You can walk into Menards, grab a few bags of “concrete countertop mix,” and think you’re saving money. But are you? This week on The Concrete Podcast, Brandon and Jon break down the real cost of DIY concrete countertops - from what those hardware store mixes truly cost per square foot, to how they stack up against professional-grade materials like Kodiak Pro’s Maker Mix. They unpack why DIY-grade concrete often leads to cracking, discoloration, and sealer failure, and why pro mixes actually save money in the long run. It’s an honest look at dollars, cents, and craftsmanship - because when you’re building something meant to last, the hardware store option usually costs you the most. If you’ve ever wondered what separates a weekend project from a professional result, this episode will show you the numbers, the science, and the truth behind every bag of mix. #TheConcretePodcast #DIYConcreteCountertops #ConcreteCountertops #KodiakPro #MakerMix #ConcreteMixComparison #Craftsmanship #ConcreteSealer #ConcreteProjects #MakerMindset

Most of us got into this trade for freedom - to build with our hands, chase an idea, and create something that’ll outlast us. But somewhere along the way, that freedom can slip through our fingers, traded for long nights, wasted hours, and frustration over mix issues that steal our flow. In this week’s episode of The Concrete Podcast, Brandon and Jon sit down after hosting another powerful Ramm-Crete Workshop to talk about what really matters - time, balance, and the pursuit of mastery. They unpack a recent tech call that revealed how fiber type and loading directly shape flowability and surface quality (and how a small change can solve problems most of us face in our own shops). You’ll also hear about Kodiak Pro’s Yeti Holiday Giveaway, upcoming Concrete Design School workshops for early 2026, and an honest take on how working smarter - not longer - creates more space for life beyond the shop. If you’re chasing better surfaces, smoother systems, and a more intentional rhythm between work and living - this one’s for you. 
#TheConcretePodcast #ConcreteDesign #KodiakPro #ArtisanMindset #MakerLife #ConcreteCountertops #GFRC #GrowthMindset #CreativeFreedom #rammedearth

Most makers want their work to look authentic, but too often GFRC ends up looking like plastic instead of stone. That disconnect leaves artisans frustrated and searching for answers. In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we unpack why that happens, how to avoid it, and what it takes to get your concrete to look and feel the way it should. We’ll also walk through the bigger question every DIYer and pro faces - how do you choose the right mix for countertops, sinks, furniture, and tile? Not all mixes are created equal, and the wrong one can cost you time, money, and the quality of your work. By the end, you’ll understand what to look for, what to stay away from, and how to make confident choices that elevate your craft. If you’ve been struggling with “plasticky” finishes or just wondering what makes a truly great concrete mix, this conversation will give you the clarity you need. Because when your materials rise to the level of your vision, you stop fighting against concrete and start creating with it. #ConcretePodcast #MakerMindset #concretecountertops #GFRCConcrete #CraftAndGrowth #ArtisanJourney #SelfDevelopmentForMakers #concretefurniture #KodiakPro

Every maker knows the sinking feeling of getting a call about a chip in a concrete piece you poured your heart into. This week on The Concrete Podcast, we focus on how to bring damaged countertops and sinks back to life - and why a solid repair is about more than just patching concrete. It’s about protecting your reputation, honoring your craft, and proving to clients that you stand behind your work. We’ll share step-by-step insights for repairing the piece. You’ll also hear how Kodiak Pro’s silica-free mixes and non-toxic sealers give artisans a dependable way to achieve flawless, lasting results that build trust with every job. #ConcretePodcast #ConcreteRepair #FixConcrete #CraftsmanshipMatters #MakersMindset #kodiakpro #CountertopRepair #ArtisanLife #CreativeGrowth #gfrc

Most makers carry a quiet frustration - they want their work to be lighter, stronger, and more refined, but the materials and methods they’ve been handed keep them stuck in the old way of doing things. This week we pull back the curtain on GFRC, a material that changes the game for concrete countertops, sinks, and furniture. You’ll hear how GFRC stands apart from traditional mixes, why it matters for strength and beauty, and how it frees you from the weight and limitations of standard pours. We’ll talk mixing, spraying, fiber, and the myths that keep many craftspeople from unlocking its full potential. At the heart of it, this isn’t just about concrete - it’s about your story as a maker. When you learn to harness the right materials, you save time, reduce stress, and create pieces that set you apart. That’s what every artisan wants: the freedom to create without compromise. And here’s the thing - tools like Kodiak Pro products exist to put that freedom in your hands. They’re engineered by makers, for makers. The result? Less time fixing problems, more time building the kind of work that carries your name forward. 
#ConcreteCountertops #MakersMindset #GrowthThroughCraft #ConcreteArtisans #KodiakPro #GFRCConcrete #CraftsmanshipMatters #concretedesign #gfrc

