannot be ignored” – leadership mindset19:59 Anil shares his story of losing everything in 200821:16 A powerful lesson about relationships and priorities23:36 Perspective, gratitude and handling adversity28:10 Why many leaders struggle with self-worth29:35 The “50 pound note” lesson about personal value30:10 Why business owners must stop solving every problem themselves31:07 The three areas leaders should focus on to grow a company33:18 Why leadership mindset determines whether businesses succeed or collapse36:18 One thing Anil wishes he had done differently in life37:05 Favourite travel destination and personal insights38:53 How to connect with Anil GuptaConnect with Anil GuptaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anilgupta-lovedoctor/Website: https://meetanil.comBook: Immediate Happiness https://www.amazon.com/Immediate-Happiness-Practical-Proven-Results/dp/1935989030 I’m The Gaffer, hosted by construction professional Gavin Coyle, brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs and experts to share insights, experiences and strategies for success in the construction industry.Listen onApple Podcastshttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyhttps://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsitehttps://www.imthegaffer.com/#ImTheGaffer #Construction #ConstructionLeadership #ConstructionBusiness #ConstructionIndustry #Leadership #Mindset #Communication

March 24, 202652 min

Why Pre-Construction Is the Most Strategic Phase in Construction

Welcome to Episode 106 of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️Gavin Coyle is joined by Steve Dell'Orto, Founder & CEO of Concentric, to explore one of the most overlooked — yet most strategic phases in construction: pre-construction. Too often in construction, the focus goes straight to building. But the reality is that the success or failure of a project is usually decided long before the first shovel hits the ground.Steve brings 26 years of experience in major general contracting, having worked on projects ranging from hundreds of thousands to multi-billion dollar developments. In this episode, he explains why the construction industry leaves huge opportunities on the table by not investing enough time, systems, and data into pre-construction planning.The conversation dives into how data, collaboration, and modern technology are transforming how teams plan projects, manage risk, and deliver more predictable outcomes.If you're involved in construction leadership, project delivery, or improving profitability in your business…this conversation will resonate.Sponsored by Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software.Hustro.com – 75% less time on inspections & reportsStart and claim 2 months free using “GAVIN” code → https://hustro.com/gavinEpisode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters)00:16 Podcast sponsor: Hustro.com01:44 Introduction: Gavin Coyle + Steve Dell'Orto02:11 Why pre-construction is the most strategic phase in construction03:13 Steve’s 26-year career in general contracting04:51 The creation of Concentric before COVID06:05 Why pre-construction is similar across projects of all sizes06:52 Are construction companies getting pre-construction wrong?08:40 The challenge of fewer experienced workers entering construction08:59 Using historical project data to improve planning10:04 AI and technology as a force multiplier for construction teams10:51 Why Concentric focuses specifically on pre-construction12:12 Predicting project cost and certainty of outcomes14:20 Why the cheapest mistakes happen in pre-construction15:37 Platform vs point solutions in construction software18:22 How better pre-construction planning improves profitability19:16 Using technology to increase project win rates22:00 Why data improves collaboration and communication24:01 Breaking down silos between contractors and designers26:25 Giving owners real-time visibility into project costs27:48 Podcast sponsor: Hustro.com28:24 Beyond estimating: scheduling, risk and resource planning30:01 Designing construction software that is simple to use32:03 Why simplicity increases adoption of technology33:33 When does construction actually start?35:47 Why the line between pre-construction and construction is blurry37:24 Why many companies still rely on spreadsheets38:02 How customers shape the evolution of Concentric39:09 Subscribe and support the podcast41:55 Knowing what you know now… what would you do differently?42:23 Book recommendation: Freedom’s Forge45:02 Steve’s passion for building and carpentry46:27 Favorite travel destination47:30 How to connect with Steve Dell'OrtoConnect with Steve Dell'OrtoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedellorto/ Website: https://concntric.comI’m The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction professionals — bringing insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint success in the building industry.Available on:Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify: https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imthegafferpodcastWebsite: https://www.imthegaffer.com/#ImTheGaffer #Construction #PreConstruction #ConstructionLeadership #ConstructionTechnology #ConstructionManagement #ConstructionIndustry

