The Drywall Podcast

The Drywall Podcast — Episode 172: Revisiting The 3way with Royce Lennox & Steve Brown Can you believe it’s been three years? On this episode of The Drywall Podcast, we are doing one of my absolute favorite things: revisiting past guests to see just how far their journey has taken them. Back in 2023 on Episode 37, I sat down with Royce Lennox and Steve Brown just as they were launching what would become an industry-changing product: the 3way. Now, they are back for their second appearance, and we are diving deep into the grueling, rewarding, and fascinating world of product development and marketing. Breaking a new product into the drywall space is notoriously difficult. It’s a traditional industry where pros stick to what they know. But Royce and Steve cracked the code. While Royce brings over 40 years of elite, hands-on drywall finishing experience to the table as the brains behind the product, it was Steve’s visionary marketing perspective that changed everything. Steve persuaded them to take a massive leap of faith—not just by taking a financial risk on a new idea, but by essentially giving the 3way concept away to the masses to build an organic, unstoppable movement. What to Expect in This Episode: The Blooper Reel: We kick things off a bit differently this time. Enjoy a hilarious montage of technical blunders spliced together into a mosaic of comedy before we dive into the heavy hitting topics. The Marketing Grind: An honest conversation about the grit it takes to inject a brand-new tool into a stubborn market and win over old-school finishers. The Leap of Faith: How a brilliant idea transitions from a jobsite hack into a mass-manufactured, international product. Get Paid to Post: Find out how sharing your own experience with their product on Instagram could land a few hundred dollars in your pocket. Royce and Steve are truly as nice as they come in this trade, and by the time the credits roll, you might just find yourself planning to have a 3way on your next project. Tune In & Connect: Learn more about the product: www.3way.ca Follow on Instagram: @3way.ca (Keep an eye out for their video posting cash incentives!) This episode of The Drywall Podcast is proudly brought to you by Fresco Harmony. Discover the future of specialty wall finishes, custom textures, and architectural surfacing at www.frescoharmony.com.

  The Drywall Podcast — Episode 172: Revisiting The 3way with Royce Lennox & Steve Brown Can you believe it’s been three years? On this episode of The Drywall Podcast, we are doing one of my absolute favorite things: revisiting past guests to see just how far their journey has taken them. Back in 2023 on Episode 37, I sat down with Royce Lennox and Steve Brown just as they were launching what would become an industry-changing product: the 3way. Now, they are back for their second appearance, and we are diving deep into the grueling, rewarding, and fascinating world of product development and marketing. Breaking a new product into the drywall space is notoriously difficult. It’s a traditional industry where pros stick to what they know. But Royce and Steve cracked the code. While Royce brings over 40 years of elite, hands-on drywall finishing experience to the table as the brains behind the product, it was Steve’s visionary marketing perspective that changed everything. Steve persuaded them to take a massive leap of faith—not just by taking a financial risk on a new idea, but by essentially giving the 3way concept away to the masses to build an organic, unstoppable movement. What to Expect in This Episode: The Blooper Reel: We kick things off a bit differently this time. Enjoy a hilarious montage of technical blunders spliced together into a mosaic of comedy before we dive into the heavy hitting topics. The Marketing Grind: An honest conversation about the grit it takes to inject a brand-new tool into a stubborn market and win over old-school finishers. The Leap of Faith: How a brilliant idea transitions from a jobsite hack into a mass-manufactured, international product. Get Paid to Post: Find out how sharing your own experience with their product on Instagram could land a few hundred dollars in your pocket. Royce and Steve are truly as nice as they come in this trade, and by the time the credits roll, you might just find yourself planning to have a 3way on your next project. Tune In & Connect: Learn more about the product: www.3way.ca Follow on Instagram: @3way.ca (Keep an eye out for their video posting cash incentives!) This episode of The Drywall Podcast is proudly brought to you by Fresco Harmony. Discover the future of specialty wall finishes, custom textures, and architectural surfacing at www.frescoharmony.com.

