Sometimes, life takes everything you’ve built and washes it away. That’s exactly what happened to Caleb Lawson of Lawson Design in Canton, NC, when Hurricane Helene tore through his shop, leaving him with nothing but a choice—give up or rebuild. In this episode, we walk through the storm, the wreckage, and the lessons that followed. Caleb shares what it was like to start from scratch, the surprising advantages of a leaner setup, and the tools that proved to be truly irreplaceable. If you’ve ever faced a setback that made you question everything, this episode will remind you why resilience isn’t just about getting back up—it’s about coming back stronger.

🎧 Tune in and hear Caleb’s hard-earned wisdom on what he’d do differently if he had to rebuild all over again.

🔗 Listen now. Get inspired. Keep building.


#ResilientMindset #StoryOfRebuilding #OvercomingObstacles #CreativeEntrepreneur #LessonsInGrit #ConcreteCraft #GrowthMindset #SmallBusinessSuccess #HurricaneRecovery #TheConcretePodcast

Most concrete makers are charging too little, working too hard, and wondering why the numbers don’t add up. But what if pricing wasn’t the problem - what if the strategy was? This week on The Concrete Podcast, BG sits down with Jared Case of LC Wood & Crete, a concrete countertop and flooring company out of Wichita, KS. What started as a casual shop conversation turned into a real talk on what it takes to make concrete work - financially and sustainably.

We break down:

✔️ The pricing mistakes keeping you stuck

✔️ Concrete Costs Compared: Ultracast 360 vs. Maker Mix

✔️ The game-changing shift to Crystalline Silica Free High-Performance Concrete (CSF-HPC)

✔️ Why Kodiak Pro’s Maker Mix isn’t just a better mix - it’s a better future for your health and business

Regulations on crystalline silica are tightening. The industry is shifting. The real question is: Are you adapting? Tune in and future-proof your business before the wave hits.

🎧 Listen now & take the smarter path forward.

#ConcreteCountertops #PricingStrategy #ConcreteBusiness #MakerMix #HighPerformanceConcrete #SilicaFree #CSFHPC #ConcreteCraftsmen #SmallBusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset

Success in concrete—like life—is about knowing what to fix, what to charge for, and what to let go. In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we’re talking shop on everything from perfecting your mix to getting paid for storage, because craftsmanship isn't just about the pour—it’s about the business behind it.

We’ll cover:

* MatteMax mastery—how to get stronger, more predictable results.

* The art of charging for storage—why holding client pieces shouldn’t come out of your pocket.

* Polytek 74-29 White Rubber for molds—first impressions and what it means for your workflow.

* Brandon Gore’s new live-stream setup—a peek into the studio, raw and unfiltered.

* Fixing an unevenly acid-etched cast-in-place countertop—before sealing locks in the problem.

* Common mistakes that cost you time and money, including:

* Overwatering your mix (hello, weak concrete).

* Why rebar is the wrong move for reinforcement.

* The truth about curing time—why patience equals strength.

* What really causes hairline cracks (hint: it’s not what you think).

* Salvaging a warped slab—when to fix it, when to walk away.

If you’re in the business of making concrete—and making it well—this one’s for you. Tune in, take notes, and let’s make sure your next project is your best one yet.


#ConcreteWisdom #MakerMindset #BuildBetter #ConcreteCraft #EntrepreneurLife #ConcreteCountertops #DIYConcrete #HandmadeBusiness #ConstructionHacks #CreativeProblemSolving

You poured your heart into that concrete countertop, but now the sealer’s failing, and you're stuck wondering how to fix it. Maybe you're considering a concrete kitchen sink—spoiler alert: don’t. This week on The Concrete Podcast, BG and Jon lay out the hard truths and smart strategies for maintaining concrete countertops, stripping failing sealers, and making design choices that actually boost your profitability. Plus, we’ll break down why buying from Kodiak Pro isn’t just about materials—it’s about joining a movement that puts makers first.

If you’re in the concrete game, this episode will save you time, money, and frustration. Tune in, take notes, and let’s build something better.

