No Ego, No Surprises: The Succession System That Actually Works

What is the greatest remark in your leadership? Is it what you’ve left behind, or is it what you’ve built? Brad DesJardin, retired president of DesCor Builders, joins today’s episode to explore a succession system that works, embedded with values, clarity, and trust. Through the lens of the construction industry, we discuss how to create a lasting impact by planning with purpose, raising the right people, and letting go at the right time. Whether you are a founder thinking about taking the next step or a leader stepping into a bigger role, join us and listen as a reminder; legacy isn’t about holding on, it’s about preparing and witnessing others thrive without you.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

[01:50] The biggest challenge of stepping away from a business. 

[04:45] Life as a series of assignments.

[06:20] Values, attracting talent, and retaining talent. 

[08:23] The importance of accountability. 

[10:50] An early succession plan. 

[14:12] Seasons of life and risk evaluations with younger generations. 

[16:30] The source of camaraderie in a healthy construction company.  

[20:30] Hiring with leadership potential in mind. 

[25:00] The importance of partnership. 

[30:24] Witnessing the evolution of your values through others. 

[34:08] Identity beyond titles. 

[42:06] The importance of letting go of ego and respecting the new leaders.

[47:07] Advice for exiting business owners in construction. 

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Know when to pass the torch, think what’s best for the company.

2. Create space for rising talent. The passion and energy of young people are often the missing ingredients. 

3. Clarify your core values, know what you stand for. 

4. Recognize the full circle of support because employees’ home life affects their work life.  

5. Let your values live beyond you, make them seen and felt. 

6. Let go of the need for external validation for a decision rooted in purpose. 

7. Find joy and take pride in others’ success. 

 

RESOURCES:

 

Connect with Brad DesJardin

LinkedIn – https://linkedin.com/in/brad-desjardin-533b60235/ 

Website - https://descorbuilders.com/ 

 

Restaurant Josephine, CA

https://josephineauburn.com/ 

 

 

Resources to Help You Win in Construction

📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com

☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me

🎧 Subscribe & Share
If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!