Explore every episode of the podcast In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute

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

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

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.

Connect with Jordan: 

Website: https://sunsetstone.net/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-krebs-82074a30a

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunset-stone-llc?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company

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

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.

Connect with Ben:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warfield_masonry_llc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-warfield-78503b16

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

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.

Connect with John:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gallup-9a719419
https://www.laticrete.com/
https://www.hydroblok.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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
• The origin of "Mr. Jamez," and why building a persona can change your career trajectory

Connect with Mr. Jamez:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr_jamez_/

Website: https://www.mutualmaterials.com/

Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: 

https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

Recorded live at the California Masonry Council's Design and Expo Day, host Adam Hutchinson sits down with Christian Benoit, first-place winner in the concrete block category — and a student who had never worked with masonry before this project. 

Christian walks through how he turned a studio assignment on compressed stabilized earth block and rammed earth into an award-winning CMU design, why masonry might be sequestering more carbon than anyone realized, and why he thinks architecture schools are missing the boat on teaching masonry the way they teach mass timber. 

Along the way, they discuss the real cost comparison between wood-frame and CMU walls, how California's climate zones change the insulation game, and why 150 students showing up to one event might be the blueprint for getting the next generation into the trade.

In this episode:

• How Christian adapted an earth-block studio project into a first-place concrete masonry design
• The surprising research on how much CO2 a CMU can permanently sequester over its lifetime
• Why a CMU wall can cost about the same as a wood-frame wall — once you count the trades
• How California's climate zones affect (or eliminate) the need for insulated block
• What it's like entering the masonry industry with zero prior masonry background
• Why Christian thinks masonry deserves its own place in architecture curricula
• The power of getting students physically in the room — CMC bused 150 students to this event
• What mentorship actually looked like on his path to an architecture degree
• Why showing up to a competition is worth it even if you don't win

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

In this episode of In The Mix, Evan Hall joins Adam live from the California Masonry Council Design & Expo to discuss Project Chimney, an inspiring initiative preserving historic masonry chimneys that survived the Palisades Fire. Evan shares how House Museum partnered with masonry contractors and industry organizations to carefully salvage these iconic structures, protecting an important piece of Los Angeles' architectural history while creating a lasting memorial to resilience and recovery.

Evan also discusses the vital role masonry plays in historic preservation, why the industry's craftsmanship deserves greater recognition, and how better storytelling, collaboration, and community engagement can help inspire the next generation of builders. This conversation offers a unique perspective on the lasting value of masonry—not only as a building material, but as a way of preserving culture, history, and craftsmanship.

In This Episode:

• The story behind Project Chimney and the preservation of historic Palisades chimneys
• Why masonry remains one of the world's most durable and resilient building materials
• How contractors safely salvage and reconstruct historic masonry structures
• The importance of preserving both architectural history and skilled trade knowledge
• Why branding and storytelling are major opportunities for the masonry industry
• How collaboration between preservationists and masonry professionals is driving innovation
• The importance of inspiring homeowners, architects, and the next generation of masons

Connect with Evan:
Website: https://www.house.museum/mission/leadership
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evan.hall/

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

In this episode of In The Mix, Adam sits down with Emeka Ukaga from the California Masonry Council to discuss the future of masonry and why the industry has an incredible opportunity to lead conversations around resilience, sustainability, and innovative building design. Drawing on his background in architectural engineering and building policy, Emeka shares how organizations like the California Masonry Council are helping bridge the gap between technical expertise, education, and industry advocacy.

Together, they explore how masonry can play a critical role in addressing today's biggest building challenges—from wildfire resilience and energy efficiency to creative architectural design and long-term durability. They also discuss why stronger collaboration, better storytelling, and continued innovation will help position masonry as the material of choice for the next generation of construction.

In This Episode:

• How the California Masonry Council is advancing technical education, advocacy, and industry marketing
• Why masonry is uniquely positioned to meet today's demands for resilient and sustainable construction
• The role building codes and public policy play in shaping the future of the industry
• How architects and engineers can push the creative boundaries of masonry design
• Why wildfire resilience, durability, and long-term performance are becoming more important than ever
• The value of collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge sharing across the masonry community
• Why the industry must do a better job telling masonry's story to designers, owners, and the public

Connect with Emeka:
Website: https://www.californiamasonrycouncil.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckukaga

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

In this episode of In The Mix, Chantelle Roberts joins Adam live from the California Masonry Council Design & Expo to discuss one of the industry's biggest challenges: attracting and retaining talent. Drawing from her experience in both masonry and terrazzo, she shares insights on apprenticeship programs, the changing perception of trade careers, and why construction must evolve its culture to better support younger generations and women entering the workforce.

