The Drywall Podcast - Where the Trade Meets the Craft

Nick Harmon
  • 4.4 (13)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Weekly

The Drywall Podcast Where the Trade Meets the Craft Welcome to The Drywall Podcast, the ultimate audio hub for drywall professionals, finishers, automated tool innovators, and industry disruptors worldwide. With over 170 episodes and 30,000+ downloads, we’ve grown from a grassroots passion project into the premier voice of the trade. Hosted by an industry insider, this show goes beyond the surface of mud and tape. We dive deep into the business, the grit, and the cutting-edge innovations shaping the future of walls and ceilings. What You’ll Hear: Exclusive Interviews: In-depth conversations with top-tier tradespeople, business owners, tool inventors, and global distributors. Industry Insights: Real talk on mastering your craft, scaling a finishing business, and navigating manufacturing and supply chains. Product & Tool Innovation: Unbiased looks at the latest technology changing the game on the job site. Whether you’re a seasoned taper, a business owner looking to scale, or just passionate about the art of the trade, you’ve found your crew. Subscribe now and never miss an episode. Let’s talk shop.

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 183: The Journey of Rickety Clickety Chris (Chris Gibbs)

    When Chris Gibbs first hit Instagram as @ricketyclicketychris, he caught the trade's attention instantly. Beyond the unforgettable handle is a veteran craftsman who proves it’s never too late to embrace new tools, build a digital presence,and master the trade. In this episode, Nick sits down with Chris to unpack his journey: The Social Media Spark: What drove a 57-year-old drywaller to start posting online and why his authentic, craft-focused content resonates with the trade. The Canadian Trek: Chris’s quest across Canada in search of higher-level theological knowledge, leading him back home to his beginnings. Trade Philosophy & Union Life: His intentional approach to finishing, why joining the Union was a pivotal career move, and how continuous learning keeps the passion alive. Nick and Chris share great chemistry in a conversation packed with wisdom for both seasoned journeymen and the next generation coming up. Sponsor: Today’s episode is brought to you by Walls & Ceilings Magazine. Stay ahead of industry trends, tool reviews,and trade insights by visiting www.wconline.com and signing up for their newsletter today!

  2. Oct 16

    Episode 182: Mark Fowler - Architecture, Plaster, & Industry Insights oh my

    If you were looking to hire someone with an all-encompassing view of the walls and ceilings industry, Mark Fowler would be your guy. From trade authorship to architecture and structural assemblies, Mark has a unique knack for finding out what makes the wall systems industry tick. Born into the trade as the son of a plasterer, Mark initially seemed bound for the same path—until a nagging curiosity to learn more about architecture and industry-wide design called him forward. Although he quickly realized architecture couldn't match the money he was already making on the hawk and trowel, Mark leveraged his hands-on field knowledge to expand his impact far beyond the job site. In this episode, Nick sits down with Mark to trace a career spanning over 50 years years with the groups like the Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau, an architectural group in Seattle, serving as Executive Director of the Stucco Manufacturers Association, and ultimately becoming the Editorial Director of Walls & Ceilings Magazine. Whether you're tuning in for a deep dive into the inner physical properties of plaster assemblies or looking to gain insight from a fellow tradesman who literally wrote the book on wall and ceiling systems, there is a massive amount of wisdom to absorb in this conversation. Key Topics Covered: Mark Fowler’s transition from plasterer’s son to industry leader Balancing trade work, architecture, and career evolution Insights from 11 years at the Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau Standardizing stucco and plaster through the Stucco Manufacturers Association Technical dynamics and physical properties of modern plaster assemblies Editorial perspectives on where the wall and ceiling trades are heading Sponsor: This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by Walls & Ceilings Magazine. Stay ahead of industry trends, technical updates, and trade insights. Find out more and subscribe today at wconline.com.

