• #108 Keys To Contract Negotiation In Construction, Contingency, Profit Margin, and Client Savings
    Dec 22 2025

    In this episode of the Construction Mentor Podcast, Coach Ike discusses the various aspects of construction project management, focusing on the importance of understanding contingencies, the differences between owner's and contractor's contingencies, and the implications of different contract types. He emphasizes the need for effective communication with clients to navigate complex financial discussions and ensure project success. Additionally, he introduces his construction management course, which aims to fill knowledge gaps for both new and experienced professionals in the industry.

    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now:

    https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT📚

    Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews

    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l

    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers

    Takeaways:The construction industry offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.Understanding contracts is crucial for effective project management.

    Contingencies serve as a financial safety net for unforeseen issues in construction projects.

    Clear communication with clients is essential to avoid misunderstandings about budget and spending.

    Owner's contingency is controlled by the client, while contractor's contingency is managed by the contractor.

    Different contract types (lump sum, cost plus, GMP) have distinct implications for risk and profit.

    Setting clear expectations at the beginning of a project can prevent conflicts later on.

    Educating clients about the purpose of contingencies can foster better relationships.

    Maintaining a positive client relationship is key to securing future work.

    The construction management course provides valuable insights and practical knowledge for aspiring professionals.

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    31 mins
  • #107 College Dropout Becomes Electrician; Works On Wind Farms, Solar Energy, Nuclear Facilities etc.
    Dec 18 2025

    In this episode of the Construction Mentor Podcast, Coach Ike and Patrick discuss the various aspects of working in the construction industry, particularly as an electrician. They explore the benefits of traveling for work, the financial advantages of union jobs, and the journey of transitioning from a missionary to a skilled tradesman. Patrick shares his experiences growing up in a blue-collar environment, navigating college decisions, and the challenges of the apprenticeship process. The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding a career path that suits individual preferences and the potential for growth within the trades.

    Takeaways:

    The construction industry offers numerous opportunities for financial success.

    Traveling for work can provide unique experiences and higher pay.

    Understanding union benefits is crucial for maximizing earnings.

    Growing up in a blue-collar environment can shape career choices.

    College is not the only path to success; trades offer viable alternatives.

    The apprenticeship process is essential for gaining skills and experience.

    Networking and family connections can help in entering the trades.

    Being open to learning from others is vital in the trades.

    Career progression in the trades can lead to various opportunities.

    Finding a career that fits personal values and lifestyle is important.




    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now:

    https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT


    📚 Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews


    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l


    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • #106 Who Plays The Most Important Role In The Success Of A Construction Project and Career?
    Dec 11 2025

    In this episode of the Construction Mentor Podcast, Coach Ike shares his personal journey in the construction industry, highlighting the importance of mentorship and the often-overlooked role of laborers. He discusses his recent achievements, including passing a significant licensing exam and being recognized as one of the top young professionals in construction. Ike emphasizes the critical contributions of laborers to project success and the value of servant leadership in fostering strong relationships within the industry. He concludes with reflections on his experiences and the importance of acknowledging those who have supported him along the way.

    Takeaways

    Whatever you want your life to look like is attainable through construction.

    Passing the NASCLA exam opens up opportunities in 18 states.

    Recognition from peers is a significant achievement.

    Laborers play a crucial role in the success of construction projects.

    Mentorship is vital for career growth and success.

    Servant leadership is essential in the construction industry.

    Building relationships with laborers can enhance project outcomes.

    Transparency with laborers can lead to better project management.

    The construction industry offers lucrative opportunities for laborers.

    Acknowledging the contributions of others is key to personal success.



    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now:

    https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT


    📚 Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews


    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l


    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers



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    34 mins
  • #105 Why Do People Hate Mike Rowe?
    Dec 3 2025

    In this episode, Ike discusses the construction industry and the impact of Mike Rowe as a prominent advocate for blue collar work. He addresses various critiques of Rowe's messaging, particularly regarding education, wage stagnation, workplace safety, and the romanticization of blue collar jobs. Ike emphasizes the importance of authentic representation and the need for better messaging to attract talent to the industry. He shares personal experiences and insights into the future of construction, advocating for a positive perspective on blue collar careers.

    Takeaway:

    The construction industry offers diverse career paths.

    Mike Rowe has significantly raised awareness for blue collar work.

    Critiques of Rowe often stem from misunderstandings of his messaging.

    Education is not limited to traditional college paths.

    Wage stagnation is a complex issue in the labor market.

    Workplace safety in construction has improved over the years.

