The Construction Insiders Podcast

Send us Fan MailIn Part Two of our discussion on advanced technology construction, we turn our focus to the infrastructure powering the digital economy, including data centers and semiconductor facilities. Jessica Busch is joined by Tom Vanelli and Jeff Leeper to explore how speed to market, site selection, power availability, and global supply chain considerations are reshaping how these highly complex projects are delivered. The conversation examines regional and global cost differences, offsite manufacturing and integrator models, evolving cooling and power requirements driven by AI workloads, and the growing role of automation and robotics. This episode offers owners and project leaders a practical look at how collaboration, early decision‑making, and workforce development are becoming critical to delivering these projects safely, efficiently, and at scale.

Send us Fan MailIn Part One of our series on advanced technology construction, we examine the rapid expansion of data centers and semiconductor facilities and what it takes to deliver the infrastructure powering the digital economy. Jessica Busch is joined by Jeff Leeper and Tom Vanelli to discuss the demand driven by AI, cloud computing, and onshoring, and why these projects introduce new levels of complexity for owners and project teams. The conversation explores how data centers, semiconductor manufacturing, power, and infrastructure are tightly connected, creating challenges around site selection, labor, safety, and schedule. The group also outlines how owners are responding to power constraints through early planning and emerging solutions such as renewables, nuclear restarts, and bring your own power strategies. This episode provides a practical perspective on the decisions shaping advanced technology construction today and sets the foundation for a deeper discussion in Part Two.

Send us Fan MailIn Part Two of our series on AI in construction, we examine where technology is delivering measurable value on major capital projects and what owners should expect as adoption accelerates. Jessica Busch is joined again by Chris Thompson, Kris Lengieza, and Dareen Salama to discuss the difference between simply purchasing tools and truly enabling teams to use them well. The conversation explores time savings, improved cash flow, and the role of strong data governance, along with the growing need for education, standardization, and clear operating procedures. The group also outlines how owners and contractors are structuring their technology ecosystems, why data relationships matter, and how these shifts will influence the next phase of industry transformation. This episode offers a grounded view of the gaps still ahead and the opportunities for organizations ready to rethink how they deliver projects.

Send us Fan MailIn Part One of our two-part series on AI in construction, we explore how artificial intelligence and construction technology are reshaping the way projects are delivered. Jessica Busch is joined by Chris Thompson, Kris Lengieza, and Dareen Salama to unpack what’s working today, where digital transformation still falls short, and why the industry is shifting toward data-driven decision-making. From evolving owner expectations and workforce changes to using AI as a force multiplier rather than a replacement for expertise, this episode examines how construction teams are becoming more proactive, efficient, and focused on better project outcomes. 

Send us Fan MailIn Part Two of our themed entertainment series, we shift the conversation to cost, budgeting, and what comes next. Jessica Busch is joined by Asif Parkar and Eugenie LeRoux to break down why so many themed projects stall, how early budgeting decisions make or break success, and why estimators, creative teams, and specialty vendors need to be aligned from day one. From managing complex show systems and emerging technology to prioritizing guest experience over facilities, this episode dives into the financial realities behind immersive destinations and what developers should be thinking about for the next generation of themed entertainment.

Send us Fan MailIn Part 1, we explore the surge in theme park development as global attendance climbs past pre-COVID levels. Asif Parkar and Eugenie LeRoux joins us to break down what’s fueling this momentum, from expanding markets to the rise of AI and immersive, story-driven guest experiences. We look at how technology is blurring the line between reality and fantasy and why this shift matters for owners, designers, and builders. Stay tuned for Part 2.

