Best Construction Materials Testing Podcasts (2025)

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26. Leveraging Real-Time Data: Approaching Multiservice Solutions with GIS 30:37

2M ago30:37

30:37

Welcome back to the Build+Revitalize Podcast. AEC professionals are swimming in data on projects like never before: soil profile information, subsurface test results, existing and proposed grade elevations, civil layouts, foundation designs, drone imagery, infrared scans, laser scans, LiDAR scans, remote vibration monitoring, pavement conditions, r…

1
25. Leveraging Real-Time Data - The Growing Demand for Cone Penetration Testing 34:57

2M ago34:57

34:57

Welcome back to the Build+Revitalize Podcast. AEC professionals are swimming in data on projects like never before: soil profile information, subsurface test results, existing and proposed grade elevations, civil layouts, foundation designs, drone imagery, infrared scans, laser scans, LiDAR scans, remote vibration monitoring, pavement conditions, r…

1
Quality, Conversation, and Construction Materials: A Season in Review 12:39

3M ago12:39

12:39

Season five wraps up with hosts Brian Johnson and Kim Swanson reflecting on the season and the ever-evolving podcast itself. This shorter season marked a shift from weekly to biweekly episodes, prompting honest conversations about the sustainability and future direction of AASHTO re:source Q&A podcast. The hosts highlight memorable conversations wi…

1
24. Leveraging Real-Time Data - The Science Behind Surveying 34:49

3M ago34:49

34:49

Welcome back to the Build+Revitalize Podcast. AEC professionals are swimming in data on projects like never before: soil profile information, subsurface test results, existing and proposed grade elevations, civil layouts, foundation designs, drone imagery, infrared scans, laser scans, LiDAR scans, remote vibration monitoring, pavement conditions, r…

1
Mid-Atlantic Quality Assurance Workshop: How to Leverage AASHTO re:source Programs to Monitor and Improve Quality 42:17

3M ago42:17

42:17

Dive into our latest episode as we explore the critical need for laboratories to evolve from mere compliance to a thriving culture of continual improvement. Brian Johnson shares valuable insights from the recent Mid-Atlantic Quality Assurance Workshop, highlighting a new strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing operational practices within laboratories…

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Preparing for the 2025 AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange 38:19

4M ago38:19

38:19

We dive into the 2025 AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange with insights from key planners Bob Lutz and Tracy Barnhart. This episode focuses on the event's unique structure, networking opportunities, and targeted sessions for various professional roles. Attendees can expect valuable insights, interactive experiences, and assurance of fresh content d…

1
Embracing Change and Efficiency at Oklahoma DOT with Bryce Hanlon 55:47

4M ago55:47

55:47

Oklahoma DOT's Bryce Hanlon brings his proactive approach to geotechnical engineering processes. In this follow-up episode to S4 E07, he discusses the importance of effective communication, data management modernization, and how a unified team approach enhances project delivery and efficiency. Related information: S4 E07: Geotechnical Investigation…

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Navigating Updated Masonry Unit and Prism Accreditation Policy for ASTM C140 and C1314 25:41

5M ago25:41

25:41

Have you heard about the new AASHTO Accreditation Program policy on masonry unit and prism testing? Discover the historical context beginning with the 2019 updates to the ASTM C1716 standard for compression testing machines that left some labs wondering if their compression machines are compliant. This discussion reveals how labs are now categorize…

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Unlocking Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual, Part 2 28:29

5M ago28:29

28:29

In the final part of this series, uncover the essential subsections of Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual. Our exploration reveals the significance of independence of judgment, the importance of transparency in conflict scenarios, and how demonstrated job performance can outweigh formal education in personnel qualifications. …

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Unlocking Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual, Part 1 32:46

6M ago32:46

32:46

Unlock the secrets of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual with us as we dissect Section 3.5. Navigate the critical responsibilities of accredited laboratories in reporting significant changes within 60 days, per section 3.5.1. We break down what constitutes a 'major change’ and highlight our role and the potential sanctions for non-complianc…