On this episode of The Concrete Podcast, Brandon and Jon are joined by Joe Bates of SC Fabrication in Napa, California - an artisan whose work speaks louder than words and whose values run just as deep as his craftsmanship. Together, they unpack the five biggest countertop trends of 2025, where concrete not only holds its ground but leads the charge in form, function, and feeling. If you’re a concrete artisan, architect, or designer trying to understand where the industry is heading - and how to position yourself in it - this episode is your roadmap. But this isn’t just about countertops. It’s about legacy. About why we started casting in the first place. Joe shares how time with family helps him stay grounded, how stepping away can actually sharpen your edge, and why the best makers never stop refining their mix - both in life and in work. If you're building something with your hands and your heart, this one’s for you. Tune in to learn: * The top five countertop trends you’ll see everywhere in 2025 * Why concrete continues to outperform other surface materials * How to align your craft with what architects and designers are asking for * What stepping back can teach you about stepping up And if you're ready to cast cleaner, stronger, silica-free pieces with less hassle and more health? This is your nudge to take a closer look at Kodiak Pro - the only concrete system built for makers, by makers. #ConcreteDesign #MakersPodcast #KodiakPro #ConcreteCountertops #CreativeEntrepreneur #ArtisanMindset #CraftsmanshipMatters #DesignTrends2025 #BuildWhatLasts

Most people think success is about strategy. But more often than not, it’s about character. In this heartfelt episode of The Concrete Podcast, Brandon and Jon sit down for a raw, real conversation about the moments that test your integrity - and define your legacy. When a client comes to you after working with another maker, it’s easy to chase the win. But doing right by others, even when it costs you, is how you build a career that lasts. They’ll unpack lessons from the early days - what they got wrong, what they made right, and how those pivotal choices shaped who they are today. You’ll hear stories that sting, moments that taught, and why showing up with honesty will always outlast the short-term hustle. If you're a builder, artisan, or craftsman looking to grow a business and sleep well at night, this one's for you. And if you're tired of half-baked mixes and fly-by-night brands, they’ll share why tools like Kodiak Pro are made by makers who live what they sell. Because in this game, character is the concrete. #CraftWithCharacter #ConcretePodcast #MakersMindset #KodiakPro #DoTheRightThing #BuildToLast #StoryDrivenBusiness #SelfDevelopmentPodcast #EthicalEntrepreneurship #GrowthThroughIntegrity

Most of us got into this line of work because we love making things with our hands. The process, the freedom, the satisfaction of seeing something real take shape. But there’s a quiet question that keeps tapping us on the shoulder - what’s it all for if we’re not present to enjoy the life we’re building? In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we pull over and take a hard look at the map. It’s not about changing direction. It’s about making sure the road we’re on still leads somewhere we want to go. You’ll hear a story that may sound like your own - chasing deadlines, pushing orders, grinding late into the night - all while the moments that matter start slipping through your fingers. We’ll talk about how the tools you use, the systems you trust, and the materials you rely on can either steal your time or give it back. If you’re a maker, artisan, or craftsman, this one’s for you. Because the goal isn’t just to work hard - it’s to work smart so you can live well. Let’s get into it. 
#ConcretePodcast #MakersMindset #CraftsmanCulture #ArtisanJourney #KodiakPro #BuildWithPurpose #SelfDevelopmentPodcast #TimeFreedom #DesignYourLife

You’ve seen them - the sleek concrete sinks with that elegant ramp, clean lines, and seamless drainage. But how do you actually build one that not only looks stunning but functions like a dream? In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we walk you through the entire process of making a concrete ramp sink - from building a precision form, creating a clean slot-drain, to making smart plumbing connections that don’t require post-cast heroics. Whether you’re building your first ramp sink or refining your technique, this one’s packed with real-world insight. We also discuss the integration of 1L Portland Cement in Kodiak Pro materials. If you’re a maker, craftsman, or design-minded builder looking to blend beauty with function - this episode gives you the tools to build boldly and with confidence. #concretedesign #MakersMindset #concretecountertops #CreativeCraftsmanship #DesignBuild #DIYConcrete #BuilderPodcast #ModernDesign #RampSinkHowTo #KodiakPro

