Stone Chatter Podcast

What Is Your Fabrication Shop Really Worth?

Many business owners assume the value of their company is based on equipment, inventory, or annual sales but the reality is often very different. In this episode hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed are joined by industry experts to discuss how fabrication businesses are valued, what buyers actually look for, and the practical steps owners can take today to increase the value of their companies whether they plan to sell next year or twenty years from now. Guests include Scott Hartman (KAT Fabricators), Chabun Hieblinger (Twin Shore Advisors) and Aaron Crowley (No Lift Install System).  Whether you're planning to sell your shop someday or simply want to build a stronger business, understanding how your company is evaluated can help you make better decisions today. This episode provides practical insights from professionals who work with acquisitions, valuations, and business growth within the stone industry.

Industry Updates: ITC Review, Silicosis and What’s Next

In this episode, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed discuss some of the latest developments affecting fabricators, suppliers, and industry professionals across North America. From updates on the ongoing ITC trade review to conversations around industry associations, upcoming events, silicosis developments, and other important industry news, this episode provides a broad look at the issues and trends shaping today's stone business. In this episode * Latest updates from the ITC trade review process * What the current trade discussions could mean for the industry * Industry association news and developments * Upcoming events and opportunities to connect with industry professionals * Recent silicosis-related updates and conversations

ARE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS WORTH IT? What Every Shop Owner Should Know About Industry Associations

The stone industry offers a variety of associations, organizations, buying groups, certifications, and networking opportunities but how do you know which ones are actually worth your time and investment? In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed explore the strengths, weaknesses, and real-world value of some of the industry's most recognized organizations. Whether you're a shop owner, general manager, or industry professional, this discussion focuses on helping businesses understand what each organization offers, where they provide value, and where opportunities for improvement still exist. In this episode * The strengths and weaknesses of today's industry associations * What organizations like NSI, ISFA, SFA, ASF, Artisan, and Rockheads offer * Which benefits are most valuable to shop owners and employees * Networking opportunities and industry connections * Silica and safety certifications * Buying groups and purchasing advantages * Regulatory support and industry advocacy * Healthcare and employee-related benefits * Which organizations may fit different stages of business growth * What the industry still needs from its associations * If you could change one thing, what would it be? Guests Kelly O`Connor – Former General Manager, Granite Mountain Montana Geoffrey Gran – Owner, The Countertop Factory Andrew Clyde – Owner, Ashcraft Granite & Marble

Quartz Ban Update: What Happened at the May 21st CAL/OSHA Meeting?

The conversation around quartz, workplace safety, and regulation continues to evolve and the industry is watching closely. In this special episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed discuss major updates surrounding the recent Cal/OSHA board meeting, ongoing conversations about a potential quartz ban in California, and what the next steps could look like for fabrication shops moving forward. This episode also covers industry organization efforts, the latest developments from the ITC trade review meeting, and where the broader conversation may be heading next. In this episode * Updates from the recent Cal/OSHA board meeting * Discussion surrounding the proposed quartz ban in California * What the recent vote and resolutions could mean for the industry * Conversations around fabrication organization efforts * Practical next steps shops should be considering now * Insights from the latest ITC trade review meeting * Industry reactions and concerns moving forward  * A preview of upcoming Stone Chatter episodes This episode focuses on one of the most important and sensitive moments currently facing the stone fabrication industry — balancing safety, regulation, business realities, and the future of fabrication itself.   Real conversations. Real concerns. One industry.

Are Supplier & Fabricator Relationships Breaking Down?

Strong relationships between slab suppliers and fabrication shops have always been a major part of the stone industry but are those relationships changing?   In this special Stone Chatter Arena episode, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed are joined by respected leaders from both the fabrication and supplier sides of the industry to have an open conversation about trust, loyalty, collaboration, and the future of working relationships across the stone business.   This discussion explores where friction may exist today, what both sides expect from each other, and how stronger partnerships could benefit the industry as a whole. Guests: * Jerry Lee – Owner, Canaan Stoneworks * Jeff Erickson – Owner, Cutting Edge Countertops | Current NSI President * Katie Jensen – Owner, Triton Stone * Joseph Dwyer – Owner, Dwyer Tile & Stone Intro Music “Drink Away Your Love - Live at Johnny’s Place” by Travis Blaine, featuring Eric Knight Support the artists: Music used with permission from the artists.