Emotional intelligence pioneer Brent Darnell takes us through his remarkable 25-year journey transforming the construction industry's approach to people. With disarming honesty and profound insights, he reveals how human connection stands at the core of solving our industry's most pressing challenges—from mental health crises to workforce development struggles.
"It goes beyond just being a better leader or a better manager of a construction process," Brent explains. "They become better human beings." This powerful truth underlies his revolutionary work, which began in 2000 when introducing emotional intelligence training to skeptical construction professionals was considered radical. Having superintendents practice yoga and meditation seemed outlandish then, but Brent persisted, eventually proving how these practices enhance performance while reducing personal wear and tear.
The conversation highlights how our industry has evolved from purely adversarial relationships to more collaborative approaches, creating an urgent need for the very skills Brent champions. As he shares the story of a superintendent who transformed from being removed from a project to becoming COO in just ten months through emotional intelligence training, we witness the tangible power of this work.
Most compelling is Brent's exploration of how the "respect for people" pillar of Lean construction remains overlooked despite its critical importance. His practical advice for building better connections—daily application, reflection, and self-awareness—offers listeners actionable steps toward immediate improvement in their professional and personal lives.
Visit brentdarnell.com for free emotional intelligence assessments, body battery inventories, and resources that can help you become a better leader and human being. What construction challenges might you solve by improving your emotional intelligence and human connection skills?

Connect with Brent at:

https://brentdarnell.com/

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

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