Jan. 14, 2026

The Cost of "We'll Fix it Later" and What To Do Instead

The Cost of "We'll Fix it Later" and What To Do Instead

Projects don’t fail in the field; they fail when leaders aren’t clear on the upfront work needed to make a project successful. 

Today on Leadership Blueprints, Daniel McCaulley joins us to discuss how he ensures projects go well. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about who our guest is and what he does, how he approaches projects so they are successful, how he paces an owner so that a project gets planned properly while maintaining enthusiasm, and so much more! 

We delve into some of the best leadership lessons he has learned that have contributed to his success before discussing bad hires and how to avoid them. Daniel touches on his business philosophy and why he prioritizes laser-focused communication in the world of engineering. We even discuss the importance of being open to learning and growing throughout your career. Finally, our guest tells us about his favorite leadership books, quotes, and dream dinner guests (dead or alive). Thanks for listening! 


Key Points From This Episode:

  • Daniel explains his blueprint for getting a project on the right track. 
  • How to help an owner slow down to plan a project properly. 
  • Daniel shares some leadership lessons that have served him well. 
  • An example of a bad hire that Daniel made and how he handled it. 
  • How he facilitates an environment of constant learning for his employees. 


Quotes:


“You really do have to go slow to go fast sometimes. Everything in construction is better done yesterday.” — Daniel McCaulley 


“Hire good people and get out of their way!” — Daniel McCaulley 


“People do need to be managed differently.” — Daniel McCaulley 


“We’re all created to be here on a specific mission, and let’s not let that time be wasted.” — Daniel McCaulley 


Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Daniel McCaulley on LinkedIn

Moonshot

The 5 Levels of Leadership 

Leadership Blueprints Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn