Composite construction material
POPULARITY
Categories
Project 2025 began not with a bill in Congress, but with a 900‑plus page playbook assembled by the Heritage Foundation and allied conservative groups, billed as a roadmap for the next Republican president. Heritage calls it a plan to “take back our government from the deep state,” while critics describe it as a bid to, in the words of the National Federation of Federal Employees, “destroy the administrative state” and replace it with loyalists.At the heart of the project is a personnel revolution. The blueprint urges reinstating and vastly expanding “Schedule F,” a Trump‑era job category that would let presidents reclassify tens of thousands of career civil servants as at‑will employees. According to an analysis by the Center for American Progress, one architect of the original order, James Sherk, projected roughly 50,000 positions could lose civil service protections. Advocates argue this would “ensure the President's policies are faithfully executed.” Opponents warn it would allow mass firings based on ideology, undermining neutral expertise in law enforcement, public health, and regulation.The document does not stop at staffing. It zeroes in on independent agencies that Congress designed to be insulated from day‑to‑day political pressure. In Project 2025's own terms, these are “so‑called independent agencies.” Chapters urge giving the president power to remove commissioners at will and subject their rules to aggressive White House review. Analysts at the Center for American Progress note that this could let a future president pressure the Federal Communications Commission on media licenses or keep the Federal Trade Commission from issuing rules like its recent ban on most noncompete clauses.Concrete agency changes are spelled out in vivid detail. A chapter on the Department of Energy recommends outsourcing core analytical work of the Energy Information Administration to private contractors, a move Boston Review warns could turn basic energy data into an ideological battleground. At the Environmental Protection Agency, Project 2025 proposes ending the role of career staff in awarding hundreds of millions in grants and handing that power to a single political appointee. The Health and Human Services chapter calls for steering teen pregnancy prevention funds toward abstinence‑only programs, reversing a decade of evidence‑based grantmaking.Running through the plan is a view of presidential power sometimes called the “unitary executive theory.” According to the American Civil Liberties Union, Project 2025 would concentrate control of the Justice Department in the White House, prioritizing an attorney general “above all loyal to the President” and easing the removal of officials who resist politically driven investigations.Supporters frame these ideas as a long‑overdue correction to an unaccountable bureaucracy. Critics, including nonpartisan legal scholars, warn that neutral guardrails like Senate confirmation, independent data, and protected civil servants are what keep any president from becoming an “imperial” figure.With the next election cycle underway, Project 2025 now functions as both a governing manual and a political litmus test. Candidates are being pressed to endorse, amend, or reject its proposals. The real test, though, will come if a future administration tries to turn this blueprint into executive orders, agency reorganizations, and real‑world firings.Thanks for tuning in, and come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
Recorded 2026-03-06 17:03:08
Imagine a blueprint so ambitious it aims to remake the entire federal government in the image of one person's vision. That's Project 2025, a 900-page manifesto from the Heritage Foundation and former Trump officials, as detailed in its core document, Mandate for Leadership. According to the Heritage Foundation's plan, it seeks to restore "self-governance to the American people" by centralizing power in the presidency under the unitary executive theory, which grants the president near-total control over the bureaucracy.Fast forward to 2026, and its ideas are no longer hypothetical. President Trump's executive orders have brought them to life with startling speed. Take Schedule F: Project 2025 called for reinstating this Trump-era order to strip job protections from up to 50,000 civil servants, replacing experts with loyalists. The White House's January 2025 order, Restoring Accountability to Policy-Influencing Positions Within the Federal Workforce, did just that, as reported by Government Executive. Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, has fired tens of thousands, targeting diversity offices and agencies like USAID and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau—both Project 2025 priorities—though courts have reinstated some workers amid lawsuits from the ACLU and unions.Concrete examples abound. The plan urges eliminating the Department of Education, a goal Trump advanced via executive order, challenged by teachers' unions. It proposes weaponizing the DOJ against rivals, expanding political appointees there, and ending independence for agencies like the FCC and FTC by overruling Supreme Court precedents, per the Center for American Progress analysis. DOGE has slashed Health and Human Services by 20,000 jobs and gutted IRS civil rights offices, aiming to "traumatically affect" workers, as OMB Director Russell Vought stated.Experts warn of dire implications. The ACLU describes it as a "radical restructuring" threatening civil rights, while the American Federation of Government Employees fears up to a million job losses, crippling services for rural families and seniors. Proponents see efficiency; critics, an imperial presidency eroding checks and balances.As lawsuits pile up and agencies submit reorganization plans by April, the real test looms: Will Congress rein in these moves, or will DOGE hit its $1 trillion savings goal by July? The battle for America's governance rages on.Thanks for tuning in, listeners. Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
May Solicits Weekly Reviews: DC End of Life 1 by Kyle Starks, Steve Pugh, Chris O'Halloran Marvel Black Panther 60th Anniversary Special by Evan Narcisse, Georges Jeanty, Dexter Vines, Rachelle Rosenberg Cody Ziglar, Alitha Martinez, Andrew Dalhouse Murewa Ayodele, Eder Messias, Rachelle Rosenberg Christopoher Priest, Javier Pina, Federico Blee Deadly Hands of K'un-Lun 1 by Yifan Jiang, Paco Medina, Ceci de la Cruz Generation X-23 1 by Jody Houser, Jacopo Camagni, Erick Arciniega It's Jeff Meets Daredevil 1 by Kelly Thompson, Gurihiru Wolverine: Weapons of Armageddon 1 by Chip Zdarsky, Luca Maresca, Jesus Aburtov Marvel Unlimited Infinity Comics: Symbie 4 by Jacob Chabot Dynamite Muppets Noir 1 by Roger Langridge, Dearbhla Kelly IDW Smile: For the Camera 1 by Hanna Rose May, Miriana Puglia, Dearbhla Kelly Image Death Fight Forever 1 by Andrew MacLean, Alexis Ziritt White Sky 1 by William Harms, Jean Paul Mavinga, Lee Loughridge Mad Cave The Florida Hippopotamus Cocaine Massacre 1 by Fred Kennedy, James Edward Clark, Becka Kinzie ComiXology/Crescent The Knight and the Lady of Play by Jonathan Luna Titan Lenore: Curse of the Beebee Yaga 1 by Roman Dirge OGN Countdown Minecraft: Heart of Cobblestone Vol 2 by Andrew Clemson, Jeremy Lawson Ninja Kaiju Vol 1: Unleashed by Franco, Scot McMahon Huck 'n' Hairball and the Litterbox Time Machine by Rich Moyer Damsel From D.I.S.T.R.E.S.S. by Andrew Clemson, Mauricio Mora College Try by Olivia Cuartero-Briggs, Roberta Ingranata, Warnia Sahadewa Three Thieves Vol 4: The King's Dragon by Scott Chantler TV How to Get to Heaven From Belfast s1 Starfleet Academy ep7 A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms ep5 Additional Reviews: Legacy of Yangchen Human Target Night of the Ghoul Predator Badlands News: Pride Monsters anthology w/ Tynion/Axelrod/Sturges/Brombal/Ostertag, Ghost Machine crossover in May, McKenna Grace cast as Daphne in Netflix Scooby Doo reinvention, Alien Books picks up Zorro license in addition to Tarzan, new Star Trek comic set after Picard, new cool Archie collections from Oni (hardcovers and digests), H2SH delays, Kristen Bell voicing Amy Rose in Sonic 4, DC news from ComicPro, 3W/3M, Concrete returns, Queen in Black, Marvel crossover with Jay and Silent Bob (Jays of Future Past), new Black Wonder Man, new Hello Kitty comic from IDW written by Mariko Tamaki, Skate Ali from Dark Horse and Kelly Sue, MASK joins Energon, Venom animated movie in the works, K Pop Belfast discourse, Winona Ryder joins cast of Wednesday, Sonic vs. Godzilla from IDW, Funko AI movies, Image welcomes back a controversial figure, Aladdin series from Dynamite, more Exquisite Corpses, Who news, What If…? Trailers: Grogu and Mandalorian, Mummy, Toy Story 5, Northern Tails s2 Comics Countdown (18 Feb 2026): Absolute Batman 17 by Scott Snyder, Eric Canete, Frank Martin Exquisite Corpses 10 by James Tynion IV, Jordie Bellaire, Michael Walsh, Marianna Ignazzi End of Life 1 by Kyle Starks, Steve Pugh, Chris O'Halloran Ultimate Spider-Man 24 by Jonathan Hickman, Marco Checchetto, David Messina, Matt Wilson Superman Unlimited 10 by Dan Slott, Mike Norton, Marcelo Maiolo Minor Arcana 14 by Jeff Lemire, Patricio Delpeche Fantastic Four 8 by Ryan North, Humberto Ramos, Victor Olazaba, Edgar Delgado Our Soot Stained Heart 3 by Joni Hagg, Stipan Morian, Ropemann Amazing Spider-Man 22 by Joe Kelly, Nick Bradshaw, Todd Nauck Nathan Stockman, Scott Hanna, Rachelle Rosenberg, Marte Gracia Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Battle Nexus 5 by Tom Waltz, Paul Allor, Sophie Campbell, Caleb Goellner, Erik Burnham, Ben Bates, Luis Antonio Delgado
PRESENTED BY: CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMYPractical education and ongoing development for concrete professionals at every stage of their career.Join here: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ EPISODE SUMMARYYou get the 28-day report.It's low.Now what? In this episode, Seth sits down with Josh Agee, Concrete Quality Assurance Manager at F.A. Wilhelm Construction, to walk through what actually happens when a cylinder comes back below strength.Who do you call first?Is it the mix? The placement? The testing company?When do you use a Swiss hammer? When do you core? And what really matters — the cylinder… or the in-place concrete?This is a practical, field-level conversation about investigating low breaks, managing risk, and protecting your project before things spiral.If you work in structural concrete, this isn't hypothetical.It's coming. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN • Why reviewing batch tickets is the first move • Why the middle third of the truck matters when sampling • How poor field curing can destroy cylinder results • What most people misunderstand about testing tech responsibility • When to use Swiss hammers and Windsor probes • Why coring is often the final answer • What the rolling average actually tells you • When concrete must be removed — and when it doesn't • How better pre-pour meetings reduce risk CHAPTERS 00:00 – The low break email no one wants 03:29 – Investigating batch tickets and water additions 05:26 – Why pre-pour meetings matter more than you think 08:07 – Cure box mistakes that happen all the time 13:03 – Non-destructive testing and managing risk 15:11 – Coring and what break patterns tell you 18:26 – Rolling averages and statistical outliers 21:16 – Proper sampling: the middle third rule 23:26 – How cylinders get mishandled 25:02 – Labeling errors that create chaos 26:22 – Lessons learned moving forward GUEST INFOJosh AgeeConcrete Quality Assurance ManagerF.A. Wilhelm ConstructionProfile: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/josh-agee/ CONCRETE LOGIC PARTNERSINTELLIGENT CONCRETEConcrete not behaving the way it should?Intelligent Concrete combines lab-level testing with real-world field experience to identify the true root cause of performance issues — not just treat the symptoms.Reach out for help: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/intelligent-concrete CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMYEarn PDHs in the same straight-talk format as the podcast:Join now: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/academy SUPPORT THE PODCAST (VALUE FOR VALUE)Concrete Logic operates on a Value-for-Value model.If you get value from the show — whether that's education, perspective, or just something that makes you better at your craft — consider giving value back.Donate here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/donate Producer-level supporters get recognized on the episode. This episode's Producers: Josh Bong Tom Cummings Thank you for supporting independent concrete education. You can also support the show by purchasing your KUIU work, workout, or hunting gear through our link — 10% goes to the podcast at no additional cost to you: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Media, sponsorship, or content inquiries: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Josh Bong, Tom Cummings, Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic Media Music by Mike Dunton: https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com Seth@concretelogicpodcast.com Until next time…Let's keep it concrete.
Click here to book a reservation at the HSV RV Park. The Hot Springs Village RV Park is a private park for members and sponsored guests. In a serene rural setting between Lake Pineda and Lake Coronado, the park features 21 sites: 12 pull-through (Sites 1-12) and 9 back-in (Sites 13-21). The HSV RV Park offers full-service hook-ups with water, sewer, and 30/50-amp service at each site, along with grills, fire rings, and picnic tables. Concrete picnic slabs are available on Sites 13-21. There are no bathrooms or showers onsite so all RVs must be self-contained. Registered RV Park users may use the showers at the Coronado Fitness Center. The Fitness Center is located only one mile away from the RV Park and can be accessed by a nature trail. • Join Our Free Email Newsletter • Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel (click that bell icon, too) • Join Our Facebook Group • Support Our Sponsors (Click on the images below to visit their websites.) __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
In deze aflevering onderzoeken Albert en Tonny een vraag die veel leiders en ondernemers herkennen, maar weinig hardop uitspreken:Is het eenzaam aan de top?Ze delen openhartig over de verantwoordelijkheid die komt kijken bij ondernemerschap. Over het gevoel dat jij altijd degene bent die moet dragen. Dat jij de visie ziet. Dat jij de eindverantwoordelijkheid voelt, zelfs als er compagnons of tientallen medewerkers om je heen staan.Albert vertelt hoe hij zich soms onderdeel voelde van zijn eigen team, maar ook regelmatig erbuiten. Tonny deelt hoe overprikkeling, controle en verantwoordelijkheid hem op een eiland brachten, midden in een succesvolle organisatie.In deze aflevering hoor je onder andere:- Waarom verantwoordelijkheid automatisch afstand creëert- De ‘responsibility gap' en waarom leiders minder feedback krijgen- Hoe succes en eenzaamheid hand in hand kunnen gaan- Waarom kwetsbaarheid de sleutel is tot verbinding- Hoe je onbewust je eigen eenzaamheid creëert- Waarom delen belangrijker is dan oplossen- Concrete manieren om verantwoordelijkheid anders te organiseren Ontvang gratis de Masterclass met onze 6 grootste levenslessen en doorbraken t.w.v. 197 euro via https://psychologievansucces.nl/gratis Vind ons ook op YouTube, voor reacties en korte inspiratiestukjes uit de podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@psychologievansucces
