On the Learnings and Missteps Podcast, Jesse and Rene dig into the stories of the men and women who have built careers in the construction industry. Each guest, from front line installers to Executives, intimately describes their earliest career aspirations to the current day and how they intend to impact the world going forward. Let us bend your ear and join us in our efforts in Enhancing the image of Careers in Construction.
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
This Carpenter Designed Innovative, Functional Clothing for Tradespeople (& It’s CHANGING the Industry) with Pete Zeppetella
1:06:51
1:06:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:51
Being a little too careless on the job site or not having the proper gear can mean big consequences… or at the very least, a major reality check! In this episode, I speak with Pete Zeppetella, a licensed journeyman carpenter and CEO of Zepps Gear. Before getting into the trades, Pete actually dreamed of being a clothing designer. Fortunately for hi…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Overcoming Doubt to Become President of Iron Workers 197 with Carole Raftrey
49:43
49:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:43
One thing the trades industry needs more of is support. Support for one another’s success, support for a better work/life balance, support in achieving goals and promotions, and frankly, more support for women. In this episode, I welcome Carole Raftrey, a 30-year iron worker based in New York City and President of Iron Workers 197. Carole has exper…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Finding Your Niche in the Trades, Growing Strategically, & Keeping a Business Alive During a Recession with Angela Gardner
48:17
48:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:17
If one thing’s certain about working in a non-traditional role, it’s that you’ll never retire without a learning and misstep. Thankfully, we have people like Angela Gardner to empower women to build non-traditional careers, despite how dirty or unconventional it might be, and to create supportive communities for women in the trades so they can trul…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Making the Construction Industry a Better Place for Women with Christi Powell
1:14:53
1:14:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:14:53
In a world that’s so demanding and fast-paced, it’s important that we slow down and connect with ourselves and each other. That’s the main lesson this week’s guest has learned (and is still learning) along her career path. In this episode, I welcome Christi Powell, Co-Founder of Women Confidence Builders, WBE-certified Sales Representative for 84 L…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
How a NYC Finance Executive is Making a Difference in the Trades Community with Michael Fina
42:29
42:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:29
With the recent influx of technology and digital innovation, every business in every industry has the opportunity to become more efficient, sustainable, and optimize their processes. People in the trades are no exception! So, what happens when you mix digital innovation, financial education, and the trades? Here’s a hint… it involves SUCCESS. In th…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Changing the Narrative About Minorities and Women in Construction with Demetria Bivens
37:20
37:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:20
Female and minority contractors need more representation, compensation, and respect in their industry. There’s no doubt about it! But how do we make that happen? This week’s guest is a prime example of that mission coming to life. In this episode, I welcome Demetria Bivens, Managing Member at dlb Consultants and Senior Executive Director of Busines…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
From Guitars to Workforce Development with Gabriel Garcia
42:12
42:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:12
Gabriel Garcia shares some the recruiting secrets Marek uses to engage High School students in accessing fruitful careers. With early dreams as a Rockstar he found an environment he would thrive in on the jobsite. Understanding the value of giving back to the community, Gabriel took a leadership role as the Build Competition Rockstar with Texas Con…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Why Tradespeople Need To, Above All, Build People with Edward A. Rivera
1:00:54
1:00:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:54
As professionals in the trade industry, we have the power to do more than just pour concrete, weld metal structures, or build an elevator car… we have the power to build people and create a sense of depth, or deeper meaning, in our industry. In this episode, I welcome Edward A. Rivera, also known as Your Elevator Pal. Ed is a Modernization/Construc…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
This One’s for the Gals: Empowering Girls to Join the Construction Industry with Stephanie Hajducek
54:09
54:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:09