What if the only thing standing between your idea and a stunning concrete masterpiece was the mold? In this rich and reflective episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most-requested topics from makers, artisans, and dreamers alike—mold making for concrete sinks, countertops, furniture, and tile. Guided by years of experience and a storyteller's heart, we walk you through the real stuff—from mastering rubber mold techniques that catch every curve, to sculpting durable, professional-grade fiberglass molds that hold the line under pressure. Whether you're stepping into the shop for the first time or looking to refine your craft, this Masterclass is packed with practical tools and transformative insights to help you shape your vision—literally. Because here’s the thing: when you learn to build the mold, you learn to shape the outcome. And in business, like in life, that changes everything. You’ll learn: * Why mold making is the backbone of high-end concrete design * When to use rubber versus fiberglass—and how to avoid costly mistakes * How mastering your mold unlocks creative freedom and business growth It’s time to stop guessing, start building, and own the process. Tune in, shape your path, and join the community of makers rewriting the rules of concrete craft. #ConcreteDesign #CreativeEntrepreneur #MakerMovement #CraftsmanshipMatters #BusinessGrowthMindset #ConcreteCreations #SelfDevelopmentJourney #DesignWithPurpose #FiberglassAndRubber

Ever feel like you're meant to build something bigger—but don't know where to start? In this episode, we lay the foundation. From the tactile rhythm of polishing concrete to the mindset shifts that separate the hesitant from the bold, we guide you through the essentials every maker needs to grow their craft and their confidence. We’ll walk you through dry diamond polishing pads—what they are, how they work, and how to use them to get that flawless finish. Then we open up about mindset: the kind that keeps you grounded through chaos, and the kind that lets you take the leap when fear’s whisperin’. You'll hear real stories of makers who bet on themselves—and what happened next. And finally, we break down how to choose the right AR glass fiber for your next project, so your work doesn’t just stand the test of time—it thrives. If you’re ready to build with your hands and lead with your heart, this one’s for you. 🔑 Takeaways: * How to polish concrete counters like a pro—dry * Why positivity isn’t just a mindset, it’s a skill * What it really means to bet on yourself * How to choose the right AR glass fiber for strength and style
 🧠 You’ll leave with: 
Confidence. Clarity. And a few new tricks in your back pocket. #concretecountertops #CreativeEntrepreneurship #MakersMindset #DryPolishing #CraftsmanshipMatters #BetOnYourself #concretedesign #PersonalGrowthJourney #ConcreteWorkshop #ConcreteArtisans

After a few weeks away, BG and Jon are back—reconnecting, reflecting, and laying it all out. They talk through the postponed Hero’s Quest Workshop, unexpected hiccups with ICT Fusion Sealer, and what happens when you hit concrete with a torch (spoiler: sometimes it’s useful, sometimes it’s chaos). You’ll get practical torch tips, care advice for sealed surfaces, and real-world lessons from two guys still learning on the job. It’s not just about concrete—it’s about the journey craftsmanship takes you on. Pull up a seat. There’s gold in the grit. #ConcretePodcast #CreativeProcess #MakerMindset #ConcreteCraft #GrowthThroughFailure #SelfDevelopment #ArtisanLife #PurposeDrivenWork #BehindTheScenesBuilding

What if the road to success wasn’t about chasing more—but about creating better? This week on the show, Brandon and Jon sit down with Joren Smith of Elements Concrete, a craftsman rooted in Maine and inspired by an extraordinary neighbor from Cape Cod—Hiram Ball, a pioneering force in GFRC and a sculptor with soul. In this introspective and inspiring conversation, Joren walks us through the early days of learning the craft next door to greatness and how that shaped not only his skills—but his values. We explore the tension between ambition and peace, the pursuit of quality over quantity, and why a “successful” concrete career might look a lot more human than you’d expect. If you’re in the decorative concrete world—or simply someone trying to build a meaningful life through your work—this episode is your invitation to slow down, realign, and remember what you’re really building. #ConcreteCraftsmanship #DecorativeConcrete #CreativeEntrepreneurs #SelfDevelopmentPodcast #ArtisanLife #GrowthMindset #PurposeDrivenWork #CraftsmanshipMatters #LegacyBuilders #concretefireplace