Send us Fan MailUniversities today face mounting pressure to expand and modernize their campuses amid tightening budgets and shifting demographics. In this episode of The Construction Insiders Podcast, host Jessica Busch sits down with Vanderbilt University’s, James Kellerhouse and Matt Riethmiller, alongside Cumming Group Vice President RJ Panda, to discuss how higher education institutions are approaching growth with strategic financial discipline. The discussion explores Vanderbilt’s “Dare to Grow” initiative, the university’s multi-campus development in New York’s Chelsea district, and the enduring importance of place-based learning in an era defined by technology and hybrid models. The panel also unpacks key challenges and opportunities—navigating regulatory hurdles, de-risking projects through phased delivery, integrating subtle technology into historic buildings and leveraging third-party partnerships. For professionals involved in capital planning, project delivery, or campus strategy, this episode offers a thoughtful playbook for building intelligently amid uncertainty.*Clips of Vanderbilt University content are used by permission. Vanderbilt University does not sponsor or endorse this podcast.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Construction Insiders Podcast, host Jessica Busch is joined by leaders from Vanderbilt University and Cumming Group to explore how universities are reimagining their campuses during a time of shifting demographics, evolving learning models, and financial headwinds.From balancing expansion with fiscal responsibility to creating spaces that inspire connection and discovery, this conversation goes beyond campus walls to uncover how higher education is shaping the future built environment.Watch the full episode and subscribe to stay updated on the trends transforming construction and education.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Construction Insiders podcast, host Jessica Bush speaks with Jeff Yachmetz of Dilmon, LLC and Seb Betton of Cumming Group about how luxury residential, hospitality, and retail sectors are converging into unified, high-end living environments. They examine the operational and design challenges of converting commercial buildings, such as the landmark One Wall Street, into residential spaces. Topics include zoning, structural limitations, and complex space planning requirements. The discussion also addresses how post-pandemic lifestyle changes have created an “amenities arms race,” where hospitality-branded services, coworking areas, and on-site dining are no longer considered extras, but expected features. Drawing on recent project experience, the guests emphasize the importance of starting with intentional design and how a fully integrated delivery model is helping redefine urban luxury living.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Construction Insiders podcast, host Jessica Bush speaks with Jeff Yachmetz of Dilmon, LLC and Seb Betton of Cumming Group about how luxury residential, hospitality, and retail sectors are converging into unified, high-end living environments. They examine the operational and design challenges of converting commercial buildings, such as the landmark One Wall Street, into residential spaces. Topics include zoning, structural limitations, and complex space planning requirements. The discussion also addresses how post-pandemic lifestyle changes have created an “amenities arms race,” where hospitality-branded services, coworking areas, and on-site dining are no longer considered extras, but expected features. Drawing on recent project experience, the guests emphasize the importance of starting with intentional design and how a fully integrated delivery model is helping redefine urban luxury living.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Construction Insiders Podcast, host Jessica Busch sits down with Chris Adams, Managing Director and Data Center Lead, and Jason Tirri, Vice President of Project Management, to explore the evolving data center landscape. From the explosive growth of AI and cloud computing to the race for power and land in new U.S. markets, they unpack the drivers behind this modern-day infrastructure gold rush.The trio discusses global trends, modular innovations, and how workforce challenges and power constraints are reshaping design and delivery. Whether you're a developer, investor, or planning stakeholder, this episode delivers sharp insight into where the sector is heading—and why agility, creativity, and early engagement are more critical than ever.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Construction Insiders, we take a deep dive into one of the industry’s most urgent topics: how to attract and retain the next generation of construction professionals. Host Jessica Busch sits down with Christine Mosholder, Chief Development Officer at Cumming Group, to explore why investing in team development is a strategic imperative in today’s fast-paced construction landscape.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Construction Insiders, host Jessica Busch sits down with Jason Zubatkin, Practice Leader for Cultural Institutions at Cumming Group, to explore the intricate world of large-scale historic restorations. From uncovering hidden architectural secrets to integrating modern systems into iconic buildings like St. Patrick's Cathedral, Jason shares insights into the delicate balance between preserving history and meeting contemporary demands. Learn about the challenges, surprises, and cutting-edge technologies—such as 3D scanning and drone surveys—that are revolutionizing the field, as well as the importance of assembling the right team to navigate these unique projects. Whether you're a construction enthusiast or simply fascinated by the intersection of past and future, this episode offers a deep dive into the complexities and rewards of historic restoration.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Construction Insiders Podcast, host Jessica Busch sits down with structural engineer Emily Carlip and Cumming Group’s project manager Molly Hayes to discuss the evolving design and construction of facilities for women's professional sports. They dive into trends like urban-centered stadiums, sustainability practices, and technology advancements that enhance the fan experience. Tune in to learn how new approaches to design are driving inclusivity, safety, and community activation in sports and entertainment venues.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Construction Insiders Podcast, Jessica Busch talks with experts Von Gallagher and Steve Risser about how Texas’ rapid growth is impacting educational construction. They discuss the challenges -and opportunities - of building new K-12 schools and higher education facilities, the role of energy sector growth in rural districts, and the rise of trade schools and dual-credit programs. Learn how Texas’ economic landscape is shaping the future of education construction and workforce development.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Construction Insiders Podcast, host Jessica Busch explores Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) in healthcare construction, focusing on its evolution and effectiveness for complex facilities with guests Steve Howard and Michael Blasingim. The discussion covers the key aspects of IPD, including its benefits, challenges, and role in fostering collaboration among stakeholders in healthcare projects. The podcast also delves into the technological tools that facilitate IPD processes and examines future trends in the application of this delivery method for healthcare facilities.

Send us Fan MailJoin us as Nicky Unkles and Sabrina Gleizer delve into the intricacies of luxury hospitality markets. From the regulatory landscape in New York to the demand-driven growth in South Florida, the business-friendly environment in Texas, and the challenges of building in Los Angeles, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of high-end real estate investments. Nicky and Sabrina share their expertise on navigating these markets, optimizing project efficiency, and meeting the expectations of discerning luxury consumers. Whether you're an investor or just interested in luxury real estate, this episode is packed with expert advice and industry knowledge.Video available on YouTube.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to The Construction Insiders podcast, your ultimate guide to navigating the construction industry. Our panel of experts shares in-depth knowledge on best practices, cutting-edge trends, and crucial information to help make your next project a success. Each episode covers a wide range of topics, from the latest technological advancements to effective project management techniques and the biggest challenges in construction today. Whether you’re a veteran in the field or just starting out, The Construction Insiders equips you with the expertise and insights you need to excel. Listen in and discover how to leverage these expert perspectives to drive your projects forward.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Construction Insiders, host Jessica Busch delves into the evolving landscape of contracts, risk, and litigation in the construction industry with experts Allison Hunt and Sonny Jester. The discussion focuses on today’s market environment, material cost escalation, and innovative approaches to contract structuring and risk management.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Cumming Group’s Ron Pruzinsky and Caddis Partners’ Kyle Miller discuss the complex rightsizing of the national Life Sciences sector, Central region hotspots throughout the U.S., and new areas for growth and funding opportunities.