  3. Oct 9

    Episode 181: Rob Knight & Phoenix Mud – History, Friendly Competition, and Innovation

    Episode 181: Rob Knight & Phoenix Mud – History, Friendly Competition, and Innovation Before we were collaborators, Rob Knight and I were direct competitors. When I first moved to Albuquerque and launched Fresco Harmony, Rob was rolling out Variance—backed by the kind of backing and resources that made it a household name in specialty finishes overnight. But when I hit a wall on an exterior project early on, I knew Rob was the go-to authority for exterior products. I reached out for advice, and that single phone call laid the groundwork for years of mutual respect, product vetting, and collaboration. Over the years, Rob has brought various products to me to test—from Armourtone to host of other specialty lines. But this time was different. Rob stopped by with Phoenix, a revolutionary all-purpose powder joint compound engineered to eliminate the need for separate taping and topping muds while dramatically boosting eco-friendliness on the job site. Beyond the tech specs of Phoenix Mud, I managed to steer our conversation into a deep dive on our shared past and the massive impact the Knight family has had on the drywall, exterior, and specialty finish industries. As a seasoned veteran of the trade, Rob brings a calm, measured perspective packed with rich history and deep practical knowledge. Whether you’re interested in the future of powder compounds or the history of trade innovations, you’re bound to walk away with valuable insights on this 181st episode of The Drywall Podcast. Sponsor: This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by Walls & Ceilings Magazine. Stay ahead of industry news, tool updates, and trade trends. Subscribe today by visiting www.wconline.com—you’ll be glad you did.

  4. Oct 1

    Episode 180: Honoring Kameron Brown – A Special Rerun & Remembering a Legend

    On this October 1st, marking the anniversary of his passing, we are re-airing a special conversation. Episode 180 is our very first rerun on The Drywall Podcast, dedicated to honoring and celebrating the life and legacy of Kameron "ItsYaManKam" Brown. Kam was an influential figure in the trade and a deeply missed guiding light in my own life. While he is no longer with us, his impact on the drywall industry and everyone he touched continues to endure. In this episode, Kam and I dive into a project where he applied Fresco Harmony directly over old wood paneling—a methodology many thought was crazy, but one that both Kam and I have proven works time and time again. We share our approaches, trade ideas back and forth, and talk shop like old friends do. Re-airing this episode gives us all a chance to reconnect and have a brief reunion with Kam. Join us as we remember an exceptional craftsman, teacher, and friend. Sponsor: This episode of The Drywall Podcast is proudly brought to you by CanAm Tools. Upgrade your finishing setup by visiting canamtool.com and use promo code PODCAST at checkout to receive free shipping on orders over $150.00.

  5. Sep 25

    Episode 179: Teaching the Trade Down Under with Anthony Axon of Axon Plastering

    Very excited to have another Australian on the show! Introducing Anthony Axon of Axon Plastering for his first appearance on The Drywall Podcast. Anthony is one of those guys I wish had been my instructor when I was coming up in the trade. He’s knowledgeable, patient, and exceptionally approachable. He also happens to be an official trade teacher in Australia—meaning he actually teaches drywall for a living, and he genuinely loves doing it. We dive deep into his role as an educator, his hands-on approach to drywall and plastering techniques, maintaining physical health in a demanding trade, and how he manages work-life balance. You can tell right away that Anthony is anything but lazy on this, the 179th episode of The Drywall Podcast. Sponsor: This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools. Visit canamtool.com and use promo code PODCAST at checkout to get free shipping on your next order of $150 or more. And tell ’em Nick from The Drywall Podcast sent ya!

  6. Sep 11

    Episode 178: The Return of Big Dawg AKA Stephen Genkens

    We’re at it again! Stephen Genkens, AKA Big Dawg of Big Dawg Drywall, is back for his third appearance on the show—and he does not disappoint. Stephen has come a long way since his first time on the podcast back in August of 2023. When we brought him back for his second visit in September of 2024, he was going through a serious rough patch, and we dove deep into how a tradesman navigates those tough times while keeping food on the table for his family. Well, he found Jesus—and the rest is history... or rather, the rest is what this entire episode is all about! Queue Episode 178. From family life and faith to trade wisdom, tools of the trade, and even a few tools that have nothing to do with drywall, we cover a broad range of topics in this conversation. Key Highlights & Topics Covered: The Journey So Far: Reflection on Stephen’s progression since his 2023 and 2024 appearances. Faith & Family: How finding a personal foundation transformed his approach to work, family life, and overcoming obstacles in the trade. Tools of the Trade (and Beyond): Favorite setups, gear talk, and some unexpected non-drywall tools Stephen recommends. Resources & Tool Links Mentioned in This Episode: Blow Tool 1: Amazon Link  Head Phones 2: Amazon Link Episode Sponsor: This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools. For a limited time, use promo code PODCAST to receive free shipping on orders over $150! 👉 Head over to www.canamtools.com to grab your gear.