What if the material you choose could shape more than just your next concrete piece—but your entire outlook on the craft? In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, Joe Bates returns fresh off his trip to Japan, bringing with him a lens of precision, patience, and possibility. We unpack the heart of GFRC—what it is, which fibers are best, and why it’s become the go-to for serious makers who care about both beauty and strength. BG shares a personal story about falling out of love with Festool and how that moment clarified something bigger: how tools—and the way we use them—reflect what we value. From the changing tides of the concrete industry to a surprising old product that gives Bondo a run for its money, this episode is a conversation about doing better work, with more intention. Whether you’re a seasoned fabricator or just starting out, this one’s about choosing materials, methods, and mindsets that actually move the needle. Let’s make concrete healthy again. MCHA. #StoryDrivenSuccess #ConcreteCraftsmanship #MakerMindset #EntrepreneurJourney #DesignBetterBuildBetter #CreativeBusinessTips #SelfDevelopmentPodcast #GFRCExplained #BuildingWithPurpose #PodcastForMakers

Sometimes, life takes everything you’ve built and washes it away. That’s exactly what happened to Caleb Lawson of Lawson Design in Canton, NC, when Hurricane Helene tore through his shop, leaving him with nothing but a choice—give up or rebuild. In this episode, we walk through the storm, the wreckage, and the lessons that followed. Caleb shares what it was like to start from scratch, the surprising advantages of a leaner setup, and the tools that proved to be truly irreplaceable. If you’ve ever faced a setback that made you question everything, this episode will remind you why resilience isn’t just about getting back up—it’s about coming back stronger. 🎧 Tune in and hear Caleb’s hard-earned wisdom on what he’d do differently if he had to rebuild all over again. 🔗 Listen now. Get inspired. Keep building. 
#ResilientMindset #StoryOfRebuilding #OvercomingObstacles #CreativeEntrepreneur #LessonsInGrit #ConcreteCraft #GrowthMindset #SmallBusinessSuccess #HurricaneRecovery #TheConcretePodcast

Most concrete makers are charging too little, working too hard, and wondering why the numbers don’t add up. But what if pricing wasn’t the problem - what if the strategy was? This week on The Concrete Podcast, BG sits down with Jared Case of LC Wood & Crete, a concrete countertop and flooring company out of Wichita, KS. What started as a casual shop conversation turned into a real talk on what it takes to make concrete work - financially and sustainably. We break down: ✔️ The pricing mistakes keeping you stuck ✔️ Concrete Costs Compared: Ultracast 360 vs. Maker Mix ✔️ The game-changing shift to Crystalline Silica Free High-Performance Concrete (CSF-HPC) ✔️ Why Kodiak Pro’s Maker Mix isn’t just a better mix - it’s a better future for your health and business Regulations on crystalline silica are tightening. The industry is shifting. The real question is: Are you adapting? Tune in and future-proof your business before the wave hits. 🎧 Listen now & take the smarter path forward. #ConcreteCountertops #PricingStrategy #ConcreteBusiness #MakerMix #HighPerformanceConcrete #SilicaFree #CSFHPC #ConcreteCraftsmen #SmallBusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset

Success in concrete—like life—is about knowing what to fix, what to charge for, and what to let go. In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we’re talking shop on everything from perfecting your mix to getting paid for storage, because craftsmanship isn't just about the pour—it’s about the business behind it. We’ll cover: * MatteMax mastery—how to get stronger, more predictable results. * The art of charging for storage—why holding client pieces shouldn’t come out of your pocket. * Polytek 74-29 White Rubber for molds—first impressions and what it means for your workflow. * Brandon Gore’s new live-stream setup—a peek into the studio, raw and unfiltered. * Fixing an unevenly acid-etched cast-in-place countertop—before sealing locks in the problem. * Common mistakes that cost you time and money, including: * Overwatering your mix (hello, weak concrete). * Why rebar is the wrong move for reinforcement. * The truth about curing time—why patience equals strength. * What really causes hairline cracks (hint: it’s not what you think). * Salvaging a warped slab—when to fix it, when to walk away. If you’re in the business of making concrete—and making it well—this one’s for you. Tune in, take notes, and let’s make sure your next project is your best one yet. 
#ConcreteWisdom #MakerMindset #BuildBetter #ConcreteCraft #EntrepreneurLife #ConcreteCountertops #DIYConcrete #HandmadeBusiness #ConstructionHacks #CreativeProblemSolving