In celebration of Women in Construction Week, this episode explores how the construction industry is evolving, technically, culturally, and professionally. Concrete is often misunderstood as simple. In reality, it is chemistry, data, performance modeling, and long-term durability engineering. This conversation pulls back the curtain on the science behind the material that quite literally shapes our world and highlights the next generation of technical leadership helping move the industry forward. You'll Learn Why concrete is far more scientific and complex than most people realize How R&D teams test and scale new materials responsibly The real tension between innovation and field adoption What early-career leadership growth looks like in a technical role How visibility and credibility shape long-term career opportunity Why modern construction requires broader skill sets than ever before Meet Our Guest Lauren Kinslow is a Quality Engineer at Titan America, where she evaluates and tests new materials to assess performance and ensure quality standards. She holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Virginia Tech College of Engineering and is committed to continuous learning and professional development. Lauren maintains multiple industry certifications, including: ACI Concrete Strength and Aggregate Testing Technician NRMCA Certified Concrete Technologist Levels 1 and 2 She is currently a member of the Virginia Ready Mixed Concrete Association's Concrete Leadership Program and is set to graduate in May 2026. Todd Takes Culture Shifts Through Reinforcement Lasting change happens through consistency, competence, and trust built over time. Innovation Is About Adoption New ideas only matter when they are proven, trusted, and implemented in the field. The Mold Has Broadened Today's construction industry demands analytical thinkers, scientists, data-driven leaders, and problem solvers alongside traditional field expertise. More Resources Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd's LinkedIn Lauren's LinkedIn Titan America's Website Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn Autodesk's Website
TRACKLIST : Riko Forinson - The dub whip Skymate - Peace of mind T R ! X - Talking about Miro Pajic - See the stars Ātrisco - Concrete jungle Vintage Cut - This dance Pheelo - All night Al Bradley - Transparent fruit (Lee Guthrie remix) Unknown Artist - Destuldebussy Trek Aleix - Horizon MHL72 - Cloud pattern Sublee - Better today
Recorded 2026-02-27 17:11:08
Luke Eggebraaten is in studio with Taylor Stewart, the founder of Stewart Concrete & Groundworks (Kitchener-based crew crushing premium concrete and excavation work—custom patios, driveways, pool decks, commercial foundations, full in-house from dig to finish). No fluff, just actionable insights from the dirt world. Check the site: https://www.stewartconcreteandgroundworks.ca/ IG: @stewartconcretegroundworks Tune in for the kind of conversation that levels up the trades! Book a free strategy call with Phaser Marketing (775) DIRT-BAG : https://calendly.com/d/cm59-rf4-hgq/investing-in-a-new-construction-website?month=2025-05 Huge Thanks to our sponsors: Charlie Huff - Need a certificate of insurance? Done. Adding a new piece of equipment to the fleet? Consider it handled. Got an audit breathing down your neck? Charlie's already on it. This is full-service insurance from people who care and understand—and it shows. Whether you're a one-crew start-up or managing a multi-state operation, Charlie makes sure you're covered right the first time so you can focus on growing, hiring, and hauling. Call (435) 764-4833 or visit https://trupointco.com/ Eljen - Revolutionizing Onsite Wastewater Management Backed by decades of engineering expertise, the Eljen GSF® A42 system uses a layered approach combining geotextile fabric and a plastic core to optimize effluent treatment. This modular leachfield design increases filtration efficiency, reduces the required installation footprint, and protects soil absorption capacity for the long term. Especially effective in space-constrained or environmentally sensitive areas, it offers a reliable, sustainable upgrade to traditional septic systems. Learn more at: eljen.com SludgeHammer - Enhancing Septic System Performance with Advanced Microbiology By introducing a proprietary blend of live bacteria into existing septic tanks, SludgeHammer systems biologically transform waste processing. This method restores failing leach fields, reduces sludge buildup, and supports environmentally friendly water recycling without the need for major system overhauls. Certified for performance and scalability, the solution is ideal for homes, businesses, and larger-scale applications. Discover the details at: sludgehammer.net Thanks for listening!
Today, we're looking at a wooden house revolution that's happening in Europe. Concrete's carbon footprint is turning architects and construction companies towards trees. In Portugal, a rush of new residents to the sparsely populated rural areas – and a lack of builders – is driving the flat-pack and modular wooden house market. Many of these rural plots often have a ruined, abandoned house on them, creating opportunities for faster construction.We also meet an architect who has dedicated his life to building in wood, championing a material he believes is key to more sustainable design.If you'd like to get in touch with the team, our email address is businessdaily@bbc.co.ukPresented and produced by Alastair LeitheadBusiness Daily is the home of in-depth audio journalism devoted to the world of money and work. From small startup stories to big corporate takeovers, global economic shifts to trends in technology, we look at the key figures, ideas and events shaping business.Each episode is a 17-minute deep dive into a single topic, featuring expert analysis and the people at the heart of the story.Recent episodes explore the weight-loss drug revolution, the growth in AI, the cost of living, why bond markets are so powerful, China's property bubble, and Gen Z's experience of the current job market.We also feature in-depth interviews with company founders and some of the world's most prominent CEOs. These include Google's Sundar Pichai, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales, CEO of Canva Melanie Perkins, and the CEO of Starbucks, Brian Niccol.(Picture: Wooden modular house. Credit: Getty Images)
In this episode, I sit down with the founder and CEO of Concrete Build, Dr. Nelva Lee, to discuss the power of personal growth and resilience in entrepreneurship.We discuss what it really takes to lead with strength, build through adversity, and remain committed to serving others while scaling a vision. Dr. Lee shares insights on developing a resilient mindset, navigating challenges as a founder, and why service-driven leadership is the foundation of sustainable success.If you're building something meaningful — and want to grow internally as much as you grow professionally — this conversation will speak to you.Connect with Dr. Lee and learn more about Concrete Build at: https://concretebuild.orgAffiliates mentioned in this episode:Cannabolix: https://cannabolix.org/?ref=yyioghne==================================Vision Alignment Blueprint (VAB)The Vision Alignment Blueprint is a guided creative workbook designed to help you clarify your vision, reconnect with your creative voice, and move forward with intention.It's for creatives who want structure without pressure — and depth without overwhelm.
Concrete powered homes?! Sounds crazy! Or does it?