    Romanticizing blue collar work can overlook real challenges.

    Authentic representation in media is crucial for the industry.

    Career growth opportunities exist beyond the trades.

    The construction industry is evolving and improving continuously.

    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now:

    https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT


    📚 Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews


    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l


    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers

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    43 mins
  • #104 Why Do Trades Hate Architects?
    Nov 19 2025

    In this episode of the Construction Mentor Podcast, host Ike discusses the complex relationship between architects and contractors, exploring the challenges and misunderstandings that arise in construction projects. He emphasizes the importance of communication, responsibility, and collaboration to create successful outcomes in the industry. The conversation covers various topics, including the issues with bid sets, the significance of existing conditions, the RFI process, and the impact of late design changes. Ike advocates for extreme ownership and setting up win-win scenarios for all parties involved in construction projects.


    Takeaways:

    Construction offers opportunities to build your dreams.

    Understanding perspectives is key in architect-contractor relationships.

    Responsibility in design is often a point of contention.

    Bid sets can complicate the pricing process.

    Effective communication is crucial for project success.

    Boilerplate details can lead to confusion and inefficiency.

    Verifying existing conditions is essential for accuracy.

    RFI responses should be clear and timely.

    Late design changes can disrupt project flow.

    Managing punch lists effectively is vital for project closure.



    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now: https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT


    📚 Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews


    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l


    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers

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    48 mins
  • #103 From 7th Grade Dropout To 6 Figures In Construction Management
    Nov 13 2025

    In this episode, Eric Will Hunt and Ike discuss the importance of mentorship, personal growth, and the construction industry. They share personal stories about overcoming challenges (having dropped out of school in the 7th grade, being welfare, and a parent struggling with addiction) the value of hard work, and the impact of having a mentor. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions about the construction industry and the opportunities it offers for a fulfilling career.

    Takeaways:

    Flip the script before asking for more money by adding value.

    Model success by following those who have what you want.

    Mentorship can be found online through social media.

    Hard work and persistence are key to success.

    The construction industry offers diverse career paths.

    Experience can outweigh formal education in many fields.

    Networking and putting yourself in front of the right people is crucial.

    Listening and observing can be more valuable than speaking.

    Overcoming a challenging background is possible with determination.

    Quality of life perks in property management are often overlooked.



    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now: https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT


    📚 Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews


    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l


    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers

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    31 mins
  • #102 From Film School to 7-Figure Construction Company, Roger Scheck's Success Story
    Oct 29 2025

    In this episode of the Construction Mentor Podcast, host Ike introduces Roger Scheck, a licensed general contractor from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Roger shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Kansas, where he was influenced by his father's passion for building and renovations, to pursuing a career in film and eventually finding his niche in high-end residential renovations. Roger's story is one of resilience and adaptability, as he navigated the challenges of the film industry, transitioned into flipping houses, and ultimately established a successful contracting business. His insights into the construction industry, the importance of work ethic, and the value of trades over traditional college education provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and tradespeople alike.

    Takeaways:

    There is a significant generational divide in construction.

    Older generations often undervalue younger workers' contributions.

    Work ethic perceptions vary greatly between generations.

    Knowledge transfer is crucial for industry sustainability.

    Younger workers may lack guidance from experienced mentors.

    The construction industry needs to adapt to new work styles.

    Collaboration between generations can enhance productivity.

    Understanding each generation's strengths is vital.

    Open communication can bridge the generational gap.

    Investing in training can benefit both young and old workers.



    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now: https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT


    📚 Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews


    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l


    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • #101 What Is The Highest Paid Construction Trade? Starting A Career at 17 & Becoming A Father
    Oct 22 2025

    In this episode of the Construction Mentor Podcast, host Ike speaks with Brian Williams, a fire protection expert and co-host of the Dope and Tape show. They discuss the various career paths within the construction industry, the importance of mentorship, and the skills needed for success. Brian shares his personal journey from being a young father to becoming a successful business development director, emphasizing the role of faith and purpose in his life. The conversation highlights the financial opportunities in the trades and offers advice for aspiring tradespeople.

    Start the FREE Construction Project Management Introduction Course with CourseCareers Now: https://coursecareers.com/a/ike?course=construction-management&campaign=YT


    📚 Student & Alumni Reviews:

    https://coursecareers.com/reviews


    🎓Testimonial of CourseCareers

    https://youtu.be/RRl88nof5f8?si=dKeh4ZnnJ4Yfoo7l


    🤯 Even More Testimonials:

    https://www.youtube.com/@coursecareers

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    59 mins