Concrete Logic Podcast

By Seth TandettTechnology Education

Concrete Logic Podcast episodes

November 05EP #174: Is Poor Planning Killing Concrete Productivity?
JOIN CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY FOR FREE! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY.

ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST
Is construction's productivity problem really the crews, or the plan they're being asked to follow?

Recorded at the Lean Construction Institute Congress in Atlanta, Seth talks with Daniel Megason, Vice President at Baker Construction, about how Lean construction can improve planning, coordination, and productivity.

Daniel explains the Last Planner System, why getting field crews involved matters, and how better communication between trades can prevent costly delays.

But does Lean construction actually solve problems, or does it just create more meetings?

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
What is Lean construction, and why should concrete contractors care?
How does the Last Planner System differ from traditional construction scheduling?
Why does Daniel believe culture is the biggest obstacle to implementing Lean?
How can advanced work packaging connect long-term planning with daily field execution?
Why should foremen and craftspeople help develop the schedule?
What does Lean look like when preparing for a concrete placement?
How can concrete, electrical, plumbing, and other trades coordinate their work?
What happens when weather, material delays, or production problems disrupt the plan?
Does Lean construction actually reduce wasted time, or does it just mean more meetings?
Why do megaprojects require a different approach to planning and execution?
How can contractors move from reacting to problems toward eliminating constraints before work begins?
CHAPTERS
(01:43) Are We Asking Crews to Fix a Planning Problem?
(04:59) What Is Lean Construction, and Why Does It Matter?
(06:43) Advanced Work Packaging and the Last Planner System
(08:16) The Biggest Challenge With Lean: Changing the Culture
(09:00) Getting Foremen Involved in Daily Planning
(10:29) How Lean Fits Into Baker Construction's Approach
(11:51) Planning Concrete Work Around the Other Trades
(12:59) What Happens When the Plan Falls Apart?
(15:30) What Does Collaboration Actually Look Like?
(16:28) Does Lean Just Mean More Meetings?
(17:30) Why Megaprojects Require a Different Approach
(18:30) Moving From Reacting to Problems to Predictable Execution

GUEST INFO

Daniel Megason
Vice President, Baker Construction
Guest profile:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/daniel-megason/

LEAN CONSTRUCTION RESOURCES
This episode was recorded at the 2026 Lean Construction Institute Congress in Atlanta, Georgia.

Special thanks to the Lean Construction Institute (LCI) for allowing us to use its recording space at Congress.

Lean Construction Institute:
https://leanconstruction.org/

LCI Congress:
https://congress.leanconstruction.org/

Construction Industry Institute (CII) | Advanced Work Packaging:
https://www.construction-institute.org/awp-overview

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY
Why do we keep asking crews to solve problems that could have been addressed before construction started?

Concrete Logic Academy is built around helping concrete professionals understand not just what to do, but why it matters. From concrete materials and construction methods to the decisions that affect quality, productivity, and schedule, the goal is practical education you can put to work.

Get free access to Concrete Logic Academy while it's available:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If you're getting value from these conversations, here are a few ways to help keep them going.

Share the podcast. Send an episode to a coworker, colleague, or someone in the construction industry who could benefit from it.

Suggest a topic or guest. Visit the podcast website and click "Ask Seth." What do you want to learn about? Who would you like to hear from?
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

Donate to the podcast. If the show is providing value, consider sending some value back. Contributions help keep independent concrete education available.
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?
Email Seth: [email protected]

KUIU LISTENER OFFER
Seth has partnered with KUIU to offer Concrete Logic Podcast listeners 10% off their next order.

Use discount code: LOGICPOD

Shop KUIU and support the podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

CREDITS
Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media

Music by: Mike Dunton

Special thanks to the Lean Construction Institute for providing the recording space at the 2026 LCI Congress.

WHERE TO FIND SETH
Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://concreteschool.co

Until next time, let's keep it concrete.
24 min
October 27EP #173: Is Fly Ash Helping or Hurting Your Concrete?
ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST

What happens when a concrete mix designed to meet sustainability goals starts producing cracks and low strength breaks?

Dr. Jon Belkowitz of Intelligent Concrete returns to discuss a contractor’s concern about a specification requiring significant cement replacement with fly ash.

