Summary

Mass timber is rapidly emerging as a leading solution for sustainable construction, but adopting new building systems in the AEC industry requires more than advanced materials. It demands new mindsets, stronger collaboration, and leaders willing to challenge traditional industry norms.

In this episode of Activating Curiosity, Ryan Ware sits down with Kristen Slavin, founder of Conifer Advising and a leader in mass timber development, prefab manufacturing, and construction advisory. Kristen shares her journey from sustainable design in Portland to product development in mass timber manufacturing and now advising project teams across the architecture, engineering, and construction ecosystem.

Together, they explore how mass timber is reshaping project delivery, influencing design decisions, financing, insurance considerations, and collaboration across the construction value chain. The conversation highlights key barriers to adoption—including insurance premiums, fragmented delivery models, supply chain misconceptions, and complex building codes—and why managing change across teams is critical to progress.

Listeners will learn how early adopters are accelerating innovation through hands-on training, integrated project teams, and long-term thinking that reduces risk while advancing sustainable building practices.

Whether you're an architect, engineer, contractor, or construction leader, this episode offers practical insights for navigating industry change and leading innovation in sustainable construction.

If you're curious about building stronger leadership around change and helping drive the future of construction, this conversation is a must-listen.

Chapters

• 1:31 - Introduction to Mass Timber
• 11:00 - Kristen's Journey and Early Innovations
• 21:00 - Challenges in Supply Chain and Insurance
• 31:00 - Launching Conifer Advising and Industry Engagement
• 41:00 - Overcoming Industry Resistance
• 51:00 - Future of Mass Timber and Closing Thoughts

Guest

Conifer Advising helps accelerate the adoption of mass timber across real estate, design, and construction. Led by Kristin Slavin, who brings over a decade of experience across development, architecture, construction, and prefabrication, the firm works with developers, institutions, manufacturers, and public agencies to reduce barriers and risk. Through strategic design guidance, industry connections, and market insight, Conifer helps teams deliver innovative, low-carbon buildings more efficiently.

https://www.coniferadvising.com/resources

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https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

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Summary

Mini Series Part 6: Most industries — especially the construction industry — struggle with change fatigue caused by new technologies, evolving project delivery models, and shifting market demands. Construction leadership must navigate this ongoing transformation effectively through strong change management and fostering resilience.

In this episode of Activating Curiosity, Ryan Ware explores how construction leaders can build a healthier, more resilient relationship with change by applying the Five C’s of Change: Choice, Control, Clarity, Commitment, and Curiosity. These concepts help leaders better understand their past change experiences, manage current challenges, and lead construction teams with confidence.

Whether you’re implementing digital construction tools, embracing modular construction, or focusing on leadership development and change management strategies within the AEC industry, this episode provides valuable insights to reduce resistance, build trust, and cultivate a culture of adaptability. If you're a construction leader, project executive, architect, or engineer looking to enhance your construction leadership skills and lead change with confidence and curiosity, this episode is essential listening.

Chapters

• 1:04 - Building a Stronger Relationship with Change
• 3:27 - Change as a Two-Way Street
• 4:02 - Human-Centered Change in Industry
• 5:14 - Empathy and Leadership Development
• 6:29 - Change as an Experience, Not an Event
• 7:35 - Industry Resistance to Change
• 8:16 - The Five C's of Change
• 16:51 - Building a Stronger Relationship with Change
• 18:26 - Leading Teams Through Change

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Follow Ryan at the following:

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc

https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & 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.

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Summary

In this episode of 'Activating Curiosity | Leading Change in the Construction Industry,' Ryan Ware sits down with Kristin Kautz of JAM Idea Agency to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. They dive into the challenges of change management in construction, including the slow pace of technology adoption and how effective storytelling can overcome resistance to AI integration.

Kristin highlights the importance of curiosity and strong leadership in navigating the evolving AI landscape, stressing that AI is not just a tool but an integral part of modern construction workflows. The conversation also focuses on construction leadership development, emphasizing coaching and training to maintain human agency while leveraging innovative technologies.

Listeners will gain insights on construction leadership clarity, the role of AI in solving industry challenges, and strategies for leading change in construction projects. This episode offers practical tools and perspectives for AEC leaders committed to driving digital construction innovation and sustainability through effective change management.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI in AEC Industry

06:00 The Ageless Nature of AI and Its Adoption

11:58 Overcoming Resistance to AI Adoption

20:53 AI's Role in Solving Industry Challenges

46:10 Investing in People and Training

01:12:26 Taking the First Steps with AI

Guest

A nationally recognized expert in AI strategy and digital transformation for the AEC industry, Kristin helps firms move beyond hype to practical implementation.

A Fellow of SMPS (FSMPS) and Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM), she works at the intersection of technology, strategy, and industry leadership.

Specializes in AI education, change management, and strategic implementation through her AI First Steps framework. Her Minds & Machines symposiums, AI IQ Community, and consulting services equip firms with the clarity and tools to integrate AI competitively.

Known for her direct, no-nonsense approach, she focuses on the operational shifts AI creates—from decision-making and workforce transformation to contracts and differentiation.

Kristin makes complex topics accessible and actionable, inspiring leaders to think critically, act decisively, and stay ahead in the AI-driven future.

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Follow Ryan at the following:

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc

https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & 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.

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Summary

In this episode, Ryan Ware sits down with Ali Salman of Workspace Modular Structures, a seasoned entrepreneur and modular construction leadership, to explore the transformative potential of prefab and modular construction within the construction industry. They discuss how overcoming resistance to change and adopting a proactive mindset is essential in driving innovation and addressing major infrastructure challenges globally. The conversation highlights the crucial role of change management in the construction industry and how leadership development supports this transition.

Ali emphasizes the importance of productization in construction for scalability and improved market fit, underscoring the need for more disruptive leaders and entrepreneurs in the AEC industry. The episode also delves into how curiosity-driven leadership and continuous learning can empower professionals to navigate the human side of change management effectively. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on integrating change leadership principles and innovative strategies into their construction business practices.

Whether you're interested in construction leadership development, modular construction innovation, or managing change in leadership, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration for leading change confidently in today’s evolving construction landscape.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ali Salman and His Journey
03:44 The Transformative Power of Modular Construction
11:49 The Need for Change in Construction Practices
18:57 Opportunities in Prefab and Modular Solutions
23:24 The Role of Technology in Construction
28:40 Future of Modular Construction and Industry Growth
39:40 Challenges and Opportunities in Modular Construction
57:28 Creating Better Communities through Infrastructure

Guest

Ali Salman is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur, and operator building transformative companies across legaltech, franchising, and industrialized construction. As an active partner in Lawtiq.com, founder of Global Franchise Brokers, and CEO of Workspace Modular, Ali’s work sits at the intersection of innovation, scale, and real-world problem solving.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-salman-8a141312/

https://workspacemodular.ca/

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Support the show

Follow Ryan at the following:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc

https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & 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.

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Summary

Mini Series Part 5: In this episode, Ryan Ware explores the critical role of curiosity in leading change management within construction projects and advancing construction leadership development. Building on the first four foundational C's of change—choice, control, clarity, and commitment—he delves into how activating curiosity empowers construction leaders to navigate industry challenges with psychological safety and a growth mindset. Listeners will discover how embracing curiosity fosters innovative learning and enhances problem-solving in construction leadership and change management.

The conversation underscores change management in the construction industry as a continuous journey, inspiring construction managers and leaders to cultivate curiosity in their teams and organizations. With practical guidance applicable to construction leadership training and coaching, this episode equips you to lead change boldly, fostering psychological safety and ongoing growth in the dynamic AEC industry.

Key takeaways include strategies to overcome change resistance, the importance of psychological safety to fuel curiosity, and how curiosity-driven leadership can transform construction business leadership and unlock organizational potential. Tune in to activate your curiosity and master leading change effectively in your construction projects and teams.

Chapters

01:09 Recap of the first Four C's of Change
04:58 The Importance of Curiosity
05:55 Psychological Safety and Curiosity
11:33 Defining Curiosity and Its Challenges
17:40 The Power of Ignorance and Learning
21:55 Shifting Perspectives: From Judgment to Curiosity
27:02 Curiosity as a Continuous Journey
31:16 Change as a Constant Journey
32:43 Conclusion and Reflection on the Five C's

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Follow Ryan at the following:

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc

https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & 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.

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Summary

In this episode of Activating Curiosity, Ryan Ware and UpCodes Co-Founder and CEO Scott Reynolds explore how technology and AI are transforming change management and leadership in construction projects by reducing friction in decision-making processes without replacing professional expertise. They examine the impact of digital construction tools and systems in overcoming common construction industry challenges, such as time scarcity, information silos, and regulatory complexity, all while supporting construction leadership development and fostering resilience across teams.

Listeners will gain insights into how modern digital workflows and building code compliance platforms function as decision infrastructure, helping architects, engineers, and builders make more informed choices under pressure and navigate industry change effectively. This conversation is ideal for AEC professionals seeking to elevate their leadership in construction change management and innovation.

