The Concrete Podcast

This week on The Concrete Podcast, concrete artisan Joe Bates of SC Fabrication in Napa, California shares GFRC spray techniques, concrete countertop templating tips, ICT Sealer torching methods, concrete tile installation advice, and shop workflow strategies for makers and craftspeople. Joe is one of those rare craftsmen who has earned his knowledge through years in the shop, solving problems, refining systems, and chasing better results one project at a time. In this episode, we discuss: • How to handle concrete wastewater and washout systems in a small shop • Cleaning buckets and managing dirty concrete water efficiently • Concrete countertop templating tips and common mistakes to avoid • Joe's dialed-in GFRC spray face coat recipe • Preferred microfiber rollers for applying concrete sealer • Concrete tile installation methods and adhesives we trust • When and why to torch ICT Sealer for maximum durability and performance We also talk about the upcoming Hero's Quest Workshop, happening June 8-10 at Joe's shop in Napa, California. If you're looking to sharpen your skills, improve your process, and connect with serious makers and artisans, this workshop is built for you. Whether you're just getting started with concrete countertops or refining advanced GFRC techniques, this episode is packed with practical insight to help you create stronger work, avoid costly mistakes, and grow with confidence. #ConcretePodcast #gfrc #concretecountertops #kodiakpro #ConcreteArtisan #Craftsmanship #MakerMovement #CreativeEntrepreneur #SelfDevelopment #ConcreteDesign

Chocolate chip cookies have chocolate chips. Nobody is shocked when they show up on the surface. GFRC works the same way. In this episode, we talk about the material reality of fiber reinforced concrete and why some fiber ghosting is a natural part of SCC GFRC. A slight shadow or hint of fiber can be the honest signature of the material, not a defect. But there is a difference between natural ghosting and fibers truly showing on the surface. We break down what causes problem fibers to appear, including poor fiber selection, weak mix design, low flow, and improper casting techniques. We also cover practical ways to reduce ghosting while keeping the strength that makes GFRC such a powerful system. You will learn: • Why some fiber ghosting should be expected in GFRC countertops and sinks
 • The difference between ghosting and exposed fibers
 • How fiber type changes surface quality 
• Why plasticizer load and flowability matter
 • How mold material affects finish quality
 • Better placement and consolidation techniques for cleaner casts
 • How to balance beauty and strength in decorative concrete If you want smoother results, fewer defects, and a healthier understanding of the material, this episode will help you work with concrete instead of fighting it. Kodiak Pro Maker Mix and RADmix were built for makers who want strength, flow, and professional finishes without the guesswork. #GFRC #ConcreteCountertops #DIYConcrete #DecorativeConcrete #ConcreteSinks #MakerMix #Craftsmanship #ConcretePodcast #SmallBusiness #Makers

You are trying to build something that lasts. But the questions keep showing up. When do you seal?
 Why did the sealer fail? 
Is "food safe" real? 
How do you fix a bad finish? In this episode, we answer real questions from real makers and show what actually works. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes, improve your finishes, and build with confidence using the right materials and process. If you want fewer recasts and better results, this is your roadmap. #ConcreteCountertops #GFRC #MakersMovement #Craftsmanship #CreativeEntrepreneur #BuildYourBrand #SelfDevelopment #EntrepreneurMindset #CreativeBusiness

Concrete is a craft best learned shoulder to shoulder. In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, Brandon Gore and Jon Schuler announce the upcoming Concrete Heroes Quest workshop in Napa, California, a three day hands on training for makers working with concrete countertops, GFRC, and decorative concrete. The goal is simple: bring the concrete community together, because we get better faster when we learn together. From there, the conversation moves into real questions coming from the decorative concrete world. They break down the difference between true patina and sealer failure, why white concrete countertop samples can look completely different depending on exposure, and why professional grade mixes outperform DIY bagged materials. Brandon also explains his method for casting seamless waterfall concrete countertops using SCC GFRC and why proper mix design is critical for success. The episode also includes an update to Kodiak Pro Maker Mix. After refining one of the raw materials with the manufacturer, the mix now delivers improved flowability and consistency, along with updated guidance for water and TBP plasticizer. If you work with concrete countertops, concrete sinks, or decorative concrete furniture, this episode offers practical insights to help you avoid costly mistakes and produce better results. Because in the end, the goal is not just better concrete. It is a stronger community of makers. #concretecountertops
#GFRCcountertops
#decorativeconcrete
#concretecountertopmix
#DIYconcretecountertops
#concretecountertopsealer
#GFRCmixdesign
#concretefurniture
#kodiakpro
#makermix

