Best Mcfa Podcasts (2026)

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Your Culture Beats Your Strategy 56:43

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10h ago56:43

56:43

What does it really take to lead massive infrastructure programs at the intersection of engineering, public policy, and national security? In today’s episode, BJ Kraemer sits down with longtime mentor, former boss, and retired two-star general in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tom Tickner, to unpack leadership, public infrastructure, and how the…

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The Year End Review Most Leaders Skip 15:00

10d ago15:00

15:00

You cannot become a better leader without reflecting on where you have come from. At the end of every year, we dedicate an episode to helping you reflect, reset, and recommit to your goals. This conversation is built around one of host BJ Kraemer’s favorite annual practices. It’s a deliberate, honest review that drives real change across faith, fam…

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Leadership Lessons From Christmas Classics 13:17

15d ago13:17

13:17

In this special Christmas-themed episode of the Leadership Blueprints podcast, host BJ Kraemer draws on some of his favorite classic Christmas films to explore the art and science of leading oneself and others. Ebenezer Scrooge sparks a conversation around awareness and change, while Kevin McAllister offers a surprising lens on ownership and respon…

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The Industry That Pays You Last But Expects You to Risk Everything First 41:41

24d ago41:41

41:41

Real innovation often starts with a problem you just can't stop thinking about. In this episode of The Leadership Blueprints Podcast, BJ Kraemer welcomes Scott Wolfe, founder and former CEO of Levelset, to unpack how a small but persistent frustration with construction payment practices led him to build one of the most influential platforms in the …

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From Competition to Collaboration: Leadership Lessons from America’s Greatest Rivalry 19:53

1M ago19:53

19:53

Sport is an incredible tool in developing leaders. Welcome to a very special episode of Leadership Blueprints, where BJ and Joey Fay are diving into the Army-Navy rivalry ahead of Army-Navy Week next week! In this conversation, you’ll hear all about the history of the Army-Navy games, what it feels like to participate, the rivalry of both love and …

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What If Growth Isn’t About Getting Bigger - But Getting More Resilient? 23:50

1M ago23:50

23:50

Entrepreneurship often starts with a spark of curiosity and the courage to follow it. In this episode of The Leadership Blueprints Podcast, BJ Kraemer sits down with Malory Atkinson, co-founder and managing partner of Shear Structural, Georgia’s only all-women-owned structural engineering firm. Malory shares how growing up with an entrepreneurial f…

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Why Humility - Not a Résumé - Wins in Corporate America 26:05

2M ago26:05

26:05

A leader’s success is directly tied to their ability to set an example to those they’re leading and manage their own sense of discipline. Today on Leadership Blueprints, we wrap up our DOD series with a special guest, Dan Bailey. Dan is a former naval officer and the current vice president of commercial operations at Quanta Services. Tuning in, you…

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The Secret to Earning Respect - Admit What You Don't Know 43:08

2M ago43:08

43:08

Welcome back to another episode of Leadership Blueprints as we continue our special DoD to AEC series for November, honoring veterans who have transitioned from active duty into the built environment. In this episode, BJ Kraemer sits down with MCFA senior project leader and former Marine Corps infantry officer Brian McGrath to explore his journey f…

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The Secret To Leading 100's is Remembering One Name 28:01

2M ago28:01

28:01

Bill Squires, now serving as Chief Venues and Operations Manager for the New York, New Jersey Host Committee for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, has built a remarkable career shaped by discipline, service, and an enduring passion for leadership. His journey began when he found his calling as a Navy pilot, a foundation that continues to influence his appro…

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The Hardest Order You'll Ever Follow: Your Own 51:18

2M ago51:18

51:18

In business, you should always approach situations with a focus on achieving the best outcome for the circumstances, not just for yourself. Today, we are joined by former West Point 2004 classmate and USACE market leader at Mead & Hunt, Craig Bryant. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Craig’s career and transition from active duty to Mead & Hunt, why…

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Good Things Come to Those Who...Trust the Process 20:10

2M ago20:10

20:10

As the year winds down and the pace of projects, planning, and priorities picks up, BJ takes a moment to reflect on what it means to lead through transition. In this solo episode of Leadership Blueprints, he shares insights on recognizing the natural rhythms of leadership - the seasons of building, the pauses for reflection, and the moments when te…

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Why Great Leaders Should Do Less This Season 34:06

3M ago34:06

34:06

The final months of the year can feel like a sprint - at home, at work, and everywhere in between. For leaders, that “push to the finish line” often comes at the expense of peace, presence, and purpose. In this special re-release of a timely conversation, BJ Kraemer sits down with Valerie Peterson, LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor who helps…

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What If Trust Is More Powerful Than Talent in Business? 26:10

3M ago26:10

26:10

At first glance, business development might not appear to be part of a leader’s role. Yet it’s central to how effective leaders build trust, connect vision to operations, and align people and projects around shared purpose. In this episode of The Leadership Blueprints Podcast, BJ welcomes Brad Adams, founder and principal of The R4 Group, a special…

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Is Running Notre Dame's Campus More Complex Than Commanding a Battalion? 32:14

3M ago32:14

32:14

Welcome back to another episode of Leadership Blueprints. Join our conversation with today's guest, Dan Cook, as he shares what his role at the University of Notre Dame entails and why he initially decided to join the Navy. Dan sheds light on the leadership lessons he learned in the military and how he had to adjust his leadership style for civilia…

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The Walk-On Mindset: Why Leadership is Earned Every Day 35:09

3M ago35:09

35:09

Discipline and consistency aren't just habits - they're essential virtues that fuel our guests’ leadership style, entrepreneurial triumphs, and social impact. Joining BJ on the podcast today is Dr. Charles Thomas Jr, or CT for short. CT is a multi-award-winning social entrepreneur, educator, and Amazon #1 best-selling author committed to service. H…

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Is Love the Missing Metric of High-Performance Leadership? 40:11

4M ago40:11

40:11

Joining BJ on the show today to discuss the finance side of real estate is Ward Fitzgerald. He is the former CEO and Senior Managing Principal of Exeter Property Group, which was acquired by EQT in 2021. Ward is now the current CEO of ExCorde Capital, a real estate investment platform that delivers unprecedented value creation with a strong focus o…

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What If the Most Underrated Leadership Tool Was Simply… Get More Sleep? 56:02

4M ago56:02

56:02

Listening to people is the most powerful tool a leader has! Today on Leadership Blueprints, we head back to the high seas with another Navy guest, Dr. John Cordle. In this conversation, you’ll hear about John’s fascinating career from active duty in the Navy to writing to coaching other writers. We delve into John’s transition from active duty to w…

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How Do Innovation and Risk Shape the Next Era of Infrastructure? 47:54

4M ago47:54

47:54

In the infrastructure world, uncertainty is a growth killer. When projects stall, the entire industry feels the pain. Today, we're diving into this issue with a special guest, Jill Jamieson. Jill, the CEO of Illuminati Infrastructure and an amateur endurance athlete, knows a thing or two about pushing through challenges. Join their conversation as …

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From Summer Sand to Fall Focus- How Do We Embrace the Change of Seasons? 12:34

4M ago12:34

12:34

During this solo episode, BJ Kraemer reflects on the transition from summer to fall - a season that naturally invites change, renewal, and a re-centering of priorities. Drawing from personal experiences and leadership lessons, BJ explores how leaders can embrace shifts in rhythm, energy, and focus to better serve their teams and organizations. Join…

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Can "Deep Before Wide" be The Key to Career and Organizational Success? 22:51

5M ago22:51

22:51

During this episode, we're speaking with an owner who oversees a large-scale operation, managing not only the organization's mission but also its extensive facilities and infrastructure. Ashley Johnson is the Senior Manager for 2700 individuals in the command at the Naval Surface Warfare Centre, a large industrial facility with full-spectrum capabi…