1
Four I's of the Corrective Action Process 20:22

6M ago20:22

20:22

What if the dreaded corrective action process could be transformed into a beacon of opportunity? Join us as we introduce and explore the "Four I's of the Corrective Action Process" concept. This fresh approach transforms common sense ideas into a memorable strategy that enhances the understanding of the process while keeping continual improvement a…

1
Standardizing Concrete Practices: The Story of AASHTO R 119 18:08

6M ago18:08

18:08

This episode explores the development and significance of the new AASHTO R 119 standard, officially titled “Standard Practice for Grinding the Ends of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens.” Brian shares his firsthand experience in creating this standard, highlighting the collaborative efforts with various state DOTs and the importance of standardizing co…

1
The Great Aggregate & Rebar Debate: Who Should Perform Your Assessment? 17:46

7M ago17:46

17:46

This burning question is at the heart of our latest episode, where we unravel the complexities of choosing the right organization for aggregate and rebar evaluations. We navigate the nuanced scopes of CCRL and AASHTO re:source, addressing why each offers these services and how customer demand has fostered an overlap. Explore the essentials of profi…

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Unlocking Effective Lab Monitoring: The Power of AASHTO re:source Specifier Features 40:07

7M ago40:07

40:07

Unlock the secrets of effective laboratory monitoring with insights from Greg Uherek, Manager of Business Development and Technical Services. Greg sheds light on the specifier feature of the AASHTO re:source website, a game-changer for agencies that require AASHTO Accreditation like DOTs and California's Division of the State Architect. Journey thr…

1
From Volunteers to Leaders: Building a Supportive Committee Environment 48:13

8M ago48:13

48:13

What's the secret to engaging volunteers and fostering a supportive, inclusive committee environment? Find out as we welcome Matt Linneman, Chief Engineer for North Dakota DOT and Chair of the Committee on Materials and Pavements (COMP), along with AASHTO liaison Casey Soneira. We discuss effective volunteer engagement, from creating psychological …

1
Rolling Forward: Exploring the New Hamburg Wheel Track Proficiency Sample Program 33:22

8M ago33:22

33:22

Ever wondered how and why a new proficiency sample scheme was created? Special guests John Malusky and Ryan LaQuay join hosts Brian Johnson and Kim Swanson to reveal the meticulous planning process behind the Hamburg Wheel Tracking samples, a groundbreaking addition to AASHTO re:source's Proficiency Sample Program. Hear firsthand accounts of the lo…

1
Empowering Quality: Insights from Benjamin Trujillo 42:39

9M ago42:39

42:39

Transform your organization's approach to quality with Benjamin's strategies for engaging and empowering the workforce. Empowering employees with responsibility and capability at the ground level can operationalize quality, ensuring that processes like equipment maintenance and accurate data reporting are meticulously followed. Benjamin shares how …

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23. The Co-op Experience - Abby Crocker and Lindsay Parker 21:41

9M ago21:41

21:41

Are you trying to figure out if civil or environmental engineering is for you? The best way to do that is hands-on, real-life experience. At SME, we offer college students the opportunity to start their career, and provide career clarity with our Civil and Environmental Engineering Internship and Co-Op Programs. Jon Camburn interviews SME Co-ops Ab…

1
Mastering AASHTO R 18: Common Pitfalls 52:01

9M ago52:01

52:01

This episode reveals laboratories' most common pitfalls with implementing AASHTO R 18, such as calibration record-keeping, training and competency evaluation, and internal audits. Learn how to sidestep these issues by implementing robust quality management practices. Listen in to transform your laboratory practices and get tips to move beyond stand…

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22. The Co-op Experience - Aidan Funk and Enock Rwigenza 23:14

9M ago23:14

23:14

Are you trying to figure out if civil or environmental engineering is for you? The best way to do that is hands-on, real-life experience. At SME, we offer college students the opportunity to start their career, and provide career clarity with our Civil and Environmental Engineering Internship and Co-Op Programs. Jon Camburn interviews SME Co-ops Ai…