  7. Aug 28

    Episode 177: Pete Wilson – PR Wilson Interiors

    Episode 177: Pete Wilson – PR Wilson Interiors Guest: Pete Wilson (PR Wilson Interiors, Victoria, BC) Sponsor: CanAm Tools (canamtools.com) CanAm Tool   Episode Summary In this episode of The Drywall Podcast, we sit down with Pete Wilson of PR Wilson Interiors out of Victoria, BC. Pete isn't just a veteran of the finishing trade—he's a true multi-hyphenate creator who brings a musician, producer, and entrepreneur's mindset to the job site. He has that rare creative flair found in tradespeople who refuse to settle for the status quo. Special thanks to Wolfgang for connecting us with Pete! Wolfgang made a point to ensure Pete receives his fair share of credit for helping design CanAm's newest innovation, the Creaser Corner Finisher. Instead of just giving him a quick shoutout, we brought Pete on the show to dive deep into the tool's mechanics and why he took on the development process with almost nothing expected in return. Can-Am Tool   We also explore Pete's history of trade innovations—including a sander design that TapePro may have borrowed ideas from—and an app he built that is still available today. Beyond finishing, Pete runs his own studio where he produces music and edits documentaries in his leisure time. Key Topics Covered The Story Behind the Creaser: How Pete helped design CanAm's Creaser Corner Finisher and why Wolfgang wanted to ensure he got credit. Can-Am Tool   Tool Innovation & Intellectual Property: Pete's experience taking on R&D for the love of the trade, plus his involvement in early sander designs. The Entrepreneurial Side: Developing a digital app for the trade and operating a personal audio/video editing studio. Mastering the Craft: Insights into high-level finishing from decades of experience in Victoria, BC. "Pete is an amazing conversationalist and finisher. One thing is for sure—you're going to love this 177th episode of The Drywall Podcast!" Sponsor: Today’s episode of TDP is brought to you by CanAm Tool. Check out their full lineup of quality drywall finishing tools at www.canamtool.com.

  8. Aug 21

    Episode 176: From Rock Bottom to Building a Future with Hunter Thome

    Hunter Thome (out of Cleveland, TN) and I have known each other for over a decade, but it wasn't until this conversation that we truly clicked. Hunter’s journey is as raw as it gets—at just 15 years old, he found himself homeless and navigating a tough family dynamic. After taking a stab at fast food and the insulation business, a move to Ellensburg, WA, and a chance connection with an Italian electrician ultimately led him to his real calling: mud. Starting out young was only part of the battle, though. While working in Washington, Hunter faced a major health scare when a lung tumor left him with limited options for care, forcing him back home to Tennessee. That setback led him to find refuge—and a powerful new chapter—with Wind River Built. In this episode, we dive into: Hunter’s early struggles and how he turned his life around in the trade. His connection with Wind River Built and Fresco Harmony, and how it all came together like a trifecta of good luck. His thoughts on MuddSkip, his go-to tools, and where he’s at today. Hunter is doing incredible work now, and this casual, honest conversation is one you don't want to miss. Get to know Hunter on Episode 176 of The Drywall Podcast! Sponsor: Today’s episode of TDP is brought to you by CanAm Tool. Check out their full lineup of quality drywall finishing tools at www.canamtool.com.

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Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

The Drywall Podcast Where the Trade Meets the Craft Welcome to The Drywall Podcast, the ultimate audio hub for drywall professionals, finishers, automated tool innovators, and industry disruptors worldwide. With over 170 episodes and 30,000+ downloads, we’ve grown from a grassroots passion project into the premier voice of the trade. Hosted by an industry insider, this show goes beyond the surface of mud and tape. We dive deep into the business, the grit, and the cutting-edge innovations shaping the future of walls and ceilings. What You’ll Hear: Exclusive Interviews: In-depth conversations with top-tier tradespeople, business owners, tool inventors, and global distributors. Industry Insights: Real talk on mastering your craft, scaling a finishing business, and navigating manufacturing and supply chains. Product & Tool Innovation: Unbiased looks at the latest technology changing the game on the job site. Whether you’re a seasoned taper, a business owner looking to scale, or just passionate about the art of the trade, you’ve found your crew. Subscribe now and never miss an episode. Let’s talk shop.

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