In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute – Details, episodes & analysis

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In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute

Adam Hutchinson

Business

Frequency: 1 episode/6d. Total Eps: 20

In the Mix is a podcast dedicated to the people, projects, and innovations shaping the masonry industry—block by block, brick by brick. Hosted by Adam Hutchinson, Executive Director and professional engineer, this show brings together architects, engineers, contractors, and industry leaders to explore how masonry drives resilient, sustainable, and high-performance building design. Each episode breaks down real-world applications of masonry construction, from structural integrity and fire resistance to long-term durability and environmental impact. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes insights, industry challenges, and practical conversations that matter to those designing, building, and specifying with masonry. If you’re passionate about stronger buildings, smarter construction, and advancing masonry in modern design—this is your place to get in the mix. Join us in supporting the Masonry Industry mission: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

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Apple Podcasts

🇨🇦 Canada - nonProfit
28/08/2026
#71
🇨🇦 Canada - nonProfit
27/08/2026
#53
🇺🇸 USA - nonProfit
27/08/2026
#98
🇨🇦 Canada - nonProfit
26/08/2026
#43
🇨🇦 Canada - nonProfit
25/08/2026
#25
🇨🇦 Canada - nonProfit
24/08/2026
#17
🇨🇦 Canada - nonProfit
23/08/2026
#5
🇺🇸 USA - nonProfit
11/08/2026
#85
🇺🇸 USA - nonProfit
10/08/2026
#41
🇺🇸 USA - nonProfit
29/07/2026
#59

Spotify

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https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix
30 shares
https://www.laticrete.com/
2 shares
https://sunsetstone.net/
2 shares

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Score global : 68%

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9. Building Green with Masonry: Separating facts from Perception with Ben Stapleton

Episode 9

Thursday, June 18, 2026 • Duration 12:43

Ben Stapleton has spent more than two decades working at the intersection of real estate, sustainability, and innovation. As CEO of USGBC California, he leads one of the country's largest green building organizations, helping train thousands of industry professionals each year while advancing climate resilience, sustainable development, and low-carbon building solutions across the state.

In this episode of In The Mix, Ben joins Adam live from the California Masonry Council Design & Expo to discuss the future of resilient construction, rebuilding after natural disasters, and the role masonry can play in creating stronger, more sustainable communities.

Drawing from his work supporting wildfire recovery efforts across California, Ben shares lessons learned from rebuilding after devastating fires, how communities can better prepare for future disasters, and why building materials must be evaluated through a long-term lens rather than short-term environmental metrics. He also explores the growing importance of embodied carbon, transparency in construction materials, and why the masonry industry has a unique opportunity to tell a stronger sustainability story.

In This Episode:

How USGBC California is helping communities prepare for and recover from wildfires
Lessons learned from rebuilding efforts after major California fire disasters
Why resilience should be a central focus of modern building design
The role masonry plays in durability, wildfire resistance, and long-term sustainability
Common misconceptions about embodied carbon and environmental product declarations (EPDs)
Why life-cycle thinking matters when evaluating building materials
How the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are driving conversations around low-carbon construction
The importance of transparency, innovation, and data in the future of the building industry
What the masonry industry can do to better communicate its sustainability advantages

Connect with Ben:
Website: https://usgbc-ca.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benstapleton

Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

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8. What Architects Need to Know about Masonry with Steve Blye

Episode 8

Thursday, June 11, 2026 • Duration 32:02

After more than four decades as an architect, Steve Blye has designed everything from healthcare facilities and schools to municipal buildings and large-scale institutional projects. Today, as the Design and Technical Architect for the Masonry Advisory Council, he's helping architects, engineers, and owners better understand one of the most versatile building materials available: masonry.

In this episode of In The Mix, Steve joins Adam to share how his perspective on masonry evolved throughout his career, what architects often overlook when specifying masonry systems, and why some of the industry's oldest building methods still offer some of the best solutions today.

From lessons learned in architecture school to insights gained through decades of real-world projects, Steve explains how masonry continues to deliver durability, resilience, energy efficiency, fire resistance, and long-term value. He also discusses common misconceptions, evolving wall system designs, and why education remains one of the biggest opportunities for the next generation of architects and engineers.

In This Episode:

Steve's journey from architect to masonry industry advocate
Why masonry remains one of the most durable building materials available
Common design misconceptions architects and engineers encounter
How cavity wall systems have evolved over time
The role of masonry in sustainability and carbon sequestration
Lessons from historic masonry structures around the world
Why education and industry collaboration matter for the future of design
The hidden value masonry provides over a building's lifespan

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7. Beyond the Sale: How Relationships Drive the Masonry Industry Forward with Jordan Krebs

Episode 7

Thursday, June 4, 2026 • Duration 40:29

What if the future of masonry isn’t just about better materials, but better relationships, smarter collaboration, and building structures designed to outlast generations?

In this episode of In The Mix, Adam sits down with Jordan Krebs of Sunset Stone to talk about the evolving world of manufactured stone veneer, masonry relationships, and what it really means to build a long-term career in the construction industry.

From the manufacturing process behind handcrafted stone veneer to the future of masonry in modern design-build construction, Jordan shares insights from both the sales side and the contractor side of the industry. The conversation explores everything from mortar technology and thermal mass to craftsmanship, workforce development, and why masonry continues to stand the test of time.

Adam and Jordan also reflect on their shared history in Spokane, the importance of relationship-building in construction, and how masonry products continue to shape communities for generations to come.

In this episode, we cover:

Jordan’s journey into the masonry and hardscape industry through family connections and growing up around masonry products
What makes Sunset Stone unique in the manufactured stone veneer market
Why relationships and long-term trust matter more than “selling” in the construction industry
How design-build delivery is changing the way masonry products are specified on projects
The importance of craftsmanship, apprenticeship, and bringing younger generations into the masonry trades
How masonry projects can revitalize communities and create buildings designed to last for generations

About the Guest:

Jordan Krebs is a sales representative for Sunset Stone in the Pacific Northwest, specializing in manufactured stone veneer systems and masonry products. With a background in hardscapes, dry cast products, and masonry materials, Jordan brings a relationship-focused approach to the construction industry, working closely with contractors, architects, distributors, and builders throughout the region. Passionate about craftsmanship, long-term building performance, and the future of the trades, Jordan is dedicated to helping projects succeed through collaboration, technical knowledge, and practical industry experience.

6. How Benjamin Warfield Scaled a Masonry Company Through Economic Downturns

Episode 6

Thursday, May 28, 2026 • Duration 55:57

What does it really take to build a lasting masonry business from the ground up?

In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with Benjamin Warfield of Warfield Masonry to talk about family legacy, entrepreneurship, apprenticeship, and the mindset required to survive and grow in the construction industry for nearly 25 years.

From growing up on masonry job sites with his father to launching his own company at 27 during the 2008 market crash, Ben shares the real story behind building Warfield Masonry into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected masonry contractors. The conversation dives into leadership, risk-taking, union partnerships, mentorship, marketing, design-build collaboration, and why relationships are the foundation of long-term success in construction.

Along the way, Adam and Ben also discuss podcasting, snowboarding, faith, personal growth, and the importance of investing time into both people and craft.

In this episode:

How Warfield Masonry started as a family business in 1977
Ben’s journey from residential masonry into commercial construction
What the 2008 recession taught him about resilience and business
The importance of networking, relationships, and long sales cycles
Why joining the union changed the trajectory of the company
Lessons learned about leadership, apprenticeship, and company culture
The role of marketing and personal branding in construction
How collaboration and design-build improve project outcomes
Ben’s “5 things” every mason and contractor should know
Why mentorship, honesty, and investing in people matter most

About the Guest:
Benjamin Warfield is the owner of Warfield Masonry, a Washington-based masonry contractor specializing in commercial, residential, and architectural masonry projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. Raised in the trade from a young age, Ben has spent decades building his expertise in masonry construction, business leadership, and workforce development. He is a passionate advocate for apprenticeship, union craftsmanship, design-build collaboration, and advancing the masonry industry through education, relationships, and mentorship.

5. Modern Masonry Systems, Seismic Testing & the Future of Adhered Veneers with John Gallup

Episode 5

Thursday, May 21, 2026 • Duration 35:45

What does it actually take to build safer, longer-lasting adhered masonry systems in one of the most demanding climates and seismic regions in North America?