Jon explains why he believes changes in fly ash sourcing and processing deserve closer scrutiny. He connects residual carbon and added chemistry to potential changes in water demand, admixture performance, and bleeding, while acknowledging that the reported problems require investigation before assigning blame.

Seth pushes for earlier contractor and producer involvement and more flexibility in specifications. Jon challenges whether a global warming potential limit can allow that flexibility when it indirectly restricts cement content.

The conversation raises a practical question: Do you understand the materials going into your concrete, or are you relying on what the specification calls them?

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Why cracking and low breaks alone do not establish fly ash as the cause
How Jon describes the shift from freshly collected fly ash to reclaimed sources
Why changing fly ash sources deserves another look at the concrete mix
How residual carbon can affect water demand and admixture performance
Why bleeding and evaporation matter to finishing and early cracking
How Class C and Class F fly ash differ in their reactions
Why Jon challenges the approach behind ACI 323
Where Seth and Jon disagree about carbon limits and performance specifications
How earlier contractor and producer involvement can expose conflicting requirements
Why reducing concrete quantities and avoiding wasted loads belong in the carbon conversation
CHAPTERS
(01:10) Cracking, low breaks, and sustainability goals
(02:16) Supporting the podcast and Concrete Logic Academy
(05:59) The contractor’s fly ash problem
(07:58) What fly ash is and why it was used
(12:56) Reclaimed fly ash and a changing supply
(17:04) Why fly ash source changes matter
(19:40) Water demand, admixtures, and bleeding
(22:41) Class C versus Class F fly ash
(25:03) Investigating possible causes before assigning blame
(30:18) Jon’s challenge to carbon requirements and ACI 323
(34:25) Carbon limits and performance specifications
(37:23) Reducing concrete quantities and avoiding waste
(40:23) Know what you’re putting in your concrete
(40:45) Connecting with Dr. Jon Belkowitz

GUEST INFO

Dr. Jon Belkowitz
Intelligent Concrete

Guest link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/dr-jon-belkowitz/

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY

Your concrete materials are changing. Has your understanding kept up?

Concrete Logic Academy offers practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and early access to Concrete Logic Podcast episodes.

Join Concrete Logic Academy:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST

The Concrete Logic Podcast is independent and bootstrapped. If it gives you value, send a little value back.

Support the podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

You can also help by sharing this episode with a colleague or sending Seth a topic or guest suggestion.

KUIU LISTENER OFFER

Get 10% off KUIU with code LOGICPOD and support the Concrete Logic Podcast through our affiliate link.

Shop KUIU:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?

Email Seth:
[email protected]

CREDITS

Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media
Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.mdunton.com/

WHERE TO FIND SETH

Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://concreteschool.co

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.
46 min
October 15EP #172: Is Your Concrete Mix Eating Your Formwork?
ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST

Why aren’t your concrete forms and release agents performing like they used to?

Seth is joined by Ken Pratt, technical director at Swanson Group, and Jonas DeWeber, strategic account manager at Nox-Crete, to discuss what changing concrete mixes mean for formwork.

They explain why they believe more reactive mixes are contributing to shorter plywood life, release problems, and unexpected concrete finishes.

Seth questions whether adjusting the release agent could solve the problem, or whether contractors need to rethink the entire combination of concrete, plywood, and release agent.

The conversation raises a practical question: Are you selecting formwork for the concrete you’re placing today, or the concrete you worked with five years ago?

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How Ken and Jonas connect C595 blended cement mixes to changes in formwork performance
The difference between barrier and reactive release agents
How concrete chemistry and exposure time can affect plywood overlays
What distinguishes MDO, HDO, and phenolic surface film
Why an overlay designation alone may not define the performance you need
How release-agent selection can affect stripping and surface appearance
Why Ken is researching melamine overlays and what challenges remain
Why concrete discoloration may involve more than plywood or release agents
How pre-bid collaboration and mock-ups can help prevent costly surprises
Why finish requirements and specified form materials sometimes conflict
CHAPTERS

(01:43) Introduction and episode overview
(02:08) Guests’ backgrounds and concrete formwork experience
(03:02) Supporting the podcast and listener engagement
(05:03) C595 blended cement and formwork performance
(05:50) Reactive concrete mixes, plywood, and release agents
(08:07) Concrete chemistry and overlay deterioration
(10:04) MDO and HDO overlays explained
(12:07) Concrete alkalinity and formwork
(14:19) Matching release agents to reactive mixes
(15:18) Extending plywood life and managing formwork costs
(18:16) Overlay technology and plywood durability
(21:11) Can one formwork and release-agent combination work everywhere?
(24:06) Getting suppliers involved before construction
(25:40) Coordinating mix designs, formwork, and finish expectations
(35:22) Key takeaways for contractors and project managers
(37:01) Connecting with Ken and Jonas

