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Welcome to the GBA Podcast, where we present information and expertise from geoprofessionals around the globe to provide you with wisdom and insight to help in your pursuit of knowledge.   GBA was founded over 50 years ago to serve geotechnical, environmental, and other geoprofessionals by giving them proven tools to achieve business success by confronting risk and optimizing performance.

Geoprofessional Business Association


    • Dec 27, 2022 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 37m AVG DURATION
    • 28 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from GBA Podcast

    #3 - GBA Audio Education - Effective Reporting

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2022 51:19


    GBA Audio Education Series – Effective Reporting Summary: Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White recently uncovered a treasure trove of valuable content, GBA's outstanding audio-education series. In order to make this more accessible, they turned these into a podcast series. This series was originally available as downloadable audio files, designed for one-on-one listening by field representatives, or as material to spur discussion during brownbag seminars or other informal training sessions. Like other GBA audio education programs, Fundamentals of Field Representation uses dramatization to make its points. The roles are played by professional actors, supplemented by sound effects. In each episode, Tiffany and Ryan play the original audio and follow up with a discussion, including their own personal lessons learned from many years of experience in the industry as both field reps and technical leaders. GBA Resources GBA Audio Education: Fundamentals of Field Representation - Effective Reporting (https://netforum.avectra.com/eweb/shopping/shopping.aspx?site=gba&webcode=shopping&prd_key=c05197d6-72da-4fcb-a53d-407f11c78b61&ssoToken=) Lunch & Learn: Risky Language (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/lunch-learn-risky-language/) GBA Best Practices: Avoiding Absolutes (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/gba-best-practices-avoiding-absolutes/) GBA Best Practices: Taboo Words (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/gba-best-practices-taboo-words/) Contract Reference Guide, Fourth Edition (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/contract-reference-guide-fourth-edition/) eBrownbag Webinar – Dirty Words (https://vimeo.com/ondemand/webinars4tech/99066744) click here to get a discount code for free access to the online streaming version of episodes 1-10 (http://www.geoprofessional.org/member-benefits/#1471592211173-e38ddee8-349c) Model Daily Field Report for Geotechnical Field Observation (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/model-daily-field-report-for-geotechnical-field-observation/) Model Reporting Forms for Geoenvironmental Field Observation (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/model-reporting-forms-for-geoenvironmental-field-observation/) Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Vice President/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Jennifer Sanborn, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-sanborn-a7946277/) – Project Director/Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. (https://www.sanbornhead.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Geotechnical Services Manger/Atlas Technical Consultants (https://www.oneatlas.com/)

    #2 - GBA Audio Education - The Duty of Care

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2022 35:07


    GBA Audio Education Series – The Duty of Care Episode Summary: In Episode 2, Ryan and Tiffany take a closer look at what it means to be a professional and how that relates to the duty of care and standard of care at a job site. Centered around a GBA Audio Education module, this episode provides practical examples and commentary by Ryan and Tiffany on how they've seen these concepts play out in their experience as engineering professionals. Learn about these important legal terms in a fun and conversational way! Series Summary: Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White recently uncovered a treasure trove of valuable content, GBA's outstanding audio-education series. In order to make this more accessible, they turned these into a podcast series. This series was originally available as downloadable audio files, designed for one-on-one listening by field representatives, or as material to spur discussion during brownbag seminars or other informal training sessions. Like other GBA audio education programs, Fundamentals of Field Representation uses dramatization to make its points. The roles are played by professional actors, supplemented by sound effects. In each episode, Tiffany and Ryan play the original audio and follow up with a discussion, including their own personal lessons learned from many years of experience in the industry as both field reps and technical leaders. GBA Resources GBA Audio Education: Fundamentals of Field Representation - The Duty of Care (https://netforum.avectra.com/eweb/shopping/shopping.aspx?site=gba&webcode=shopping&prd_key=f90353b5-fa83-4687-a1d0-9524e7eb1d0c&ssoToken=) Lunch & Learn: Risky Language (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/lunch-learn-risky-language/) GBA Best Practices: Avoiding Absolutes (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/gba-best-practices-avoiding-absolutes/) GBA Best Practices: Taboo Words (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/gba-best-practices-taboo-words/) Contract Reference Guide, Fourth Edition (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/contract-reference-guide-fourth-edition/) eBrownbag Webinar – Dirty Words (https://vimeo.com/ondemand/webinars4tech/99066744) click here to get a discount code for free access to the online streaming version of episodes 1-10 (http://www.geoprofessional.org/member-benefits/#1471592211173-e38ddee8-349c) Model Daily Field Report for Geotechnical Field Observation (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/model-daily-field-report-for-geotechnical-field-observation/) Model Reporting Forms for Geoenvironmental Field Observation (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/model-reporting-forms-for-geoenvironmental-field-observation/) Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Vice President/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Jennifer Sanborn, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-sanborn-a7946277/) – Project Director/Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. (https://www.sanbornhead.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Geotechnical Services Manger/Atlas Technical Consultants (https://www.oneatlas.com/)

    #1 - GBA Audio Education - Field Representatives and the Law

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2022 33:02


    GBA Audio Education Series – Field Representatives and the Law Episode Summary: In Episode 1, Ryan and Tiffany discuss the importance of field representatives knowing the seriousness and risks of the work they perform. This episode provides a real world example about a casual comment made while onsite about trench safety that turned into a legal case. Ryan and Tiffany talk about the relationship between contractors and field representatives and how these relationships can affect decisions made while on project sites. Tune in to hear more about how field representatives are not immune to the litigation that can occur on projects. Series Summary: Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White recently uncovered a treasure trove of valuable content, GBA's outstanding audio-education series. In order to make this more accessible, they turned these into a podcast series. This series was originally available as downloadable audio files, designed for one-on-one listening by field representatives, or as material to spur discussion during brownbag seminars or other informal training sessions. Like other GBA audio education programs, Fundamentals of Field Representation uses dramatization to make its points. The roles are played by professional actors, supplemented by sound effects. In each episode, Tiffany and Ryan play the original audio and follow up with a discussion, including their own personal lessons learned from many years of experience in the industry as both field reps and technical leaders. GBA Resources GBA Audio Education: Fundamentals of Field Representation - Field Representives and the Law (https://netforum.avectra.com/eweb/shopping/shopping.aspx?site=gba&webcode=shopping&prd_key=8b5df3ec-c9c3-41ac-9e6b-0927f97955ac&ssoToken=) Lunch & Learn: Risky Language (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/lunch-learn-risky-language/) GBA Best Practices: Avoiding Absolutes (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/gba-best-practices-avoiding-absolutes/) GBA Best Practices: Taboo Words (https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/gba-best-practices-taboo-words/) Contract Reference Guide, Fourth Edition (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/contract-reference-guide-fourth-edition/) eBrownbag Webinar – Dirty Words (https://vimeo.com/ondemand/webinars4tech/99066744) click here to get a discount code for free access to the online streaming version of episodes 1-10 (http://www.geoprofessional.org/member-benefits/#1471592211173-e38ddee8-349c) Model Daily Field Report for Geotechnical Field Observation (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/model-daily-field-report-for-geotechnical-field-observation/) Model Reporting Forms for Geoenvironmental Field Observation (https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/model-reporting-forms-for-geoenvironmental-field-observation/) Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Vice President/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Jennifer Sanborn, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-sanborn-a7946277/) – Project Director/Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. (https://www.sanbornhead.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Geotechnical Services Manger/Atlas Technical Consultants (https://www.oneatlas.com/)

