"Blueprints, Budgets & Breaking Barriers": Lisa Pickell on Leadership, Mentorship & Evolving the Industry

In this episode of the Atomic Construction Podcast, Kevin Hohe sits down with Lisa Pickell, CEO of Orren Pickell Builders and a powerful voice in the construction industry.

Lisa shares her journey from growing up in a family business to becoming a leader in her own right - driven by curiosity, a passion for design, and a deep respect for the trades.

Together, they explore the real challenges facing the construction industry today, from generational disconnects to unrealistic client expectations. Lisa opens up about the importance of early communication, mentorship, and empathy, and why being part of someone’s home-building journey is both a responsibility and a privilege.

Whether you're leading a team or just starting out, this episode is a masterclass in thoughtful leadership and the evolving role of women in construction.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why curiosity and external experience matter, especially in a family business
• The powerful impact of mentorship in shaping careers
• What it means to earn trust in high-stakes projects
• Why budgeting and early alignment with clients are make-or-break moments
• How empathy, assertiveness, and communication define great leadership
• The ongoing evolution of the construction industry and its workforce
• Lisa’s experience as a docent at the Chicago Architecture Center
• The opportunities and challenges for women in the trades today
• Why design is about more than buildings, it's about improving lives
• What younger generations need to hear about careers in construction

Stay connected:

• Kevin Hohe | LinkedIn

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Produced by Pineapple Audio Production.

Produced by Pineapple Audio Production

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