Welcome to the 5th installment of our Pearls of Wisdom series! In this special compilation episode, we’re looking back over the last 25 episodes to bring you the absolute best insights, advice, and breakthroughs shared right here on the show. We’ve cut out the noise and stacked this episode with pure "pearls" of wisdom from your fellow tradesmen and women. Whether you're looking for a quick dose of inspiration or trying to decide which full length interview to dive into next, these compilation episodes are the perfect shortcut. It’s a great way to sample the catalog, hear what’s happening across the industry, and find the guests whose stories truly resonate with your own business journey. 🎧 Want More Pearls? If you love this format, you can go back and listen to our previous breakdown episodes: Episode 50 Episode 98 Episode 126 Episode 149 🌟 Thank You to Our Sponsor! This episode of The Drywall Podcast is proudly brought to you by Panel Rey. Innovating the industry with high-quality drywall solutions and building materials. To learn more about their product lines and find a distributor near you, visit www.panelrey.com. Connect with The Drywall Podcast Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major streaming platforms. Share the Wisdom: If a specific clip stands out to you today, take a screenshot, post it to your stories, and tag the show!

Episode 170: From Bolton with Love – Inside the Trade Decorator Live with Paula McIntosh One phone call can change everything. When Paula McIntosh reached out from across the pond to invite us to Bolton, England, it didn’t take long to realize we were dealing with one of the sharpest minds in the industry. After some quick strategy sessions with Ben Cole at GWI LTD and our partners at Panel Rey, we decided it was time to see the hype for ourselves. But we didn’t just book a booth—we wanted the story behind the curtain. In this landmark 170th episode, we sit down with the powerhouse behind Trade Decorator Live. Paula shares her incredible journey from stay-at-home mom to the driving force behind one of the UK’s premier trade shows. We dive deep into: The Origin Story: How Paula turned a vision into a must-attend industry event. The Show Dynamics: What to expect on the floor this year and why this isn't just another trade show. A Special Announcement: Details on a live Fresco Harmony training session that you won’t want to miss. Industry Trends: How the UK decorating scene is evolving and what North American pros can learn from it. Whether you're looking to scale your business, master new finishing techniques, or understand the logistics of a world-class trade event, Paula brings the heat. This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. Discover their industry-leading solutions and commitment to innovation by visiting www.panelrey.com. Join us at Stand 28 in Bolton! Get the full scoop on the show and prepare for an episode packed with insight, grit, and a global perspective on the trade.  

Episode 169: The Brand New World of Rich Allen In this episode, we sit down with a guest who truly lives up to his title as a "Drywall Extraordinaire." Rich Allen, the force behind BNW Drywall (Brand New World), joins the show to share an incredible journey of transition from skilled tradesman to industry CEO. The story began when Rich was approached by Miguel, the developer of the Arcuate Drywall Taping Knife, to help market the innovative tool. However, it didn't take long for Miguel to realize that Rich’s vision and leadership capabilities extended far beyond marketing. Today, Rich serves as the CEO of Arcuate Drywall Knives, steering the ship for one of the most unique tools hitting the market. But Rich isn't just focused on tools; he’s focused on the future of the craft. We dive deep into his latest mission: creating a dedicated class designed to teach up-and-coming professionals the trade the right way. Rich’s passion for elevating the industry standards is matched only by his character—he is genuinely one of the kindest guests we’ve had the pleasure of hosting. Inside this episode: The origin story of the Arcuate Drywall Taping Knife. Transitioning from the field to the CEO chair. The philosophy behind BNW (Brand New World) Drywall. Rich’s new educational initiative for the next generation of finishers. I love what Rich is building, and I know you will too. This is an inspiring look at how one professional is reshaping the trade through innovation and education. This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. For high-quality drywall products and solutions, visit: www.panelrey.com

Episode 168: The Art of Innovation and Marketing with James Weihoenig How do you take a tool into a crowded market and completely disrupt the status quo? In this episode, we are joined once again by James Weihoenig, the visionary behind Morph Sanding Solutions. Since his first appearance back in November 2024, James has taken the drywall industry by storm. While his innovative corner sander is a game-changer, this conversation dives deep into the "secret sauce" behind his success: unconventional marketing. James shares how he defies industry norms to carve out a massive niche and build a brand that resonates. In this episode, we discuss: The Morph Journey: Reflecting on the growth of Morph Sanding Solutions since its Australian debut. Marketing Mastery: How James uses creative energy to stand out in a saturated market. Empowering Entrepreneurs: A look at a new platform James is championing to help the next generation of industry innovators find their footing. The Power of Infectious Ideas: Why thinking differently is the most important tool in your bag. James is a powerhouse of creativity, and his insights on business and branding are guaranteed to leave you inspired. This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. Innovative solutions for the modern professional. Discover more at www.panelrey.com. Listen now and join the conversation!