This one’s for the gals out there! From the construction industry to the petro-chemical industry, women have the power to find success, empowerment, and fulfillment in industry careers. Whether you know what you want to do after high school, you can’t figure it out, or you’re an adult who wants to pivot in your career path, this week’s guest may be…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Are STEM Magnet Schools the key to Construction Education of the Future? with Kate Gause
59:45
59:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:45
We’ve all heard about the importance of integrating more STEM into children’s education, but could STEM magnet schools be the future of education in America and around the globe? Is it the best way to get more women into the trades and construction industry? In this episode, we welcome Kate Gause, a Project Engineer at ISEC, Inc. Kate attended Cons…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Avoiding Job Site Conflict, Investing in Your Employees, & Leadership Development for Tradespeople with Brad Andersen
54:29
54:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:29
What are the best ways to avoid job site conflict? Why is it important to invest in your employees? What if there was a leadership and professional development course created by tradespeople for tradespeople? Well, get ready because this week’s guest has tons of insights on job site management and being a leader… PLUS, he’s creating that leadership…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Laying the Foundation for a Meaningful Life and Career with Walker Lott and Davis Hambrick
1:10:17
1:10:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:10:17
We need to bring love and meaning back into the construction industry. Like a relationship, if your life and your career are built on a strong foundation of love, care, and compassion, it’s going to take something tremendous to tear you down. So, how can we start pouring these elements into the foundation of the construction industry? In this episo…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
How to Support and Grow the Trades Workforce with Christopher Brenchley of Rock the Trades
57:57
57:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:57
Although there’s an immense lack of skilled tradespeople, there’s still tremendous investment going into our nation’s infrastructure. It’s great that the US has the money to improve infrastructure, but if you don’t have the people to do the work, it can’t be done. That’s why Rock the Trades was born. In this episode, we have Christopher Brenchley, …
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
How to Not Be a “Starving Artist” & Go Full-Time as a Metal Artist with Barbie The Welder
1:04:34
1:04:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:34
We’ve all heard the term “starving artist” … In fact, it’s a phenomenon that often deters creatives from pursuing their talents and turning them into a career. Today’s guest has completely busted the “starving artist” archetype to smithereens and turned her passion into a lucrative full-time career. In this episode, I speak with Barbie The Welder, …
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Transforming the Trade Industry Through Collaboration, Humanity, and Resilience with Henry Nutt
1:07:30
1:07:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:30
When we cross the finish line together, we can celebrate together. Teams that don’t recognize that are painfully missing out on the beauty of collaboration and humanity. At the end of the day, you can choose to make your work painful or you can choose to make it collaborative, creative, and rewarding. So, which will you choose? In this episode, I s…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
James Gable on Developing Soft Skills: The Power of Communication and Optimism in Leadership
1:04:54
1:04:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:54
As professionals in construction, we often focus too much on hard skills, or the specific knowledge and capabilities we need to complete the job. Too often, we forget about soft skills, like communication, adaptability, and teamwork. Both are needed to be successful in your career, so let’s dive into the power of developing soft skills in construct…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Josh Zolin on The Value of Skilled Trades for the Youth Today
1:02:27
1:02:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:27
Blue is the New White: The Value of Skilled Trades for the Youth Today Do you know the value of skilled trades for you as a young person and society at large? The skilled trades industry has many opportunities and possibilities that can lead you to some of the most lucrative jobs out there and a fat check. In this episode, we have Josh Zolin, CEO o…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Bringing Back the Trades with Steve Turner
1:03:04
1:03:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:04