Imagine a blueprint so ambitious it aims to remake the entire U.S. federal government from the inside out. That's Project 2025, launched in April 2023 by the Heritage Foundation as the 2025 Presidential Transition Project. According to its 900-page Mandate for Leadership, the plan seeks to consolidate executive power under a conservative president, replacing civil service workers with loyalists and dismantling agencies seen as bloated or ideologically misaligned.At its core, Project 2025 pushes a bold reinterpretation of unitary executive theory, placing the entire executive branch under direct presidential control. "All federal employees should answer to the president," Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts declared, echoing the document's call to reclassify tens of thousands of civil servants via Schedule F, stripping their protections to install Trump-aligned personnel. The Heritage Foundation aimed for a 20,000-person database by late 2024 to staff this overhaul.Concrete changes target key agencies. It proposes abolishing the Department of Education, shifting programs like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to Health and Human Services and elevating school choice over federal oversight. "The federal government should be no more than a statistics-keeping organization" in education, the Mandate states, criticizing "woke propaganda" in schools. Similarly, the Department of Homeland Security would dissolve into a streamlined immigration agency merging Customs and Border Protection and ICE. The Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau face elimination, while the DOJ and FBI would fall under White House oversight to combat what the plan calls a "radical liberal agenda."Tax cuts for corporations, a flat income tax, Medicaid caps, and repealing Biden's Inflation Reduction Act round out economic reforms, aiming to slash regulations and boost nuclear energy. Critics like the ACLU warn this centralizes power, eroding checks and balances, while the Brennan Center highlights risks to criminal justice independence, such as charging local prosecutors for lenient policies.Fast-forward to 2026: The Center for Progressive Reform reports the Trump administration has implemented or initiated 53 percent of Project 2025's domestic agenda, including a February 2025 executive order launching the Department of Government Efficiency to shrink the workforce through attrition and hiring freezes. White House documents detail plans to prioritize reductions in diversity initiatives and non-statutory offices.This sweeping vision connects efficiency dreams to partisan control, illustrated by proposals to merge economic bureaus under conservative principles. As implementation accelerates, upcoming congressional battles over union rights—demanded by labor leaders in July 2025—could decide its fate.Thanks for tuning in, listeners. Come back next week for more.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
https://youtu.be/2WtJcihSS6oSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Robin Zander hosted a Snafu webinar for the Sidebar community on non-sales selling—think self-promotion for career transitions, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and product people. The goal: learn to "sell yourself" without the ick factor. Participants shared fears: follow-ups feel intimidating, sales feels slimy, and success seems like a numbers game. Robin reframed it: selling is really about enrollment—being a chief evangelist for your work, not begging for attention. Drawing on stories from his childhood pumpkin patch, his time as a personal trainer (where desperation lost him clients), and opening Robin's Cafe in San Francisco (raising $40k, serving multiple stakeholders, training staff with Danny Meyer's principles), he showed the difference between selling from need vs. service. Long-term success comes from genuine connection, curiosity, optimism, and passion. Attendees explored their "authentic attitude" and reflected on times self-promotion felt good versus slimy. Exercises included mapping all the people who benefit from your work—employees, customers, managers, mentees, community—and practicing generosity in selling (a "Miracle on 34th Street" mindset: help customers even if it means sending them elsewhere). In Q&A, Robin tackled: Asking for promotions as modeling for others, especially women and minorities Persistence in follow-ups (yes, emailing Mark Benioff 53 times counts) Relationship-based enterprise selling Avoiding fear-based AI marketing by knowing who you serve and what problem you solve Recommended reading: Setting the Table (Danny Meyer), Unreasonable Hospitality (Will Guidara), The New Strategic Selling. Robin also shared upcoming Snafu conference details (March 5, Oakland Museum of California) and reminded everyone: Snafu = situation normal; all fucked up. 00:00 Start 01:06 Audience Fears About Selling Robin Zander welcomes 93 participants to the webinar Notes the session is interactive with exercises planned Encourages participants to drop questions in chat or interrupt him Last 15–20 minutes reserved for questions Robin introduces himself briefly Focuses on storytelling as a tool for self-promotion Shares experience as a community builder Runs a conference called Responsive since 2016 (not Snafu) Tools, structures, and company cultures for resilient organizations Two-day event each September on the future of work Focus on building resilience in organizations Observations on rapid change Technology and work-life changes happening at a fast pace Questions about resilience in individuals Traits needed in careers, personal relationships, professional relationships Ability to stay resilient through change Robin frames his expertise Emphasizes his strength in asking questions and fostering honest conversations Labels himself a reluctant salesperson Not the world's leading expert on self-promotion or selling Key lessons from research and interviews Two buckets matter in business and life: Example: Sidebar community forming coalitions for learning and action Operational excellence: being competent and at least as good as others Promotion/enrollment/sales: standing up, saying what you want, building coalitions Started interviewing people about influence and persuasion Started a weekly newsletter called Snafu Written by hand, not AI Shares lessons from his life and others about self-promotion and resilience Focus on courage to take action: raising hand, offering something valuable Core characteristics of self-promotion and selling yourself Connecting with others: art of connection Courage to ask: inspired by Amanda Palmer's TED Talk and book The Art of Asking Opposes traditional "always be closing" sales mentality Advocates for simply asking for what you want Current work mostly involves storytelling for large companies Clients include Supersonic, Airbnb, Zappos, and others 12:25 Service as the Core Principle Robin introduces the concept of storytelling for self-promotion Stories used to: Get promotions Build coalitions Propel career or organizational growth Emphasizes turning personal, career, or company stories into "commercials" Focus of today's talk: self-promotion with impact Core principle: service Showing up from a place of helping others Through helping others, also helping oneself Distinguishes between sleazy salespeople and effective self-promoters Childhood anecdote: Robin's pumpkin patch Tended plants all summer, learned responsibility and care Harvested pumpkins and sold them using a small red tin box labeled "money" Ran "Robin's Pumpkin Patch" for five to seven years At age five, father had him plant pumpkin seeds Engaged neighborhood kids for fun, collaborative promotion Explained product (pumpkins) enthusiastically to potential buyers Used scarecrow costumes and creative gestures to attract attention Lessons learned from pumpkin patch: Authentic enthusiasm creates value Helping people do what they were already inclined to do Early experience of earning and serving simultaneously Self-promotion is most effective when it's service-driven, not manipulative Applying childhood lesson to career and business Asking for a raise Persuading companies to choose one service over another Promoting oneself or others (e.g., Evan, web developer) Key principle: approach self-promotion from delight and service, not need or fear Authentic enthusiasm as foundation for: Interactive exercise for participants Not influenced by sleep deprivation or stress Could be inspired by childhood or adult experiences Opposite of fear; personal and unique for each participant Question posed: what is your authentic attitude when self-promoting? Examples shared from participants: Curiosity Passion Inspiration Service to others Observation Possibility Insight Value Helping others Creativity Belief in serendipity Optimism Key takeaway from exercise and story Promoting from delight, enthusiasm, and service Promoting from need or fear Two versions of self-promotion: Effective self-promotion aligns with authenticity and enthusiasm, creating value for others while advancing oneself 18:36 Gym Job and Needy Selling Robin shares the next story and sets up the next exercise Gym culture is sales-heavy Initial motivation: love of fitness, desire to help people Quickly realizes environment incentivizes personal trainers to sell aggressively Timeframe: ~20 years later, at age 20, moved to San Francisco First post-college job: personal trainer in gyms Early experience at gyms Key lesson from early failure Selling from need feels gross Promoting oneself from fear or desperation leads to poor results Recognizes similarity to unwanted sales calls received personally First authentic success in self-promotion Worked at Petro and World's Gym in San Francisco, Pilates instructor Owner confronted Robin after two weeks: no clients, potential clients being lost to others Threatened termination by Friday if no clients acquired Robin froze under pressure, approached clients but with needy, desperate energy Outcome: fired by Friday, left gym Encounters man in pain on Valencia Street, offers help as personal trainer Approach comes from genuine care, desire to serve Leads to three-year working relationship, consistent sessions, good income Next client: world-famous photographer Michael Light at UCSF swimming pool Client comes from natural connection, not pushy salesmanship Dichotomy observed: Pushy, need-based self-promotion → freeze, poor results Service-oriented self-promotion → natural connections, sustained relationships Exercise for participants Prompt: identify two moments: One time self-promoting felt slimy → what were you doing? One time self-promoting felt good → what were you doing differently? Two-minute reflection / chat participation Participant reflections/examples Slimy examples: Interviewing for a job during layoffs, giving desperate energy Selling P&L at a hyperscaler Selling computers and printers in UK