Activating Curiosity | Leading Change in the Construction Industry is the podcast for forward-thinking AEC and construction leaders who want to elevate their leadership in change management, strengthen construction leadership development, and navigate change management in construction with clarity, connection, and confidence.
Hosted by Ryan Ware, AEC industry coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Connective Consulting Group and Connective Coaching—the show dives into conversations with innovators and industry shapers to ask one core question: What’s the most important problem you’re trying to solve and why?
Each episode uncovers real stories, hidden challenges, and practical tools to help you lead through change, build psychologically safe teams, and stay ahead in an industry that’s transforming faster than ever.
New guest episodes drop twice per month, along with bonus insights designed to help you lead change with curiosity.
Listen, follow/subscribe, share, and help us build what’s next, together.
If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Even $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going.
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Efficiency in Construction Leadership: How Collaboration Drives Innovation
Episode 9
Tuesday, December 9, 2025 • Duration 01:11:58
Summary
Ryan Ware & Brian Skripac of the DBIA dive into change leadership & leading change in construction through innovative coaching techniques & effective change management in the AEC industry. Unpacking the evolution of design build and BIM adoption in construction, virtual design, AI, emphasizing collaboration, efficiency, and technology as pivotal forces transforming project outcomes within the construction industry.
Listeners will learn how to overcome change resistance, understand the significance of communication & change management, and leverage data-driven decision-making to ensure successful project delivery. Hear expert insights on construction leadership development & construction leadership training, highlighting construction culture's critical role & the human element necessary for innovation. Practical strategies for adopting design build principles and fostering continuous learning are shared, empowering leaders to excel in their AEC industry careers.
Takeaways
Efficiency is key in the design and construction process.
Technology can significantly improve project outcomes.
Collaboration among teams leads to better project delivery.
Resistance to change is often rooted in fear of risk.
Communication is essential for successful project execution.
Data and metrics are crucial for measuring success.
Design Build promotes a collaborative approach to construction.
Chapters
03:00 The Evolution of Technology in Architecture 09:04 Overcoming Resistance to Change 14:42 The Importance of LOD and Project Clarity 23:50 Quality and Innovation in Design Build 26:50 Future of Design Build in the Construction Industry 34:39 The Importance of Collaboration in Design Build 37:34 Cultural Shifts & Psychological Safety in Construction 42:04 Learning from Experience: The Value of Feedback 50:04 Aggregating Innovations for Project Success 01:01:22 Measuring Success in Design Build Projects
Guest A B.S. Arch. graduate from The Ohio State University, he brings 20 years of experience as a digital construction innovator, showing how VDC maximizes value within design-build’s whole-team approach. He specializes in uniting people, processes, and BIM-enabled technologies to improve collaboration, performance, and lifecycle outcomes across the built environment. An industry thought leader, publishe
Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry.
If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going.
⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.
The Illusion of Control in Leading Change: Insights for Construction Leadership
Episode 8
Tuesday, November 25, 2025 • Duration 29:14
Summary Mini Series Part 2: Building a Stronger Relationship with Change.
In this episode of Activating Curiosity, Ryan Ware explores the illusion of control and its impact on leading change within construction leadership development and change management in construction projects. He explains why many construction professionals feel threatened by imposed change and how the desire for control, though comforting, can be misleading.
Ryan emphasizes the importance of psychological safety, empathy, and curiosity in construction coaching as essential tools that foster trust, collaboration, and morale during industry transformations. By adopting curiosity-driven leadership, construction leaders can move beyond the illusion of control to gain clarity and confidence, enabling more effective influence over change.
Listeners will gain insights into mastering construction leadership challenges through human-centered change management strategies and develop construction leadership confidence to navigate the evolving industry landscape. This episode is perfect for professionals aiming to revolutionize construction leadership and embrace curiosity in construction for impactful change.
Tune in to learn practical leadership and management tools to lead construction teams through change with greater trust and effectiveness.
