Stone Chatter Podcast https://stonechatter.podbean.com
Stone Chatter is a podcast covering every side of the stone fabrication industry. For too long, the stone industry has operated in silos. Wholesale talking to wholesale, fabricators staying in their own circles, installers isolated in the field. Stone Chatter brings everyone to the same table.
Built for fabricators, installers, shop owners, wholesalers, and everyone connected to the stone world, it creates space for transparent conversations about fabrication realities, safety, business pressures, leadership, and what needs to change.
Hear from new guests every month, from fabricators, shop owners, distributors, sales leaders, safety specialists, manufacturers. We don't avoid opposing opinions, we invite them. This is where learning happens.
Because transparency drives growth, shared knowledge strengthens the industry, and everyone deserves a voice.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY! NEW EPISODES EVERY MONTH!

]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 16:04:40 -0400 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en us Copyright 2026 All rights reserved. Business:Management 1440 episodic Stone Chatter is a podcast covering every side of the stone fabrication industry. For too long, the stone industry has operated in silos. Wholesale talking to wholesale, fabricators staying in their own circles, installers isolated in the field. Stone Chatter brings everyone to the same table. Built for fabricators, installers, shop owners, wholesalers, and everyone connected to the stone world, it creates space for transparent conversations about fabrication realities, safety, business pressures, leadership, and what needs to change. Hear from new guests every month, from fabricators, shop owners, distributors, sales leaders, safety specialists, manufacturers. We don’t avoid opposing opinions, we invite them. This is where learning happens. JOIN THE COMMUNITY! NEW EPISODES EVERY MONTH! Stone Chatter Team Stone Chatter Team No false https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/22184710/PodbeanFmCover.png Stone Chatter Podcast https://stonechatter.podbean.com 144 144 Are Supplier & Fabricator Relationships Breaking Down? Are Supplier & Fabricator Relationships Breaking Down? https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/are-supplier-fabricator-relationships-breaking-down/ https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/are-supplier-fabricator-relationships-breaking-down/#comments Wed, 13 May 2026 16:04:40 -0400 stonechatter.podbean.com/27543ed6-70b9-31ec-9152-843d0ab67325 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.

]]> 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.

]]> 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. Stone Chatter Team false No 5149 1 6 full Tariff Refunds, ITC Updates & More: What’s Happening in the Stone Industry Tariff Refunds, ITC Updates & More: What’s Happening in the Stone Industry https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/tariff-refunds-itc-updates-more-what-s-happening-in-the-stone-industry/ https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/tariff-refunds-itc-updates-more-what-s-happening-in-the-stone-industry/#comments Sun, 03 May 2026 11:18:14 -0400 stonechatter.podbean.com/acb94213-a907-3e64-b5f9-0177e815e048 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 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 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. Stone Chatter Team false No 3743 1 5 full The Future of Stone Fabrication: AI, Robotics & Smart Shops The Future of Stone Fabrication: AI, Robotics & Smart Shops https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/the-future-of-stone-fabrication-ai-robotics-smart-shops/ https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/the-future-of-stone-fabrication-ai-robotics-smart-shops/#comments Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:39:16 -0400 stonechatter.podbean.com/1defe77f-5d5f-3f79-a208-a95f5f1c6a6b 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 #StoneFabrication #Automation #A.I. #Robotics #DigitalTransformation #Machinery #FabricationShop #IndustryFuture #StoneChatter

]]> 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 #StoneFabrication #Automation #A.I. #Robotics #DigitalTransformation #Machinery #FabricationShop #IndustryFuture #StoneChatter

]]> 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 Stone Chatter Team false No 4102 1 4 full Industry Talk: Tariffs, KBIS, OSHA & What’s Coming Next Industry Talk: Tariffs, KBIS, OSHA & What’s Coming Next https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/industry-talk-tariffs-kbis-osha-what-s-coming-next/ https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/industry-talk-tariffs-kbis-osha-what-s-coming-next/#comments Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:56:55 -0400 stonechatter.podbean.com/860084cb-a713-3078-9f38-bdbea9a70d3e 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.

]]> 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.

]]> 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. Stone Chatter Team false No 6067 1 3 full Is Quartz Being Banned? The Reality About Silicosis & OSHA Compliance Is Quartz Being Banned? The Reality About Silicosis & OSHA Compliance https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/is-quartz-being-banned-the-reality-about-silicosis-osha-compliance/ https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/is-quartz-being-banned-the-reality-about-silicosis-osha-compliance/#comments Sun, 22 Mar 2026 08:43:12 -0400 stonechatter.podbean.com/bcbf7371-7d60-3bdc-8dfa-d13f4d902a56 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

Eric Knight: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2svTV60bdf6SzTFkOfJT0W?si=DjYazvFfQVKkFFA_FYvBpw

 

 

]]> 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

Eric Knight: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2svTV60bdf6SzTFkOfJT0W?si=DjYazvFfQVKkFFA_FYvBpw

 

 

]]> 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. Stone Chatter Team false No 4049 1 2 full TISE 2026: Possible Quartz Ban, AI, what's new in ERP software, the future of TISE, and more TISE 2026: Possible Quartz Ban, AI, what's new in ERP software, the future of TISE, and more https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/episode-1/ https://stonechatter.podbean.com/e/episode-1/#comments Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:15:15 -0400 stonechatter.podbean.com/e2c15212-ca1d-3a5f-b365-a9d6ab2ebec7 In this inaugural episode, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed cover a list of topics.  They review TISE 2026:

  • What folks are saying about a potential quartz ban
  • How is AI being showcased at the show
  • What’s new with ERP software, and more

They discuss the future of TISE:

  • What will the show look like next year
  • What impact is Surfex expected to have

 

Music Credits (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

Eric Knight:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2svTV60bdf6SzTFkOfJT0W?si=DjYazvFfQVKkFFA_FYvBpw

 

]]> In this inaugural episode, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed cover a list of topics.  They review TISE 2026:

  • What folks are saying about a potential quartz ban
  • How is AI being showcased at the show
  • What’s new with ERP software, and more

They discuss the future of TISE:

  • What will the show look like next year
  • What impact is Surfex expected to have

 

Music Credits (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

Eric Knight:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2svTV60bdf6SzTFkOfJT0W?si=DjYazvFfQVKkFFA_FYvBpw

 

]]> In this inaugural episode, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed cover a list of topics.  They review TISE 2026: • What folks are saying about a potential quartz ban • How is AI being showcased at the show • What’s new with ERP software, and more. They discuss the future of TISE: • What will the show look like next year • What impact is Surfex expected to have. Stone Chatter Team false No 2969 1 1 full