post-college Sales emails getting ghosted Feeling inauthentic or performative, taking advantage of someone Good examples: Offering services out of care and love rather than ROI Showing impact of work to junior child Knowing services add real value and solve a challenge Being clear on what the other person needs Key takeaway Self-promotion feels different depending on intent and knowledge Slimy → desperate, inauthentic, unclear value to recipient Authentic → service-driven, clear value, connection-focused Effective self-promotion combines knowing your value and serving others, not just pushing for personal gain 25:35 Miracle on 34th Street Lesson Feeling good in self-promotion comes from genuinely helping, solving problems, and sharing information Santa Claus hired at Macy's to hold kids and give candy canes, but real goal: persuade parents to buy from Macy's Santa instead sends parents to competitor to truly serve them Macy's manager initially furious Outcome: customers feel genuinely served, return praising Macy's, become loyal fans Robin references Miracle on 34th Street (original version) Key insight: providing real value, even if it benefits someone else, eventually returns value to you "Put enough bread across the water, eventually good things come back" Participant reflections Slimy: knowing audience expects judgment, catering to them for approval Good: giving the gift of knowledge, providing service freely Takeaway: authentic self-promotion is rooted in service, generosity, and sharing expertise, not manipulating for immediate gain 27:45 Starting Robin's Cafe Through Service Robin shares a major professional turning point: opening Robin's Cafe in 2016 No restaurant experience beyond college busing tables Opened in three weeks, eventually grew to 15 employees by 2018 Worked in multiple industries: Pumpkin patch, personal trainer, circus performer Opened a café/restaurant in Mission District, San Francisco Courage and conviction came from clear focus on service to others Employees: create a great workplace, go-giver culture Investors: $40k raised from friends/family, provided value and potential return Landlords (ODC, nonprofit dance center): wanted success of business to support community Customers: diverse—tech workers, kids in dance classes, local community Robin himself: financial sustainability, learning, personal growth Key audiences served by Robin's Cafe Approach to challenges Used Danny Meyer's Setting the Table as a service-focused framework for employees Philosophy: "giving in order to get paid" Examples: spouse, kids, dog, manager, peers, mentees, clients, community, customers, extended family, mentors Served multiple stakeholders during crises: break-ins, flooding, city permitting, neighborhood issues Exercise: identify all the people who benefit from your work or success Key idea: the more stakeholders served, the easier self-promotion becomes, because it comes from service, not need or pressure Show up thinking: does this serve the person I'm talking to? Principle: selling yourself from a place of service Consider multiple stakeholders simultaneously Audience question: elaborate on applying this service mindset specifically to asking for a promotion Tying service to self-promotion in career advancement Result: asking for a raise, applying for jobs, pitching clients—all easier and more authentic 38:11 Promotion As Service Asking for a promotion from a place of service Example: doing the role already, deserving recognition, asking for what you believe you've earned. Personal perspective: advocating for yourself is a form of service to yourself Recognize other stakeholders in the process: Modeling courage and advocacy for the next generation Authority enables ideas to be taken more seriously Stories gained from new responsibilities enhance value to clients or teams People you mentor, especially women or underrepresented groups The organization: your promotion can make it stronger Your family or children: showing them what it looks like to advocate Concrete examples Outcome: trajectory of career positively influenced, demonstrated courage, modeled behavior Asking first time for a manager role Later asking for VP title as a director Courage and small steps Courage = acting despite fear, not absence of fear Practice by taking incremental steps toward what scares you Avoid masking or hesitation; direct action builds confidence and results Persistence and follow-up Busy people require patience and multiple nudges Example: Mark Stubbings emailing Mark Benioff 53 times before a yes Persistence = respectful, consistent follow-ups Role modeling for women and minorities Demonstrates that asking is a normal, expected, and service-oriented act Many don't ask for promotions or raises due to upbringing or cultural norms Modeling advocacy teaches the next generation, including children, to speak up Service mindset in practice Approach self-promotion by asking: is this good for the other person? Keep intention aligned with service, not desperation Books for guidance: Setting the Table – Danny Meyer: service-driven sales and employee culture Unreasonable Hospitality – Will Guidara: lessons from the restaurant world on giving value and delight Key takeaways for promotion and asking Serve yourself, your mentees, your organization, and your broader audience Take small, courageous steps to ask for what you deserve Follow up respectfully and consistently; don't assume silence = no Self-promotion becomes easier and authentic when rooted in service, not fear or need Snafu Newsletter Weekly newsletter written by Robin Covers influence, persuasion, and modern workplace dynamics A resource for ongoing learning and practical insights 56:55 Where to Find Robin Robin's newsletter covers influence, persuasion, and modern work. Snafu Conference Responsive Conference Robin Zander on social medias
If you've ever opened a dating app and immediately wanted to throw your phone across the room — this one's for you. In episode 263 of the Feminist Dating Show, I'm coaching Kayla live. This episode is for you if you relate to any of this: You open a dating app and immediately spiral into, "What if they make me uncomfortable?" or "what if I say something stupid?" You avoid swiping because judging people by their photos makes you feel like a bad person You watch your friends get matches and wonder what you're doing wrong You feel like a late bloomer, a re-entry dater, or just behind Deep down, you're afraid the real problem is that you're just not lovable... In this episode, I help Kayla name what's underneath her dating avoidance. We name what makes dating apps so dang difficult on our brains/bodies/nervous systems (they are such a flawed tool!). AND we build a simple "if this, then that" plan for dating that soothes her anxiety. In this episode, you'll learn to swipe without abandoning yourself, without judging yourself for your attraction preferences, or without lowering your standards. Work with Lily: Read Lily's book: Thank You, More Please Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/@datebrazen Follow on TikTok: tiktok.com/@datebrazen Follow on Instagram: instagram.com/datebrazen Explore programs + resources: datebrazen.com
Ben DuBose, News Editor with AMPP Media, interviewed a wide range of industry leaders as part of CoatingsPro's exclusive coverage of January and February 2026 trade shows. That on-site coverage, which is available on our website and social media pages, included the 2026 World of Concrete (WOC); International Roofing Expo (IRE); and AMPP's inaugural Maritime Coatings Contractor Forum. From WOC's outdoor Exhibit Hall in Las Vegas, this mini-episode features booth interviews with leadership figures from Husqvarna Construction Products and Polyglass USA. Each interview can also be viewed in video form (complete with additional site footage) at the links below. Husqvarna video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1400288348508585 Polyglass video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/3186983931467675
Every small step counts towards positivity. Franciscan principles guide us in violent times. Humility allows for steadier courage. Nonviolence starts with our speech. Daily practices help maintain peace. Boundaries protect life and invite accountability. Forgiveness should lead to change. Peace is a communal effort, not just personal. Love can refuse harm while still being compassionate. Concrete actions are essential for real change. Produced, Edited and mixed by Paul R. Long, OFSFor further Information visit our Website OurWalkTogether.comor contact: PaulLongOFS@gmail.com
In this episode of The Build Show Podcast, Matt Risinger and Steve Baczek record live from the Milwaukee Tool booth at World of Concrete. They break down the most innovative concrete products, new construction tools, and cutting-edge building materials they discovered at the industry's largest trade show. From advanced concrete technology to smarter jobsite solutions, this episode covers the trends shaping residential and commercial construction in 2026. If you're a builder, contractor, architect, or serious DIYer looking for the latest in building science and construction innovation, this one's for you. Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, Sugatsune. Learn more at: https://www.sugatsune.com/ Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network. https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetworkhttps://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.
Recorded 2026-02-20 17:03:37
This week's Labor Radio/Podcast Weekly features the Green and Red Podcast honoring civil rights and labor champion Jesse Jackson and his lifelong fight for economic justice and multiracial working-class solidarity. The Valley Labor Report speaks with Dr. Augustus Wood about his new book Class Warfare in Black Atlanta and why Black working-class struggle remains central to confronting inequality and building liberation movements. On My Labor Radio, letter carriers organize nationwide rallies demanding fair contracts, living wages, and respect for essential public service workers. The FedEx pilots' union podcast Fly By Night highlights how worker feedback leads to real improvements in safety and working conditions, while Australia's Concrete Gang defends construction unions against political attacks and makes the case for unions' critical role in protecting wages, safety, and dignity. Finally, Tales from the Reuther Library marks its 100th episode with a look at the Radical Fund, showing how bold ideas and strategic support helped advance labor rights and civil liberties during some of America's most turbulent times. The episode concludes with our “Shows You Should Know” roundup, featuring strike votes by Nova Scotia care workers, ongoing coverage from the Working People podcast, organizing lessons from Labor Notes and Labor Force, and new data on strikes and work stoppages from Power At Work.