    #3 - Diversity Equity Inclusion - Allies in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2021 56:15


    GBA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Series – Episode #3 – Allies in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Summary In this episode of the DEI series, we will be discussing allies in diversity, equity, and inclusions. Allies can be essential to drive systemic improvements to workplace policies, practices, and culture. But what does it mean to be an ally? How can allies impact the recruitment process? What effect does allyship have on the retention of employees? And what can we do to create more allies? Our Guest Charlie Head, PE, PG Founding Principal / Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. (https://www.sanbornhead.com/) [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliehead1/) Charlie is a co-founder of Sanborn Head. He serves as the Chair of the company's board of directors and oversees the implementation of the firm's strategic plan. Charlie actively steers initiatives related to the expansion of the firm's services and markets. Charlie remains active in Sanborn Head's professional practice, with particular emphasis on environmental assessment and remediation, including due diligence for clients globally. Charlie received his bachelor's degree in geology from St. Lawrence University, a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of New Hampshire, and a master's degree in civil and groundwater engineering from Colorado State University. For Charlie, the real thrill of working at Sanborn Head is the creative problem solving and collaboration that fosters deep relationships—among staff and with clients. In his current role, Charlie enjoys focusing on the growth and sustainability of the company and helping to create opportunities for the next generation. Charlie is a Professional Engineer in Arkansas, Georgia, Iowa, New Hampshire, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia; he is a Professional Geologist in New Hampshire. Topics for discussion include: What does it mean to be an ally? Addressing the “leaky pipeline”. How DEI can affect the recruitment process. The effect an ally can have on the retention of employees. Recruiting more allies. Lessons Learned: Understanding and evaluating our own biases. DEI initiatives should go hand in hand with the recruitment process. There's no shame in making mistakes. Calls-to-action: GEOSTRATA: The Pipeline to Diversity and Inclusion in the Geoprofessions (https://www.readgeo.com/geostrata/november_december_geostrata/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1637554#articleId1637554) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Veronica DeFreitas, PE (host) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-t-de-freitas-p-e-25997239/) – Geotechnical Department Manager/Universal Engineering Sciences (https://universalengineering.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #2 - Diversity Equity Inclusion - Understanding Your Workforce

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2021 52:09


    GBA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Series – Episode #2 – Understanding Your Workforce Summary Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a term often used in the workplace, but its meaning is often not well understood. People often mistakenly think that, with the creation of a diverse workplace, inclusion will automatically follow. Yet, inclusion should exist in tandem; it's the climate where diversity thrives. In this episode, we will be discussing the how other professions tackle diversity, equity, and inclusions within their organizations and the importance of understanding the needs of your workforce in relation to diversity and inclusion. Our Guest Cristina Bartolomei, Senior Program Manager, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion / FDA (https://www.fda.gov/) [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristinabartolomei/) Cristina Bartolomei is an accomplished strategist, speaker, and facilitator, with over a decade of experience in affirmative employment, EEO, and D&I. She attributes her passion for civil rights, social action, and equality to her upbringing in Puerto Rico, where she developed a lifelong passion for social activism. She has channeled this passion throughout her career. As a first-generation professional, she also believes in her role in making civil service accessible for all. In March 2021, Cristina joined the FDA as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Senior Program Manager, tasked with managing short and long-term FDA-wide DEI initiatives and advising senior management on the development, enhancement, and implementation of projects, practices, and procedures to maintain an inclusive and effective diversity management program. Prior to joining the FDA, she was a Senior Specialist at the U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Civil Rights, where she served as a key player in the development, implementation, and management of DEI programs and initiatives, which included the Inclusion is on US™ campaign and the First-Generation Professionals (FGP) Initiative – first-of-their-kind Federal initiatives promoting an organizational culture that respects, values, and engages all employees, regardless of their cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Topics for discussion include: How to define Diversity, Equity and Inclusion How to start formulation DEI initiative The importance of understanding your workforce Employee Satisfaction vs. Employee Engagement Calls-to-action: GEOSTRATA: The Pipeline to Diversity and Inclusion in the Geoprofessions (https://www.readgeo.com/geostrata/november_december_geostrata/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1637554#articleId1637554) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Veronica DeFreitas, PE (host) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-t-de-freitas-p-e-25997239/) – Geotechnical Department Manager/Universal Engineering Sciences (https://universalengineering.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #105 - Case History - Friends Don't Sue Friends….Most of the Time

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2021 32:44


    GBA Case History Series – Case History #105 - Friends don't sue Friends….Most of the Time Summary A GBA member-Firm was hired to perform a geotechnical engineering study of the project site and provide a written report describing its subsurface conditions. This same fir provided construction materials engineering and testing (CoMET) during site development and construction of a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) wall. Failed communication between the field representative, member firm's project manager and the design team during construction of a MSE wall led to cracks in the building slab and in the wall blocks and ultimately a claim. Our Guest Dan Schaefer – Vice President/Froehling & Robertson, Inc. (https://www.fandr.com/) (Link to Profile) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-schaefer-b479044/) Dan has more than 30 years of experience specializing in geotechnical engineering, construction inspection and materials testing, and environmental consulting. In addition to his branch management duties, he continues to serve as a senior engineer on a wide variety of site development, building, and transportation projects with particular emphasis in foundation, retaining wall, pavement and slope design. Dan is actively involved with the Geoprofessional Business Association (GBA) and has been a member of the GBA CoMET Business Committee for more than 10 years, currently serving as that body's Chair. Topics for discussion include: Case History 105 - Introductions - [1:20] Case History 105 - Overview - [1:58] Unfortunate events of Case History 105- [3:50] Did the client excluding the MSE wall testing services from your scope and fee raise any red flags? – [7:48] Several factors let to shrinkage cracks within the foundation slab– Why was the client & contractor initially unconcerned? - [12:16] Field technician – What could have been done differently during construction? – [15:00] If you were the project manager (PM) what would you have done differently? – [17:25] What are the pitfalls of residential projects? – [19:35] After litigation what did your firm do to prevent this from happening in the future? – [22:22] Could there have been better documentation by your firm, PM, or field tech? – [25:15] Discuss importance of PM and their tasks they should be performing- [26:20] What are some of the things your firm could do to reduce risk? - [28:30] After the lawsuit did your firm continue to work w/ client? – [29:45] Calls-to-action: Download Case History #105: https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/gba-case-history-no-105/ Visit the following link to access all of GBA's Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Bryce Moore (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-moore-8a44635a/) – Director Of Construction Services/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-leyva-79153b1b1/) – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #86 - Case History - Dream Home or Nightmare instead?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2021 28:42