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What Happens When Schools and Sports Focus on Character First? 34:32

5M ago34:32

34:32

Do you ever wonder how we can help students become their best selves, build positive relationships, and help them see that being ‘good’ is actually cool? In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, we are joined by Jeff Bryan, co-founder of the Positivity Project, an organization that empowers students to build character, take accountability, and str…

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Can Technical Experts Become Transformational Leaders? 38:55

5M ago38:55

38:55

After you retire, the most important thing you take from your career is the legacy you leave. In this episode, we’re joined by John Carter, a retired Navy Captain and the Founder of the Leadership Bridge Institute, for a deep dive into the power of leadership and legacy, from the key skills that facilitate organizational impact to the paradox of be…

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Leaders Are Doers 30:15

5M ago30:15

30:15

Have you ever paused to consider the real reason you’re not growing- personally, professionally, or as a business? In today’s solo episode of Leadership Blueprints, host BJ Kraemer shares a personal and powerful reflection on the limiting beliefs that often hold us back. From insecurities to self-doubt, BJ explores how these internal narratives can…

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Leaders Are Learners 13:06

5M ago13:06

13:06

What’s the point of reading if it doesn’t improve your life and work? In the second installment of the Pages to Projects summer series, BJ Kraemer explores why reading alone isn't enough; true leadership development requires learning. Drawing from personal experience, business coaching insights, and frameworks like the West Point leadership develop…

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Leaders Are Readers 29:10

6M ago29:10

29:10

All leaders are readers. That’s why we’re kicking off a three-part series on the books and stories that have influenced our leadership philosophy. Whether you’re a reader or an audiobook listener, this series is packed with recommendations that contain essential wisdom you can apply to your life. To kick off our series, BJ shares his thoughts on wh…

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Building From Both Sides: Corporate Grit Meets Entrepreneurial Grace 50:05

6M ago50:05

50:05

What does it take to lead with authenticity, build a thriving business, and grow stronger through adversity, both professionally and personally? In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, BJ Kramer sits down with powerhouse duo Jim Carter of CBRE/Turner Townsend and Barbara Balongue, founder of Balongue Design, to explore the art of leadership throu…

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Is the Key to a Fulfilling Career Simply Doing What You Love- Every Day? 28:17

6M ago28:17

28:17

In this inspiring episode, we are joined by the one and only Allen Kopelson, visionary architect and founding principal behind NK Architects. With decades of experience and a legacy of leadership, Allen shares his remarkable journey through the world of business. We explore why he made the decision to step down as a partner while continuing to cont…

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Can Sports Teach the Hardest Leadership Lessons? What Ryan Kent Learned from Football, Failure, and Curiosity 49:29

6M ago49:29

49:29

As a special thank you for tuning in, scroll down to enjoy 20% off your first order mizzenandmain.com. What do football, combat deployments, and dress shirts have in common? For Ryan Kent, they’ve all played a role in shaping his evolution as a leader. In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, BJ Kramer sits down with Ryan, a West Point graduate, f…

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Is the 4th of July Just a Holiday—Or a Call to Lead? 26:43

6M ago26:43

26:43

In this 4th of July special edition of Leadership Blueprints, BJ Kraemer sits down with Marine Corps veteran, educator, and operations leader Fred Conner for a conversation about legacy, leadership, and renewal. This episode explores the transformation of the historic 75-acre Valley Forge campus- home to Founding Forward, a national civic education…

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Could Time Off Be Your Greatest Leadership Tool? 15:13

7M ago15:13

15:13

What if your next big leadership breakthrough started with booking a vacation? In this solo episode of Leadership Blueprints, BJ Kraemer dives into a powerful and often overlooked leadership lesson: the transformative value of R&R. With summer in full swing and the midpoint of the year approaching, BJ challenges leaders to rethink their relationshi…

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Is Transformational Leadership the Key to Unlocking Growth in Construction? 40:42