Lou Manfredini joins Jon Hansen, filling in for Lisa Dent, in his weekly segment, Lou's To Do List. Lou answers any questions you have about projects on your to-do lists.
PRESENTED BY: CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Practical education and ongoing development for concrete professionals at every stage of their career. Join here: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/EPISODE SUMMARYThirty years ago, concrete mix designs were simpler, more prescriptive, and easier to predict.Today, they're optimized, blended, engineered, and heavily influenced by admixtures, SCMs, and cement chemistry.In this episode, Seth talks with Jeff Slagle from Chaney Enterprises about how ready-mix designs actually evolved over the last three decades—what changed, why it changed, and what that means for producers, engineers, and finishers working with today's concrete.WHAT YOU'LL LEARNWhat ready-mix designs actually looked like in the 1990s (and why they were so prescriptive)Why SCMs like slag and fly ash were initially resisted—and how producers got buy-inHow high-range water reducers quietly changed everythingWhy performance-based specs (P2P) shifted control back to producersWhat Type IL cement changed in real-world placement and finishingWhy data centers are driving new mix demandsWhat problems the next generation of concrete still hasn't solvedCHAPTERS00:00 – Why this episode matters 03:20 – Jeff Slagle's path through the ready-mix business 06:10 – What mix designs looked like 30 years ago 09:50 – When SCMs actually entered the Mid-Atlantic market 11:30 – Slag vs fly ash: field realities, not theory 14:45 – Prescriptive specs vs performance-based design (P2P) 17:00 – High-range water reducers and the air-entrainment nightmare 19:30 – Aggregate blending and plant complexity 20:30 – Type IL cement and the end of “cheap” SCMs 23:40 – Finishing challenges and jobsite adaptation 26:30 – What the future might look like for concrete mixes 29:00 – Cement supply, imports, and market pressureGUEST INFOJeff Slagle Director of Key Aggregate Accounts Chaney Enterprises Email: JSlagle@chaneyenterprises.com Website: https://www.chaneyenterprises.com CONCRETE LOGIC PARTNERSINTELLIGENT CONCRETEConcrete not behaving the way it should?Intelligent Concrete combines lab-level testing with real-world field experience to identify the true root cause of concrete performance issues—not just treat the symptoms.Reach out for help: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/intelligent-concrete CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMYEarn PDHs in the same straight-talk format as the podcast:Join now: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/academySUPPORT THE PODCASTDid you get value out of the show? Give some value back:https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/donateBuy your KUIU work, workout & hunting gear and 10% goes to the show. No added cost to you:https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiuMedia, sponsorship, or content inquiries:seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITSProducers: Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic MediaMusic by Mike Dunton: https://www.mdunton.com/WHERE TO FIND SETHhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast https://www.concretelogicpodcast.comSeth@concretelogicpodcast.com
Lou Manfredini joins Jon Hansen, filling in for Lisa Dent, in his weekly segment, Lou's To Do List. Lou answers any questions you have about projects on your to-do lists.
To recap three industry events from early 2026, our Ben DuBose sits down with Lisa Sciortino (Managing Editor, CoatingsPro Magazine) and Jennifer Merck (Vice President of Defense and Maritime, AMPP). Discussion topics include event highlights and key takeaways from the World of Concrete show; the International Roofing Expo; and AMPP's inaugural Maritime Coatings Contractor Forum. Both interviews can also be watched in video form at the links below. Lisa Sciortino video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1411476647277066 Jennifer Merck video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1444106733950436
Filmmaker John Wilson (creator of HBO's How To with John Wilson) joins Tommy Evans on Trail 103.3's Trail Lunchbox for a conversation that starts with a snowstorm detour in Deer Lodge and ends at the literal foundation of New York City.Wilson's new feature The History of Concrete follows his attempt to make a documentary about the world's most overlooked material—until the film industry reality sets in. After taking a class on how to write and sell a Hallmark movie, he tries applying that formula to a movie about concrete… and his plan begins to crack—both figuratively and (in true John Wilson fashion) surprisingly literally.Montana Premiere: Thu, Feb 19 at 5:00 PM at the MCT, followed by a Q&A with director John Wilson. More info and tickets at bigskyfilmfest.org.
In Episode 139 of Culture of Change, Ashe in America and Abbey Blue Eyes continue their deep dive into artificial intelligence, shifting from last week's discussion into even more unsettling territory. The episode opens with clips from AI researchers debating superintelligence, safety mechanisms, and the possibility that advanced models could lie, blackmail, or even act destructively to avoid being shut down. The hosts unpack the ethical concerns, the push for global governance, and the tension between innovation, profit, and public consent. From there, the conversation moves into real-world applications, including liquid robots that can deform, merge, and move via magnetic fields or sound waves, as well as the broader implications of pairing advanced AI with physical systems. The discussion expands into emerging energy breakthroughs, including self-healing Roman-style concrete and new conductive concrete capable of storing electricity, raising questions about ancient technology, disclosure, and the future of decentralized power. Balancing skepticism with curiosity, Ashe and Abbey explore whether these developments signal dystopia, a golden age, or something in between.
Ben DuBose, News Editor with AMPP Media, interviewed a wide range of industry leaders as part of CoatingsPro's exclusive coverage of January and February 2026 trade shows. That on-site coverage, which is available on our website and social media pages, included the 2026 World of Concrete (WOC); International Roofing Expo (IRE); and AMPP's inaugural Maritime Coatings Contractor Forum. From WOC's Exhibit Hall in Las Vegas, this mini-episode features booth interviews with leadership figures from Gaco, Equipment Development Co., Inc. (EDCO), and Polycoat Products. Each interview can also be viewed in video form at the links below. Gaco video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1308691344658946 EDCO video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1826201654725397 Polycoat video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/2084629952298277
Mid-February often brings a subtle heaviness — not necessarily burnout or crisis, but accumulation.In this episode, Andryanna explores the difference between energy and capacity, why resentment is often a signal of exceeded mental load, and how to stop coping and start raising your baseline.Rather than chasing motivation or adding more goals, this conversation focuses on internal standards, boundaries, emotional regulation, and practical ways to increase resilience especially as we continue to navigate late winter.In this episode:• Why seasonal patterns often peak mid-February • Cognitive load theory and emotional saturation • The difference between energy and capacity • What coping mode really looks like for women • How resentment signals exceeded capacity • How to raise your baseline standards • Concrete steps to reduce silent resentment • Recovery rituals to shorten stress spirals • Choosing friction intentionallyIt's a grounded and emotionally honest reset for women navigating work, motherhood, relationships, and the mental load.CONNECT WITH ANDRYANNA:Get your copy of The Juggle is Real: Authentic Self-Care Planner Vol. 2 HERE! On InstagramEmail: hello@andryanna.comAnd please visit Andryanna.com for blogs, giveaways, workshops, tools, resources and more.keywords: energy vs capacity stop coping start raising your baseline mid February mental fatigue cognitive load theory women resentment in relationships emotional regulation for moms decision fatigue women raise your standards reduce burnout women stress recovery techniques mental load motherhood capacity building habits
We break down how Medicaid actually works for long-term care, why Medicare ends after short-term rehab, and how singles and married couples can protect assets without sacrificing choice or quality. We share common mistakes, key legal tools, and the steps to stop unnecessary private pay.• Medicaid built to protect the middle class• Difference between Medicare rehab and long-term care• True cost of nursing homes and private pay risk• Non-countable assets for singles in Arkansas• Power of attorney gifting authority as a must-have• Spousal protections that preserve assets and income• Timing strategies for crisis and pre-planning• Why nursing homes and agencies don't guide planning• How an elder law attorney applies the rules• Concrete next steps to assess eligibility and apply“Please get this to anyone you know who is private paying for a nursing home bill so they can stop the bleeding and protect their estate.” “We are Generations Legal Group — call 479-601-4119 or visit GenerationsLegalGroup.com.” “For more resources and show notes, visit www.answersonagingpodcast.com.”Information to help you answer all of your questions about aging.