    GBA Case History Series – Case History #86 - Dream Home or Nightmare instead? Summary GBA has published over 100 case histories based on real-life events that have happened to geoprofessional firms. This episode in the series explores Case History #86 where the GBA member firm conducted a geotechnical engineering study and performed COMET services during earthwork for a builder on a single family home in an area where expansive shales are interbedded with sandstone. The member firm advised for slope-stability analyses. Eight months after construction was complete, the foundation started to move, creating distress in the slab and some walls. Remediation attempts were unsuccessful and as a result the project went to litigation. Our Guest Carrie Foulk, PE, GE – Geotechnical Group Manager/Senior Geotechnical Engineer/BSK Associates (https://www.bskassociates.com/) (Link to Profile) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-foulk-pe-ge-ab108533/) Carrie Foulk is a senior geotechnical engineer at BSK Associates in Livermore, California. She has been in this business for about 20 years, and is the geotechnical technical lead for the company, as well as the geotechnical group manager in Livermore. She has a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from University of Washington (1996) and a master's degree in geotechnical engineering from University of California at Berkeley (2002). She is professionally licensed as both a civil engineer and geotechnical engineer in California. She serves as chair of the Geotechnical Business Committee for the GBA and is currently part of the Emerging Leaders Committee. Her career highlights include taking 5 years off when her children were born to be a stay-at-home mom. Topics for discussion include: Case History 86 background. [1:42 min.] What is Shale? [1:56 min] What are pier foundation? [2:38 min] What are spread foundation? [2:54 min] The difference between pier foundations with a structural slab and spread foundation? [11:45 min] Benefits and drawbacks of a structural slab built on deep pier foundations [12:55 min] Imporatnce of soil removal and replacement (overexcavation). [14:40 min] Differential settlement and causes. [15:40 min] Standard of Care: Statewide vs. Local Standards. [20:04 min] Lessons Learned: Known risk of residential work. [21:25 min] Providing clients with multiple solutions - How to emphasize the importance of the foundation decision? [ 23:02 min] What went wrong with construction testing? [23:45 min] Why did the slope stability become such a big deal when it initially seemed like it was not? [25:25 min] Smaller projects do not equate to smaller risks. [26:40 min] Calls-to-action: Download Case History #86: https://www.geoprofessional.org/product/gba-case-history-no-86/ Visit the following link to access all of GBA's Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Vice President/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Carrie Foulk, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-foulk-pe-ge-ab108533/) – Geotechnical Group Manager/Senior Geotechnical Engineer/BSK Associates (https://www.bskassociates.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-leyva-79153b1b1/) – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #1 - Diversity Equity Inclusion - Pipeline Into the Geoprofessions

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2021 52:39


    GBA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Series – Episode #1 – Pipeline Into the Geoprofessions Summary Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a term often used in the workplace, but its meaning is often not well understood. People often mistakenly think that, with the creation of a diverse workplace, inclusion will automatically follow. Yet, inclusion should exist in tandem; it’s the climate where diversity thrives. In this episode, we will be discussing the findings presented in the article titled: The Pipeline to Diversity and Inclusion in the Geoprofessions which was published in the 2020 November/December Edition of GeoStrata magazine. Focusing first on diversity reveals that the geosciences are the least diverse of all science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields in the U.S. (American Community Survey Report, National Center for Science & Engineering Statistics and U.S. Census). DEI is a concept that affects all of us but it is important to recognize that it affects the bottom line. By limiting the talent pool and accepting high attrition rates from women and other minorities, the geoprofessions are exerting additional and wasted resources on hiring and training, and potentially missing out on growth, profitability, and innovation opportunities. Our Guest Jonathan Knudsen, P.E., National Project Executive / Universal Engineering Sciences (https://universalengineering.com/) [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-knudsen-p-e-420a4a77/) Rachel Ebner, Development Director / Stevens Construction, Inc. (https://stevensconstructioninc.com/) [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-ebner-75a80395/) Topics for discussion include: U.S. Pipeline into the Geoprofessions Compensation Inequity GBA’s DEI Survey Results Why is Diversity and Inclusion Important? Lessons Learned: U.S. Pipeline into the Geoprofessions Calls-to-action: GEOSTRATA: The Pipeline to Diversity and Inclusion in the Geoprofessions (https://www.readgeo.com/geostrata/november_december_geostrata/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1637554#articleId1637554) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Veronica DeFreitas, PE (host) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-t-de-freitas-p-e-25997239/) – Geotechnical Department Manager/Universal Engineering Sciences (https://universalengineering.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #64 - Case History - Good communication is key to a successful project!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2021 37:35


    GBA Case History Series – Case History #64 - Good communication is key to a successful project! Summary GBA has published over 100 case histories based on real-life events that have happened to geoprofessional firms. This episode in the series explores Case History #64 where the GBA Member Firm's civil engineer client developed the geotechnical engineering scope of services for exploration on and around an existing landfill, without adequately conveying the project goals to the geotechnical engineer. The civil engineer then erred when transferring information from the member's report to a set of plans. Both the civil engineering firm and Member Firm settled the ensuing claim, but paid more than they believed was merited for their respective involvement. Our Guest Eric S. Steinhauser, P.E., Principal and Senior Vice President / Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. (https://www.sanbornhead.com/) [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-steinhauser-34a85a17/) Eric earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from Syracuse University. For over 30 years he has been involved with the design, permitting, and construction of solid waste, remediation, geotechnical, and energy projects throughout New York, New England, and the mid-Atlantic states. Eric has published and presented papers, both nationally and internationally, on engineering topics including innovative uses of geosynthetics, in-situ geotechnical testing, LFG management, solid waste facility design and operations, stormwater management and erosion and sediment control, and bioreactor landfill design and operation. Eric is a licensed Professional Engineer in 15 states, holds professional certifications in erosion and sediment control and stormwater quality, is a member of ASTM Committee D35 on Geosynthetics, is the President and New Hampshire representative for the Northeast Chapter of the International Erosion and Sediment Control Association, and is a member of New Hampshire Chapters of ASCE and NSPE and several Chapters of SWANA. Eric also serves on the City of Concord, NH Solid Waste Advisory Committee, and the New Hampshire Waste Management Council. Topics for discussion include: Introduction to Eric Steinhauser, PE, PCESC, CPSWQ [1:16 min.] Case History 64 background and scope [1:58 min.] Site Location Technical issues, review with Eric Steinhauser [4:23 min.] Project contract background (limitation review) and implications through civil design [5:53 min.] Contractor change order claim, implicating Geotech firm [11:08 min.] Lessons Learned [12:50 min.] Conclusion – Thank you Eric!!! [36:31 min.] Lessons Learned: Be Alert When Price Is Most Important to Your Client Perform a Complete Professional Service Encourage Effective Communication Conflicts are Often Contagious Calls-to-action: Download Case History #64: https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/new-release-case-history-64/ Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Jennifer Sanborn, PE (host) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-sanborn-a7946277/) – Project Director/Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. (https://www.sanbornhead.com/) Elizabeth Brown, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-brown-365aab50/) - Geotechnical Services Manger/Atlas Technical Services (https://www.mti-id.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA (https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-blackburn-15905526/) – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #103 - Case History - Nuked in the Bud!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2021 16:00