Wouldn’t it be great to bring back the honor in the trades and eliminate the stigma surrounding the sector? Now is the time to change the narrative about the trades and bring back the deserved honor to the industry. In this episode, we have Steve Turner, a custom upholstery small business owner and the founder of Bring Back the Trades organization.…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Lisa Payan: Finding Complete Fulfillment as a Woman in Construction
59:51
59:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:51
What does it take to find a fulfilling career that makes you completely happy? Finding a career or owning a business that fulfills you even when things get difficult should be an ultimate goal. In this episode, we have Lisa Payan, the owner of Mastermind Plumbing in San Antonio Texas, a mother, and a community contributor. Lisa left her accounting …
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Brian Winningham Born and raised in the Field
1:03:39
1:03:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:39
Are you ready to start embracing lean construction principles and processes as a leader in construction? By adopting lean construction principles and processes in your construction projects, you will enhance everyone’s experience and work as an integrated team. In this episode, we have Brian Winningham, Field Driven Lean owner, and has over 20 year…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Felipe Engineer Manriquez on Delivering Value and Resource-efficiency in Your Work
1:09:33
1:09:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:33
How to do more in your work while still managing to deliver value with efficiency? By intentionally balancing your flow with resource efficiency, you’re enabling yourself to live an amazing and balanced life. In this episode, we have Felipe Engineer- Manriquez, a construction scrum expert, national director of lean construction, and the host of the…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
The Joy of Takt and Life with Spencer Easton
59:08
59:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:08
In this episode Rene Duron comes back from a long summer of overtime and he didnt skip a beat. His heartfelt vulnerable questions invite Spencer Easton breathe some accountability into Rene. Spencer came into construction intending to be a field engineer which turned into him being a Scheduling Manager. His experience as a scheduling expert ignited…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Builder, Teacher, World Changer: Krista Ackles
1:21:06
1:21:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:21:06
Get to know Program Coordinator / Project Manager Miss Krista Ackles. Krista studied finance and when seeking employment she decided the construction Industry was more suitable and went out and made that happen. The recession hit which caused her to seek work elsewhere, thank goodness!! Since then she has been changing worlds at Construction Career…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
The Grande Calabo Finale with Authors Keyan Zandy and Joe Donarumo
1:18:33
1:18:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:18:33
We managed to get some time with Celebrity Influencers Keyan Zandy and Joe Donarumo, Authors of The Lean Builder. Felipe and I get to unearth several truths behind them writing this book. As usual, you best have your notepads ready to capture the secrets to unlocking a new level of performance with the Lean efforts on your Jobsite. The tips they do…
Felipe and I wrap up our whining and war stories around Chapter 7 of The Last Planner, which is around the charged subject of PPC. Those 3 letters stand for Percent Plan Complete and have been the subject of much confusion and discontent. Which of course spills out the entire episode. And there is some good stuff too we give away the best method fo…
Get to know Mr Adam Hoots: Construction Professional, Entrepreneur, Trades Advocate, Author and the list goes on. His story takes us from his entry into the workforce as the result of a gift he received on his 17th birthday. The experience he had as a plumbers helper informed the way he serves the Construction Community today. His purpose and visio…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Calabo - Session #6 The Last Planner System
1:06:18
1:06:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:18
Jesse & Felipe are rounding 3rd base as they cover Chapter 6 of The Lean Builder. Catch a heavy dose of collaboration cheat codes with a side of attitude from Jesse the grouch. This conversation touches many of the necessities for achieving positive outcomes with LPS, some of which will take practice to master. And many you can apply today. Connect…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Sophisticated Transparency with Kevin Chase
50:04
50:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:04
Get to know Mr Kevin Chase an exemplory Construction Professional and father. He will walk you down his career path which helped him hone his skills of introspection and humility. If youre looking for some powerful examples of leadership behavior and breakthroughs for leading change, Mr Kevin Chase has got your flavor. Support the Mission at: https…
