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Ep.1707 - Build the Team Before You Build the Project

October 12, 2026 · 8 min

Show notes

Great projects start by getting the right people into the right roles before the work begins. In this episode, Jason connects Jocko Willink and Leif Babin's "cover and move" principle with practical frameworks for building construction teams that can trust each other, communicate openly, and perform together. Jason explains how team size, geographical responsibilities, personality, aptitude, and tools like DISC, Cultural Index, Enneagram, and the Six Types of Working Genius can help leaders determine who belongs in each key seat before mobilization.

What you'll learn in this episode:

  • Why getting the right people into key seats is critical to project success.
  • How "cover and move" connects to intentional team building.
  • Why trust, healthy conflict, accountability, and transparency must be developed early.
  • How geographical responsibilities can help clarify ownership across a project.
  • Why personality and aptitude should influence who is selected for each role.

Are you intentionally building the team before the project starts or simply filling seats?

If you like the Elevate Construction podcast, please subscribe for free and you'll never miss an episode. And if you really like the Elevate Construction podcast, I'd appreciate you telling a friend (Maybe even two 😊).

Also, here are links to our YouTube Channels:

· Jason Schroeder YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4xpRYvrW5Op5Ckxs4vDGDg

· LeanTakt YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/leanTakt

· LeanSuper YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzQDevqQP19L4LePuqma3Fg/featured

· LeanSurvey YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Ztn3okFhyB_3p5nmMKnsw

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