In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute

Adam Hutchinson
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Careers

In the Mix is a podcast dedicated to the people, projects, and innovations shaping the masonry industry—block by block, brick by brick. Hosted by Adam Hutchinson, Executive Director and professional engineer, this show brings together architects, engineers, contractors, and industry leaders to explore how masonry drives resilient, sustainable, and high-performance building design. Each episode breaks down real-world applications of masonry construction, from structural integrity and fire resistance to long-term durability and environmental impact. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes insights, industry challenges, and practical conversations that matter to those designing, building, and specifying with masonry. If you’re passionate about stronger buildings, smarter construction, and advancing masonry in modern design—this is your place to get in the mix. Join us in supporting the Masonry Industry mission: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    8. What Architects Need to Know about Masonry with Steve Blye

    After more than four decades as an architect, Steve Blye has designed everything from healthcare facilities and schools to municipal buildings and large-scale institutional projects. Today, as the Design and Technical Architect for the Masonry Advisory Council, he's helping architects, engineers, and owners better understand one of the most versatile building materials available: masonry. In this episode of In The Mix, Steve joins Adam to share how his perspective on masonry evolved throughout his career, what architects often overlook when specifying masonry systems, and why some of the industry's oldest building methods still offer some of the best solutions today. From lessons learned in architecture school to insights gained through decades of real-world projects, Steve explains how masonry continues to deliver durability, resilience, energy efficiency, fire resistance, and long-term value. He also discusses common misconceptions, evolving wall system designs, and why education remains one of the biggest opportunities for the next generation of architects and engineers.  In This Episode: Steve's journey from architect to masonry industry advocateWhy masonry remains one of the most durable building materials availableCommon design misconceptions architects and engineers encounterHow cavity wall systems have evolved over timeThe role of masonry in sustainability and carbon sequestrationLessons from historic masonry structures around the worldWhy education and industry collaboration matter for the future of designThe hidden value masonry provides over a building's lifespan

    32 min

  2. Jun 4

    7. Beyond the Sale: How Relationships Drive the Masonry Industry Forward with Jordan Krebs

    What if the future of masonry isn’t just about better materials, but better relationships, smarter collaboration, and building structures designed to outlast generations?   In this episode of In The Mix, Adam sits down with Jordan Krebs of Sunset Stone to talk about the evolving world of manufactured stone veneer, masonry relationships, and what it really means to build a long-term career in the construction industry.   From the manufacturing process behind handcrafted stone veneer to the future of masonry in modern design-build construction, Jordan shares insights from both the sales side and the contractor side of the industry. The conversation explores everything from mortar technology and thermal mass to craftsmanship, workforce development, and why masonry continues to stand the test of time.   Adam and Jordan also reflect on their shared history in Spokane, the importance of relationship-building in construction, and how masonry products continue to shape communities for generations to come.   In this episode, we cover: Jordan’s journey into the masonry and hardscape industry through family connections and growing up around masonry products What makes Sunset Stone unique in the manufactured stone veneer market Why relationships and long-term trust matter more than “selling” in the construction industry How design-build delivery is changing the way masonry products are specified on projects The importance of craftsmanship, apprenticeship, and bringing younger generations into the masonry trades How masonry projects can revitalize communities and create buildings designed to last for generations   About the Guest: Jordan Krebs is a sales representative for Sunset Stone in the Pacific Northwest, specializing in manufactured stone veneer systems and masonry products. With a background in hardscapes, dry cast products, and masonry materials, Jordan brings a relationship-focused approach to the construction industry, working closely with contractors, architects, distributors, and builders throughout the region. Passionate about craftsmanship, long-term building performance, and the future of the trades, Jordan is dedicated to helping projects succeed through collaboration, technical knowledge, and practical industry experience.   Connect with Jordan:  Website: https://sunsetstone.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-krebs-82074a30a https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunset-stone-llc?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company  Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

    40 min

  3. May 28

    6. How Benjamin Warfield Scaled a Masonry Company Through Economic Downturns

    What does it really take to build a lasting masonry business from the ground up? In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with Benjamin Warfield of Warfield Masonry to talk about family legacy, entrepreneurship, apprenticeship, and the mindset required to survive and grow in the construction industry for nearly 25 years. From growing up on masonry job sites with his father to launching his own company at 27 during the 2008 market crash, Ben shares the real story behind building Warfield Masonry into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected masonry contractors. The conversation dives into leadership, risk-taking, union partnerships, mentorship, marketing, design-build collaboration, and why relationships are the foundation of long-term success in construction. Along the way, Adam and Ben also discuss podcasting, snowboarding, faith, personal growth, and the importance of investing time into both people and craft. In this episode:  How Warfield Masonry started as a family business in 1977  Ben’s journey from residential masonry into commercial construction  What the 2008 recession taught him about resilience and business  The importance of networking, relationships, and long sales cycles  Why joining the union changed the trajectory of the company  Lessons learned about leadership, apprenticeship, and company culture  The role of marketing and personal branding in construction  How collaboration and design-build improve project outcomes  Ben’s “5 things” every mason and contractor should know  Why mentorship, honesty, and investing in people matter most About the Guest:Benjamin Warfield is the owner of Warfield Masonry, a Washington-based masonry contractor specializing in commercial, residential, and architectural masonry projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. Raised in the trade from a young age, Ben has spent decades building his expertise in masonry construction, business leadership, and workforce development. He is a passionate advocate for apprenticeship, union craftsmanship, design-build collaboration, and advancing the masonry industry through education, relationships, and mentorship. Connect with Ben: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warfield_masonry_llc/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-warfield-78503b16 Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

