A Mason's Work

The Plumb: Grounding What You Build


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This episode introduces the Plumb by explaining its operative function and why it matters for anything intended to stand upright over time. From there, it establishes the Plumb as a symbolic reference for staying grounded and centered amid pressure and adversity.


🔑 Key Takeaways

  • The plumb is a simple gravity-based tool for establishing true vertical.
  • Structures resist collapse when they align with gravity.
  • Cantilevered or angled elements still depend on a hidden vertical reference.
  • Symbolically, the plumb points toward grounding and centeredness.
  • Staying present and centered is a practical, repeatable discipline.

💬 Featured Quotes

  • “This week we’re going to be talking about the plumb.” (0:09–0:12)
  • “The plumb is a tool that is used by carpenters, operative masons, anybody that’s responsible for building anything that’s basically going to go vertical.” (0:17–0:35)
  • “It’s basically a string, and on the bottom of that string is a very heavy weight.” (0:42–0:46)
  • “By default, because of gravity, [it will] make a straight line perpendicular to the level.” (0:49–0:55)
  • “Whatever it’s pointed at the bottom is essentially a direct line that points to the center of the earth.” (1:16–1:22)
  • “When you want something to stand, working along that line of gravity makes the most sense.” (1:45–1:48)
  • “If you install a post… at an angle, having it not succumb to gravity is very difficult.” (2:05–2:13)
  • “Somewhere in that structure is essentially a gravitational plumb.” (2:18–2:28)
  • “When we talk about it from a symbolic level, we’re really talking about the ability to stay grounded and centered.” (2:51–3:08)
  • “Spending time with the plumb is always time well spent.” (3:51–3:55)
  • “The ability to stay centered and in the moment and stay present is best described by the plumb.” (4:09–4:16)

Creators & Guests

  • Brian Mattocks - Host
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    A Mason's WorkBy Brian Mattocks


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