1
Revolutionizing Quality Management: AASHTO re:source's Bold Vision for 2024-2027 35:12

10M ago35:12

35:12

What if your organization could lead a quality management revolution? Join us as we explore AASHTO re:source's roadmap for 2024 to 2027 with Bob Lutz, the Director of AASHTO re:source. Bob shares the inspiration and process behind this ambitious strategy, which aims to transform the construction materials, testing, and inspection industry. Learn ho…

1
EP 72 Passive House Education w/ Emu Passive 32:16

10M ago32:16

32:16

Enrico Bonilauri is the Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Emu Systems, where he specializes in the international Passive House standard. With extensive experience across Australia, Europe, and North America, he excels in building envelope design and analysis, and is known for his practical application of complex data on construction sites. En…

1
Behind the Scenes of Our Season 5 Revamp 16:13

10M ago16:13

16:13

Curious about what’s in store for this season? Get ready for an array of compelling topics covering common findings in standards like R18, new proficiency sample programs, and essential equipment maintenance tips. This episode kicks off with a promise of enriched content quality, a new bi-weekly release schedule, and a sneak peek into potential vid…

1
EP 71 Innovative Material Testing w/ Build Environments 46:25

10M ago46:25

46:25

Jarrett Davis, Principal Building Scientist at Built Environments, has over 20 years of experience in manufacturing, consulting, design, and installation of building enclosure products, he assists product manufacturers, architects, engineers, and contractors in improving products and projects focused on building science. Jarrett’s expertise has ear…

1
EP 70 Solving Skilled Labor Shortage w/ The Contractor Consultants 41:36

11M ago41:36

41:36

Matthew DiBara is a public speaker and skilled trades entrepreneur, currently the 4th generation owner of DiBara Masonry, a family business with a rich history in masonry since the early 1900s. Facing challenges in finding reliable hires as his company expanded, Matt co-founded The Contractor Consultants to help contractors build successful teams. …

1
EP 69 Mental Health in Construction w/ Patient Circle 38:37

11M ago38:37

38:37

While serving as the Co-CEO of Blokable, a company pioneering prefab housing solutions to revolutionize traditional construction methods into streamlined manufacturing processes, Aaron Holm experienced a heart attack and underwent quintuple bypass surgery. After decades of dedicated work in business and design consulting, enterprise software, consu…

1
EP 68 Why Modular Construction Fails w/ Blokable 34:41

12M ago34:41

34:41

Aaron Holm is the Co-CEO of Blokable, a company dedicated to transforming industries through innovative building products, systems, and business models. With a rich background in launching and leading businesses, Aaron has played a pivotal role in the creation of Amazon Go and Amazon Books. His expertise spans advanced technology and logistics, hav…

1
EP 67 Building with Prefabricated Straw Panels w/ EcoCocon 34:19

1y ago34:19

34:19

Bjorn Kierulf is the CEO of EcoCocon, a sustainable construction company that uses a straw panel system made from 98% natural renewable materials. Their system offers excellent thermal performance, carbon-storing capabilities, and exceptional indoor comfort. EcoCocon’s custom-made panels are designed to fit any architectural style, ensuring consist…

1
EP 66 Queen of Prefab w/ Amy Marks of Symetri 36:17

1y ago36:17

36:17

Amy Marks, known as the Queen of Prefab, is a prominent leader in the industrialized construction sector. She serves as the EVP of Global Strategy for Symetri and was previously Autodesk’s Vice President of Enterprise Transformation Practice. Amy has pioneered prefabrication consulting and is a strong advocate for modern construction methods, susta…

1
21. The Billion Dollar Cavern 25:40

1y ago25:40

25:40

Wes Hemp, PE, PG, LEED AP (SME) and his old friend and client, Justin Ramirez, PE (Lochmueller Group), reminisce about the time they stumbled across steam coming out of the ground below a WWTP project, discovering what was below, and solutions to the problem. Listen, subscribe, and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you s…