Chantelle also talks about the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and innovation in masonry, while highlighting the need for stronger industry storytelling around the value, versatility, and long-term benefits of masonry construction. This conversation offers a valuable perspective on how the industry can continue to grow and thrive.

In This Episode:

• Why apprenticeship programs are critical to the future of the masonry workforce
• The importance of recruiting younger generations into construction
• Creating opportunities for women to succeed in the masonry industry
• Why appreciation, mentorship, and leadership matter in retaining talent
• Why collaboration across contractors, designers, and industry organizations is essential
• How innovation and creativity can help expand the use of masonry materials
• The workforce challenges facing the industry and what organizations can do to address them

Connect with Chantelle: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantellemroberts?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Website: https://masonry-concepts.com/

Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: 

https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

What if the future of multifamily housing isn’t choosing between masonry or mass timber—but combining both?
In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with Alex Watchman of Clark Barnes to explore an innovative approach to mid-rise multifamily construction using CMU and cross-laminated timber (CLT) together as one structural system.

What started as a conversation at a Mariners game turned into a deeper discussion around building smarter, faster, and more resilient multifamily projects. Alex shares how this proposed “wood/block” system could open new possibilities for architects, engineers, and developers navigating today’s housing and construction challenges.

The conversation explores Type IV-C construction, seismic design considerations, fire resistance, scheduling efficiencies, and why this hybrid approach could create opportunities for both the masonry and mass timber industries moving forward.

In this episode:

• The origin of the “wood/block” CMU + CLT concept
• Why Type IV-C construction matters for multifamily housing
• How CMU and mass timber can work together structurally
• The hidden challenges of podium construction
• Seismic, fire-rating, and code considerations
• Why this approach could improve project timelines and efficiency
• The bigger vision for hybrid construction systems

About the Guest:
Alex Watchman is a licensed architect in Washington and a graduate of the University of Minnesota and Harvard Graduate School of Design. As part of Clark Barnes Architects in Seattle, Alex focuses on innovative approaches to resilient, efficient, and scalable building systems. His current research explores how CMU and mass timber can work together to unlock new possibilities in mid-rise multifamily housing design.

Connect with Alex:
Website: https://www.clarkbarnes.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-watchman-71570686

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

What does it take to go from surviving a drive-by shooting… to leading one of the largest masonry unions in the Pacific Northwest?
In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with Lowell Glodowski, President of BAC Local 1 (Washington & Alaska), to unpack a journey defined by resilience, grit, and relentless determination.
From an unexpected start in Job Corps to rising through the ranks of the masonry industry, Lowell shares how he carved out a path without connections, without shortcuts—and why that shaped the leader he is today.
This conversation goes far beyond career progression. It dives into the realities of union life, the evolution of workforce development, and how initiatives like Level Up are reshaping the future of the trades for the next generation.

In this episode, we cover:

•  Lowell’s powerful origin story—and the moment that changed everything 
•  How Job Corps led him into bricklaying (and why there was no waiting list) 
•  What it really takes to rise through the ranks without industry connections 
•  The mindset that carried him from apprentice to union president 
•  Inside BAC Local 1: structure, scale, and day-to-day operations 
•  The biggest challenges facing unions—and how they’re evolving 
•  Breaking down the earning potential and benefits of apprenticeship programs 
•  Why “earn while you learn” is one of the most overlooked opportunities today 
•  How the Level Up campaign is attracting a younger generation to the trades 
•  The importance of mentorship, visibility, and proving yourself through action 
•  What true success looks like beyond the job—balancing leadership and family 
•  Where the masonry industry is headed across Washington and Alaska 

About the Guest
Lowell Glodowski is the President of BAC Local 1, representing Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers across Washington and Alaska. With nearly three decades in the industry, Lowell’s journey spans from apprentice to business owner to union leader. Known for his no-excuses mindset and commitment to workforce development, he plays a key role in advancing training, recruitment, and long-term opportunity within the masonry trades.