GUEST INFO

Ken Pratt
Technical Director
Swanson Group

Guest link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/ken-pratt/

Jonas DeWeber
Strategic Account Manager
Nox-Crete

Guest link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/jonas-deweber/

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY

Concrete changed. Has your understanding kept up?

Concrete Logic Academy offers practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and early access to Concrete Logic Podcast episodes. Members also had the opportunity to submit questions for this conversation.

Join Concrete Logic Academy:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST

The Concrete Logic Podcast is independent and bootstrapped. If it gives you value, send a little value back.

Support the podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

You can also help by sharing this episode with a colleague or sending Seth a topic or guest suggestion.

KUIU LISTENER OFFER

Get 10% off KUIU with code LOGICPOD and support the Concrete Logic Podcast through our affiliate link.

Shop KUIU:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?
Email Seth:
[email protected]

CREDITS

Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media
Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.mdunton.com/

WHERE TO FIND SETH

Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://concreteschool.co

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.
43 min
October 06EP #171: 585,000 Yards of Concrete: Building a Massive LNG Plant
ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST

What does it take to build the process area of a massive LNG facility?

Seth talks with Joey Goscha of Baker Construction about the concrete work behind the liquefaction trains, power facilities, and underground systems. Joey explains why the job starts with the ground and why early decisions can affect everything that follows. Seth presses him on pile connections and what happens when the work in the field does not go as planned. They also discuss how crews manage concrete production, safety, and quality at a pace few commercial contractors ever see.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
What the process area includes beyond the LNG storage tanks
Why Gulf Coast ground conditions shape the work from the start
How precast piles support massive equipment foundations
Why Joey believes owners should invest in a thorough test pile program
What can happen when pile connection sleeves miss their intended elevation
How foundations are prepared for modules built elsewhere and shipped to the site
Why crews place much of the structural concrete at night
How multiple batch plants supply different mixes across the site
Where precast and cast-in-place duct banks each make sense
Why Joey puts safety first when discussing schedule and productivity
What would surprise a commercial contractor walking onto an LNG project
CHAPTERS
(01:45) Introduction and ways to support the show
(04:26) What is LNG, and why does it matter?
(08:41) What goes into an LNG process area?
(10:53) The size of the site and its workforce
(12:13) Ground stabilization, piles, and foundations
(17:12) Pile connections and the case for test piles
(20:52) Night pours and concrete production
(24:25) Miles of duct banks, piping, and trenches
(27:04) Safety and productivity at this scale
(29:28) Why stabilizing the ground is harder than it looks
(33:00) What would shock a commercial contractor?
(35:11) Joey on the pace of American construction

GUEST INFO
Joseph “Joey” Goscha
Vice President, Baker Construction
Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/joseph-goscha/

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY
Ground conditions, pile decisions, mix coordination, and placement all affect what happens next. The more you understand the “why” behind the concrete, the better questions you can ask before problems reach the field.

Concrete Logic Academy offers practical concrete education and courses for people who want to build that knowledge.

Start learning here:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, share this episode with a colleague.

Have a topic or guest suggestion? Use Ask Seth or leave a voicemail at:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

You can also visit the website and click Donate to send some value back:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/donate

GET THE CONCRETE LOGIC NEWSLETTER
One email each week with the latest episode, a new article, and questions worth asking about the concrete industry.
Sign up here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concrete-logic-newsletter-sign-up/

10% OFF KUIU FOR CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST LISTENERS
Need gear for your next hunt? Shop KUIU through our link and use code LOGICPOD for 10% off: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

CREDITS
Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media

Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.instagram.com/mduntonmusic

WHERE TO FIND SETH
Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/
Concrete Logic Academy:
https://concreteschool.co

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.
43 min
September 24 EP #170: Concrete Silica vs. Silicates: Are You Getting What You Paid For?
JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY.

ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST
What if the product you bought as colloidal silica is actually a cheap silicate?

Seth is joined by Dr. Jon Belkowitz of Intelligent Concrete to explain why these similarly named materials are not the same.

Jon argues that pH is one of the quickest ways to distinguish colloidal silica from a silicate, and that the difference can affect performance, handling, specifications, and cost.

The bigger concern is what happens when a product is sold as colloidal silica but is actually a much less expensive silicate. Jon says buyers should verify the chemistry instead of relying only on labels or sales claims.

The conversation also connects colloidal silica to current durability concerns in concrete and asks a practical question: Are you actually getting the material you think you are buying?

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
• The basic difference between a silicate and colloidal silica
• Why Jon compares the difference between silicate and silica to the difference between cement and concrete
• How sodium, potassium, and lithium silicates differ
• Why pH can be an important first check when evaluating a product sold as colloidal silica
• Why higher-pH silicates can require different handling and shipping considerations
• Why the cost difference between silicates and colloidal silica matters when evaluating a product
• Why Jon believes some products are being represented inaccurately in the marketplace
• What DOTs, contractors, and owners should verify instead of relying only on product descriptions
• Why Jon connects the renewed interest in colloidal silica to durability concerns with some lower-carbon concrete systems
• How colloidal silica may be used as one tool for improving concrete performance
• Why a certificate of analysis or independent testing can help confirm what material was actually supplied

CHAPTERS
(00:00) Introduction and support for the show
(02:13) A quick detour into Leon Foucault and science
(02:50) Concrete Logic Academy and today’s topic
(03:18) Silica versus silicates
(04:59) Using pH to tell the difference
(05:59) When does the difference matter in concrete?
(07:48) The cost gap between silicates and colloidal silica
(09:55) Product labeling, SDS information, and accountability
(10:26) Why DOTs specify silica
(12:49) What customers expect colloidal silica to do
(16:50) Colloidal silica and lower-carbon concrete
(18:00) How to verify what you are buying

GUEST INFO
Dr. Jon Belkowitz
Intelligent Concrete
Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/dr-jon-belkowitz/

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY
The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to.

Not the loudest person in the meeting.

Not the person repeating what they heard ten years ago.

The person who understands why the chemistry matters usually has the most valuable voice in the room.

That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for.

You get practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the topics covered on the Concrete Logic Podcast.

Start learning here:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back.

You can support the show here:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?

Email Seth: [email protected]

CREDITS
Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media

Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.instagram.com/mduntonmusic/

WHERE TO FIND SETH
Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

23 min
September 15 EP #169: Can Putting Other People First Help You Win in Concrete Construction?
JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY.

ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST
What if the fastest way to get ahead in concrete construction is to stop focusing so much on what you get?

Construction is competitive. Margins are tight, schedules matter, and when problems show up, everyone starts protecting their number. Seth is joined by Steve Eanes, a licensed Go-Giver coach, to ask whether putting other people first can actually make you more successful.

Using the Five Laws of Stratospheric Success from The Go-Giver, Steve explains why value, trust, authenticity, influence, and receptivity can change the way customers and partners see you.

The lesson is not to work for free or ignore profit. It is to create so much value that price becomes only one part of the decision.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
· Why creating value is different from simply lowering your price
· What customers may value beyond the product listed on an invoice
· Why Steve believes income grows by serving more people without sacrificing quality
· How trust and relationships can reduce the importance of being the cheapest option
· Why becoming a useful connector can create value outside your normal scope of work
· The difference between a go-giver, a go-getter, and a go-taker
· Why authenticity becomes most visible when a project is under pressure
· How keeping score can turn generosity into a transaction
· Why receiving payment, recognition, and help is part of effective giving
· What Steve calls the “law of left field” and how referrals can emerge years later
· One question you can ask before a meeting, project, or customer conversation to begin practicing these ideas

CHAPTERS
(00:00) Concrete Logic Academy and introduction
(01:05) Can putting other people first work in construction?
(04:20) Steve Eanes and the Five Laws of Stratospheric Success
(05:55) The story behind The Go-Giver
(07:06) Law of Value: creating more than what appears on the invoice
(10:38) Law of Compensation: serving more people without losing quality
(12:31) Law of Influence: putting other people’s interests first
(16:53) Law of Authenticity under pressure
(20:04) Law of Receptivity: learning to receive
(25:07) The law of left field and unexpected referrals
(27:56) How to start practicing the Go-Giver principles
(28:31) Steve’s master class, journal, and final takeaway

GUEST INFO
Steve Eanes
Licensed Go-Giver Coach

Profile:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/steve-eanes/

Website:
https://www.steveeanes.com

The Go-Giver Way Free Masterclass:
https://www.gogivermasterclass.com

Walk in Your Value Journal based on The Go-Giver:
https://mybook.to/walkinyourvalue

The Go-Giver Book:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0168Y6UO6

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY
The people who understand how to create value are often the people others want involved when a project gets difficult.