Send us Fan MailJoin us as we navigate recent industry changes, including economic shifts, labor shortages, and procurement challenges. Learn how modularization, prefabrication, and technology advancements are reshaping healthcare facility design and construction. Gain insights from our in-house experts, Gary Brett and Heather Furhman, as they share experiences and strategies to enhance collaboration, streamline processes, and reduce costs in healthcare construction.

Send us Fan MailIn this podcast, we explore the construction industry's transformation through new technologies, data-driven decision-making, and AI. We discuss the importance of a single point of truth for owners, data management tools like Procore and Kahua, and human factors affecting technology adoption. As we delve into AI, we cover its applications in construction, strategic and ethical use, and the continued need for human intuition. Join us as we uncover the potential of AI and technology to revolutionize construction and reshape project management.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, two of Cumming Group’s leading educational experts, Jeff Holstein and Kunal Shah, discuss some of the similarities and glaring regional differences across the K-12 sector, and how their approach has changed due to today’s build environment.

Send us Fan MailConstruction in the higher education sector continues to evolve. In our latest podcast, two of our experts discuss building trends they’ve witnessed on various campuses throughout the southeast. “Whether it’s state schools or private schools, the focus is on the students and being able to provide a good education. But it’s more than that. It’s the whole experience, it’s the quality of living and the extracurricular activities that they’re able to engage in,” explains Joe Saatkamp, Executive Vice President for Cumming’s central region. “I see trends toward making that living experience and quality of life higher.”

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Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, our team provides tips and tricks for thoroughly reviewing your construction project's contract language. We explain the best ways to ensure your contract protects you, the owner.

Send us Fan MailManaging Partner at Fort Point Project Management, Christine Mosholder, discusses the recent Life Sciences development boom, including the latest trends, new build approaches, the evolution of the modern lab space, and the utilization of technology to make sure facilities meet today’s changing demands.

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation about San Diego’s ever-changing landscape, host Jessica Busch speaks with Brooks Rehkopf, Managing Director of Cumming San Diego, and Matt Reid, Director of Project Management, about the current and future state of the San Diego market, its dramatic shift from a military-port city to a global bio-tech hub with an increasingly diverse development community, it’s dynamic construction economy, and it’s wealth of future growth opportunities.

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation about all things Nashville, host Jessica Busch speaks with CapEX Cumming founder Joe Saatkamp about the resiliency of the Nashville market, its transformation from a healthcare-heavy economy to one that is increasingly diverse and dynamic, its status as a destination for companies and people looking to relocate, its prospects going forward, and much more. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jessica hands the hosting duties over to Zair Sheema, a Sr. Cost Manager at Cumming who specializes in healthcare MEP systems. Zair leans on his specialized expertise to speak with guest Gary Hamilton, a Sr. VP and healthcare leader with WSP USA, about a range of topics related to healthcare mechanical systems and construction. They talk about COVID-19 mitigation applications for existing facilities, the resiliency of the industry, the importance of giving back, and much more. 

Send us Fan MailJessica, still at the CASH Conference in Long Beach, sits down with Julie Strauss from HMC Architects and Dana Grudem from Irvine Unified School District. They talk about developing facility master plans, the ins and outs of program funding, the new regulations of Prop 13, and much more.

Send us Fan MailInsiders host Jessica Busch visits the CASH Conference in Long Beach and catches up with Michael Krause, Assistant Superintendent at Anaheim Elementary School District, to talk about the art and science of planning and implementing a school district construction program.

Send us Fan MailCumming’s Vice President of Energy and Sustainability, Christine Marez, discusses the latest in sustainability efforts and trends, including changing attitudes, some of the exciting new technologies being utilized to counteract the effects of climate change, and much more. 

Send us Fan MailCumming's Vice President of Themed Entertainment, Asif Parkar, talks with Jessica about the unique characteristics of this exciting sector, including the three main elements of a themed entertainment project and why theme parks are more immune to economic downturns than most project types.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Cumming Vice President and in-house economist Dan Pomfrett joins Jessica to talk about the trade war between the U.S. and China, and the resulting tariffs from both countries. They examine the details of these tariffs, including the rationale behind their implementation, their effects to date, and what to expect going forward. 

Send us Fan MailNoted MEP estimating expert Pete Melucci talks with Jessica Busch about why published metrics are so valuable in producing estimates, and how their widespread adoption will enable construction projects overall to be more efficient, reliable, and transparent.