Takeaways
Change can feel very personal, even if you didn't make the first choice.
Control is often an illusion that can hinder progress.
Great leaders are present during change, providing emotional steadiness.
You can influence more by releasing the control you think you have.
Psychological safety is crucial for effective change management.
Empathy is essential when navigating change with others.
Presence in leadership fosters trust and collaboration.
Self-awareness is key to understanding your relationship with change.
Recognizing the illusion of control can lead to greater influence.
Clarity is often elusive, but necessary for embracing change.
Referenced Works & Thinkers in This Episode:
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Human-Centric Leadership: The Future of Construction
Episode 7
Tuesday, November 11, 2025 • Duration 01:08:31
Summary
In this episode, Ryan interviews Angelo Suntres, founder of 'The Human Side of Construction,' discussing the importance of empathy and human-centric leadership in the construction industry. They explore the challenges of generational change, the need for collaboration, and the impact of embracing change to create a more inclusive and effective industry.
Takeaways
Empathy is crucial in transforming construction leadership.
Generational change requires bridging gaps between old and new mindsets.
Collaboration is key to future success in construction.
Human-centric leadership can improve industry productivity.
Embracing change is essential for industry growth.
The construction industry needs to be more inclusive.
Understanding human needs can enhance workplace dynamics.
Effective leadership involves recognizing and valuing employees.
The future of construction relies on innovative thinking.
Building a better industry requires collective effort.
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction and Background
00:03:00 The Human Side of Construction
00:09:00 Generational Challenges and Change
00:15:00 Collaboration and Leadership
00:21:00 Embracing Change and Inclusivity
00:27:00 Future of the Industry and Closing Thoughts
Related episodes: Ep 10: for Construction Leadership Development.
Guest
Angelo, founder of the Human Side of Construction, is a seasoned operations leader, speaker and author with a passion for improving the construction industry at the intersection of strategy and people. With a career spanning leadership roles throughout construction, Angelo brings a unique and refreshing perspective on the future of the industry.Angelo is also the author of “Human Side of Construction” and “Rebuild Construction” where he shares practical frameworks and insights for leaders navigating today’s complex business landscape.His engaging style combines storytelling, actionable strategies, and a deep understanding of human behavior, making his sessions both inspiring and practical.Whether speaking to executives or emerging leaders, Angelo’s mission is clear: to empower construction professionals to lead with connection, adaptability, and purpose in an evolving world.
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Leading Change in Construction: Navigating the Complexities of Choice and Leadership
Episode 6
Tuesday, October 28, 2025 • Duration 31:33
Summary Mini Series Part 1: Building a Stronger Relationship with Change. In this bonus episode of "Activating Curiosity," host Ryan Ware explores effective change management and leadership development within the construction and AEC industry. Listeners will learn how choice and leadership impact successful change initiatives and how "choice architecture" shapes daily habits that influence project and organizational outcomes.
Ryan discusses the challenges of leading change in construction projects, emphasizing empathy, engagement, and communication strategies. By understanding default choices and fostering a culture of buy-in, construction leaders can overcome resistance and drive meaningful transformation. Whether facing construction industry challenges or seeking to enhance construction leadership clarity, this episode offers tools and insights to lead with curiosity and confidence.
Listen to discover practical strategies for mastering change management in construction, improving leadership effectiveness, and advancing your skills in navigating the evolving construction industry.
Takeaways
Recognize your relationship with choice to empathize with others.
Choice is the first step in building a stronger relationship with change.
Leaders must communicate effectively to ensure engagement in change.
Choice architecture influences our daily decisions and habits.
Reflecting on personal choices can align them with current goals.
Empathy is crucial in understanding reactions to change.
Successful change initiatives require connecting with the human element.
Exploration and reassessment of choices lead to better outcomes.
Understanding choice can lead to meaningful transformation.