That applies to concrete knowledge too.

The person who understands the “why” behind the concrete, asks better questions, and helps the rest of the project team make better decisions can bring value far beyond the material itself.

That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for.

You get practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the topics covered on the Concrete Logic Podcast.

Start learning here:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back.

You can support the show here:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?
Email Seth:
[email protected]

CREDITS
Producers: Tony Thomas, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media

Music by: Mike Dunton
Instagram: @mduntonmusic

WHERE TO FIND SETH
Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

37 min
September 03EP #168: Are We Mishandling Concrete Admixtures?
JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY.

ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST

What happens when an admixture reaches the concrete producer in a different condition than when it left the manufacturer?

Seth is joined by Concrete Bob Higgins to discuss how heat, cold, microbial growth, separation, and poor storage or transportation can affect water-based admixtures before they enter the mix.

They examine how admixtures may change during shipping or storage, why producers should watch for unusual odors, color changes, solids, scum, or consistency changes, and why manufacturers should provide clear handling requirements.

Before blaming the cement, weather, batch plant, or contractor for a concrete problem, should we first ask what happened to the admixtures?

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Why Bob believes stacking admixtures can create cascading chemical effects in concrete
How microbial growth may change the condition and performance of water-based admixtures
Why biocides are used in some admixture formulations
How high storage temperatures may affect microbial protection
What odor, color, viscosity, sediment, or surface growth may indicate about an admixture
Why transportation and warehouse conditions matter before an admixture reaches the batch plant
Seth’s concern about admixtures traveling through unconditioned trucks and storage containers
Why adding more of a damaged or altered admixture may create additional problems
How cold temperatures may contribute to separation, crystallization, or inconsistent dosing in some formulations
Why Bob recommends getting storage and handling requirements from manufacturers in writing
What ready-mix producers should inspect before using an admixture that appears different than expected
CHAPTERS
(00:00) Why admixture handling matters
(03:00) Concrete Logic Academy and a new learning game
(04:16) Are we mishandling concrete admixtures?
(05:21) Cascading effects when admixtures are combined
(06:10) Biocides, heat, and microbial growth
(08:20) What a spoiled admixture may look and smell like
(10:26) Cold-weather storage and water-based products
(12:17) Why Bob wants better shipping quality control
(15:06) Storage temperature and the condition of the product
(17:12) Seth questions what happens during normal transportation
(18:21) Why simply increasing the dosage may not solve the problem
(20:20) Are admixtures tested under real jobsite conditions?
(21:28) Checking microbial-growth claims with AI
(24:06) Refrigerated shipping and controlled storage
(25:53) Separation, crystallization, and dosing consistency
(28:05) Get the manufacturer’s requirements in writing
(28:51) Smell it, inspect it, and do not ignore warning signs
(29:45) Bob’s practical advice for ready-mix producers

GUEST INFO
Robert "Concrete Bob" Higgins
Guest link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/robert-higgins/

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY
Concrete chemistry gets complicated quickly when one change affects everything else in the mix.

Understanding why an admixture works, how it should be handled, and what can interfere with its performance gives you a better foundation for solving concrete problems instead of guessing.

Concrete Logic Academy provides practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the podcast.

Join for free:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back.

You can support the show here:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?
Email Seth: [email protected]

Looking for workwear and hunting gear that can keep up with demanding conditions? KUIU delivers premium, purpose-built gear designed for serious performance. Get 15% off your first order:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

CREDITS
Producers: Joshua Huckeby, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media

Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.mdunton.com/

WHERE TO FIND SETH
Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.
36 min
August 25EP #167: Is Concrete’s Tough-Guy Culture Putting Workers at Risk?
JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY.

ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST
Does concrete’s culture of toughness help people handle difficult work, or does it keep them from asking for help when they need it most?

