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

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.

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]