    GBA Case History Series – Case History #103 - Nuked in the Bud! Summary GBA has published over 100 case histories based on real-life events that have happened to geoprofessional firms. GBA Case Histories are unique because our members share real-life stories of problems that impacted their businesses. They also include the outcomes of corrective action, and lessons learned. This episode in the series explores Case History #103. After three destroyed gauges and numerous other violations, a Member-Firm was facing civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation and revocation of their license to own and/or operate nuclear gauges. They paid a $150,000 settlement but more importantly developed a compliance program hailed as “a model for the industry”. Learn from their mistakes and from their commitment to change their culture through immediate action to create, test, launch, and monitor sustainable, institutional controls to address the underling causes of the violations, as well as specific regulatory compliance issues. Every Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) must hear this! Topics for discussion include: Introduction to the contents of this podcast. [min. 0:54] What is a “nuke gauge”? [min 1:51] Why are nuke gauges regulated by state and federal governments and what is required of nuke gauge owners? [min. 3:18] Discussion of Case History 103 [min 5:30] What actions did the member firm take to correct their numerous nuke gauge violations? [min 10:05] What can we learn from this case history? [min 11:58] Conclusion and outro [min 13:58] How does a nuke gauge work? [min 14:48] Calls-to-action: Download Case History #103: https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/new-release-case-history-103/ Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Bryce Moore (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-moore-8a44635a/) – Director Of Construction Services/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Carrie Foulk, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-foulk-pe-ge-ab108533/) – Senior Geotechnical Engineer/BSK Associates (https://www.bskassociates.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #108 - Case History - Out of Scope Assistance Causes Problem

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2021 46:49


    GBA Case History Series – Case History #108 - Out of Scope Assistance Causes Problem Summary GBA has published over 100 case histories based on real-life events that have happened to geoprofessional firms. This episode in the series explores Case History #108, where a GBA-Member Firm provided suggested changes to a sewer pipe design in order to keep construction moving forward on a five-story senior-living facility. Four years later, swelling clays caused the sewer line to back-up and the lower-level slab began showing heaving related distress. That good deed with other project related complications resulted in a $25 million claim that required an extensive defense of contract limitations of liability, standards of care, and project documentation. Topics for discussion include: Project background [min. 2:10] What were the major issues and causes of issues on the project? [min 8:00] What was the claim by the client? [min. 9:00] What was limitation of liability on the project? [min. 10:40] What were findings? [min. 11:28] Beginning of interview with Joe Geo. [min. 13:27] Impacts to firm. [min. 18:10] How did daily field reports contribute to this issue? [min. 25:30] Discussion on Colorado law regarding residential work. [min. 27:15] What does firm do differently now because of this case regarding residential work? [min. 29:15] What happens when your insurance company gets involved? [min.30:57] Where can you get a copy of this case history? [min 32:22] Lessons learned. [min. 32:36] Big takeaway. [min. 44:40] Lessons Learned: No Good Deed Goes Unpunished Prevent Recommendations from Becoming Requirements Do Not Unilaterally Deviate from the Scope of Services It Pays to Be Your Brother’s Keeper Documentation Can Be Your Best Defense Consider Limitation of Liability During Your Go/No-Go Analysis Calls-to-action: Download Case History #108: https://www.geoprofessional.org/news/new-release-case-history-108/ Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe * Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Vice President/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Carrie Foulk, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-foulk-pe-ge-ab108533/) – Senior Geotechnical Engineer/BSK Associates (https://www.bskassociates.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/)

    #61 - Case History

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2021 31:33


    GBA Case History Series – Case History #61 Our Guest S. Andrew K. Batson, Esq., Corporate Counsel and Compliance Manager / Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-andrew-k-batson-a8b908111/) Topics for discussion include: What are the technical concepts presented in this episode? [min. 2:00] What is the project background? [min. 4:13] What eventually went wrong that led to a lawsuit? [min. 6:40] How did the firm’s professional liability insurance play into this case? [min. 10:00] How did report limitations play an important role? [min. 13:59], [min. 19:02] What is the difference between standard of care and duty of care? [min. 14:50] What are some key lessons learned from this case history? [min. 20:47] Calls-to-action: Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ (https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/) An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org (https://www.geoprofessional.org) for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com (https://www.gbapodcast.com) for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Jennifer Sanborn, PE (host) (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-sanborn-a7946277/) – Project Director/Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. (https://www.sanbornhead.com/) Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principal/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/)

    #11 - Encore Performances - Val Ries

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2020 15:49


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Val Ries Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Val Ries is a certified leadership trainer and Executive coach supporting organizations, managers and executives. Val understands the daily demands, pressure and challenges one can face in times of stress. She is an expert at helping her clients balance those demands while inspiring productivity with resiliency and strength. Val's relatable approach has been consistently recognized for helping her clients increase bottom-line results by building collaborative teams, engaged employees, customer satisfaction and designing comprehensive on-boarding techniques. Topics for discussion include: Why is resilience so important? [min. 2:22] Adressing conflict through acknowledgement and validation. [min. 3:55] How to refocus judgement to reduce stress [min. 6:21] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min. 9:52] What are you focusing your time on now? [min. 11:22] Chief Inspiration Officer (book) www.executive-muse.com (website) What message would you like to leave us with? [min. 14:11] Calls-to-action: Connect with Val Ries: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/valriescoaching) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/RechargedLeader) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/valries/) | Website (http://www.executive-muse.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA (https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-blackburn-15905526/) – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-leyva-79153b1b1/) – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #10 - Encore Performances - Jeff Tobe