  Guest: Kevin Cost,  of Mudplugz In this episode, we take a slight detour from our usual industry-insider deep dives to talk with someone who found himself "smack dab in the middle" of the drywall world by sheer necessity. Kevin Cost, the mind behind Mudplugz, joins the show for his first appearance to share how a single moment of inspiration on Christmas Eve 2024 sparked a construction industry sensation. Frustrated by the eyesore of holes in the wall and the lack of a quick, professional-grade solution, Kevin asked a simple question: Why isn't there a plug for this? Just two weeks later, the wheels were in motion.  Kevin has turned that "lightbulb moment" into a product designed to bring ease and speed to the tedious task of patching drywall. What We Discuss in This Episode: The Christmas Eve Epiphany: The origin story of Mudplugz and why the simplest ideas are often the most effective. From Concept to Launch: How Kevin and his partner moved from a thought to a physical product in record time. Solving the Patching Problem: How Mudplugz is streamlining the workflow for professionals and DIYers alike by eliminating the "unsightly hole" phase of repair. A Fresh Perspective: What happens when an industry outsider brings a new solution to a traditional trade This episode of The Drywall podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools.  Find out more by visiting www.Canamtool.com

In this episode of The Drywall Podcast, I’m joined by Justin Thomas, owner of Thomas Drywall. Our connection started in a unique way—Justin reached out after hearing my guest appearance on The Aggregate with Jeremy Mistretta a few months back. After one long conversation, I knew his story needed to be shared here. Justin is a third-generation drywall professional who has seen every side of the industry. We trace his journey from scaling a massive operation with over 50 employees to the pivotal moment when the economy forced a total career pivot. You’ll hear how he successfully transitioned into tech sales, what that high-pressure environment taught him about business, and ultimately, what pulled him back to his roots in the drywall world. We also get personal, discussing how his faith and background as a Mormon shape his perspective on work and family, and why he is never afraid to blow things up and try something new. Today, Justin is back in the trade with a refined focus on specialty finishes and Fresco Harmony. About Today’s Guest: Justin Thomas is the owner of Thomas Drywall. With a career spanning traditional hanging and finishing to high-tech sales, he now blends those skill sets to offer premium, decorative wall solutions. Connect with the Show: Subscribe: Be sure to follow Justin on Instagram Follow: Find out more at www.thomasdrywallutah.com Today's episode was brought to you by CanAm tools.  Find out more at www.canamtool.com

In this episode, Nick sits down with Paul and Bridget, the dynamic force behind Manners, to discuss the critical role of the distributor in the modern drywall world. The Story Behind the Episode Sometimes the best connections take a little time to ferment. Nick first crossed paths with Paul and Bridget at the AWCI show in Las Vegas back in 2023. While they were immediately intrigued by Fresco Harmony, their business card eventually fell victim to the "office abyss" for a few months. Thanks to a well-timed nudge from Wolfgang, Nick reconnected with the Manners team, and it’s a good thing he did. What We Cover: The Distributor Matrix: Why the relationship between the manufacturer, the retailer, and the finisher is more complex—and important—than you think. Product Intricacies: Paul and Bridget share their deep knowledge of the drywall space and what makes a product stand out in a crowded market. Going Global: How this "power duo" is successfully navigating and expanding their footprint across New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. Behind the Brand: We dive into their personal lives and the passion that fuels their business growth. Paul and Bridget are as friendly as they are knowledgeable. If you've ever wondered how the gear actually gets from the factory to your trowel, this is an episode you can't miss. Connect with Manners Check out their full range of tools and expertise online: 👉 Website: www.manners.co.nz This episode of The Drywall Podcast was brought to you by CanAm tools.  Find out more by visiting www.canamtool.com  