1
EP 65 Embodied Carbon in Homes w/ Chris Magwood 33:12

1y ago33:12

33:12

Chris Magwood is the Manager of Carbon-Free Buildings at RMI, a company that focuses on transforming the global energy system to secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. Chris has been designing and building zero-carbon buildings throughout his 25-year career. In 2019, he helped found Builders for Climate Action and codeveloped the B…

1
EP 64 Prefab Passive House w/ B.Public Prefab 52:24

1y ago52:24

52:24

Edie Dillman is the Co-founder & CEO of B.Public Prefab, a company that specializes in creating high-performance, energy-efficient building envelopes using a standardized and prefabricated panel system. Their products include super-insulated, vapor-open, and air-tight panels made from code-compliant wood framing and sheathing, which are designed to…

1
EP 63 Hemp Structural Rebar w/ E3 Agriculture 26:07

1y ago26:07

26:07

Lucas Evans is the founder & CEO of E3 Agriculture, an advanced agricultural solutions company that focuses on bringing cutting-edge technology to the field. They develop sustainable industrial materials and consumer products, with a special emphasis on the burgeoning industrial hemp economy. They have a full suite of sustainable product R&D and wh…

1
EP 62 Large-Scale Modular Construction w/ FullStack Modular 34:04

1y ago34:04

34:04

Roger Krulak is the President and Founder of FullStack Modular, a leading innovator in the design, manufacture, and construction of mid- and high-rise modular buildings in urban environments. Their approach is technology-driven, fully integrated, and highly efficient, allowing for the construction of complex projects faster, with less disruption, l…

1
EP 61 Automating Construction Layout w/ Dusty Robotics 31:16

1y ago31:16

31:16

Tessa Lau is Co-Founder and CEO of Dusty Robotics, a company that develops robot-powered tools for the modern construction workforce. Their flagship product, the FieldPrinter, automates the process of laying out construction plans directly onto job sites with high accuracy. This technology eliminates common errors associated with manual layout meth…

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EP 60 Wood Fiber Insulation w/ TimberHP 35:32

1y ago35:32

35:32

Jason Todd is the Director of Building Science & Industry Support for TimberHP, a Maine-based company that specializes in manufacturing high-performing wood fiber insulation. Their products are made from renewable resources and are designed to be healthy for both people and the planet. TimberHP's insulation solutions are moisture-resistant, mold-re…

1
EP 59 Robot-Built Panels w/ BotBuilt 39:40

1y ago39:40

39:40

Brent Wadas, a US Army veteran and CEO & Co-Founder of BotBuilt, leads a company that is revolutionizing the construction industry. By utilizing flexible robotic systems and advanced technology, BotBuilt improves efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Their process involves digitizing construction plans, building components to exact specifications…

1
EP 58 Ending Concrete Corrosion w/ Zirconia 37:48

1+ y ago37:48

37:48

Benjamin Cook is the CEO of Zirconia Inc, a pioneering company in advanced materials technology, specializing in Ceramic Surface Treatment coatings for concrete and steel. Their unique ceramic coating, which chemically bonds to surfaces at room temperature, provides unparalleled durability, corrosion resistance, and an indefinite lifespan. This inn…

1
Season 4 Recap 17:57

1+ y ago17:57

17:57

We share some of the highlights from this past season and explain why we take a break in March and April (spoiler, it's because of the AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange). Related information: AASHTO re:source Events The Stream by AASHTO: A Conversation with AASHTO President, Craig Thompson S4 E05: Paving with Recycled Plastic - Hawaii's Pilot Pro…

1
EP 57 High Performance Mass Timber w/ New Energy Works 44:56

1+ y ago44:56

44:56

Jonathan Orpin is the Founder and CEO of New Energy Works, a company that specializes in designing and building custom high-performance wood structures. They focus on collaboration, high-craft, sustainability, longevity, and intent. Their services include timber framing, design and build, high-performance enclosures, and fine woodworks. They have o…

1
Webinar Audio: A Behind-the-scenes Look at Assessment Scheduling 39:10

1+ y ago39:10

39:10

We share the audio from January 2024's webinar "A Behind-the-scenes Look at Assessment Scheduling." Related informaiton: AASHTO re:university Webinar Series: A Behind-the-scenes Look at Assessment Scheduling http://aashtoresource.org/lap Send us a text Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresou…

