The Long Game: Stephanie Wood on Culture and Commercial Success

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, host Jesse Hernandez converses with Stephanie Wood, co-founder and CEO of Coal Build Construction. Stephanie, with a background in organizational leadership and trauma-informed neuroscience, shares her journey from English literature major to a construction industry leader. The discussion covers the challenges and innovations in fostering a collaborative and human-centered approach within construction, debunking the myth of toughness, and promoting grit and resilience. They introduce Builders Grit, an initiative designed to improve workplace culture and performance by addressing trauma and developing leadership skills. Stephanie also highlights the importance of creating environments for flourishing and the transformative impact her company's philosophy has on the industry's future.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview02:45 The Meaning Behind Co Build04:35 Challenges and Pushback in the Industry06:33 The Importance of Respect and Collaboration09:41 Shoutout to LnM Family Member11:21 Building a Collaborative Construction Business13:31 Hiring and Leadership Development24:09 Personal Journey and Neuroscience of Trauma30:35 Neglect and Abuse in Subcontracting31:11 Falling into Leadership Roles32:45 Learning Leadership Skills33:50 Embracing Leadership and Overcoming Resistance38:09 The Myth of Toughness in Construction41:37 Understanding Trauma and Recovery45:52 Introducing Grit and Resilience Cohorts53:58 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionLets leave the Construction Industry Better than We Found It https://www.depthbuilder.com/construction-leadership-lab Download the free PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Be