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2020 19:15


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Jeff Tobe Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Jeff Tobe is a Certified Speaking Professional and was chosen by readers of Convention & Meetings Magazine as one of the top 15 speakers in North America. He is one of the most dynamic speakers in the world, and prides himself on presenting up-to-the-minute, cutting-edge material as it relates to designing the ideal customer EXPERIENCE by getting your people more ENGAGED at what they do every day. Jeff is the author of the wildly popular book Coloring Outside The Lines (https://www.amazon.com/Coloring-Outside-Line-Creativity-Marketing/dp/096626892X) and he is the co-author of the new book, ANTICIPATE: Knowing What Customers Need Before They Do! (https://www.amazon.com/Anticipate-Knowing-What-Customers-Before/dp/1118356918) which is quickly becoming one of the hottest business books on the market today! Topics for discussion include: Why do we need to embrace change now and get past our old ways of doing things to stay relevant? [min. 2:38] The three R's - Retool, Rethink, Reimagine [min. 4:28] How can our listeners look through our customers lenses and creatively increase value for customers now? [min. 5:15] What are the main principles or tenets that leaders or prospective leaders have to keep in mind during turbulent times? [min. 8:23] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min. 13:05] What are you focusing your time on now? [min. 14:39] Every other Wednesday - eowednesday.com (http://eowednesday.com) [min. 15:38] What Comes After the But (book) (https://www.jefftobe.com/what-comes-after-the-but/) [min. 15:50] Where can listeners connect with you? [min. 16:48] Email Jeff Tobe, subject line "Free Book" to receive a PDF copy of his book [min. 16:59] jefftobe.com (website) (https://www.jefftobe.com/) [min. 17:00] What message would you like to leave us with? [min. 17:46] Calls-to-action: Connect with Jeff Tobe: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jeff.tobe.12) | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWvYdqmPQIJpUKR0OHU9zeA) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/@jefftobe) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefftobe) | Website (https://www.jefftobe.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA (https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-blackburn-15905526/) – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-leyva-79153b1b1/) – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #09 - Encore Performances - Bob Kelleher

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2020 35:58


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Bob Kelleher Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Bob Kelleher is a best-selling author, international keynote speaker, and consultant who travels the globe sharing his insights on employee engagement, leadership, and workforce trends. Bob is the author of the recently released I-Engage: Your Personal Engagement Roadmap, the best-selling book, Louder Than Words: 10 Practical Employee Engagement Steps That Drive Results, and Creativeship: An Engagement and Leadership Fable, Employee Engagement for Dummies. Bob can be seen or heard on national media (most recently on CNBC, CBS, NBC News, Business Week, Forbes, Training Magazine, Yahoo, and Fortune), and is a frequent guest writer and contributing editor on many national publications. Topics for discussion include: How has the impact of this crisis (covid-19) affected employee engagement and what should leaders be doing to address workplace engagement? [min 03:26] What should leaders be doing to pay attention to the long term impact on employee productivity and work place engagement? [min 07:13] The importance of empathy in leadership. [min 09:58] Importance of communication. [min 15:35] How is this merging of our professional and personal lives going to impact the future of our business? [min 17:20] The silver lining in all of this is……? [min 23:12] Where are you and the Employee Engagement Group focusing your time on right now? [min 25:20] Where/how can our members reach out to you? [min 29:58] https://employeeengagement.com What message would you like to leave us with? [min 34:06] Calls-to-action: Connect with Bob Kelleher: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/EmployeeEngagementGroup) | YouTube (https://youtube.com/robertkelleher) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/BobKelleher) | LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/bobkelleher) | Website (https://bobkelleher.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA (https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-blackburn-15905526/) – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-leyva-79153b1b1/) – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #08 - Encore Performances - Nancy Watt

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2020 30:00


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Nancy Watt Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Nancy Watt is President of NANCY WATT COMMUNICATIONS (http://nancywattcomm.com/), a specialized consulting and creative agency that works with all sectors exploring the social science of collaboration, communication and connection. Using a ‘Pracademic’ approach, Nancy Watt elucidates evidence-based research in an engaging and entertaining way using the tools and techniques of improv honed from her days at The Second City Conservatory in Toronto. This form of experiential learning has been used in diverse setting with a wise swath of clients from marginalized populations to the judiciary, medical school faculty and law societies. In order to capture effective experiential learning, she builds a camaraderie-filled ensemble where the participants learn while laughing. Topics for discussion include: Accepting the reality of the other [min 2:16] Adaptability Quotient (AQ) [min 5:00] Fostering an organization of trust and transparency [min. 12:50] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min. 21:11] What are you doing now that you don't have the opportunity to speak at conferences in person? [min. 24:05] AQAI (website) (https://www.aqai.io/) use code NWC4 to receive 50% off 10 assessments [min. 26:00] www.nancywattcomm.com (website) Calls-to-action: Connect with Nancy Watt: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Company/Nancy-Watt-Communications-1956558654579150/) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/nancywatt1) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancywatt/) | Website (http://nancywattcomm.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #07 - Encore Performances - Brent Gleeson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2020 28:29


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Brent Gleeson Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Brent Gleeson is a Navy SEAL combat veteran with combat tours to Iraq and Africa. Upon leaving SEAL Team 5, Brent turned his discipline and battlefield lessons to the world of business and has become an award-winning entrepreneur, bestselling author, and acclaimed speaker and consultant on topics ranging from leadership and building high-performance teams to culture and organizational transformation. Brent is the Founder and CEO of TakingPoint Leadership, a progressive leadership and management consulting firm with a focus on business transformation and building high-performance cultures. Brent holds a degree in finance with a minor in economics from Southern Methodist University, certificates in English and History from Oxford University in England and a graduate business degree from the University of San Diego. He is the bestselling author of TakingPoint: A Navy SEAL’s 10 Fail Safe Principles for Leading Through Change, which was a #1 New Release on Amazon in Organizational Change and Business Structural Adjustment. Please help me welcome Brent Gleeson. Topics for discussion include: What is the impmortance of company culture? [min 3:55] What should leaders do to improve employee engagement? [min 7:20] The importance of personal accountability? Advice for leaders. [min 13:15] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min 15:44] What are you focusing on now that you're not traveling as much? [min 21:45] takingpointleadership.com (website) (https://takingpointleadership.com/) [min 26:04] Taking Point (book) (https://www.amazon.com/TakingPoint-Principles-Leading-Through-Change/dp/1501176781) Embrace the Suck (book) (https://www.amazon.com/Embrace-Suck-Navy-SEAL-Extraordinary/dp/0306846330/ref=pd_lpo_14_img_0/140-5955987-3517747?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=0306846330&pd_rd_r=798a395a-ec30-4e7b-9cdc-134ebc2e2a6f&pd_rd_w=iU6PO&pd_rd_wg=5bOeh&pf_rd_p=7b36d496-f366-4631-94d3-61b87b52511b&pf_rd_r=KBX4M2AHD3G66PF9MB9W&psc=1&refRID=KBX4M2AHD3G66PF9MB9W) David Goggins (wikipedia) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Goggins) David Goggins (Instagram) (https://www.instagram.com/davidgoggins/) Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins (book) (https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Hurt-Me-Master-Clean/dp/1544507852/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=cant+hurt+me&qid=1597005634&s=books&sr=1-2) Calls-to-action: Connect with Brent Gleeson: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TakingPointLeadership/) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/takingpointleadership/) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/takingpointL) | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrUm7le3H5ehmEyD1RgsMfw/) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/takingpointleadership/) | Website (https://takingpointleadership.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #06 - Encore Performances - Jonathan Edison

