What does strategy really look like inside a construction firm that wants to grow on purpose, not by accident?

In this episode of the PSM Show, host Damion Morris talks with James Hatch, Chief Strategy Officer at Kovac Building Enclosures, one of the top glazing contractors in the country. James shares how his path through architecture, estimating, finance, and business development shaped the way he leads strategy today – and why he sees the CSO as the "agent of change" inside the firm.

They dig into what it takes to keep the "periscope above the water," choose the right pursuits, and build a culture that supports change instead of resisting it. Along the way, James talks candidly about Kovac's shift from private equity to employee ownership, why authenticity matters more than polish, and what emerging leaders should practice now if they are drawn to the work of strategy.

In this unscripted conversation, Deirdre Booth and Damion Morris step away from the usual format and start the year with an honest check-in. They talk candidly about growth, ambition, balance, connection, leadership, and what changes when career wins stop being the only measure of success.

This episode sets the tone for the season ahead with real reflection, lived experience, and the kind of perspective that comes from years in the industry and life beyond the job title.

In an industry built on deadlines, pursuits, and constant pressure, resilience is often framed as grit and endurance. But what if that mindset is actually driving burnout?

In this episode of The PSM Show, Deirdre Booth sits down with Nicole Van Valen, founder of Keen Insights and author of The Joyful Leader, to reframe how AEC firms think about resilience, leadership, and performance. Drawing from her background as a licensed marriage and family therapist and corporate leader, Nicole explains why joy is not a perk or personality trait, but a practical tool that supports focus, steadiness, and long-term sustainability.

The conversation explores how AEC marketers and business development professionals can regulate stress in high-pressure environments, why middle managers play a critical role in shaping culture, and how tools like the Ready, Set, Go model and the Joy Menu help teams reset without stepping away from their responsibilities.

This episode offers grounded, actionable insights for leaders who want to protect their people, strengthen trust, and build teams that can perform consistently over the long game.

Nicole Van Valen:

Nicole Van Valen, M.S., L.M.F.T., SHRM-SCP is an internationally recognized speaker, consultant, and published author of The Joyful Leader®. With over 25 years of experience spanning healthcare, behavioral health, and entertainment, she equips executives and organizations to manage stress, build resilient cultures, and lead with empathy, clarity, and impact.

Nicole is the Founder and CEO of Keane Insights®, where she Nicole integrates neuroscience, mental health expertise, and leadership development to transform workplaces into high-performing, engaging environments. Nicole is also a recurring mental health expert for CBS 4 News Miami and has been featured in SUCCESS Magazine for her thought leadership on resilience and workplace performance.

A former Miami Dolphins Cheerleader and Miami HEAT Dancer, Nicole brings dynamic energy and authenticity to every stage—championing transformation through joy and proving that resilience isn't just a mindset; it's a strategic advantage.