What happens when a standard drywall inquiry turns into a deep dive into the world of decorative finishes? In this episode, we sit down with Monica Schaefer and Judd Togerson to discuss their journey from traditional drywall to exploring the "many ways of plaster." After a transformative visit to Nick Boyd at the drywall supply yard in Montrose, the duo discovered that the ceiling for their craft was much higher than they initially thought. We explore the transition from functional drywall to the vast world of specialty finishes on this, the 164th, episode of The Drywall Podcast. Today's episode of The Drywall Podcast was brought to you by CanAm tools.  Find out more by visiting CanAmtool.com

This is a special episode about evolution. Joining us for his second visit is a man who has completely redefined what it means to be a tradesman in the modern age—Ken Landon from Albany, New York. Three years ago, Ken was in a different place. We’re going to dive into the raw reality of how losing his brewery forced a total career 're-mix,' leading him to recreate himself in the digital space. From a suggestion on a job site to becoming a pillar in mentorship programs like BOCES and TradeMentor.org, Ken has turned the trowel into a microphone. We’re discussing the end of the brewing chapter, the birth of his media presence, and his collaboration with Anthony from Lincoln Street Media. If you’ve ever wondered about the real cost of building a platform and why the trades needhigh-quality media, this is the episode for you. Ken, welcome back to the show!" This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools.  Find out more by visiting www.canamtool.com

The Drywall Podcast: Episode 162 The European Pioneer: Automatic Tools, Global Markets, and Finding Balance with Marvin   After months of scheduling and a little persistent "bugging," we finally sat down with a true titan of the trade. In Episode 162, we are joined by Marvin Maatita, a man whose name is synonymous with the evolution of drywall finishing in Europe. From his home in Holland, Marvin shares his journey as a pioneer who helped introduce automatic finishing tools to a continent steeped in traditional methods. We trace his impressive career path working with industry giants like Columbia Taping Tools, Drywall Europe, CanAm, and most recently, TapeTech. Marvin has sat at the helm of large-scale operations, but today, he’s found a different kind of success—the kind that comes with working solo and prioritizing what matters most: life and his six-year-old daughter. In this episode, we discuss: The unique landscape of the European drywall market and how it differs from North America. The "Consultant Era": Why major tool companies seek Marvin’s expertise to break into European territories. The shift from managing big companies to finding peace. A look at the various finishing styles across the pond. Whether you're a tool junkie or just looking for some perspective on the work-life balance, this conversation with one of the most respected names in the game is one you can't miss on this, the 162nd, episode of The Drywall Podcast.   Episodes in the month of February are brought to you by CanAm Tools.  Find out more by visiting www.canamtool.com  

Episode 161: The Legacy of the Trowel  In the summer of '23, a training session in Surrey, BC, brought together some of the best minds in the industry. It was a collaboration with Columbia Tools, but the real magic happened in the quiet moments between the mudding. This episode introduces you to Wes—a man of few words but incredible depth—and honors the memory of his best friend, Kam. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Journey of a Finisher: We trace Wes’s path through the various jobs and specialized skills that led him to his current mastery of the wall. The Impact of Mentorship: How Kam’s friendship didn't just shape Wes's technique, but his entire outlook on the drywall community. Carrying the Torch: A deep dive into how Wes is preserving a legacy through his work, ensuring that the standards set by those who came before us are never lowered. A Personal Look: Beyond the technical, you’ll get a glimpse into the host's perspective, making this one of the most intimate episodes of The Drywall Podcast to date. Sponsor Shoutout: This episode is proudly brought to you by CanAm Tool. For tools that work as hard as you do, visit www.canamtool.com.

Episode 161: The Legacy of the Trowel  In the summer of '23, a training session in Surrey, BC, brought together some of the best minds in the industry. It was a collaboration with Columbia Tools, but the real magic happened in the quiet moments between the mudding. This episode introduces you to Wes—a man of few words but incredible depth—and honors the memory of his best friend, Kam. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Journey of a Finisher: We trace Wes’s path through the various jobs and specialized skills that led him to his current mastery of the wall. The Impact of Mentorship: How Kam’s friendship didn't just shape Wes's technique, but his entire outlook on the drywall community. Carrying the Torch: A deep dive into how Wes is preserving a legacy through his work, ensuring that the standards set by those who came before us are never lowered. A Personal Look: Beyond the technical, you’ll get a glimpse into the host's perspective, making this one of the most intimate episodes of The Drywall Podcast to date. Sponsor Shoutout: This episode is proudly brought to you by CanAm Tool. For tools that work as hard as you do, visit www.canamtool.com.