Seth is joined by Mike Schneider, who spent 45 years with Baker and served as senior vice president and chief people officer. They discuss why construction workers may suffer in silence, how supervisors can recognize behavior changes, and why mental health needs the same attention the industry gives physical safety. Mike argues that changing the culture starts with stronger relationships, leaders willing to show vulnerability, and making resources such as mental-health first aid, EAPs, and 988 easier to access.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Why construction’s traditional tough-guy culture can discourage workers from asking for help
Why Mike prefers framing the issue around “mental strength”
How leaders can make vulnerability and asking for help more acceptable on the job
Why relationships with crew members matter when identifying changes in behavior
What supervisors should notice when a normally dependable coworker begins acting differently
Why mental-health first-aid training can be valuable for frontline supervision
How industry groups are addressing mental health and suicide prevention
Why long hours, travel, layoffs, physical pain, family pressure, and substance use can compound stress
Why simply offering an Employee Assistance Program is not enough if workers do not know how to use it
Why contractors should include suicide response and postvention in crisis planning

CHAPTERS
(00:00) Construction toughness and the mental-health question
(04:01) Why construction workers suffer in silence
(09:09) Changing safety culture and redefining strength
(11:50) Relationships, behavior changes, and recognizing trouble
(15:46) Mental-health resources for the construction industry
(20:34) Opioids, overdoses, and Narcan on the jobsite
(21:59) Removing stigma and talking openly about mental health
(24:15) Why construction faces a difficult combination of risk factors
(27:51) EAPs, 988, and making help easier to reach
(29:44) Screening tools and starting the conversation
(30:37) Language, crisis planning, and postvention
(33:05) Mike’s closing challenge and contact information

GUEST INFO
Mike Schneider, Consultant
Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/mike-schneider/
Email: [email protected]

RESOURCES MENTIONED
CIASP - Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention - preventconstructionsuicide.com
US - United Suicide Survivors International - unitedsurvivors.com
CMHA - Construction Mental Health Alliance - construction wellness.org
ANSW - Alliance for Naloxone Safety in the Workplace - answ.org
AFSP - American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - afsp.org

Books:
“The Anxious Generation - How the Great Rewiring of Children is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” by Jonathan Haldt
“YES, You can Talk about Mental Health at Work” by Melissa Doman
“Empire of Pain - the Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty” by Patrick Radden Keefe
“Dreamland - The True Story of America’s Opiate Epidemic” by Sam Quinones

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY
Concrete knowledge matters, but leadership also means understanding the people doing the work. Concrete Logic Academy provides practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the podcast.
Join for free: https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back.
You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?
Email Seth: [email protected]

Special thanks to Andrew Johnson for supporting the podcast.

CREDITS
Producers: Andrew Johnson, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media

Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.mdunton.com/

WHERE TO FIND SETH
Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/
Concrete Logic Academy:
https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.
40 min
August 13 EP #166: Can Concrete Heal Itself?
JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY.

ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST

How can concrete be waterproofed from the inside instead of relying on a membrane attached to the surface?

Seth is joined by Nick Karam, PE, Business Development Manager at Xypex, to explain how crystalline waterproofing works, where it is commonly used, and how it compares with traditional membranes and coatings. Nick explains how the chemistry reacts inside concrete, how it can help seal hairline cracks when water is present, and what contractors and engineers should consider when comparing products, testing performance, scheduling leak tests, and weighing upfront cost against long-term maintenance.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• Why hardened concrete can still allow water to move through pores and capillaries
• How crystalline waterproofing reacts with water and cement-hydration byproducts
• The difference between an integral crystalline admixture and a surface membrane or liner
• How crystalline products can also be applied as a slurry coating to existing concrete
• Why water exposure can reactivate crystalline chemistry around a new crack
• What Nick says contractors should expect during an initial leak test
• Why a two-to-two-and-a-half-week healing period may need to be considered in the project schedule
• Where crystalline waterproofing is commonly used, including tanks, foundations, elevator pits, tunnels, and wastewater structures
• What permeability and hydrostatic-pressure tests can reveal about product performance
• How loss-on-ignition testing can be used to compare the active material in crystalline products
• Why Nick recommends comparing long-term maintenance and labor costs, not only the admixture cost per cubic yard

