What happens when you blend startup energy with construction grit? In this week’s episode, Todd sits down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch and lifelong entrepreneur, for a conversation on how innovation, leadership, and customer “obsession” are shaping the future of the built environment.
From launching his own painting company to helping Fortune 500 teams scale, James shares a practical yet visionary approach to leading in the construction tech space. He breaks down the process of shifting team mindsets, improving buy-in across the board, and how building trust beats selling products every time.
🔑 Key Topics:
Translating startup lessons into construction leadership
Why trust and relationships still close more deals than tech
Creating a “customer-obsessed” culture across your teams
The mindset shift needed for growth in Contech
TODD TAKES
- Solve the Problem That Actually Exists—Not the One You Assume
Innovation in construction must start by addressing real, boots-on-the-ground challenges—not hypothetical or abstract problems. The most effective tools are born from firsthand experience and direct input from the field. If the tech doesn’t make a worker’s life easier today, it won’t be adopted tomorrow.
- Practical Empathy Drives Better Innovation
Seeing through the eyes of the people who actually use the technology—whether it’s a superintendent, technician, or small business owner—ensures that tools are intuitive, fast, and don't require lengthy training. Empathy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a design strategy.
- You Need Both Visionaries and Plane Landers
Visionaries dream of the future. Plane landers bring those dreams safely to the ground. For innovation to succeed in construction, businesses need both: those who can see around corners and those who can translate that vision into practical tools that teams can use today, without disruption fatigue.
James Hatfield is Chief Revenue Officer at LIveSwitch Inc., a global technology company that serves the trades and other businesses. As an industry thought leader and expert in sales, leadership and business innovation. James has extensive experience working with entrepreneurs, small businesses, and Fortune 500 enterprises. He is also an entrepreneur and has founded a painting and power washing company.
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Other Relevant Links: James’ LinkedIn LiveSwitch
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