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2020 30:01


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Jonathan Edison Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Jonathan Edison is a modern day Alchemist. Facing many hardships growing up in the city of Detroit he could have given up on life from the very beginning. His mother was removed from his home for abusing drugs and alcohol. His father left when he was 7 and his grandmother that took on the task of raising him, died from breast cancer when he was 14. Now faced with homelessness, despair and uncertainty, Jonathan graduated from high school with a 1.6 grade point average. Then he went on to complete his first year of college with a 0.82 before dropping out completely. Today, Jonathan is an International Motivational Speaker, a 3-time college graduate, C.E.O of two successful companies, an author of 5 best selling books and a student at Harvard University studying Psychology. This expertise in life and in business allows Jonathan to deliver innovative and content-driven presentations that have practical application in Sales, Leadership, Change and Personal Motivation. Topics for discussion include: How to stay positive and excited about life [min 3:15] How do we adjust, in this current world, to meet the people where they are? [min 9:56] Reverend Eikerenkoetter (Wikipedia) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverend_Ike) [mn 13:50] How can we see ourselves doing more during these challenging times? [min 14:42] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min 18:40] What are you doing now that you don't have the opportunity to inspire audiences in person? [min 22:32] jonathanedison.com (website) (http://jonathanedison.com/) [min 26:50] Survival Mode (book) (https://shopjonathanedison.com/collections/books/products/survival-mode-a-memoir-of-hope-love-and-survival) What message would you like to leave with us? [min 27:55] Calls-to-action: Connect with Jonathan Edison: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Jonathanedison.speaker) | Instagram (http://www.instagram.com/jonathanedison) | Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/jonathanedison) | YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/user/jonathanedisontv) | LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanedison) | Website (https://http://jonathanedison.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #05 - Encore Performances - Patrick Schwerdtfeger

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2020 22:06


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Patrick Schwerdtfeger Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Patrick Schwerdtfeger is a business futurist specializing in technology trends including big data, artificial intelligence, Fintech and blockchain. He’s the author of “Pandemic, Inc.: 8 Forces Driving Business Failure or Fortune in the Post-COVID-19 Economy” (2020, Authority Publishing) as well as five other books, and has lectured at numerous academic institutions including Purdue and Stanford Universities. He is also a regular speaker for Bloomberg TV, founder of Trend Mastery Inc. (http://www.trendmastery.com/), and host of the Strategic Business Insights (https://www.patrickschwerdtfeger.com/sbi/) video blog (with over 28,000 subscribers and six million views on YouTube). Patrick has spoken about business trends, technology and digital marketing at hundreds of conferences all around the world. Topics for discussion include: Trends in data analytics [min 02:33] Optimization and virtual planning [min 04:25] What technologies are pushing us forward as a result of the current disruption [min 07:02] What technologies should we be aware of in light of remote work? [min 10:00] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min 13:40] How are you reaching your audience during the pandemic? [min 16:30] Pandemic, Inc. (book) (https://www.amazon.com/Pandemic-Inc-Driving-Business-Success/dp/1949642410/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) [min 18:30] Anarchy, Inc. (book) (https://www.amazon.com/Anarchy-Inc-Decentralized-Artificial-Intelligence/dp/1935953923/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) patrickschwerdtfeger.com (website) (https://www.patrickschwerdtfeger.com/) [min 18:56] What message would you like to leave with us? [min 19:52] Calls-to-action: Connect with Patrick Schwerdtfeger: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/speakerpatrick) | Twitter (http://twitter.com/schwerdtfeger) | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/tacticalexecution) | LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/in/g8patrick) | Website (https://www.patrickschwerdtfeger.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #04 - Encore Performances - Eric Saperston

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2020 31:11


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Eric Saperston Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Eric Saperston leverages his 25 years of experience studying the common traits of extraordinary achievers to help your leaders overcome obstacles, break performance barriers, and maximize team performance. Topics for discussion include: When you previously gave us the definition of “wonder” it was as if you didn’t know what was going to happen next. How has the unanticipated crisis impacted you? [min 03:36] How has your past experiences applied to your recent experience in todays times? [min 08:54] Is there anything else we should remember about that “power” we all have inside of us? [min 17:10] If you could tell your 21 year old self three things you learned in this life , what would the three things be? [min 21:15] How can you audience reach out? [min 24:26] Live in Wonder (book) (https://liveinwonder.com/collections/frontpage/products/live-in-wonder-quests-quotes-questions-to-jumpstart-your-journey) The Journey (movie) (https://liveinwonder.com/products/the-journey-film-digital-download) The “Three Things Card Game”… [min 28:19] The Three Things Game (https://liveinwonder.com/collections/all-gifts/products/three-things-game) Calls-to-action: Connect with Eric Saperston: Facebook (http://www.ericsaperston.com/) | Instagram (https://instagram.com/ericsaperston) | YouTube (https://youtube.com/ericsaperston) | LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/ericsaperston) | Website (http://www.ericsaperston.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #03 - Encore Performances - Michael Allosso

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2020 30:09


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Michael Allosso Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Michael Allosso, master communications expert who coaches CEO's, teams and individuals in day to day communications, dynamic presentations, as well as leadership excellence. Topics for discussion include: How we continue to have our best day (when working from home) during these times? [min 03:00] Great leaders have reinvented themselves through this process by using technology they initially resisted because they felt it was impersonal. Have you seen some of that inspiration yourself though this process? [min 10:20] How do you engage with people today? [min 12:55] With today’s set ups everyone becomes a television star……. [min 14:00] Flexibility is very important now…… [min 16:52] What can we do to make this time an opportunity? [min 20:27] What you are doing these days now that you can’t travel around? [min 23:15] The silver lining in all of this is? [min 28:30] Calls-to-action: Connect with Michael Allosso: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/youonyourbestday/) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/michael.allosso/) | YouTube (https://tinyurl.com/yx6r64hy) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-allosso-9ab5231/) | Website (https://www.michaelallosso.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA (https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-blackburn-15905526/) – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-leyva-79153b1b1/) – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #02 - Encore Performances - Eric Kaufmann