7M ago40:42

40:42

What if the future of leadership in construction isn’t about command and control, but about trust and curiosity? In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, we’re joined by Andrea Janzen, founder of Ambition Theory, a professional development company that specializes in the research, education, and advancement of women in construction. Andrea shares …

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Can Humility, Optimism, and Trust Be Your Leadership Superpowers in the Engineering and Construction Industry? 40:56

7M ago40:56

40:56

Leadership is a never-ending journey with infinite checkpoints for growth and self-discovery. Today, we are joined by Greg Kelly, the CEO of STV, a national, infrastructure-focused professional services firm that exists to make communities better through innovative solutions that connect people, places, and the present to the future. Greg begins by…

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What Happens When You Build a Team Around Values Instead of Just Talent? 47:49

7M ago47:49

47:49

The lessons learned on the sports field teach us so much about leadership on the battlefield and in life. This episode marks the launch of a special segment highlighting the power of youth sports in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Joining us on this episode is Head Men’s Swimming and Diving Coach at Princeton University, Matt Crispino, a key playe…

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Can Infrastructure Bring Us Together? Lessons in leading with heart, advising with humility, and building trust — not just projects. 28:38

8M ago28:38

28:38

What happens when engineering leaders prioritize people over profit and community over convenience? In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, we’re joined by Phil Wursta, a seasoned strategist with over 40 years of experience in municipal agency and private sector engineering. He’s also the founding partner of WK2 Consulting, a woman-owned civil en…

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The Knock at the Door: Honoring Dennis Zilinski's Legacy of Love with Marion Zilinski 51:55

8M ago51:55

51:55

Memorial Day isn't just the start of summer—it's a time to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom. Every Memorial Day, BJ has decided to play an episode he recorded two years ago to honor his late friend and everyone who has given their lives to service. In this tribute episode, we speak with Marion Zilinski, known as Mama Z, about the tr…

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Why Intellectual Curiosity Matters More Today Than Ever Before with John Abraham 38:50

8M ago38:50

38:50

If education is executed correctly, it can be one of the best ways to inspire people to change the world! Today’s guest on Leadership Blueprints, John Abraham, is a professor of thermal sciences at the University of St. Thomas School of Engineering. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about John’s career, what led him to academia, how he connects with this …

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Why Your Rank Doesn’t Translate—But Your Leadership Still Can with Carey Kight 45:51

8M ago45:51

45:51

Joining us is Carey Kight, producer, advertiser, and owner of Veteran Made. He shares a series of pivotal choices that have shaped his career and his life’s journey, from the military to film school, advertising, production, and beyond. Pulling from his experiences, we discuss the frameworks that translate from the military to other fields. Carey s…

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The CEO Behind the Software: Building Systems That Serve AEC Leaders with Matt Cooper 33:39

9M ago33:39

33:39

What does it take to lead a software company at the forefront of the architecture and engineering (A&E) world? Joining us today is the CEO of BQE Software, Matt Cooper, to discuss his incredible career and his company’s work in the architecture and engineering space. Tuning in, you’ll hear about Matt’s time consulting, what led him to BQE Software,…

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Consistency Compounds: What 5 Years of Podcasting Taught Me with BJ Kraemer 20:51

9M ago20:51

20:51

In celebration of our 200th episode, this conversation highlights 20 key lessons we've learned over the past five years of hosting this podcast. Join us as we take a deep dive into leadership philosophy, drawing from insights we've gathered since the very beginning. You'll hear what it means to lead from the front, why going viral isn't necessary t…

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The Grit Behind Growth: Career Lessons from the Ground Up with Coty Fournier 1:02:05

9M ago1:02:05

1:02:05

What does real leadership transformation look like, and how do you go from managing projects to leading people? In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, we sit down with Coty Fournier to discuss leadership transformation and creating a company-focused impact. Coty is an industry veteran, speaker, author, and senior consultant with Well Built Const…

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Authenticity, Accountability, and the Art of Leading Well with John New 36:15