Scott Reynolds also shares his unique perspective from a background in architecture and extensive experience in global cities, emphasizing the importance of bridging expertise with technology to enhance construction business leadership and project outcomes. Tune in to discover strategies for leading through change and leveraging AI in construction management within an evolving built environment.

Chapters

03:46 From Architecture Practice to Technology Problem-Solving
09:29 The Hidden Friction in Construction Decision-Making
15:21 Building Systems That Support Choice, Not Defaults
26:46 How AI Can Reduce Friction Without Replacing Expertise
39:20 Product Selection, Manufacturers, and Real-World Constraints
57:36 Defining Success in a Technology-Enabled Built Environment

Guest

Scott Reynolds is the CEO and co-founder of UpCodes, the developer of a comprehensive compliance and product research platform that makes code libraries more accessible. Scott’s background in architecture and extensive experience working in some of the largest cities in the world, including New York City and Hong Kong at world-class architecture firms, provides him with a unique perspective into the challenges AEC professionals face when accessing building codes and ensuring compliance.

https://up.codes/

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Support the show

Follow Ryan at the following:

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc

https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & 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.

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Summary

In this episode of Activating Curiosity | Leading Change in the Construction Industry, Ryan Ware explores how micro hospitals are expanding access to healthcare in rural communities—and what this shift reveals about leading change in complex construction environments.

Ryan is joined by Peter Nicholson, Co-Founder and CEO of Modern Clinical Planning, for an insightful conversation focused on healthcare infrastructure, construction leadership development, and construction innovation. Together, they discuss best practices in construction change management, including standardized design, modular construction, and technology-enabled planning, showcasing how these approaches reduce costs, accelerate delivery, and effectively scale facilities in resource-constrained rural settings.

The discussion also highlights key leadership behaviors necessary for managing change resistance and guiding teams through uncertainty in the AEC industry. Listeners will gain valuable insights on construction change management best practices, leadership for change in healthcare projects, and the broader impact of construction leadership on community health, talent attraction, and operational resilience.

Whether you’re a construction executive, project manager, or change coach within the AEC industry, this episode offers actionable perspectives on leading change with clarity, curiosity, and purpose, helping you master the complexities of construction leadership and industry challenges.

Chapters

01:17 – Framing the Rural Healthcare Access Problem
03:44 – Hospitals as Products, Not One-Off Projects
07:45 – Accessibility, Affordability, and Smart Technology
11:09 – A New Delivery Model for Rural Healthcare Construction
18:27 – Capital, Mindset, and Resistance to Change
51:39 – Redefining Success: Wellness Over Profit

Guest

Peter Nicholson is a healthcare planner with over 35 years of experience designing and delivering hospitals and life science facilities worldwide. He specializes in integrating advanced medical technologies and has led projects for Harvard teaching hospitals, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, and other global healthcare systems. He is currently the CEO of a startup offering pre-designed, fully equipped micro hospitals as a scalable product to improve the affordability and accessibility of healthcare delivery.

https://www.modernclinicalplanning.com/

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Support the show

Follow Ryan at the following:

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc

https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & 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.

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Summary

Mini Series Part 4: Building a Stronger Relationship with Change. In this insightful episode, Ryan Ware dives deep into the critical role of commitment within change management for construction leaders.

Focusing on the five C's—Choice, Control, Clarity, Commitment, and Curiosity—Ryan discusses how understanding these elements can empower leaders to navigate the complex dynamics of leading change in the construction industry. Learn how commitment is an ongoing process supported by a strong foundation of understanding our relationship with choice, control and clarity. Discover strategies to maintain momentum in managing change within construction teams.

Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on overcoming common obstacles in construction change management, the importance of regular check-ins, and how curiosity drives adaptability and innovation. This episode offers practical leadership advice and tools tailored for construction professionals striving to lead change effectively, fostering psychological safety and resilience in their projects.

Whether you're focused on construction leadership development or managing change in construction projects, this conversation unpacks essential insights to help you build confidence and clarity as you lead your teams through industry challenges and transformations.

Chapters

00:00 Building Stronger Relationships with Change
06:48 Understanding Commitment in Change
15:01 The Importance of Check-Ins
20:19 Navigating Challenges in Commitment
25:16 Curiosity as a Tool for Change

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Support the show

Follow Ryan at the following:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankware/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/connective-consulting-group-llc

https://connectiveconsultinggrp.com/

https://connective-coaching.com/

https://ryanware.me/

Don't miss out on future episodes! Follow & 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.