How to Connect & Learn More
 If you or someone you know is interested in exploring a career in the masonry trades, here’s how to get started:

• Visit the training center: Reach out to the Western Washington Masonry Trades program to schedule a tour and learn more about available pathways 
• Contact the team directly: Connect with program administrators for guidance on next steps and application requirements 
• Apply online: Head to the Level Up campaign website to submit an application and explore opportunities 
• Phone: 206-768-8333 

Taking that first step—whether it’s a conversation, a tour, or an application—could open the door to a high-growth, high-opportunity career path in the trades.

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

What happens when an industry that once laid 6 billion blocks a year drops to just 1 billion?

In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with Ron Adams, President of Cascade Construction and the Washington State Conference of Mason Contractors, to unpack the past, present, and future of the masonry industry—and what it will take to rebuild momentum.

From family legacy to industry leadership, Ron shares how masonry has evolved over the decades, why demand has shifted, and where the biggest opportunities lie right now.

This conversation goes beyond surface-level insights. It dives into the real challenges contractors, architects, and engineers face—and how collaboration, education, and smarter building strategies can bring masonry back to the forefront.

In this episode, we cover:

• How Ron Adams built his career in masonry—and the legacy behind it
• The surprising decline from 6 billion to 1 billion blocks per year
• Why masonry is often replaced (and why that assumption may be wrong)
• The efficiency myth: Is masonry actually slower and more expensive?
• How progressive design-build is changing construction collaboration
• The role of the MCAA and CMU checkoff program in shaping the industry
• Why architects and engineers need better masonry education
• The truth about energy efficiency, sustainability, and thermal performance
• How events like the Bricklayer 500 and Bricklayer 5,000 are reshaping industry culture
• What contractors can do right now to create more opportunities

Connect with Ron: https://cascademasonry.com

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

After the 2003 Paso Robles earthquake, seven retrofitted unreinforced masonry buildings walked away nearly untouched. The ones that hadn't been strengthened? Torn down. Mason Moritz, once a structural engineer at Holmes in San Francisco, now a field engineer for Python Fasteners, joins the podcast to explain why that story keeps repeating, and why most engineers never hear it.

Python manufactures the first ICC-certified, seismically rated anchor for existing masonry, born out of the Christchurch earthquake's real-world stress test on New Zealand's historic buildings. Mason's job now is closing the gap he used to sit on the other side of: most engineering programs teach little to no masonry design, so URM gets written off as a liability instead of understood as an asset. 

In this episode:

• The Paso Robles case study: retrofitted URM buildings vs. the ones that got demolished
• How the Christchurch earthquake shaped Python's anchor research
• Why URM has a bad reputation engineers haven't been taught to question
• Mason's path from Holmes Structural Engineers to studying historic buildings in Portugal and the Czech Republic
• Closing the education gap: Berkeley, Cal Poly SLO, and Trento research partnerships
• Stabilize-in-place vs. rip-out-and-replace, and what's at stake for historic building stock
• Why reuse is the ultimate sustainability move: "the greenest building is the one that's already there"

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

Recorded live at the California Masonry Council's Design and Expo Day, host Adam Hutchinson sits down with William Sundquist of General Shale and the National Construction Specification Institute (CSI) to explore why brick continues to be one of the most authentic, durable, and sustainable building materials available today.

William shares his unexpected path into the masonry industry, explains why performance—not aesthetics—should always drive specifications, and makes the case for preserving historic masonry while helping designers better understand brick's long-term value. From thermal mass and lifecycle costs to sustainability and craftsmanship, this conversation highlights why masonry has a powerful story to tell—and why the industry needs to do a better job telling it. 

In this episode:

• How a PR graduate with a pilot's license found a lifelong career in the masonry industry 
• Why great masonry specifications start with performance—not appearance 
• The costly mistakes that happen when restoration projects use the wrong mortar 
• Why preserving historic masonry buildings protects both communities and culture 
• How brick's thermal mass and longevity make it a naturally sustainable building material 
• The overlooked sustainability story the masonry industry needs to tell 
• Why authenticity and craftsmanship continue to set masonry apart from other building systems 
• How General Shale is helping provide building envelope solutions across North America 
• Why architects, builders, and owners should be thinking more about lifecycle cost—not just upfront price 
• The importance of inspiring the next generation of designers through industry events and education 

Connect with William: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-sundquist-fcsi-9352522b

Website: https://generalshale.com/

Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: 

https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix