In this episode of "The Maker and The Mix," Jeff Girard and Caleb Lawson tackle the essence of what makes CCI's Ultimate course a foundational cornerstone for anyone in the craft concrete industry. Discover why the course is designed not just to teach you finishes, but to instill a deep-rooted understanding of the material and process. Caleb reflects on his decade-long journey under Jeff's mentorship, highlighting the immeasurable value of having a structural engineer in your corner daily.

We also dive into real-world applications of engineering principles. Learn how our 16-foot double-cantilevered, post-tensioned, cable-stayed conference table not only showcases design flair but stands as a testament to the meticulous engineering that ensures safety and durability. This intricate balance between design and engineering gives you the confidence you need to execute any project successfully.

But why should you trust CCI? Caleb draws parallels between theological education and engineering practice to underline the importance of sound knowledge backed by proven expertise. And as a special treat, over the next few weeks, we're hosting CCI alumni who have successfully applied what they've learned in their respective businesses. Jason Johnstone, Dian Mullis, and Dylan Myers join us to share their experiences and how CCI's Ultimate course was a game-changer for them.

Don't miss your chance to learn from the best. Seats for our upcoming courses are filling up fast!

Don't miss out on the true value CCI offers. Tune in next week as we continue to put our money where our mouth is, showing you the tangible, long-term benefits of a CCI education.

Episode 23: Striking the Perfect Balance—Fiber, Fluidity, and Engineered Confidence

In Episode 23, Jeff and Caleb explore the intricate balance between fiber loads and fluidity in concrete mixes, a topic that is both crucial and timely for the industry. They begin by discussing Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC), designed by Victor Li for their toughness rather than peak strength, setting the stage for a deeper conversation about material properties.

As they unpack the latest tests on fiber loads, Jeff and Caleb explain how the industry's trending preference for ultra-fluid concrete is a double-edged sword: easier to work with but at the cost of compromised flexural strength - something Jeff and Caleb are unwilling to sacrifice. However, it's not a zero-sum game. With the Alpha line of products, it's possible to achieve both fluidity and strength.

To cap off the conversation, the duo discusses their 16-foot, double-cantilevered, post-tensioned, cable-stayed conference table. This engineering feat is a testament to the precision and confidence that proper engineering can bring to your concrete crafting projects.

Up your game in the world of concrete, AND see Alpha in action! Don't miss our upcoming:

Featured Products:

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on the latest in the industry.

Chapters:

(04:13) Intro to the Fluid Concrete Trend

(22:22) The Trade Off

(32:45) Strength as a Non-Negotiable

(53:33) PVA vs. AR Glass Fibers

(1:12:26) The Alpha Difference

(1:23:06) See Alpha in Action - In Person!

Episode 22: Unveiling the Truth—Alpha Products' Strength and the Ethics of Context

In this enlightening episode, Jeff and Caleb don't hold back. First on the agenda is the critical issue of context manipulation—how taking statements out of context for competitive advantage isn't just misleading, but downright unethical. They set the record straight and clear the air.

Then, the conversation pivots to something positively groundbreaking—the revolutionary Alpha line of products. Experience the extraordinary power of Alpha Polymer—it achieves an astounding 47% increase in strength when integrated with Rapid Set CementAll. Our proprietary Alpha mix formula, crafted with Portland cement, shatters the 28-day flexural strength of conventional industry blends in just 24 hours. And if you're curious about how we stack up alongside other blends, our testing reveals that an Alpha mix design can deliver 1-day strengths that surpass the current industry trend handily. You need strength you can rely on. We're not just meeting industry standards; we're rewriting them.

Want to see for yourself? Jeff and Caleb share an exclusive invitation to the November GFRC Mastery course where the Alpha products will take center stage. Take this opportunity to redefine your concrete craft.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay in the loop.

In Episode 21 of The Maker and the Mix Podcast, hosts Jeff Girard and Caleb Lawson delve deep into the realm of wisdom and purpose in business, drawing inspiration from the insightful principles of ancient literature. The episode transcends the surface-level chatter, offering a profound perspective on the art of staying in the infinite game of entrepreneurship. Embracing the wisdom of avoiding futile controversies and arguments, as beautifully expressed in Titus 3:9-11, Jeff and Caleb underline the significance of focusing energies on what truly matters, nurturing growth, and rising above the noise.

They introduce the concept of the "infinite game," as popularized by Simon Sinek, illustrating how the concrete industry, much like life itself, is a perpetual journey. There's no ultimate victory or loss – it's about evolving, adapting, and continually playing the game. Passionately advocating for a people-centric approach in business, they navigate the distinction between serving customers and chasing after hollow accolades, unveiling a vital truth: the real fulfillment lies in the joy of serving, connecting, and making a difference.

At the heart of it all, they weave in the soul of The Concrete Countertop Institute and reveal how these philosophical pillars drive CCI – from nurturing a nurturing community, to perpetuating a journey of service, wisdom, and purpose that goes far beyond the mere pursuit of products. Tune in to The Maker and the Mix Podcast to explore the nexus of wisdom, purpose, and business, and to understand how these ideals steer the ship of The Concrete Countertop Institute towards an ever-brighter horizon.

Stay tuned to The Maker & The Mix podcast on Spotify as Jeff Girard, Caleb Lawson, and special guests delve into the profound philosophy and practical aspects of the Craft Concrete industry. Join our upcoming courses:

Website: concretecountertopinstitute.com.

Dive deep with Jeff and Caleb in this engaging episode of "The Maker & The Mix" as we dissect and redefine the terms that often cloud the narrative in our niche concrete industry.

Beginning with the essence of Omega and Ovation, we reestablish these products not merely as sealers, but as "Clear, Extremely Hard Micro-Coatings," drawing a clear line in the sand against the backdrop of commonplace "Thick Plastic Films." We agree, in chorus with many industry experts, about the unappealing aesthetic these films often introduce.

Venturing further into the realm of craft concrete expectations, we address the ever-contentious topic of stains. Who's vying for them? Who's avoiding them? In a market where Carrera marble—a notoriously stain-prone surface—has some market share, and is seen by some as desirable for that reason, what's the real conversation about stains?

Join us as we navigate this intricate terrain, distinguishing between the cherished patina and the unwelcome dirty, adding layers to our understanding of the art, and the industry, of craft concrete.

Remember, it's not just about crafting concrete, it's about understanding its language and lore. Engage in the discourse, challenge the norms, and enrich your artisan journey with us on "The Maker & The Mix".

*For more insights, courses, and transformative journeys into the world of craft concrete, explore our courses below!

- The Ultimate Craft Concrete Training Course: December 4-8, 2023

- 2 Day GFRC Mastery Course: November 9-10, 2023

**Episode 19 of The Maker & the Mix: Strength in Numbers: The Alpha Advantage & Beyond

Welcome to an episode that is all about strength and speed. Join Jeff and Caleb as they unravel the game-changing capabilities of Alpha Polymer in Episode 19 of The Maker and the Mix.

Imagine increasing the strength of your CTS Rapidset CementAll by 45% or doubling the flexural strength in your Portland Cement-based mix - all in just 24 hours! These aren't mere hypotheses; Jeff showcases these dramatic results achieved through the use of Alpha Polymer.

But our discussion isn't confined to the numbers; we explore the realm of concrete craft in-depth, examining the impact of powerful plasticizers and effective curing practices. By sharing anecdotal experiences and concrete facts (pun intended!), we aim to equip you, our listeners, with invaluable insights that could help elevate your craft.

Amidst these enlightening discussions, we couldn't help but address a rather humorous rumor that has been circulating in our industry. Some folks believe that Caleb's father, a retired judge, is the financial backbone supporting Caleb's stake in The Concrete Countertop Institute. We find the idea quite amusing and take it in stride, remaining focused on our mission to innovate and educate in the world of concrete crafting.

Sadly, there won't be an episode of the podcast next week as we'll be fully engaged with a course at Caleb's workshop. But don't worry, we've got more exciting episodes lined up for your learning pleasure!

Speaking of learning, if you're eager to delve deeper into the world of concrete, consider joining us at one of our upcoming courses - the Ultimate Creative Concrete Course or our 2-Day Professional GFRC Training, hosted by The Concrete Countertop Institute. Simply follow the links below to find out more and enroll:

[Ultimate Creative Concrete Course](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/product/ultimate-creative-concrete-training/)

[2-Day Professional GFRC Training](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/product/pro-gfrc/)

Let's explore the strength of Alpha Polymer and elevate your craft to the next level!

[Shop CCI Products](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/shop/)

[Subscribe to our Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChs5cbOU1jYrB59hpLFT8zQ)

[Follow us on Spotify](https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/caleb-lawson6)

Join hosts Caleb Lawson and Jeff Girard on a captivating journey in this episode of The Maker & The Mix, as we delve into the transition 'From Raw Materials to Revolutionary Products.' We explore the diverse world of concrete countertops, furniture, tile, and artwork, elucidating the core elements that lay the foundation of their creation.

Our journey is akin to that of Caleb's grandmother, Fran Carlton, who channeled her dissatisfaction into impactful action, transforming Florida's legislation. We, too, have transformed dissatisfaction into action. Unable to find user-friendly, high-performing sealers and polymers on the market, Jeff ventured to develop superior alternatives.

Our efforts have culminated in unique materials designed to elevate the concrete craft, bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern innovation. These materials promise to shape the future of the craft, enabling artisans to produce higher quality work with greater efficiency and reliability.

Dive deeper into the world of concrete craft with us. Discover our breakthroughs, learn about our transformative materials, and join us on our mission to redefine the future of the craft.

If you're inspired to explore these innovations first-hand and elevate your concrete crafting skills, our [Ultimate Creative Concrete Course](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/product/ultimate-creative-concrete-training) and [2-Day Professional GFRC Training](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/product/pro-gfrc) offer immersive experiences that provide insights into our exclusive techniques and products.

For those interested in testing our revolutionary sealers and materials for themselves, visit our [online shop](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/shop/) and be a part of the revolution.

Tune into The Maker & The Mix for a deeper understanding of your craft. The revolution begins here!

Welcome to The Maker & The Mix Podcast, Episode 17! Exciting news - Caleb Lawson is now a co-owner of The Concrete Countertop Institute (CCI). Congratulations, Caleb!

In this episode, we delve deep into outdoor concrete countertops, offering valuable insights to elevate your craftsmanship. Learn about Mix Design and Materials Selection, ensuring durable and stunning outdoor concrete projects. Discover a study comparing the Mix Density and strength of Alpha Pro Polymer versus No Polymer in concrete, guiding you to make the best choices for your projects.

Curing Best Practices are crucial for perfect results. We also discuss the importance of using Breathable versus Non-Breathable Sealers for exterior concrete, ensuring long-lasting finishes.

Avoid common pitfalls, like using Foam Core for Outside, and master the art of Seams for Exterior Concrete, achieving seamless perfection.

Ready to enhance your concrete skills? Don't miss our [Ultimate Creative Concrete Course](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/product/ultimate-creative-concrete-training/) and [2-Day Professional GFRC Course](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/product/pro-gfrc/). Enroll now and become a concrete master!

Hit the like button, leave a comment, and subscribe to join our thriving artisan community. Let's create concrete masterpieces together!

#ConcreteCountertops #MixDesign #CuringBestPractices #BreathableSealers #ConcreteSealing #FoamCore #ExteriorConcrete #ConcreteArtistry #ConcreteCraftsmanship #TheMakerAndTheMix #ConcreteMasterpiece #CraftingConcrete #ConcreteSolutions #Artisans #ConcreteUpdates #ConcreteExpertise #Podcast #ConcreteCommunity

Join Caleb and Jeff in Episode 16 of The Maker & The Mix podcast as they delve into the art of sealing concrete countertops quickly and effectively.

In this episode, titled "How to Seal Concrete Countertops Quickly," Caleb demonstrates the application process of the renowned Omega Concrete Countertop Sealer (The Last Sealer You'll Ever Need!), providing valuable insights and tips along the way.

Discover the secrets to achieving a flawless finish that not only protects your concrete surfaces but also enhances their beauty. Caleb's live demonstration, with Jeff's ever insightful commentary will guide you through the steps, offering valuable techniques to streamline the sealing process without compromising on quality.

If you've been searching for a quick, easy, and excellent solution to seal your concrete countertops, Omega is the answer. This premium sealer is specifically formulated for concrete surfaces, providing exceptional protection against stains, moisture, and everyday wear and tear. With its easy application and long-lasting performance, Omega is a game-changer for anyone in the concrete countertop industry.

Ready to elevate your concrete craftsmanship? Don't miss out on our upcoming Ultimate Creative Concrete Course and 2-Day Professional GFRC Course. These comprehensive training programs, led by industry experts, will equip you with the knowledge and skills to master the art of concrete. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, these courses offer invaluable insights and hands-on experience to take your skills to new heights.

To purchase Omega Concrete Countertop Sealer, visit our website here: https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/product/omega-concrete-countertop-sealer/

Elevate your sealing game and achieve exceptional results with this top-of-the-line sealer.Unlock your concrete countertop potential and explore the world of concrete craftsmanship with The Maker & The Mix podcast. Listen to Episode 16 now on your favorite podcast platform and be inspired by the artistry of sealing concrete countertops

[Listen to Episode 16 on Spotify](insert link)[Listen to Episode 16 on Youtube](https://youtu.be/3B9iAbdNzHw)

Don't wait! Seize the opportunity to enhance your skills and create stunning concrete masterpieces.

Enroll in our Ultimate Creative Concrete Course and 2-Day Professional GFRC Course today

[Enroll in the 2-Day Professional GFRC Course](https://concretecountertopinstitute.com/pro-gfrc-3/)

The Maker & The Mix Podcast, Episode 15: Wave a Dead Chicken Over It! Troubleshooting Problems in the Concrete Countertop and Furniture Craft

Join Caleb and Jeff as they dive into the world of troubleshooting in the concrete craft. In this episode, aptly titled "Wave a Dead Chicken Over it," we explore the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind common issues and how to effectively address them.

At The Concrete Countertop Institute (CCI), we believe in empowering our community with practical knowledge and problem-solving skills. We go beyond surface-level information and equip you with the tools to become a confident and self-sufficient artisan. Our goal is not to keep you as an eternal student, but to help you become a master of your craft.

We want to create masters, which is why we don't continually move the goalposts. Facts don't move, and that's what we focus on—solid, proven techniques and principles that stand the test of time.

In this episode, we'll discuss the significance of understanding the "why" behind the challenges you may encounter in your concrete projects. By delving into troubleshooting processes, we'll provide valuable insights and strategies to overcome common issues with confidence and precision.

So, if you're tired of being perpetually reliant on others and want to become a true master of your craft, join us on this enlightening journey of understanding.

Listen to the episode on your favorite podcast platform or visit our website at [Podcast Link] to embark on this transformative journey with us.

And if you're ready to take your skills to the next level, don't miss out on our upcoming Ultimate Creative Concrete Course and 2-Day Professional GFRC Course. Enroll now and join the ranks of skilled artisans who are mastering the art of concrete.

Happy listening!

Caleb and Jeff