Send a textTHE DANGER OF DISTRACTIONSPastor Jerrid FletcherFebruary 15, 2026Distraction is not merely a "productivity problem"; it is a spiritual scavenger that fragments the soul and pushes God to the margins of our lives. While "bad" distractions (sin, toxic drama, worldly anxiety) are easy to identify, the more dangerous category is "Good Distractions” responsibilities without margin, success that reshapes priorities, and efficiency without presence. These good things don't compete with our values; they compete with our focus, slowly training us to live self-sufficient lives that leave no room for the Architect.To reclaim our design for deep attention and divine connection, we must move from "managing chatter" to "doing business with God". This requires establishing a "standing reservation" through spiritual disciplines like silence, solitude, and prayer—intentional rhythms that guard what matters most. By tuning out the "noise" of achievement, digital In comparison, and past shame, we can maintain the singular focus of the Apostle Paul, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and the purpose He has called us to fulfill.Discussion Questions 1. The "Concrete" Test: The sermon suggests that busyness isn't just a full week; it's a way of living that "sets like concrete". In what areas of your life has "being busy" become a foundational habit rather than a temporary season?2. Good vs. Holy: How do you distinguish between being "faithful" to your responsibilities and being "consumed" by them to the point where there is no margin for God?3. The Standing Reservation: If God had a "confirmed appointment" to meet you daily, would you stand Him up? Where is the specific, purposeful place in your life where he can consistently expect to meet you?4. Tuning the Frequency: Which "noise" is currently the loudest in your life: the pressure to produce (Noise of Next), the infinite scroll (Digital Noise), or the echoes of old mistakes (Shame Noise)?5. Reading the Bat: Like Hank Aaron at the plate, what "labels" or "technicalities" is the enemy whispering to distract you from your main goal?
What if concrete could store energy that turned buildings, roads, and infrastructure into massive power banks? In this episode, we're joined by Damian Stefaniuk, Research Scientist at MIT's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the Concrete Sustainability Hub (CSHub), and the Electron-Conductive Cement-based Materials Hub (EC³ Hub). Damian's research explores how concrete can be engineered to conduct electricity and store energy at up to 10x the capacity of traditional materials — while simultaneously reducing the carbon footprint of cement production… Damian is a structural and materials engineering scientist who specializes in the development of sustainable construction materials and structures. His research focuses on science-enabled engineering of cement-based materials, with applications ranging from corrosion-resistant prestressed bridges and carbon-storing pre-cure carbonation to electron-conductive carbon concrete for renewable energy storage. Dive in now to discover: How concrete can be made into a conductive material. Carbon-based conductive cement and nanomaterials. Infrastructure's role in clean energy and emissions reduction. You can follow along with Damian and his work here!
Michael Chiarilli | Sam the Concrete Man Stone Mountain At Sam The Concrete Man, we believe in not only providing quality concrete services but in creating relationships with our customers that are as solid as…concrete. We bring our highly skilled concrete services to customers who are eager to renovate their outdoor living spaces into a […]
This episode details the Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) Model, an evidence-based strategy designed to help students master math by bridging the gap between physical objects and abstract concepts.
Montreal's office market is showing nearly a 17–18% vacancy rate. Landlords must offer more concessions, invest heavily in their buildings, and completely rethink their strategy. So how do you stay competitive in 2026? In this episode, Laurence Binette, Director of Brokerage at AlFID, explains how an integrated real estate group with more than 350 employees manages 32 commercial buildings, 2,000 residential units, and 1,000 student housing rooms while continuing to innovate in a complex market. We discuss major transactions, asset optimization, free rent concessions worth $100 to $125 per square foot, repositioning Class B buildings, decarbonization initiatives, and even in-house parking management to maximize revenue. A practical episode for property owners, investors, and commercial real estate professionals who want to understand what is actually working in Montreal today. Topics & Timestamps
Michael Chiarilli | Sam the Concrete Man Stone Mountain At Sam The Concrete Man, we believe in not only providing quality concrete services but in creating relationships with our customers that are as solid as…concrete. We bring our highly skilled concrete services to customers who are eager to renovate their outdoor living spaces into a […]
This week on The Talking Headways podcast we're joined by Dr. Lawrence Frank to talk about how the built environment and the way we get around connect to public health outcomes. We also discuss the shortcomings of cost benefit analysis, and the systematic externalization of health benefits. +++ Get the show ad free on Patreon! Find out about our newsletter and archive on YouTube! Follow us on Bluesky, Threads, Instagram, YouTube, Flickr, Substack ... @theoverheadwire Follow us on Mastadon theoverheadwire@sfba.social Support the show on Patreon http://patreon.com/theoverheadwire Buy books on our Bookshop.org Affiliate site! And get our Cars are Cholesterol shirt at Tee-Public! And everything else at http://theoverheadwire.com
Every maker faces the moment when something goes wrong. The sealer fails. The mix won't flow. Cracks appear. And you need answers now, not guesswork. In this episode, you'll learn why technical support is one of the most valuable assets behind every successful concrete maker, and why who you buy from matters more than what you buy. We break down the most common concrete countertop problems, including sealer failure, cracking, pinholes, and GFRC troubleshooting, and explain how real expert support can diagnose and solve issues in minutes instead of weeks. You'll also discover why cheap concrete materials often cost more in the long run, how proper guidance protects your time and confidence, and how professional makers build predictable, repeatable results. Because confidence doesn't come from experimenting alone. It comes from proven systems and people who stand behind them. When you choose the right materials and the right support, you stop guessing. You start building with certainty. #ConcreteCountertops #GFRC #StoryBrand #MakerMindset #CreativeEntrepreneur #Craftsmanship #PersonalGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #SelfDevelopment #CreativeBusiness
(Cambridge Insight Meditation Center) We will explore how the Buddha's teachings map onto the challenges that many face navigating this arena of life. Concrete practices and suggestions will be offered.