    56 min

  4. May 21

    5. Modern Masonry Systems, Seismic Testing & the Future of Adhered Veneers with John Gallup

    What does it actually take to build safer, longer-lasting adhered masonry systems in one of the most demanding climates and seismic regions in North America? In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with John Gallup formerly a representative of Laticrete, now with HydroBlok, to break down the evolution of adhered veneer masonry, the science behind modern installation systems, and the code changes reshaping the industry. From polymer-modified mortars and waterproofing assemblies to seismic shake-table testing at Portland State University, John shares how innovation, testing, and collaboration are helping architects, contractors, and engineers build smarter and more sustainably. This conversation dives deep into the technical side of masonry systems while also exploring the real-world challenges of labor, climate, moisture management, and long-term durability in the Pacific Northwest.  In this episode, we cover:  John’s journey into the construction and masonry industry through Laticrete What Laticrete actually does—and how the company evolved from tile systems into masonry veneer systems  How the Pacific Northwest climate creates unique moisture and freeze-thaw challenges  Why fluid-applied waterproofing membranes are becoming essential in modern systems  Inside the seismic testing initiative conducted at Portland State University  The biggest advantages of thin veneer systems compared to traditional full-bed masonry  Where masonry materials, chemistry, and installation technology are headed next About the GuestJohn Gallup is a Technical Sales Representative for Laticrete, specializing in tile, stone, and adhered veneer masonry systems throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. With extensive experience working alongside architects, contractors, distributors, and industry organizations, John has played a key role in advancing modern masonry veneer systems, code development, and seismic testing initiatives in the region. He is deeply involved in industry advocacy, education, and helping drive innovation in high-performance masonry assemblies. Connect with John: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gallup-9a719419 https://www.laticrete.com/https://www.hydroblok.com/ Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

    36 min

  5. May 14

    4. Can CMU + CLT Fix Multifamily Construction Challenges? with Alex Watchman

    What if the future of multifamily housing isn’t choosing between masonry or mass timber—but combining both?In this episode of In the Mix, Adam sits down with Alex Watchman of Clark Barnes to explore an innovative approach to mid-rise multifamily construction using CMU and cross-laminated timber (CLT) together as one structural system. What started as a conversation at a Mariners game turned into a deeper discussion around building smarter, faster, and more resilient multifamily projects. Alex shares how this proposed “wood/block” system could open new possibilities for architects, engineers, and developers navigating today’s housing and construction challenges. The conversation explores Type IV-C construction, seismic design considerations, fire resistance, scheduling efficiencies, and why this hybrid approach could create opportunities for both the masonry and mass timber industries moving forward. In this episode: The origin of the “wood/block” CMU + CLT conceptWhy Type IV-C construction matters for multifamily housingHow CMU and mass timber can work together structurallyThe hidden challenges of podium constructionSeismic, fire-rating, and code considerationsWhy this approach could improve project timelines and efficiencyThe bigger vision for hybrid construction systemsAbout the Guest:Alex Watchman is a licensed architect in Washington and a graduate of the University of Minnesota and Harvard Graduate School of Design. As part of Clark Barnes Architects in Seattle, Alex focuses on innovative approaches to resilient, efficient, and scalable building systems. His current research explores how CMU and mass timber can work together to unlock new possibilities in mid-rise multifamily housing design. Connect with Alex: Website: https://www.clarkbarnes.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-watchman-71570686 Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

    1h 10m
  • 5 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

In the Mix is a podcast dedicated to the people, projects, and innovations shaping the masonry industry—block by block, brick by brick. Hosted by Adam Hutchinson, Executive Director and professional engineer, this show brings together architects, engineers, contractors, and industry leaders to explore how masonry drives resilient, sustainable, and high-performance building design. Each episode breaks down real-world applications of masonry construction, from structural integrity and fire resistance to long-term durability and environmental impact. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes insights, industry challenges, and practical conversations that matter to those designing, building, and specifying with masonry. If you’re passionate about stronger buildings, smarter construction, and advancing masonry in modern design—this is your place to get in the mix. Join us in supporting the Masonry Industry mission: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix

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