March 10, 202655 min

People, Performance & Process: Leadership Lessons for Construction Owners

Welcome to Episode 105 of I’m The Gaffer 👷‍♂️Gavin Coyle is joined by Michaela Anderson, Founder of LoyaltyOps™, to explore one of the biggest challenges facing construction businesses today: people, performance, process, and communication.As companies grow, most owners focus on the visible side of growth — sales, marketing, leads, and winning more work. But what often gets overlooked is what happens inside the business once that growth arrives.Michaela shares why so many companies struggle to scale, why communication standards matter more than most leaders realise, and how purpose, accountability, and clear expectations can transform team performance.This conversation is especially valuable for construction business owners, small to mid-sized companies, and leaders trying to build stronger teams without losing control of the business.We cover:– Why operations break growing companies– Michaela’s background in scaling businesses– The leadership dynamic behind LoyaltyOps™– Why younger workers think differently about work– The communication problems causing friction in teams– Why empathy matters in leadership– The hiring mistakes small businesses often make– Why purpose is essential for attracting and keeping great people– The role of planning in building a business that lasts– A simple flywheel for communication, accountability and improvement– Why culture should be seen as performance– How leaders can set clear standards across the businessSponsored by Hustro.com – the simplest construction management software.Hustro.com – 75% less time on inspections & reportsStart and claim 2 months free using “GAVIN” code → https://hustro.com/gavinEpisode Highlights (Timestamps / Chapters)00:16 Podcast sponsor: Hustro.com00:26 Why growth breaks without operations00:52 Intro: Gavin Coyle + Michaela Anderson03:40 Michaela’s background in marketing and transformational growth04:13 The real bottleneck in scaling companies04:31 The birth of LoyaltyOps™04:41 Michaela’s husband’s Special Forces background06:09 High performance, psychology and leadership styles06:48 Are younger workers really less resilient?08:09 The biggest challenge in teams: communication09:39 Performance vs money: what leaders over-focus on10:05 Why empathy matters in leadership10:46 “A good shepherd smells like sheep”10:50 Why construction owners struggle to attract labour11:47 The hiring myth small businesses believe12:17 What great people actually want from work13:14 Why sustainability and long-term thinking matter14:04 Why purpose is essential for attracting talent14:29 The “clear intent” framework15:47 Why so many businesses still have no real plan17:03 A business plan vs a job you work forever18:23 The pros and cons of an agile contractor-based business19:16 Why loyalty is a two-way street20:27 Why some owners resist change21:01 Michaela’s four-step flywheel24:15 Podcast sponsor: Hustro.com25:00 What happens when systems are broken26:38 Policies vs standards: what companies miss27:26 A simple one-page source of truth27:47 Why most core values are useless28:33 How language shapes behavior28:49 Using catchphrases and heuristics to guide teams29:47 Turning values into real behaviors30:54 Culture as performance31:24 Why this process is easier than it sounds31:33 The mistake of turning culture into committee work32:15 Why systems must fit the business33:07 Leaders as amplifiers of culture34:46 How to create standards people can speak up in36:01 The problem with dominant old-school A players37:10 Why leadership must address toxic behavior directly38:07 Undercover Boss and the gap from leadership to the ground39:12 Why leaders need clarity on who they are and where they’re going40:30 Why chasing profit can distract from purpose41:53 How long implementation takes42:39 Why Michaela recommends 90-day sprints43:49 The kind of growth leaders can expect45:17 Curveball: Michaela’s international background46:13 Knowing what you know now…46:18 Michaela’s biggest life/business lesson47:01 Go-to destination: Disney cruises49:00 Book recommendation: Big Little Breakthroughs49:33 Favorite movie: The Princess Bride50:06 How to contact Michaela51:53 Final thoughts on contraction, resilience and opportunityConnect with Michaela AndersonLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heymickeyanderson/ Website: https://loyaltyops.com/I’m The GafferI’m The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people — bringing insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint success in the building industry.Available on:Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify: https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotifyYouTube: /@imthegafferpodcastWebsite: https://www.imthegaffer.com/#ImTheGaffer #Construction #ConstructionBusiness #Leadership #TeamCulture #BusinessGrowth #Communication #ConstructionIndustry #SmallBusiness #PeoplePerformanceProcess #Hustro