Enhance your concrete design skills with our upcoming workshops and events:

/// RammCrete Workshop – March 29-30, 2025, in Goddard, KS. Step into the world of high-end concrete with Brandon Gore’s exclusive RammCrete technique. In this 1.5-day intensive, you’ll master mold construction, mix design, and application methods that transform raw material into striking wall panels, furniture, and sinks. Elevate your craftsmanship and stand out in the industry.

/// Concrete Hero's Quest – May 6-7, 2025, in Napa, CA. An epic 2-day hands-on workshop where industry leaders take you through the game-changing techniques of Upright Casting (UCT) and RammCrete. Get hands-on with mixing, casting, finishing, and sealing complex concrete designs while networking with like-minded artisans in the heart of Napa, CA.

/// The Basics: Fundamental Concrete Workshop – June 7-8, 2025, in Goddard, KS. New to concrete? This 1.5-day foundational workshop is designed for beginners looking to build a strong skillset. Led by expert artisans with over 20 years of experience, you'll gain hands-on training in templating, form building, mixing, casting, curing, sealing, and installation—everything you need to start creating professional-quality work.

/// Kodiak Pro Demo Day – June 21, 2025, at Gore Design Co. Studio in Goddard, KS, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Join us for the first-ever Kodiak Pro Demo Day, a free, hands-on experience where concrete enthusiasts get unrestricted access to cutting-edge materials and techniques. Spots are limited—secure yours now and experience why Kodiak Pro is unlike anything else in the industry.

For more details and registration, please visit the respective event pages.


#ConcreteDesign #Craftsmanship #SmallBusinessGrowth #ConcreteCountertops #DIYProjects #EntrepreneurMindset #MakerCommunity #HomeImprovement #KodiakPro

After a three-week break, we’re back—and we’ve got a full pour of insights for you. This episode of The Concrete Podcast is all about setting yourself up for success, whether you’re crafting a massive casting table, mastering the art of intentional mottling in concrete, or understanding why Design Is Every Thing. We’ll also talk about an upcoming Kodiak Pro Demo Day (a free event you won’t want to miss) and how you can support Noel Moniot’s GoFundMe. If you’re in the business of making things that last, this one’s for you.

Enhance your concrete design skills with our upcoming workshops and events:

RammCrete Workshop


Dates: March 29-30, 2025


Location: Goddard, KS


Description: Master Brandon Gore's exclusive RammCrete technique in this 1.5-day workshop. Learn mold construction, mix design, application, and finishing to create high-end concrete designs like wall panels, furniture, and sinks.

Concrete Hero's Quest


Dates: May 6-7, 2025


Location: Napa, CA


Description: Join industry leaders for a 2-day hands-on workshop covering Upright Casting Techniques (UCT) and RammCrete. Gain practical experience in mixing, casting, finishing, and sealing complex concrete designs.

The Basics: Fundamental Concrete Workshop


Dates: June 7-8, 2025


Location: Goddard, KS


Description: Ideal for beginners, this 1.5-day workshop led by expert artisans with over 20 years of experience covers essential skills including templating, form building, concrete mixing, casting, curing, sealing, and installation.

Kodiak Pro Demo Day


Date: June 21, 2025


Location: Gore Design Co. Studio, Goddard, KS


Time: 10 AM - 2 PM


Description: Attend the inaugural Kodiak Pro Demo Day for a hands-on experience with no limits. This free event has limited spots available.

For more details and registration, please visit the respective event pages.




#ConcreteCraft #MakerMindset #DesignMatters #CreativeEntrepreneur #BuildBetter #ArtOfMaking #ConstructionLife #CraftAndDesign #StoryInStone #KodiakPro

In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we’re unpacking the small details that lead to big wins in the world of concrete design. From weighing every material—yes, even bagged goods—to mastering the art of lowering the sheen on a countertop, we’ll guide you through strategies that ensure precision and elevate your craft.

We also dig into the essentials of fiberglass rebar placement, where to use it, and why it matters, plus tips for attaching undermount stainless steel sinks with confidence. To top it all off, we share a story about an aggravating intern who taught us the hard way about trusting your gut. If you’ve ever second-guessed a decision or wondered how to get things just right, this one’s for you.

Your next project is calling—are you ready to answer?