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2020 26:53


    Encore Performances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Eric Kaufmann Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Eric Kaufmann has been coaching and training leaders and executives since 2000. His earliest lessons in leadership and coaching, though, were in the water, not in the office – he was a Scuba Diving Instructor in his college days. It’s there that he refined the ability to organize and influence people to learn new skills, work together, venture into the unknown, and have fun in a process that can also be dangerous. 20 years ago Eric left his corporate role as a marketing Director at Corning Clinical Labs to establish an executive development consultancy, and work with leaders to think more creatively, decide more effectively, and relate more wholeheartedly. In fact, he describes his work as an unrelenting commitment to results with an unyielding regard for the human spirit. His clients include Facebook, Verizon, Sony, Dr. Bronner’s, Sunpower Corporation, Navitas Organics, and Petco. Eric is the author of Four Virtues of a Leader. He’s also a Fellow and an official Thought Leader at Harvard’s Institute of Coaching, a former Vistage Chair and Speaker, and a speaker for TEDx. Topics for discussion include: How to keep going in tough times like we are in right now? [min 03:22] The importance of “Grit” in 2020 ? [min 06:45] Reminder of the value of meditation, especially during these times. [min 12:19] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min 16:52] What are you doing these days now that you are not having to travel? [min 20:55] Where can people get copies of our book (erickaufmann.com, The Four Virtues of a Leader: Navigating the Hero's Journey Through Risk to Results (Book) (https://www.amazon.com/Four-Virtues-Leader-Navigating-Journey/dp/1622037278))? [min 24:00] What message would you like to leave with us? [min 25:35] Calls-to-action: Connect with Eric Kaufmann: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/erickaufmann7/) | Website (https://sagatica.com/) | Twitter (https://twitter.com/eric_kaufmann) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information resources or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #01 - Encore Performances - Vincent Boles

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2020 17:18


    Encore Perfromances, Connecting with Friends of GBA - Vincent Boles Our Host and Guest Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Major General (Retired) Vincent Boles was commissioned from the ARMY ROTC program at Niagara University as a Distinguished Military Graduate in 1976.He has served in a variety of assignments over a 33 year career, to include Command at every possible level and a number of combat deployments. His final Army assignment was as the Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, G4 on the Army Staff in the Pentagon, where he oversaw Logistics Operations and Readiness for the 1.1 million Soldier force to include the surges into Iraq and Afghanistan. Retiring in 2009 to Madison, Alabama, he established Vincent E. Boles, Inc. A leadership and logistics consulting practice, speaking and working with corporate and association groups around the nation and overseas on the subject of Leaders and their team’s “Best Getting Better”. His audiences have included: Deloitte; Fidelity; USAA; Ernst and Young; AIG; The United States Secret Service; The Boy Scouts of America and The American College. He is the author of “4-3-2-1 Leadership…What America’s Sons and Daughters Taught Me on the Road from 2d Lieutenant to 2 Star General” Now in it’s 3rd printing. Topics for discussion include: How do leaders need to adapt in 2020? [min 01:30] How can leaders reduce stress for their employees during these (covid) times? [min 04:15] Even with all your experience, have you learned or relearned something in this reality you can share? [min 07:12] The silver lining in all of this is …….? [min 10:20] What are you doing now? What is your audience requesting for future events? [min 11:36] Other ways your company/business has adjusted in this crisis? [min 12:28] Where can our members find your book, and how can they reach out to you for virtual presentations and/or executive coaching? [min 14:03] 4-3-2-1 Leadership (Book) (https://www.amazon.com/4-3-2-1-Leadership-Vincent-Boles/dp/1613430345/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=) What message would you like to leave us all with today? [min 15:18] Calls-to-action: Connect with Vincent Boles: Website (https://vinnyboles.com/) Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information or to become a member. Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #05 - COVID Concerns - GBA Member Plans to Return Employees to the Office

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2020 59:59


    COVID Concerns - GBA Pop-Up Town Hall Meeting for May 22, 2020 - GBA Member Plans to Return Employees to the Office Senior leaders of GBA Member firms have been invited to attend Pop-Up Town Hall meetings over the last couple months in response to the dynamic events related to the COVID-19 pandemic to discuss issues that impact geoprofessional firms. Panels of experts have discussed operational issues, health and safety, and leadership through these unprecedented times. GBA hopes to address its members questions and concerns by sharing experiences and challenges in the hopes to learn and help each other during this trying time. GBA addresses its members questions and concerns by sharing experiences and challenges in the hopes to learn and help each other during this trying time. Our panel: Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Craig Hill, President/CEO at Earth Systems, Inc. (https://www.earthsystems.com/) - [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-hill-bb7ba014/) June Jewell, CPA - AEC Business Success Expert (http://www.aecbusiness.com/), Speaker, Author - [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/junejewell/) Michael Yost, COVID Task Force Lead for Terracon (https://www.terracon.com/) - [Link to Profile] (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-yost-05215720/) Topics for discussion include: What are member firms doing to prepare employees for an eventual return to the office? [min 3:30] What are member firms doing to prepare their facilities to ensure they are safely prepared to reopen? [min 12:25] What are member firms hearing from their employees and their desire to go back to the office? [min 21:31] How do you come up with a companywide plan to open back up when you have offices across the United States? [29:28] What changes do you see in the long term, past Covid-19 that may change what geo professional firms will do in the future? [min 36:55] Cont… How might this effect office leases? [42:25] How do you continue to stress covid safe behavior with your work force especially when they may see difference behaviors on job sites, around their community, and they themselves may have different views on the topic? [min 46:20] The big silver lining in all of this…? [min 50:35] How are you handling travel, both business and personal? [min 54:25] What are you member firms doing about conference rooms? [min 55:56] Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information about Covid-19 resources and/or to become a member Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development that could be helpful during a slow time. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #04 - COVID Concerns - GBA Emerging Leaders - Experience Dealing with the Pandemic