You poured your heart into that concrete countertop, but now the sealer’s failing, and you're stuck wondering how to fix it. Maybe you're considering a concrete kitchen sink—spoiler alert: don’t. This week on The Concrete Podcast, BG and Jon lay out the hard truths and smart strategies for maintaining concrete countertops, stripping failing sealers, and making design choices that actually boost your profitability. Plus, we’ll break down why buying from Kodiak Pro isn’t just about materials—it’s about joining a movement that puts makers first. If you’re in the concrete game, this episode will save you time, money, and frustration. Tune in, take notes, and let’s build something better. Enhance your concrete design skills with our upcoming workshops and events: /// RammCrete Workshop – March 29-30, 2025, in Goddard, KS. Step into the world of high-end concrete with Brandon Gore’s exclusive RammCrete technique. In this 1.5-day intensive, you’ll master mold construction, mix design, and application methods that transform raw material into striking wall panels, furniture, and sinks. Elevate your craftsmanship and stand out in the industry. /// Concrete Hero's Quest – May 6-7, 2025, in Napa, CA. An epic 2-day hands-on workshop where industry leaders take you through the game-changing techniques of Upright Casting (UCT) and RammCrete. Get hands-on with mixing, casting, finishing, and sealing complex concrete designs while networking with like-minded artisans in the heart of Napa, CA. /// The Basics: Fundamental Concrete Workshop – June 7-8, 2025, in Goddard, KS. New to concrete? This 1.5-day foundational workshop is designed for beginners looking to build a strong skillset. Led by expert artisans with over 20 years of experience, you'll gain hands-on training in templating, form building, mixing, casting, curing, sealing, and installation—everything you need to start creating professional-quality work. /// Kodiak Pro Demo Day – June 21, 2025, at Gore Design Co. Studio in Goddard, KS, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Join us for the first-ever Kodiak Pro Demo Day, a free, hands-on experience where concrete enthusiasts get unrestricted access to cutting-edge materials and techniques. Spots are limited—secure yours now and experience why Kodiak Pro is unlike anything else in the industry. For more details and registration, please visit the respective event pages. 
#ConcreteDesign #Craftsmanship #SmallBusinessGrowth #ConcreteCountertops #DIYProjects #EntrepreneurMindset #MakerCommunity #HomeImprovement #KodiakPro

After a three-week break, we’re back—and we’ve got a full pour of insights for you. This episode of The Concrete Podcast is all about setting yourself up for success, whether you’re crafting a massive casting table, mastering the art of intentional mottling in concrete, or understanding why Design Is Every Thing. We’ll also talk about an upcoming Kodiak Pro Demo Day (a free event you won’t want to miss) and how you can support Noel Moniot’s GoFundMe. If you’re in the business of making things that last, this one’s for you. Enhance your concrete design skills with our upcoming workshops and events: RammCrete Workshop
 Dates: March 29-30, 2025
 Location: Goddard, KS
 Description: Master Brandon Gore's exclusive RammCrete technique in this 1.5-day workshop. Learn mold construction, mix design, application, and finishing to create high-end concrete designs like wall panels, furniture, and sinks. Concrete Hero's Quest
 Dates: May 6-7, 2025
 Location: Napa, CA
 Description: Join industry leaders for a 2-day hands-on workshop covering Upright Casting Techniques (UCT) and RammCrete. Gain practical experience in mixing, casting, finishing, and sealing complex concrete designs. The Basics: Fundamental Concrete Workshop
 Dates: June 7-8, 2025
 Location: Goddard, KS
 Description: Ideal for beginners, this 1.5-day workshop led by expert artisans with over 20 years of experience covers essential skills including templating, form building, concrete mixing, casting, curing, sealing, and installation. Kodiak Pro Demo Day
 Date: June 21, 2025
 Location: Gore Design Co. Studio, Goddard, KS
 Time: 10 AM - 2 PM
 Description: Attend the inaugural Kodiak Pro Demo Day for a hands-on experience with no limits. This free event has limited spots available. For more details and registration, please visit the respective event pages. 
 #ConcreteCraft #MakerMindset #DesignMatters #CreativeEntrepreneur #BuildBetter #ArtOfMaking #ConstructionLife #CraftAndDesign #StoryInStone #KodiakPro

In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we’re unpacking the small details that lead to big wins in the world of concrete design. From weighing every material—yes, even bagged goods—to mastering the art of lowering the sheen on a countertop, we’ll guide you through strategies that ensure precision and elevate your craft. We also dig into the essentials of fiberglass rebar placement, where to use it, and why it matters, plus tips for attaching undermount stainless steel sinks with confidence. To top it all off, we share a story about an aggravating intern who taught us the hard way about trusting your gut. If you’ve ever second-guessed a decision or wondered how to get things just right, this one’s for you. Your next project is calling—are you ready to answer? Upcoming Workshops: * Basics Fundamentals Workshop: February 1st–2nd in Goddard, KS. Register now at Concrete Design School!
 #ConcreteCrafting #ProblemSolvingTips #GrowthMindset #PrecisionMatters #concretecountertops #FiberglassRebar #DIYSuccess #CraftsmanshipJourney #LearnAndLevelUp