Stone Chatter Podcast

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.

Tariff Refunds, ITC Updates & More: What’s Happening in the Stone Industry

The stone industry continues to navigate shifting regulations, trade policies, and real-world impacts on business operations. In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed break down the latest developments affecting the industry from ITC updates and tariff refunds to the ongoing impact on imports and supply chains. This conversation focuses on what is already happening on the ground, how businesses are being affected, and what industry professionals should be paying attention to moving forward. In this episode * Updates related to the ITC (International Trade Commission) * Discussion around tariff refunds and what they mean for the industry * The impact already being seen on imports and supply chains * Continued conversation around silicosis and safety awareness * The role of industry associations in shaping the future * Key insights and ongoing trends across the stone industry This episode highlights the reality of an industry in transition — where policy, safety, and market forces are all actively shaping what comes next.   Real conversations. Real impact. One industry.   About Stone Chatter: Stone Chatter is a podcast dedicated to open conversations about the stone fabrication industry — covering safety, fabrication practices, industry news, and the real challenges faced by professionals working with stone every day. A place where the industry talks.   Intro Music “Drink Away Your Love - Live at Johnny’s Place” by Travis Blaine, featuring Eric Knight Music used with permission from the artists.

The Future of Stone Fabrication: AI, Robotics & Smart Shops

The stone fabrication industry is entering a new phase driven by technology, automation, and smarter ways of working. In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed are joined by industry leaders to explore what the next 3–5 years could look like for fabrication shops. From machinery advancements to digital transformation, this conversation dives into the real opportunities and decisions shaping the future of the industry. Guests: Meagan Hegland – Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Park Industries Nick Wadenstorer – Owner, Total Stone Solutions Alex Bores – Consultant | Former Western Sales Area Manager, CMS North America In this episode: * Machinery advancements expected in the next 3–5 years * How technology is reshaping fabrication shops * First steps for shops looking to become more digital * How to choose the right machinery when starting or scaling * The role of AI and robotics in stone fabrication * How industry events are evolving * Insights on the new trade show planned for Indiana in 2027   This episode brings together manufacturers, consultants, and operators to share real-world perspectives on where the industry is going and how shops can stay ahead. Real conversations. Real insight. One industry. About Stone Chatter -  Stone Chatter is a podcast dedicated to open conversations about the stone fabrication industry — covering safety, fabrication practices, industry news, and the real challenges faced by professionals working with stone every day. A place where the industry talks. Join the conversation: * Is your shop moving toward automation or digital systems? * What technology are you most interested in adopting? * How do you see the industry evolving in the next few years?   Share your thoughts below and be part of the conversation. Intro Music “Drink Away Your Love - Live at Johnny’s Place” by Travis Blaine, featuring Eric Knight Support the artists: Travis Blaine: Eric Knight:   Music used with permission from the artists. Disclaimer The views expressed are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect Stone Chatter or its affiliates. Content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals and follow official regulations. #StoneIndustry [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/stoneindustry] #StoneFabrication [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/stonefabrication] #Automation [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/automation] #A [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/a].I. #Robotics [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/robotics] #DigitalTransformation [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/digitaltransformation] #Machinery [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/machinery] #FabricationShop [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/fabricationshop] #IndustryFuture [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/industryfuture] #StoneChatter [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/stonechatter]

Industry Talk: Tariffs, KBIS, OSHA & What’s Coming Next

The stone industry is feeling the pressure from rising tariffs to evolving safety regulations and shifting market dynamics. In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed break down some of the most important updates impacting the industry right now. From cost pressures to compliance and major industry events, this conversation brings real insights into what’s changing — and what it means for fabricators, shop owners, and the industry as a whole.   In this episode * How tariffs are impacting costs and supply chains * Key highlights and takeaways from KBIS * Updates around OSHA regulations and compliance * Current news shaping the stone fabrication industry * Market shifts and what businesses should be watching * A preview of what’s coming in the next episode   This episode reflects what Stone Chatter is all about — real conversations, real insights, and a space where industry professionals can stay informed without the noise.   Three hosts. Real talk. One industry.

Is Quartz Being Banned? The Reality About Silicosis & OSHA Compliance

The conversation around quartz, silica dust, and shop safety is rapidly evolving across the stone fabrication industry. In this episode of Stone Chatter, we sit down with industry leaders to discuss one of the most talked-about questions today: Is quartz being banned? Guests Include: Jessica Kolenski, President of CaraGreen, Evan Cohen, President of RevoLux & Quality Marble and Nate Kolenski, President of Block Tops.     Music used with written permission of the artists: “Drink Away Your Love - Live at Johnny’s Place” by Travis Blaine, featuring Eric Knight Travis Blaine: https://open.spotify.com/artist/28uw00RGOTipBZHgHdx3pd?si=9FXXypHaSpeB3l-gpyKgMg [https://open.spotify.com/artist/28uw00RGOTipBZHgHdx3pd?si=9FXXypHaSpeB3l-gpyKgMg] Eric Knight: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2svTV60bdf6SzTFkOfJT0W?si=DjYazvFfQVKkFFA_FYvBpw [https://open.spotify.com/artist/2svTV60bdf6SzTFkOfJT0W?si=DjYazvFfQVKkFFA_FYvBpw]