I'm excited to introduce Episode 160 of The Drywall Podcast. This week, we’re sitting down with a true powerhouse in the industry: Stefano Zanchi of On Board Drywall. Stefano is the embodiment of the "never say die" spirit. He walked away from the trade once—literally leaving his boots and hardhat behind with a sign that read "Hasta La Vista"—to try his hand at banking. But the corporate grind couldn't contain his drive, and it ultimately pushed him to return and build the successful business he runs today. We dive deep into his journey, his "clean and concise" social media strategy, and how he turned a setback into a massive comeback. This episode of TDP is brought to you by Advance Tools.  Find out more at www.advance-equiptment.com 

It pays off to be the host of a Podcast.  Sometimes I get to sit down with the VP of a major drywall company like Advance Tools.  Today's episode I'm talking with DeAnne Shallcross about a family owned business spanning 4 generations and a century.  That's right 104 years of innovation and tool design in the drywall space.  DeAnne is as nice as they come and extremely well spoken.  She's a leader in the space of drywall and if you don't know her yet, you will after this episode, the 159th episode, of The Drywall Podcast Today's episode is brought to you by Advance Equipment.  Find out more by visiting www.advance-equiptment.com

Huge shout out to Cathy for referring Todd to the podcast.  Once you start following Todd you can't help but to like him.  His content is bright and uplifting but what really caught my attention is the location he's been working at.  We discuss Geoa Haven above Nunavut territory and his home in beautiful Bonavista. Todd has a wonderful demeanor and brings an eire of innocence to the show on this, the 158th episode of The Drywall Podcast.   Today's podcast is brought to you by Advance Equipment.  Family owned and US Made since 1922.  Check out www.advance-equiptment.com

It's been happening more and more that people are discovering The Drywall Podcast organically.  This was the case for JP.  His marketing person, Zach Ellison found TDP and thought JP would be a good fit.  Although JP has little experience in the world of drywall, he saw a flaw in the way outside corners were being done and felt he had a solution.  He's been working on the idea for the last 6 years and is ready to bring his innovation to the world.  Introducing The Smart Corner by CleanCo.  There's a lot about JP that piques my interest and we waste no time digging into the why behind the Smart Corner.  JP hales from Quebec but now calls Austin home.  He's a great guy and we have a fantastic conversation on this, the 157th, episode of The Drywall Podcast.  This episode of TDP is brought to you by TapeTech.  Find out more by visiting www.tapetech.com

That one time when you get the interview you've been working toward since you started.  This is that interview.  I reached out to Mike on a whim not quite knowing if he'd return my email.  Man was I wrong.  He emailed me immediately and we set a date for the next day.  The rest is history, or his history rather.  Mike is a smart guy and that comes across as soon as we start talking.  We quickly settle into the flow of our conversation and the questions came smooth and unrehearsed.  In the end we cover most of his path of success to the pinnacle of the drywall industry. That is, the top position at a little company called AMES.  Mike has the temperament for the position but don't take my word for it.  Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view from the top as we dissect Mike Ventura on this, the 156th, episode of The Drywall Podcast.   This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by TapeTech.  You can find out more about TapeTech by visiting www.tapetech.com

Shout out to Chad Hesser for keeping after me to interview Justin Delk.  I love speaking with professionals in the trade and Justin is about as professional as they come.  Justin is a technical field rep for USG or Mud expert and he's been in and around the drywall industry since he was 19.  He was an apprentice in the union but quickly rose the ranks within his company.  However, there was a time when a rep from USG stumbled onto one of his sites and he asked the question, "what  does that guy do?"  It wasn't long before he was driving to Chicago for an interview with the monster company USG.  The rest is history but I like dredging up the past on this, the 155th episode of The Drywall Podcast. This episode of The Drywall Podcast was brought to you by Tape-Tech.  Find out more at www.tapetech.com