In Episode 15 of the Starbuck Sargent Podcast, James Starbuck and Herb Sargent tackle two big construction business problems that hit both the field and the boardroom.

First, they break down how young workers can show initiative without alienating the crew. Wanting to move up is a good thing, but in construction, trust matters. James and Herb talk about earning respect on site, reading the room, learning before leading, and becoming part of the crew before trying to change the way things are done.

Then the conversation moves into a major issue for construction business owners: what happens when growth starts creating profit fade, rework, accountability problems, and pressure on your people and systems?

A fourth-generation heavy civil construction owner asks whether it’s time to slow down, scale back, rebuild ...