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2020 56:32


    COVID Concerns Episode 4 – GBA Pop-Up Town Hall Meeting for May 8, 2020 - GBA Emerging Leaders - Experience Dealing with the Pandemic GBA Members from the Emerging Leaders Class have been invited to attend this Pop-Up Town Hall meeting hosted by Executive Director Joel Carson in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on geo-professional firms. In this episode, GBA’s newest leaders discuss COVID Concerns with Joel to cover its impact with co-workers, supervisors, and clients. GBA addresses its members questions and concerns by sharing experiences and challenges in the hopes to learn and help each other during this trying time. Our panel: Joel Carson host and GBA (https://www.geoprofessional.org/) Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson/) Abigayle Teller, Project Manager (Terracon (https://www.terracon.com/)) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigaylebeyer/) Tiffany Vorhies, Senior Associate & Vice President (SME (https://www.sme-usa.com/)) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyvorhies/) Ryan White, Principal & Geotech Group Manager (PBS Engineering & Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/)) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankwhite/) Topics for discussion include: What’s been the biggest challenge for you with the new “work from home” situation? [min 3:54] What guidance do you (Tiffany) have for people working from home? [min 7:28] Now that you (Abby & Ryan) have been working from home exclusively, will your “work from home” habits change post-COVID? [min 11:15] What communication methods are being used to reach your supervisor, co-workers, and those that report to you? [min 14:45] How have you adapted to your client’s needs? [min 23:51] Are you seeing tension between your client’s senior members and their project managers? [min 30:15] Recognizing that most of our audience is mostly geo-professional leaders, what changes do you see happening to the way firms do business post-COVID? [min 33:45] What do you miss most about going into the office? [min 39:00] The big silver lining in all of this (COVID) is ? [min 43:47] Do you have any clients that are slowing down their spending, aka using this pandemic as an opportunity to not pay? [min 47:25] What are some challenges of on-boarding new employees? [min 50:56] Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information about Covid-19 resources and/or to become a member Visit the GBA Website for training resources and reference material for professional development that could be helpful during a slow time. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #03 - COVID Concerns - Communication ‘Best Practices’ During and Post Pandemic

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2020 70:10


    Covid Concerns Episode 3 – GBA Pop-Up Town Hall Meeting for April 17, 2020 – Communication ‘Best Practices’ During and Post Pandemic Senior leaders of GBA Member firms have been invited to attend Pop-Up Town Hall meetings each of the past three weeks in response to the dynamic events related to the COVID-19 pandemic to discuss issues that impact geoprofessional firms. Panels of experts have discussed operational issues, health and safety, and leadership through these unprecedented times. GBA hopes to address its members questions and concerns by sharing experiences and challenges in the hopes to learn and help each other during this trying time. Our Panel: Joel Carson (host and GBA Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson)) John Doehring, Author, Speaker, Consultant & Founder of J. Doehring & Company (http://www.jdoehring.net/) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/johndoehring/) Bob Kelleher, Author, Speaker, & Founder of The Employee Engagement Group (http://www.employeeengagement.com/) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobkelleher/) Gerry Salontai, CEO at Salontai Consulting Group (http://www.salontai.com/) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrysalontai/) Topics for discussion include: What are communication best practices. [min 3:45] Are strategic plans still applicable or should member firms go back to the drawing board? [min 11:16] What should leaders be doing differently now, both to cope with the current situation and to plan to thrive past the pandemic? [min 22:15] What will employee engagement be post covid-19? [min 38:23] What do you believe will be the most significant work place changes past covid-19? [min 46:04] Opportunities/services member firms can be providing to clients? [min 57:12] The big silver lining in all of this is what? [min 1:01:35] Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information about Covid-19 resources and/or to become a member Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #02 - COVID Concerns - Health and Safety Best Practices

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2020 62:42


    Covid Concerns Episode 2 – GBA Pop-Up Town Hall Meeting for April 10, 2020 – Health and Safety Best Practices Senior leaders of GBA Member firms have been invited to attend Pop-Up Town Hall meetings each of the past three weeks in response to the dynamic events related to the COVID-19 pandemic to discuss issues that impact geoprofessional firms. Panels of experts have discussed operational issues, health and safety, and leadership through these unprecedented times. GBA hopes to address its members questions and concerns by sharing experiences and challenges in the hopes to learn and help each other during this trying time. Our Panel: Joel Carson (host and GBA Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson)) Richard “Rick” Ecord, Senior Vice President of Health, Safety and Learning (GZA) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-ecord-9a6052b/) Paula Loht, Corporate Director of Safety (Gannett Fleming) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-loht-cih-csp-a0bb5821/) James “Jim” Wright, Director of Safety and Health (Terracon) - LinkedIn Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-wright-a73b902b/) Topics for discussion include What are member firms “Plans in place to respond to crisis and risk management for unplanned events”. [min 3:45] What have been some of the biggest challenges caused by this pandemic. [min 9:30] Are firms requiring face masks in the office? [min 18:52] What communication methods are being used to reach employees? [min 21:35] What changes to soil laboratories are being made during this time? [min 30:35] What are the biggest challenges your clients are having right now? [min 35:06] What opportunities have firms identified to provide clients new services (or services already being provided) in response to this pandemic? [min 41:10] Communication with subcontractors and what requirements are being put on them (i.e. face masks, gloves, etc.)? [min 46:35] What companies are doing to help in their local communities. [min 51:48] Recommendations for employees who work with health care workers. [min 55:10] Social distancing with drill crews (driller and helper). [min 56:45] Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information about Covid-19 resources and/or to become a member Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

    #01 - COVID Concerns - Operational Leadership

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2020 52:03


    Covid Concerns Episode 1 – GBA Pop-Up Town Hall Meeting for April 3, 2020 – Operational Leadership Senior leaders of GBA Member firms have been invited to attend Pop-Up Town Hall meetings each of the past three weeks in response to the dynamic events related to the COVID-19 pandemic to discuss issues that impact geoprofessional firms. Panels of experts have discussed operational issues, health and safety, and leadership through these unprecedented times. GBA hopes to address its members questions and concerns by sharing experiences and challenges in the hopes to learn and help each other during this trying time. Our Panel: Joel Carson (host and GBA Executive Director – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelcarson)) Mark Kramer (CEO of SME – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/markkramerpe)) Martin Laroche (VP of Operations at SNC Lavalin Inc. – Link to Profile (https://ca.linkedin.com/in/martin-laroche-9a92904b)) Guy Marcozzi (President of Duffield Associates, Inc – Link to Profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-marcozzi-b12744a)) Topics discussed in this episode: Future Outlook: backlog, revenue, and profit. [min 3:40] What tools are being used to analyze and track business volume and billability during this time? [min 10:49] What business opportunities are there during this Covid-19 crisis? [min 20:25] How the CARES Act Provision, mostly the SBA payroll protection, can provide aid to GBA member firms. [min 27:25] Families First Leave Act discussion [min 32:35] Cutting cost: What are you doing to decide between reduced hours vs. pay cuts? [min 38:20] Can employee refuse a pay/salary cut? [min 40:58] PTO donation and extended leave. [min 46:04] Have any of you had employees contract Covid-19 and what are you doing about it? [min 48:46] Calls-to-action: Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for more information about Covid-19 resources and/or to become a member Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principle/Geotechnical Engineering Group Manger/PBS Engineering and Environmental (https://www.pbsusa.com/) Tiffany Vorhies, NACE CIP-2 – Chief Consultant/SME (https://sme-usa.com/) Donald K. Blackburn, MBA – Business Manager/Blackburn Consulting (https://blackburnconsulting.com/) Shawn Leyva, PE – Associate Senior Engineer/Crawford & Associates (https://crawford-inc.com/)

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