Upcoming Workshops:

* Basics Fundamentals Workshop: February 1st–2nd in Goddard, KS. Register now at Concrete Design School!


#ConcreteCrafting #ProblemSolvingTips #GrowthMindset #PrecisionMatters #concretecountertops #FiberglassRebar #DIYSuccess #CraftsmanshipJourney #LearnAndLevelUp

Start 2025 off right with a fresh perspective on community, creativity, and concrete. In this episode, we talk about what it means to foster a tribe that thrives on collaboration and growth. Celebrate Alicia Dietz’s incredible grant win and learn how her journey inspires us all. We also uncover why more isn’t always better—spoiler alert: mixing 1300 lbs of Maker Mix in a barrel mixer can teach you some unforgettable lessons. Plus, we explore the power of intuition in design and share insights on Fusion sealer that could transform your projects. If you’re ready to leave negativity behind and step into a year of purposeful creation, this episode is for you.

Upcoming Workshops:

* Basics Fundamentals Workshop: February 1st–2nd in Goddard, KS. Register now at Concrete Design School!


#ConcreteTribe #CreativeCommunity #PersonalGrowthJourney #IntuitiveDesign #ConcreteProjects #ProblemSolvingTips #SealerSolutions #MakerMindset #NewYearNewMindset

As we close out 2024, we’re bringing clarity to a topic that can transform your success in 2025: perceived value. Building on last week’s discussion, we’ll explore how understanding and communicating the true worth of what you offer can elevate your craft, increase your impact, and attract more of the right opportunities.

This episode is an invitation to look inward, refine your messaging, and align your pricing strategy with the value you create. Join us as we share insights to help you craft a more profitable, fulfilling year ahead.

Upcoming Workshops:

* RammCrete Workshop: January 11th–12th in Goddard, KS

* Basics Fundamentals Workshop: February 1st–2nd in Goddard, KS. Register now at Concrete Design School!


#PersonalGrowth #PerceivedValue #SelfDevelopmentJourney #Profitable2025 #BrandBuilding #EntrepreneurMindset #CreativeEntrepreneur #LeadershipDevelopment #SuccessStrategies

As we turn the page on 2024 and look toward a fresh start, every concrete artisan faces one big question: How do you price your craft so your business truly thrives? In this episode, we’ll clarify the path ahead—examining fair pricing strategies, tackling the quirks of using CementAll for countertops, and understanding the new ICT Fusion Sealer. Along the way, we’ll also share a rare year-end opportunity: buy 2 pallets of Maker Mix or RadMix before December 31st and score a free 5-pad diamond sanding set, a smart move that offsets taxable income and sets you up right. So settle in, take a breath, and let’s ensure your artistry and your balance sheet align as you step confidently into 2025.

Upcoming Workshops:

* RammCrete Workshop: January 11th–12th in Goddard, KS

* Basics Fundamentals Workshop: February 1st–2nd in Goddard, KS. Register now at Concrete Design School!

#ConcretePodcast #SmallBusinessTips #PricingStrategies #ConcreteCrafts #DecorativeConcrete #MakerMix #BusinessEconomics #CraftsmanTools #SelfDevelopment

Step into the world of concrete artistry with this week’s episode of The Concrete Podcast. Together, we’ll uncover the secrets to maximizing the beauty and impact of super pigments in your projects, addressing common challenges with decorative aggregates, and bringing new life to a 20-year-old countertop ready for resealing.

We’ll also take a moment to spotlight the groundbreaking Neverest Concrete Athlete Design Competition and how it’s inspiring creators to push boundaries. Finally, we explore the timeless philosophy of wabi-sabi and its role in design exercises that celebrate imperfections as part of the story. If you're ready to level up your craft, this episode has your name on it.

Upcoming Workshops:

* RammCrete Workshop: January 11th–12th in Goddard, KS

* Basics Fundamentals Workshop: February 1st–2nd in Goddard, KS. 
Register now at Concrete Design School!

#ConcreteCrafting

#PigmentMastery

#DecorativeConcrete

#AggregateDesign

#WabiSabi

#DesignInspiration

#SelfDevelopment

#NeverestCompetition

#ConcreteInnovation