On the 5th Calabosession between Felipe and Jesse there are a whole bunch more war stories, interstingly there are new stories every single Calabosession. In this conversation they touch on the "Big Room" concept, trade partners being in business to make money just like General Contractors and they finally show some love to the Men and Women that a…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Fostering a Culture of Change with Jennifer Lacy
1:09:59
1:09:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:59
Miss Jennifer Lacy unleashes her energy in sharing her experience in building a Sustainable Culture with a National Organization. As a leader focused on supporting Building Forward across the organization she flexed the non-traditional skills developed as an Educator & Athletics Coach. The uncontainable Jennifer reflects on the ripples of impact we…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Calabo-Session #4 Managing Constraints
1:16:53
1:16:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:16:53
Felipe Engineer Manriquez and Jesse keep the momentum going into Chapter 4 of The Lean Builder. They start off with Constraint Management and true to form they vere off into their war stories which touch on a new set of KPIs, keeping trade parnters engaged and unsustainable success. And they didnt stop there somehow they came up with the hashtag #y…
In this episode Jake emparts years of experience with Leadership and Continuous Improvement. Jakes layed back personality disguises his ferocious drive for personal development. You may be surprised that our understanding of Leadership is largely derrived from working for weak leaders. Clearly Jake is committed to creating a better space for the pe…
This episode is a perfect example of Inventory and Excess Processing due to Felipe and Jesse going through their memory banks, but it is entertaining. These Lean Maniacs do share their years of experience around learning, coaching and combating the 8 Wastes. Access the Lean Builder book at: https://theleanbuilder.com/ Connect with Felipe at: https:…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Creating that "Mint" life with 3rd Generation Plumber Bob Baker
58:33
58:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:33
Join in for a positive and energizing conversation with 3rd generation plumber Mr Bob Baker. He is a social media influencer, bee keeper and cinematographer that share his gifts and talents in an effort to make this world a better place. Not only is he a 3rd generation plumber but his boys will carry the torch as the 4th generation of Bakers in the…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Calabo-Session #2 Visual Communication
1:28:46
1:28:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:28:46
Jesse and Felipe (Host of The EBFC Show) are at it again, this time covering the topic of Visual Communication on the construction site. They cant keep themselves from telling their personal experience with both the great and not so great applications of Visual Communication. There is plenty of value for all stakeholders in the Construction Industr…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 18: A Plumbers path in finding respect for the work, Gage Salazar
1:17:29
1:17:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:29
In this conversation Jesse and Rene get to know Gage's path from a non-profit faith based career to building a life as a Journeyman plumber. Gage tells us how he found a way to merge the leadership skills he's been blessed with earning a healthy living as a Journeyman plumber. Gauge brings the inspiration of his faith and support of his amazing wif…
We have a treat for you! Your Host Jesse Hernandez and Felipe Engineer Manriquez (host of The EBFC Show) team up and share their Lean wisdom as they review Chapter 1 of the Hottest Last Planner Book in Construction The Lean Builder. This Calabo - Session is the first of 8; we will provide you with the perspectives of the Trade Partner, Coach and Ge…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 17: Pipe Fighting Plumbers Reunion
1:04:52
1:04:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:52
This conversation is a bit of a party. Doug, Jeremy, Noah and our Host Jesse Hernandez stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about the days they worked together. They talk about the first time they met and how far they have come as professionals in the Construction Industry. These guys arent just fun and games they also dive into the growing generat…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Playing the Long Game: A Coaching conversation, examining the implications of instant and delayed gratification
48:23
48:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:23
In this Coaching session Rene seeks council about making a significant Career choice, a problem we have all been faced with. It takes some digging but the conversation reveals that Rene truly values his team and the role he plays in influencing their environment. Along the way, Jesse and Rene, discuss how decisions in the past play into the conflic…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 16: Examining some dirty details and a path to wellness with Jillian Hubbard, Electrical Apprentice.
