The construction industry isn’t exactly known for emotional vulnerability or personal development programs. But one company is breaking the mold and seeing the results.
In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin welcomes Collin Jewett, Dream Manager at The Annex Group, to share how focusing on personal dreams is shifting the culture at a construction and affordable housing firm.
What’s a Dream Manager?
If you’ve read The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly, you know the idea: hire someone whose job is to help employees achieve their personal goals. It’s a bold idea and one The Annex Group is putting into action. Collin isn’t managing KPIs or sending motivational quotes. He’s asking real questions. And then he holds people accountable – not like a boss, but like a partner.
This Isn’t Therapy. It’s Accountability for Life Goals.
One of the biggest misconceptions Collin addresses is that the Dream Manager is a glorified counselor. Not true. He’s not digging into trauma or diagnosing problems. He’s simply creating space for people to talk about what matters to them. And that’s the point.
These conversations aren’t about productivity hacks or performance reviews. They’re about being human at work.
The Impact on Construction Culture
Let’s face it, construction isn’t exactly a hotbed of soft skills and introspection. Many leaders still say things like “leave your drama at the door.” But Collin makes a powerful case: your people don’t have a switch to flip. Life happens during work hours. Dreams happen too.
And when employees feel seen, heard, and supported outside of their role, they stay longer, work harder, and become brand advocates in a way you can’t manufacture.
How to Start (Without a Big Budget)
What if you’re a 20-person shop without the ability to hire a full-time Dream Manager?
Collin says start small. Create regular space for non-work conversations. Ask thoughtful questions. Work with the willing. You don’t need to mandate a company-wide shift overnight. Just give a few people a platform and watch the ripple effects.
The magic starts with showing up and listening.
Curious what happened when they capped their first cohort at 30 and still had overflow interest? You’ll have to listen to the full episode to find out.
Connect With Collin
Website: https://www.theannexgrp.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collinjewett/
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