In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with John Gallup formerly a representative of Laticrete, now with HydroBlok, to break down the evolution of adhered veneer masonry, the science behind modern installation systems, and the code changes reshaping the industry.

From polymer-modified mortars and waterproofing assemblies to seismic shake-table testing at Portland State University, John shares how innovation, testing, and collaboration are helping architects, contractors, and engineers build smarter and more sustainably.

This conversation dives deep into the technical side of masonry systems while also exploring the real-world challenges of labor, climate, moisture management, and long-term durability in the Pacific Northwest.

In this episode, we cover:

John’s journey into the construction and masonry industry through Laticrete
What Laticrete actually does—and how the company evolved from tile systems into masonry veneer systems
How the Pacific Northwest climate creates unique moisture and freeze-thaw challenges
Why fluid-applied waterproofing membranes are becoming essential in modern systems
Inside the seismic testing initiative conducted at Portland State University
The biggest advantages of thin veneer systems compared to traditional full-bed masonry
Where masonry materials, chemistry, and installation technology are headed next

About the Guest
John Gallup is a Technical Sales Representative for Laticrete, specializing in tile, stone, and adhered veneer masonry systems throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. With extensive experience working alongside architects, contractors, distributors, and industry organizations, John has played a key role in advancing modern masonry veneer systems, code development, and seismic testing initiatives in the region. He is deeply involved in industry advocacy, education, and helping drive innovation in high-performance masonry assemblies.

16. How Contractors, Architects & Manufacturers Are Teaming Up to Grow Masonry | Ken Tejeda

Episode 16

Tuesday, August 4, 2026 • Duration 19:17

Live from the California Masonry Council Design & Expo, Adam sits down with Ken Tejeda of R&R Masonry to explore the power of collaboration, legacy, and advocacy in the masonry industry. As a second-generation contractor, Ken shares how his family's business has evolved over six decades and why the future of masonry depends on contractors, manufacturers, architects, and industry organizations working together with a shared vision.

Ken also discusses the growing role of the California Masonry Council in promoting masonry across the state, the importance of educating architects and owners about the material's long-term value, and why durability, fire resilience, seismic performance, and timeless design continue to make masonry one of the strongest building solutions available. Whether you're a contractor, designer, or industry advocate, this conversation is packed with practical insights on protecting and growing the future of masonry.

In This Episode:

How family businesses continue to shape the masonry industry
Why collaboration is the key to growing masonry's market share
The role of the California Masonry Council in promoting the industry
Masonry's biggest advantages: durability, fire resilience, seismic performance, and design flexibility
Why architects and building owners need a better understanding of masonry's long-term value
How education, outreach, and hands-on experiences can increase masonry adoption
Why the next generation should get involved and help shape the future of the industry

Connect with Ken:

LinkedIn: Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/ken-tejeda-72470a1a9

15. Training the Next Generation of the Concrete Industry with Jon Huddleston

Episode 15

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 • Duration 26:52

Engineering enrollment nationally has dropped 14% in the last couple of years. One concrete program is growing 5-10% a year — and 85% of its students graduate with zero college debt. How?

In this episode, Adam sits down with Jon Huddleston, Director of the Concrete Industry Management Program at Middle Tennessee State University, to talk about where the next generation of the concrete and masonry industry is actually going to come from.

Jon breaks down the scholarship model behind that debt-free graduation rate (hint: giving students a completely free ride might be the worst thing you can do for them), why hands-on competitions like the concrete canoe are non-negotiable for getting students to actually care, and the pitch he's making to the masonry industry specifically — get in the room with these students before someone else does.

If you've ever wondered where your next generation of masons, engineers, and estimators is coming from, this one's for you.