1
Umbrella Accreditation 28:53

1+ y ago28:53

28:53

Get a high-level overview of why a laboratory's AASHTO Accreditation is not an "umbrella" accreditation that extends to other locations. Related information: S1 E13: FAQ - Mobile Lab Accreditation S1 E16: Understanding Technician Certification Requirements S1 E35: FAQ - AASHTO Accreditation Directory S1 E37: FAQ - Multi-Site and Off-Site Personnel …

1
Mail Call! (February 2024) 38:28

1+ y ago38:28

38:28

We go through Brian's inbox to answer some of the questions he's been asked recently. Related information: S3 E17: From the Cutting Room Floor - Consensus Standards S2 E19: FAQ - Refusal of Service S1 E39: FAQ - Policy for New Lab Internal Audits and Management Reviews S1 E31: FAQ - How long does it take to get accredited? AASHTO re:university Webi…

1
Common Findings in Aggregate Testing - Part 2 33:28

1+ y ago33:28

33:28

How familiar are you with fine and coarse aggregate specific gravity tests? Does your knowledge surpass Kim's? It's not difficult, but find out as we discuss some of the most common nonconformities for AASHTO T 84/ASTM C128 and AASTHO T 85/ASTM C127. Related information: Common Findings In Aggregate Testing S4 E34: Common Findings in Aggregate Test…

1
Common Findings in Aggregate Testing - Part 1 27:06

1+ y ago27:06

27:06

Have Kim's guesses of common nonconformities improved as we move along in this series? Find out how she does as we discuss some of the most common nonconformities during aggregate testing in regards to general equipment, AASHTO T 11/ASTM C117 and AASHTO T 27/ASTM C136. Related information: S4 E32: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments: ASTM C138,…

1
Enforcing the AASHTO Accreditation Policy on Publicizing Accreditation 33:58

1+ y ago33:58

33:58

While the policy on how to publicize your AASHTO Accreditation hasn't really changed, how it is being enforced recently did. We discuss what this means for AASHTO Accredited laboratories. Related informaiton: AASHTO Accreditation Policy on Publicizing Accreditation S2 E07: FAQ - Publicizing AASHTO Accreditation AASHTO Accreditation Directory False …

1
Common Findings in Concrete Assessments: ASTM C138, C172, C173, C231, C617, C1231 18:41

1+ y ago18:41

18:41

In this "Common Findings" episode, we continue with the concrete series and discuss ASTM C138, C172, C173, C231, C617, and C1231. As a refresher, in this series, Kim blindly tries to guess some of the most common nonconformities in concrete assessment reports, and then Brian shares the actual findings and some possible ways to resolve them. Related…

1
December PSP Insights - Performance Graded Asphalt Binder, Viscosity Graded Asphalt Cement, and Slurry & Micro Systems 38:07

1+ y ago38:07

38:07

John, Ryan, and Joe join us once again, this time to discuss the recent Performance Graded Asphalt Binder, Viscosity Graded Asphalt Cement, and Slurry and Micro Systems samples. Related information: S4 E27: November PSP Insights - Unmodified Emulsified Asphalt and Paint S4 E20: October PSP Insights - Aggregate Gradation and Gravity S4 E14: August P…

1
AASHTO re:source Confidentiality Policy Explained 34:09

1+ y ago34:09

34:09

Learn who, what, where, why, and when we can share specific customer information. Related information: AASHTO re:source Policy on Confidentiality S2 E28: FAQ - Mail Call! S2 E15: What is the ATG? S1 E35: FAQ - AASHTO Accreditation Directory Send us a text Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtore…

1
Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C31, C39, C78, C511 15:00

1+ y ago15:00

15:00

Continuing the "Common Findings" series, with no context, Kim guesses the most common nonconformity in concrete assessment reports for ASTM C31, C39, C78, and C511. Then Brian shares a few of the real common findings for those standards and some general tips on how to resolve them. Related information: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM…

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