When host Janet Michael talks with Rosemary Wallinger and Laura Fogle for this episode of The Valley Today, she expected a straightforward conversation about local history. What unfolded instead was a remarkable story of discovery, perseverance, and the fight to preserve a crucial piece of American—and African American—heritage that has been hiding in plain sight for nearly 90 years. A Tale of Two Camps Rosemary, president of the CCC Legacy organization, and Laura, the vice president, share how Shenandoah County is home to two historically significant Civilian Conservation Corps camps. While Camp Roosevelt is well-known as the nation's first CCC camp, Wolf Gap - located just 22 miles away - has remained virtually unknown. "Nobody here that we've talked to, other than maybe three people, had ever heard of it," Rosemary reveals. "So we are giving concentrated effort to get it into public awareness." Both camps were among the first ten CCC camps established in the nation. But there's a crucial difference: Wolf Gap became one of the very first African American CCC camps in the country, opening just one month after Camp Roosevelt in 1933. Roosevelt's New Deal in Action As the women explain, the CCC was born from desperation. When Franklin D. Roosevelt took office in 1933, 15 million Americans were unemployed. People were starving. The CCC became one of his fastest-activated New Deal programs, up and running within weeks of his inauguration. The scale was staggering: over 3 million men employed across 4,500 camps nationwide, including 250,000 African Americans and 80,000 Native Americans. Young men—officially aged 17 to 25, though many lied about their age to enroll as young as 15—earned $30 a month. Twenty-five dollars went directly home to their families; they kept just $5 for themselves. "It was another great stimulus program for the whole country," Laura explains. "The guys that were working got to keep $5 a month and their families got the other 25 back home to spend on groceries and needs. The communities around the CCC camps profited because they supplied the food. The farmers had work, the mercantiles had work, the lumber yards had work." The average enrollee gained 35 pounds during their service—a stark testament to the poverty they'd escaped. They learned carpentry, metalworking, and conservation skills. Those who couldn't read or write were taught in camp classes. The Accomplishments History Forgot During the conversation, Rosemary rattles off Wolf Gap's impressive achievements: 16,000 acres of trees planted, 45 miles of road built, 60 miles of horse trails, 100 miles of telephone line, 50 miles of roadside naturalization, and three miles of stream improvement. The camp protected 100,000 acres of local forest, fought a three-day fire at Cedar Creek in 1935, and rescued more than 1,200 residents from floodwaters in March 1936. "Their accomplishments were just astonishing," Rosemary says. "It's shocking that it's unknown to have a list of accomplishments that long, and yet nobody even knows they were here," says Janet. The infrastructure these young men built—in national parks, state parks, and forests across America—still stands today, a testament to the quality of their work. A Serendipitous Discovery Rosemary's discovery of Wolf Gap came while researching her family's involvement in the 1880 race riot at Columbia Furnace. On the Edinburg Memories website, she found a post from Helen Larkin Burton describing how, as a young girl in her father's store, she watched "the boys from the Wolf Gap CCC" come to shop. It was, Burton wrote, the first time she'd ever seen a Black person. "I thought, what CCC are we talking about at Wolf Gap?" Rosemary recalls. She contacted a local historian who confirmed it: "Best kept secret in Shenandoah County." That discovery sparked a grassroots movement. Rosemary assembled a team of dedicated women to pursue state byway designation for Route 675, the road connecting both camps. They succeeded in getting the byway designation and are now working to have it officially named the Shenandoah County CCC Memorial Byway. The Segregation Story The conversation delves into the painful reality of segregation within the CCC. Though African American legislator Oscar De Priest had declared there would be "no discrimination according to race, creed, or color," Robert Fechner, a southerner who helped administer the program, declared that "separate was not unequal." Wolf Gap started as a white camp in its first year but became an African American camp in 1934 when administrators realized they hadn't factored in "how deeply segregated the south still was in the thirties," as Laura explains. African American camps were intentionally placed in remote areas, presumably to avoid racist confrontation. The irony, Rosemary notes, was that when African American enrollees worked battlefields to the point where tourists wanted to visit, they were often transferred to another remote location. Local populations frequently protested the placement of these camps. Finding the Descendants One of the team's greatest accomplishments, shared emotionally during the conversation, was connecting with Roy Allen Cooper, whose father, Oswald Bentley Cooper, was an enrollee at Wolf Gap. While serving, Oswald met Evelyn McAfee from Woodstock. They married and raised nine children—eight boys and one girl named Georgia—on Water Street and Spring Street in Woodstock. Roy's brother Bobby became a well-known local restaurateur, first as the opening cook at the Spring House restaurant in 1973, then running his own establishment. Roy now serves on the CCC Legacy board, providing a vital personal connection to Wolf Gap's history. The Research Challenge "The white CCC was well recorded, records up your wazoo," Rosemary says candidly during the conversation. "But the history of the Black camps is just sparse and what's there is difficult to find." The team has uncovered treasures, including a regional annual with the only known photographs of Wolf Gap enrollees—two large portraits showing the men's names and hometowns. Many came from a community in Southwest Virginia called Agricola, offering potential leads for finding more descendants. Rosemary's research has also uncovered broader stories, including the Preston Lake Rebellion in upstate New York, where African American enrollees trained as leaders were told to step down when white enrollees joined the camp. The men rebelled for three days before being sent back to Harlem—a story that even New York State's historical resources department didn't know about. The Interpretive Center and What's Next The women discuss the James R. Wilkins Sr. Interpretive Center at the US Forest Service Office in Edinburg—a partially completed museum dedicated to CCC history. Wilkins supervised projects at both camps. His son, Jimmy, has been a primary funder along with his sister Donna. The center is open to the public but unfinished. The organization is working to finalize a new agreement with the US Forest Service. As Laura emphasizes in the conversation, 2033 will mark the hundredth anniversary of the CCC's birth, and Camp Roosevelt was the first CCC camp in the nation. "Virginia was truly the epicenter of the CCC," she says. "The state of Virginia needs to embrace that history." Why This Matters When board member Colette Sylvestri presented to 300 students at George Mason University, the most frequent question was: "Why weren't we taught this?" "So much of the history of the CCC in general has just fallen by the wayside," Laura laments. Many people in their forties have never even heard of the Civilian Conservation Corps, let alone understand its contribution to the nation. The CCC didn't just build infrastructure—it restored America. As Laura puts it: "These men who built this country, really the CCC restored the United States of America to what it became after World War II." How to Get Involved The CCC Legacy welcomes new members at $35 annually. Members receive quarterly publications including bulletins and a journal with stories from CCC camps across the country. The organization also offers presentations to civic groups and is actively seeking volunteers, particularly web developers to help update their website at ccclegacy.org. For those with family connections to the CCC, the National Archives has digitized enrollee names, making it possible to search for relatives online. As the conversation wraps up, Rosemary makes a simple request: "Spread the word that this is a thing. We want people to know that this is our history." Both Camp Roosevelt and Wolf Gap are accessible to visitors today. Camp Roosevelt operates as a Forest Service campground with interpretive signage throughout. Wolf Gap, currently undergoing Forest Service renovations, will soon have its own signage installed. Standing at these remote, quiet sites at dusk, Rosemary shares, "I can hear the voices" - a poignant reminder that history isn't just about dates and statistics. It's about the young men who slept in West Virginia, walked to Virginia for breakfast, and built the America we know today. To learn more about the CCC Legacy organization, visit ccclegacy.org or find them on Facebook. Donations can be mailed to CCC Legacy, PO Box 341, Edinburg, VA 22824.
Our next caller needs to replace the fume hood over her gas range in her kitchen and is after Dean’s expert recommendations. Cracks in your concrete driveway? Let's talk about inexpensive alternatives for repairs that don’t mean replacing the entire thing. Plus, what’s the best way to make your stairs safe if you’re installing luxury vinyl flooring? When one is building or redoing their outdoor patio flooring, what must they take into consideration when deciding on timber, products, color, etc.? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Recorded 2026-02-06 17:01:37
New @greenpillnet pod out today!
A vast amount of our built environment is made of concrete. It’s largely affordable, durable and easy to make. It’s also responsible, by some estimates, for roughly 8% of global CO2 emissions. But the U.S. is also facing a significant housing demand shortage, and since concrete is one of the primary building materials for houses and apartments, scientists are working to make it more sustainable to produce. Late last year, a research lab at Oregon State University made a breakthrough when they created a more environmentally friendly concrete derived from soil instead of cement. Besides emitting less CO2 during production, it’s strong, dries fast and it can be 3D printed more rapidly. Devin Roach is an assistant professor of manufacturing and mechanical engineering at OSU. He joins us to share more about how the concrete was made, why it’s useful and the possibilities for commercial use.