The Hard Knock School of Project Management

 Mark Caples is a self-taught construction business consultant, project manager, and leadership expert who left high school at 15 to pursue Automation Robotics. From carpenter to custom home builder to licensed inspector, his hands-on career spans over 20 years in residential construction and remodeling. He’s the author of The Hard Knock School of Project Management, a bestselling project management book rooted in real-world leadership and field-tested strategies. Mark is also the host of the Hard Knock University Podcast and Obviously Wrong with Mark Caples, where he tackles leadership, project chaos, and business challenges with grit and humor. Subscribe to his popular Substack newsletter, Hard Knock University Dispatch, for weekly construction leadership tips, project management insights, and no-BS business advice. 

  In "The Hard Knock School of Project Management," Mark Caples, a construction business consultant, charts his journey from the ground up to mastering chaos in residential remodeling. With candid insights, he recounts lessons learned from project setbacks and successes, teaching how to embrace discomfort, make hard choices, prioritize people management, acknowledge the unsung victories, bridge communication gaps, and adapt when plans unravel. This project management book serves as a roadmap for turning errors into opportunities, proving that genuine leadership is born from resilience and adaptability. Mark extends these lessons through his leadership podcast, offering practical advice for navigating the unpredictable world of project management. 

 Hard Knock University Podcast
Your go-to leadership and project management podcast. Hosted by author and construction coach Mark Caples, each episode delivers raw, real-world lessons inspired by The Hard Knock School of Project Management. Expect expert insights, battle-tested strategies, and unfiltered humor as Mark breaks down what it really takes to lead projects and people. Subscribe now for leadership tips, PM tools, and #HardKnockLessons from the front lines. Obviously Wrong with Mark Caples
This leadership rantcast cuts through the noise. From construction chaos to local controversy, Mark Caples tackles tough topics with sharp wit and straight talk. It’s the podcast where hot takes meet hard truths, perfect for bold leaders who don’t play it safe.

Guest Appearance: The Fatherhood Exclusive
Mark recently appeared on The Fatherhood Exclusive to talk about the intersection of fatherhood and leadership. Tune in for real talk on raising kids, managing chaos, and staying resilient at home and on the job.