9M ago36:15

36:15

There is growing concern around the post-service health of veterans and first responders as it’s easy to fall into destructive patterns when liberated from the forced discipline of being in active duty. Today we are joined by John New, an Army veteran and serial entrepreneur who’s made it his life’s purpose to help curate healthier life habits for …

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LinkedIn Connections & Government Lessons with Shauna Weatherly 35:55

9M ago35:55

35:55

In business, your aim should be to lead with your skills and let your certifications be the ‘icing on the cake’! Today, we welcome federal contracting expert and founder of Federal Subcontracting Solutions, Shauna Weatherly, to pass on her wealth of knowledge about the federal contracting space. Tuning in, you’ll hear about Shauna’s extensive caree…

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Innovating with Discipline: Balancing The Fine Line Between Risk and Reward with BJ Kraemer 20:26

10M ago20:26

20:26

Innovation is an essential part of business and those who do not innovate, eventually fail. In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, BJ is outlining the importance of innovation. Tuning in, you’ll hear about the biggest win BJ has ever had in business, the importance of discipline, what he thinks ‘the language of business is’, and more! BJ goes on…

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Why Reputation Beats Rate: Building Long-Term Success Without Advertising with David Ciurzynski 39:41

10M ago39:41

39:41

Making the jump from military service to the private sector can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Leadership Blueprints, we sit down with project consultant and veteran David Ciurzynski, founder of Ciurzynski Consulting, to explore how veterans can leverage their hard-earned skills in the Architecture, Engineering, an…

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Beyond Individual Growth Mindset: How Leaders Can Foster a Culture of Growth in their Organizations with Mary Murphy 42:26

10M ago42:26

42:26

Culture and growth are very special topics here on the Leadership Blueprints Podcast, and today’s guest, award-winning social psychologist, author, speaker, and organizational consultant, Professor Mary Murphy, certainly speaks our love language! Mary is a trailblazer in equity and inclusion, illuminating the dynamics of mindset and culture and emp…

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Building Beyond Barriers: Women Leading the Way in Construction with Barb Allen 35:09

10M ago35:09

35:09

What can be done to attract more women to construction? Today, on the Leadership Blueprints podcast, we welcome Barb Allen, a renowned construction industry keynote speaker and host of the Constructive Behaviors Podcast. In honor of Women in Construction Week, we talked with Barb about her construction career and how she is helping more women find …

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Building More Than Hotels: Eustace Mita on Culture, Leadership & Legacy 55:19

11M ago55:19

55:19

If you want to be successful in your career, you need to find your unique ability and have a maniacal focus on it! Joining us today is the incredible CEO of ICONA Resorts and managing director of Achristavest, Eustace Mita to share his wisdom about business. In this conversation, you’ll hear all about Eustace’s incredible career, his businesses, hi…

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Beyond Technical Skills: Why Engineers Need Leadership Training with Ron Bennett 46:16

11M ago46:16

46:16

Ronald J. Bennett has an impressive track record of achievements, including serving as the Founding Dean and Professor Emeritus at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. He began his career in the industry, spending over 20 years in executive roles at BMC Industries, CPI (now Boston Scientific), Teltech, and several entrepreneurial or…

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Architecting Change: Leadership Lessons in a Shifting Industry with Bill Mandara 33:21

11M ago33:21

33:21

Joining BJ on the show today is Bill Mandara, the CEO and Owner of Mancini Duffy. With over 25 years of experience in architectural design, Bill has applied his expertise to a wide range of projects, including industrial facilities, corporate offices, residential housing, retail spaces, and educational buildings. Deeply involved in every stage of p…

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Leaders are Levers with BJ Kraemer 19:48

11M ago19:48

19:48

True leadership isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about empowering others and driving meaningful impact. In this solo episode of The Leadership Blueprints Podcast, host BJ Kraemer dives into the heart of leadership transformation. Tuning in, you’ll hear BJ unpack the concept of “leadership as leverage” and how leaders act as levers for th…