53:41
53:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:41
Jillian Hubbard (Mother, Healer, Electrical Apprentice) brings her "A " game in this conversation with Jesse. She holds nothing back as they discuss many of the ugly truths that exist in the construction Industry. Jillian exhibits real leadership qualities as she goes beyond pointing at a problem and gives her blueprint for correcting these problem…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 15: Ryan Taylor schools us on the one thing you can do today that will change tomorrow
1:25:47
1:25:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:25:47
Jesse and Rene get Ryan Taylors advice on what it takes to work your way out of humble beginnings. Ryan, Superintendent of a Leak Detection team in San Antonio, shares his view on the value of Social Intelligence and the role men need to play in repairing our communities. As the conversation builds Rene "Caterpillar" Duron takes us down a path of g…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 14: Making a come back when you think its all over with Dee Durant Electrical Apprentice
1:22:07
1:22:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:22:07
This conversation with Miss Dee Durant will take you back to them younger days when you felt like any wrong decision meant the end of the world. Dee advocates for Careers in the Trades as an ambassador for Kick Ass Careers and her story is a solid example of what a young adult should do to discover what it is that drives them. She also gives us som…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 13: Rockin new Career pathways with Stacy Gunderson
1:17:14
1:17:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:14
This episode covers Stacy's story from "glorified" laborer to Craft Training Superintendent. Jesse and Stacy have an in depth conversation about trade based internships for high school students and the commitment to Workforce Development her organization is displaying. Jesse trys really hard to get Stacy to brag about herself to no avail, but they …
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Reflection Episode: Reflecting on the first 6 months of this podcast experience
49:01
49:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:01
Rene and Jesse have a conversation about what they have learned and what their view of the future is. You will hear how you (the audience) has impacted their life and how much your words of encouragement drive them. Contribute to the mission at: https://www.patreon.com/learninsnmissteps Connect with us at: https://www.facebook.com/learninsn.misstep…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 12: Calibrating work ethic for a career in the trades- A veteran's perspective on climbing the construction career ladder and a life of service. Tune in for Jarrod Tomassi, safety director on fire ...
56:27
56:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:27
Listen in as Jesse discusses what's holding individuals back from the next level with Jarrod Tomassi, a safety director and veteran of the U.S. armed forces. Growing up Jarrod developed steely courage that he combined with skill to open doors. Discover how he transitioned from the mean streets to putting his life on the line to living a life above …
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 11: Building Bonds and Challenging the Future- Discussing career change, growing up, and growing together with electrical tradesman Alexander Trevino
1:20:00
1:20:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:20:00
Listen in as Jesse and Rene discuss investing in people, making career moves, and working in the trades with Alexander Trevino, an electrical apprentice. After serving family and youth in the non profit world, Alexander now challenges himself with becoming an electrician. Here, Alexander transparently highlights critical elements to "staying in the…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 10: Roughnecks in Construction: Building foundations in concrete and leadership with Jim Olmstead, a structural concrete professional- An exploration of doing what it takes to change yourself and ...
1:03:09
1:03:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:09
Listen in as Jesse and Rene enter the mindset of Jim Olmstead, a structural concrete Project Manager / Superintendent. As a concrete professional, Jim has built a foundation on respectfulness and timeliness. These three discuss the lessons of painful failure, identifying priorities, creating an environment of loyalty, and more. Ownership, leading c…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Porta Potty Philosophy: Decision Making & Vulnerability- Developing comfort beyond outcomes and the power skills to make your mark
36:35
36:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:35
Listen in as Jesse and Rene discuss decision making and vulnerability in the context of leadership. Rene listens intently to strategies which transcend outcomes and Jesse shares the magic formula for being remembered well. Support the cause: https://www.patreon.com/learninsnmissteps Contact us at - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/learnins-n-m…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 9: Adapting to new environments through transferable skills - lighting the way for career change to an electrical trade with Darci Spiteri.
57:51
57:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:51
Listen in as Jesse discusses how to craft a career change with Darci Spiteri, an electrical apprentice. Once detoured from a downtown career, Darci now lights up the trades. Here she conveys the boon of her powers in problem management and the value in relishing the growth process. Other priceless character values have been the conduit to animate h…
L
Learnings and Missteps The Podcast


1
Episode 8: Setting a remarkable expectation with Jason Schroeder- From finishing cement to smoothing out the edges in construction management.
1:20:31
1:20:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:20:31
Listen in as Jesse and Rene "set the form" of respect for tradesman with Jason Schroeder from Elevate Construction. Starting as a cement mason, Jason was unexpectedly launched into construction management. Today, Jason leads with a paradigm of elevating and celebrating craftworkers. In this episode, he shows how the right balance of tools, training…