Topics covered:

The scholarship strategy behind an 85% debt-free graduation rate — and why full rides don't work
Why masonry needs its own version of the concrete canoe or bowling ball competition
How a program with no household name is growing against a national enrollment decline
The case for industry-funded student travel to conferences and symposiums
Why 95% of students need to see and touch it before it clicks
Jon's advice to every prospective student on networking, internships, and staying off their phones
A NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center project that hints at where the material is headed next

Connect with Jon Huddleston:
Concrete Industry Management Program at Middle Tennessee State University: https://www.mtsu.edu/program/concrete-industry-management-concrete-contracting-concentration-b-s/

Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute:
https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

1. How Masonry Careers Are Built (And Passed Down) with Jed Olafson, President of the Northwest Masonry Institute

Episode 1

Thursday, April 30, 2026 • Duration 27:03

Masonry isn’t something most people plan on getting into, but once you’re in, you stay.

In this episode of In The Mix, Adam sits down with Jed Olafson, President of the Northwest Masonry Institute and co-owner of Johnston Construction, to talk about a career that started in drafting and turned into decades of leadership in the field.

Jed shares how he got his start designing panelized systems, working back when everything was drawn by hand, and how that technical foundation shaped the way he approaches masonry today. From early AutoCAD adoption to coordinating complex panel systems, his experience shows how good planning leads to better builds.

This conversation gets into the real side of the industry—how projects actually come together, what works, and what doesn’t.

In this episode:

How panelized masonry systems improve efficiency and reduce jobsite complexity
Why drafting and pre-planning still matter more than people think
The transition from one generation of leadership to the next—and what it takes to make it work
How family businesses continue to shape the industry
Where masonry stands today against competing materials

Connect with Jed: https://johnstonconstruction.net/about

Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

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Trailer: In the Mix - Building Stronger and Smarter with Masonry

Tuesday, April 28, 2026 • Duration 01:31

In the Mix is the podcast that puts masonry in the spotlight—block by block, brick by brick.

Hosted by Adam Hutchinson, Executive Director of the Northwest Masonry Institute and a licensed engineer in Washington, this podcast explores the real-world impact of masonry construction on modern building design.

Each week, Adam sits down with architects, structural engineers, contractors, and building owners to break down how masonry—including brick, block, and stone—supports resilient design, seismic performance, fire resistance, and long-lasting construction.

From commercial construction projects to sustainable building materials, In the Mix covers the strategies, innovations, and challenges shaping the future of the built environment. Whether you're designing structures, managing projects, or specifying materials, you’ll gain practical insights you can actually apply.

If you’re interested in masonry design, construction methods, building durability, and high-performance materials, this show will help you build smarter and more effectively.

Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

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14. How a Broken Church Window Launched a 20-Year Masonry Career | Daniel "Mr. Jamez" Trippel

Episode 14

Tuesday, July 21, 2026 • Duration 31:46

Daniel "Mr. Jamez" Trippel's masonry career started with a rock through a church window. His buddy threw it and a couple at that church happened to own a masonry supply yard that needed a yard guy. Twenty-some years later, that accidental first job has become a career spanning hands-on craftsmanship, business ownership, and now commercial architectural sales with Mutual Materials, where he's just 30 days in and already calling himself "the tip of the spear" for getting masonry specced on projects.

In this episode, Daniel tells Adam the whole unlikely story: starting as a laborer loading trucks, launching his own masonry company at 23, building it for five years — and walking away when the 2008 crash took his builders down with it. Now, after two decades installing the end product, he's on the other side of the process, putting samples in front of architects and designers so that somewhere down the line, a mason has a job to go to.

Adam and Daniel also run the masonry industry through a SWOT analysis: why durability is masonry's biggest sustainability advantage, why the industry's segmentation is its own worst weakness, and why the biggest threat isn't competing materials — it's misinformation about what modern masonry can do. Plus, the story behind the "Mr. Jamez" persona, and why a made-up name might be the smartest career move in the trades.

In This Episode:

How a rock through a church window accidentally launched a masonry career
Starting a company at 23 — and why hiring his dad was the whole point
What the 2008 crash taught Daniel about surviving in the trades
Why tilt-up isn't actually faster: the 28 curing days nobody counts
"The most green building is the one that's already built" — masonry's real sustainability case
Why post-1997 masonry buildings meet seismic standards (and the misconception that won't die)
What 1,000-year-old buildings in Munich and Prague can teach Northwest architects
Why showrooms beat spec sheets: getting materials into designers' hands
78 masonry associations pulling in different directions — and the push to unite them

In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute – Details, episodes & analysis

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In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

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Latest published episodes

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