Every maker faces the moment when something goes wrong. The sealer fails. The mix won’t flow. Cracks appear. And you need answers now, not guesswork. In this episode, you’ll learn why technical support is one of the most valuable assets behind every successful concrete maker, and why who you buy from matters more than what you buy. We break down the most common concrete countertop problems, including sealer failure, cracking, pinholes, and GFRC troubleshooting, and explain how real expert support can diagnose and solve issues in minutes instead of weeks. You’ll also discover why cheap concrete materials often cost more in the long run, how proper guidance protects your time and confidence, and how professional makers build predictable, repeatable results. Because confidence doesn’t come from experimenting alone. It comes from proven systems and people who stand behind them. When you choose the right materials and the right support, you stop guessing. You start building with certainty. #ConcreteCountertops
#GFRC
#StoryBrand
#MakerMindset
#CreativeEntrepreneur
#Craftsmanship
#PersonalGrowth
#EntrepreneurMindset
#SelfDevelopment
#CreativeBusiness

If you love concrete but feel stuck turning skill into a sustainable business, this episode is your roadmap. In the first Concrete Podcast of 2026, we break down the real business of concrete countertops, GFRC, DIY concrete, and concrete sinks, from pricing and tools to marketing, risk, and long-term growth. This is not theory or hype, it’s lived experience, the mistakes, near misses, and hard lessons that separate struggling shops from profitable ones. Whether you’re a DIY maker thinking about going pro or an experienced concrete artisan looking to tighten margins and reclaim your time, this episode helps you build a concrete business that supports your life instead of consuming it. #ConcretePodcast #ConcreteCountertops #GFRC #DIYConcrete #ConcreteSinks #ConcreteBusiness #MakerBusiness

This one feels like the end of a long day in the shop. Tools put away, lights still warm, and a moment to look back before stepping forward. In the final Concrete Podcast of 2025, Jon and Brandon slow things down with a little gratitude for the makers, craftsmen, and artisans who have carried this craft forward, some for years, some just finding their footing. If you have ever mixed a batch late at night, chased a finish that mattered, or stood behind your work when it would have been easier to walk away, this episode is for you. The heart of the conversation centers on something many in decorative concrete avoid talking about, resealing and rejuvenating concrete sinks and countertops. Not as a weakness, but as an opportunity. An opportunity to serve past clients well, protect the reputation of concrete as a material, and build a steady, honest revenue stream that fits naturally into a craftsman’s business. Whether you cast the original piece or not, this is work that keeps concrete in a good light and keeps you in front of people who already believe in it. They also tackle a question that never seems to go away, how to make the blackest concrete possible. Brandon shares a recent sample that demanded true depth and richness, breaking down what actually moves the needle and what is just noise. This episode is a thank you, a reflection, and a practical roadmap. A reminder that doing the right work, with the right tools, builds trust that carries into the next year and the next project. Here’s to closing out 2025 strong and stepping into 2026 with clarity, confidence, and concrete that lasts. #ConcretePodcast #MakersMindset #Craftsmanship #ConcreteLife #CreativeBusiness #ArtisanStories #BuildingBetter #GrowthThroughWork #LegacyCraft #SelfDevelopment

Some days in the shop call you to level up, not just in your craft but in the person you’re becoming. This episode walks with you through the practical wins that help you get there. Brandon and Jon break down how to set paddles on a vertical shaft mixer so your fiber reinforced mixes behave the way you need for concrete countertops and sinks. You’ll hear different approaches to mounting a floating mantle or fireplace surround, is a vibrating table necessary to make concrete countertops, and why a torsion box casting table can tighten up your workflow. We also cover the simple steps that prevent curling, and which Kodiak Pro polishing pads to pair with a Dewalt sander for a clean, efficient finish. Then the conversation shifts to something that sharpens more than your craft. Justin Burd’s Concrete Athlete Design Competition challenges you to create a meaningful piece using no more than 50 pounds of Maker Mix or RADmix, paired with thirty days of workouts and daily discipline. It’s a reminder that stronger concrete and stronger character both come from showing up with intention. By the end, you’re equipped with better methods, clearer thinking, and the confidence that comes from choosing the right tools and the right habits. Kodiak Pro stands ready to help you make work you’re proud of and a life that feels just as solid. 
#MakerMindset #CreativeGrowth #ConcreteCraft #SelfDevelopment #ArtisanLife #BuildSomethingBetter #GFRCCommunity #ConcretePodcast #KodiakPro

This week’s Thanksgiving episode offers a calm place to settle in and reconnect with the work you love. You step into the story as the maker who wants richer color, cleaner surfaces, and more control over every pour. The challenge is simple. You want your pieces to look the way you imagine them, but small mistakes and unclear methods can get in the way. In this conversation, you get clear, straightforward guidance you can use right away. You will hear how proper curing brings out deeper tones, which silicone caulks protect your forms, how the right additives unlock stronger color, and what casting techniques help keep air pockets from stealing the beauty of your finish. You will also hear how choosing the right materials supports your talent. Kodiak Pro products are built to help you work with confidence, keep your process steady, and bring more ease to the long hours of making. If you are traveling for the holiday or settling in at home, this episode gives you a warm companion. Take a breath, enjoy the ride, and let these simple insights help you create work that feels honest and alive. 
#ConcretePodcast #ConcreteArtisans #MakersMindset #ConcreteCountertops #CreativeCraftsmanship #concretedesign #ConcreteCraft #ArtisanSkills #GrowthMindsetTools #GFRC

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