CHAPTERS

(00:00) Introduction, podcast support, and Concrete Logic Academy
(04:20) Nick Karam’s background and role at Xypex
(05:43) What crystalline waterproofing actually does
(07:54) How the crystalline reaction works inside concrete
(09:50) Using crystalline coatings on existing concrete
(11:46) How to compare crystalline waterproofing products
(12:05) Permeability and hydrostatic-pressure testing
(15:02) Loss-on-ignition testing and active ingredients
(17:18) Where crystalline waterproofing is commonly used
(18:48) Mix design, dosage, workability, and admixture compatibility
(20:17) When does crystalline waterproofing become active?
(23:09) Leak testing and crack-healing time
(24:58) Scheduling around tank leak tests
(26:09) Cost versus membranes and traditional waterproofing
(26:52) Nick’s final takeaway on long-term performance
(27:49) How to contact Nick Karam

GUEST INFO

Nick Karam, PE
Business Development Manager
Xypex

Guest link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/nick-karam-pe/

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 216-956-1105

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY

Waterproofing concrete is not just about choosing a product. It is about understanding how water moves through concrete, how the system performs over time, and what the testing actually tells you.

Concrete Logic Academy helps you understand the “why” behind decisions like these so you can make better calls in the field and in the specifications.

Start learning here:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST

If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back.

Support the show here:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

KUIU affiliate link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?
Email Seth: [email protected]

CREDITS

Producers: Ken Tiffany, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media
Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.mdunton.com/

WHERE TO FIND SETH

Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

35 min
August 04 EP #165: Why the Next Generation Should Choose Ready Mix Concrete
JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY.

ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST
Why would someone choose ready mix after growing up around the early mornings, equipment failures, staffing problems, and constant pressure of the business? Seth talks with Morgan and Scotch Nelson of SB Cox Ready Mix about why Scotch followed his father into the industry instead of running from it.

Morgan and Scotch explain how hands-on experience, responsibility, technology, and visible results can make concrete a rewarding career. They also discuss the industry’s larger challenge: showing younger workers that ready mix offers more than hard work. It offers ownership, opportunity, and a chance to point to something real and say, “I helped build that.”

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
· How SB Cox Ready Mix grew from one plant and six used trucks
· Why relationships and industry mentors were important to Morgan’s career
· What convinced Scotch to follow his father into the ready mix business
· Why working in multiple positions gave Scotch a stronger understanding of the company
· How hands-on responsibility can create interest and confidence in younger workers
· Why producers are struggling to recruit CDL drivers and mechanics
· How changing expectations around work-life balance affect recruitment
· Why social media can help ready mix companies reach younger candidates
· How cloud-based batching and remote troubleshooting are changing plant operations
· Why visible results can make construction work rewarding
· How networking with other young professionals can support a long-term concrete career

CHAPTERS
(00:00) Why choose a career in ready mix?
(00:54) Supporting the podcast and Concrete Logic Academy
(03:50) How SB Cox Ready Mix started
(05:38) The mentors and relationships behind the company
(07:53) Growing up around the ready mix business
(09:24) Introducing the next generation to concrete
(11:49) Responsibility, ownership, and hands-on experience
(13:23) Learning the business from the ground up
(15:43) Can the industry create similar opportunities for young workers?
(16:38) CDL requirements, work-life balance, and recruitment challenges
(19:10) Technology and social media in ready mix
(20:49) Work ethic and finding meaningful work
(23:13) AI, automation, and the future of concrete careers
(24:55) Awareness, networking, and the next generation

GUEST INFO
Morgan Nelson
SB Cox Ready Mix
Guest link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/morgan-nelson/

Scotch Nelson
SB Cox Ready Mix
Guest link:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/scotch-nelson/

CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY
The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to.

Not the loudest person in the meeting.

Not the person repeating what they heard ten years ago.

The person who understands the plants, trucks, materials, people, and technology behind ready mix usually has the most valuable voice in the room.

That understanding is built through education and hands-on experience.

Concrete Logic Academy provides practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the topics covered on the Concrete Logic Podcast.

Start learning here:
https://concreteschool.co

SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back.

You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/

You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu

Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media?
Email Seth: [email protected]

CREDITS
Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media

Music by: Mike Dunton
https://www.mdunton.com/

WHERE TO FIND SETH
Concrete Logic Podcast:
https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/

Concrete Logic Academy:
https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/

Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

33 min