Curiosity and continuous learning are essential for growth.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Change Through Choice 12:16 The Ripple Effect of Choices in Business 22:17 Navigating Personal and Professional Choices 25:08 Empathy and Change Management 31:41 Reflecting on Personal Choices
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Decentralizing Work: The Future of AEC
Episode 5
Tuesday, October 14, 2025 • Duration 50:24
Summary This episode of Activating Curiosity is for construction and AEC industry leaders who are navigating the future of work, emerging technology, and the growing need for more flexible, human-centered ways of leading change.
Host Ryan Ware sits down with Mandy McGill, founder of Aedifico, to explore what it means to decentralize work in the AEC industry—and why traditional staffing, procurement, and leadership models are being challenged by the pace of change.
In this conversation, Ryan and Mandy discuss the role of AI in construction, the barriers to adopting new workforce models, and the mindset shifts required for leaders to successfully navigate industry change. They examine how resistance within HR, procurement, and long-standing industry relationships can slow innovation, even when better tools and systems already exist.
Mandy shares the vision behind Aedifico, a platform designed to empower individuals to work on projects they’re passionate about, while helping organizations adapt to the future of work in construction. The discussion highlights the importance of curiosity, education, and continuous learning as essential leadership capabilities—not optional add-ons—in an evolving AEC landscape.
If you’re a construction or AEC leader thinking about workforce innovation, digital transformation, or how to lead people through uncertainty and change, this episode offers a future-focused perspective grounded in curiosity-driven leadership.
Chapters
03:00 The Birth of Aedifico 05:56 Decentralizing Work in the AEC Industry 08:49 Understanding the Aedifico Platform 12:03 Challenges in Adopting New Models 17:22 Reframing Talent Acquisition 25:12 The Evolution of Work Models 29:49 Decentralization and Project-Based Work 33:30 The Role of AI in the Future of Work 40:58 Human-Centric Success in the Industry 43:52 Next Steps for Engagement and Learning
Guest
Mandy McGill is a global capital and built environment strategist who tracks how money, talent, and technology shape the future of the AEC industry. She connects corporate real estate, development, construction, private capital, and emerging technology to help organizations navigate industry change.
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Leading Purpose-Driven Change in Construction
Episode 4
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 • Duration 17:16
Summary
In this bonus episode of Activating Curiosity, Ryan Ware discusses that change doesn’t happen overnight, it starts with a shift in mindset and the courage to do things differently. Ryan explores how two organizations, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) sparked real change in the construction industry.
He explores the history and role of the organizations in driving change and the need for individuals to take responsibility for their part in the industry's evolution. The conversation highlights the challenges faced and the opportunities available for innovation and change in construction.
If you’ve ever wondered how to move past resistance, create buy-in, and lead with curiosity, this episode will help you see what’s possible when we embrace change at every level.
Takeaways
Why lasting change starts with a shift in perspective.
The focus should be beyond certifications and awards.
Having a purpose can drive individual and collective action.
Practical ways to reframe resistance to change in your own work
Progress requires collaboration and shared goals.
Change in the industry takes time and effort from many.
Each individual can contribute to a larger impact.
The future of the industry depends on proactive engagement.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Activating Curiosity 01:55 The Challenge of Big Problems 04:21 Historical Context of Change in Construction 06:00 The Journey to 100,000 Certified Buildings 07:01 Exponential Growth and Future Projections
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Projects vs. Business: The Truth About Construction Financials
Episode 3
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 • Duration 47:25
Summary This episode of Activating Curiosity is for construction and AEC industry leaders who are navigating the financial realities of running a construction business, not just managing projects.
Host Ryan Ware is joined by construction accounting expert Jessica Krause to explore the often-overlooked leadership challenges tied to construction financials, change management, and decision-making. Together, they unpack the critical differences between managing projects and leading a financially healthy construction business.
In this conversation, Ryan and Jessica discuss job costing, cash flow management, and the complexity of change orders, highlighting why financial clarity is essential to effective construction leadership and change management. They explore the risks of poor financial visibility, the ripple effects of financial mismanagement across the construction industry, and why communication between project teams and accounting is a leadership responsibility, not just an administrative task.
You’ll gain practical insights into improving financial practices, building stronger alignment between operations and accounting, and developing the right people and systems to support sustainable growth. The episode also reinforces the importance of a growth mindset and financial education as foundational tools for leading change in construction.
If you’re a construction leader focused on strengthening business performance, improving financial decision-making, and building long-term leadership confidence, this episode will help you rethink how curiosity, clarity, and financial leadership work together.
Takeaways
Construction accounting requires specialized knowledge due to its complexities.
Effective communication between project management and accounting is essential.
Job costing and cash flow management are critical to avoid bankruptcy.
The cost of not tracking financial data can be detrimental to a business.
Financial mismanagement can have a ripple effect on the entire construction industry.
Success in construction relies on the collective success of all parties involved.
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Change Begins with Curiosity | Leading Change in Construction
Episode 2
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 • Duration 15:28
This bonus episode of Activating Curiosity is designed for construction and AEC industry leaders focused on leading change, navigating change management, and advancing construction leadership development in a rapidly evolving industry.
Host Ryan Ware explores curiosity as a powerful yet underutilized tool in leading change management within construction. He highlights how a curiosity-driven mindset—asking better questions and challenging assumptions—is essential for promoting innovation and overcoming resistance to new tools, processes, and ideas.
Ryan delves into common industry challenges such as fear, uncertainty, and change resistance, and shares insights on harnessing psychological empowerment and experimentation to boost leadership confidence. This episode offers practical strategies and a human-centered perspective on managing change and driving sustainable growth in construction projects.
If you're committed to strengthening construction leadership, mastering change management strategies, and leading through industry transformation, this episode provides invaluable tools and perspectives to help you activate curiosity and lead change effectively.
Takeaways
We need to figure out how to bring value to our work.
Activating curiosity is essential for addressing industry challenges.
Embracing change is crucial for growth in the profession.
Resistance to change often stems from fear and uncertainty.
Experience plays a vital role in learning and adapting.
Just trying something once won't make you an expert.
We must identify what makes it hard to adopt new solutions.
Change is constant, and we must learn to navigate it.
Finding value in our work is essential for progress.
We need to be willing to explore the unknown for growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Activating Curiosity 01:35 Exploring Industry Challenges and Solutions 03:33 Understanding Our Relationship with Change 06:33 The Complexity of Change and Mindset 08:55 Choosing to Embrace Change10:50 Conclusion and Call to Action11:20 Activating Curiosity for Change13:03 The Business Side of the Industry14:04 New Chapter
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Activating Curiosity: Leading Change in Construction with Ryan Ware
Episode 1
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 • Duration 03:46
This inaugural episode of Activating Curiosity is for construction and AEC industry leaders navigating constant change, uncertainty, and growing complexity.
Host Ryan Ware, executive coach and founder of Connective Consulting Group, shares the vision behind the podcast and explores why leading change in construction and effective change management in construction require more than new tools or technology. It requires a mindset shift grounded in curiosity, clarity, and human-centered leadership.
In this episode, Ryan introduces the core challenges facing the construction industry today, from change resistance and leadership confidence to innovation, culture, and leadership in change management—and explains how curiosity-driven leadership helps leaders respond with intention rather than reaction.
You’ll learn what to expect from future episodes, including real stories from construction leaders, innovators, and change coaches, along with practical tools for navigating change management for construction teams, building psychological empowerment, and leading teams through uncertainty.
If you’re focused on construction leadership development, managing teams, or driving meaningful change in the AEC industry, this episode sets the foundation for leading change with clarity, confidence, and curiosity.
PODCAST DESCRIPTION:
Activating Curiosity is a podcast for forward-thinking construction and AEC industry leaders who want to lead change with more clarity, connection, and confidence.
Hosted by Ryan Ware—executive coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Connective Consulting Group—this show explores how curiosity can transform leadership, decision-making, and change management in the construction industry.
Each episode features conversations with construction leaders, innovators, and change agents focused on one essential question:
What is the most important problem you’re trying to solve—and why?
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Elusive Clarity: Navigating Change Management in Construction Leadership
Episode 11
Tuesday, December 30, 2025 • Duration 31:57
Summary
Mini Series Part 3: Building a Stronger Relationship with Change. In this episode, Ryan Ware explores change management in the construction industry, emphasizing how construction leadership development and psychological empowerment enable leaders and teams to successfully navigate transformational change. Drawing on leadership coaching expertise, Ryan dives into the critical roles of clarity, choice, and control in managing change resistance and guiding smooth transitions.
This episode highlights best practices in construction change management and offers practical coaching tools to help AEC professionals build psychologically safe teams, foster trust, and drive construction innovations. Listeners will gain valuable insights to enhance their leadership confidence and master the challenges of leading change in construction projects and the broader AEC industry.
Key takeaways include the importance of commitment, transparent communication, exploring curiosity-driven approaches, and reflecting on past changes to inform future efforts. Whether you’re a construction manager or industry leader, this episode equips you with foundational strategies to revolutionize your approach to change management and leadership in construction.
Takeaways
Change is a universal issue that affects everyone.
Understanding choice is crucial in the change process.
Control is often an illusion during change.
Clarity is personal and varies from person to person.
Rushing through change can lead to failure.
Commitment is essential for successful change implementation.
Communication is key to understanding team dynamics during change.
Exploration and discovery are vital parts of the change journey.
Building trust within a team enhances the change experience.
Reflecting on past changes can inform future efforts.
Chapters
00:00 Reflection on Choice and Control 05:14 The Importance of Clarity in Change 16:13 Navigating the Journey of Change 30:34 Commitment to Change and Its Significance
Helping construction leaders simplify change, strengthen trust, and move forward with clarity.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Stephen M.R. Covey — The Speed of Trust
Amy C. Edmondson — The Fearless Organization
Amy C. Edmondson — Right Kind of Wrong: How the Best Teams Use Failure to Succeed
Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry.
If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going.
⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.
With over a decade of experience advising corporate real estate teams, developers, contractors, and investors, Mandy translates emerging trends into practical strategies around decentralization of work, workforce models, and the use of AI and other digital tools.
She is the Founder & CEO of Aedifico ai and host of Decentralized Everything.
Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry.
If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going.
⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.
Investing in financial education for staff is vital for better management.
A growth mindset is essential for contractors to thrive in the industry.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Construction Accounting Challenges 03:44 The Unique Complexities of Construction Accounting 06:43 The Importance of Communication in Construction Projects 09:45 The Role of Technology and Systems in Construction Accounting 12:56 Managing Change Orders and Project Budgets 15:47 The Ripple Effect of Poor Financial Management 18:59 Success in C
Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry.
If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going.
⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.
Together, they unpack the human and organizational challenges behind transformation, whether it’s leading through resistance, developing confident leaders, scaling operations, or navigating digital and cultural change in construction.
Through real stories, honest dialogue, and practical leadership tools, Activating Curiosity helps construction professionals strengthen their relationship with change and lead with greater intention.
Whether you’re managing projects, leading teams, or shaping the future of the industry, this podcast equips you to build what’s next through Curiosity-Building Experiences™.
🎙️ New guest episodes drop on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, with bonus episodes on the 3rd Thursday.
Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe now and stay informed about the latest trends and insights in the construction industry.
If this show helps you, please consider supporting it. Just $3/month helps cover production and keeps the conversations going.
⭐ “Love the show? Toss some stars my way, it’s the easiest applause ever.
🇨🇦 Canada - management
13/12/2025
#67
Spotify
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