GBA Podcast

Geoprofessional Business Association

Welcome to the GBA Podcast, where we present information and expertise from geoprofessionals around the globe to provide you with wisdom and insight to help in your pursuit of knowledge.   GBA was founded over 50 years ago to serve geotechnical, environmental, and other geoprofessionals by giving them proven tools to achieve business success by confronting risk and optimizing performance.

  1. #10 - Case History - Case History #10 - It Can Be A Costly Dam, Shame If Clients Won't Take Your Advice

    2h ago

    #10 - Case History - Case History #10 - It Can Be A Costly Dam, Shame If Clients Won't Take Your Advice

    GBA Case History Series – Case History #10 - It Can Be A Costly Dam, Shame If Clients Won't Take Your Advice Summary The local governmental agency asked the GBA Member Firm to assist during final design and construction of a recreational lake system but then restricted the Member Firm’s scope to only geotechnical engineering. A variety of problems plagued the project and the recommendations of the Member Firm were routinely rejected. Ultimately the governmental agency filed suit against the designers and constructors culminating in a 5½-year legal ordeal with the Member Firm settling for just short of $1MM. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: Trust Your Gut Instincts Be Wary When Geoprofessional Services are Assigned to or Assumed by Others Protect Yourself; Don’t Rely on Others Calls-to-action: Download Case History #10 Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC

    21 min
  2. #2 - Case History - Client's Who Don't Follow Advice Should Be Someone Else's Client

    Jun 16

    #2 - Case History - Client's Who Don't Follow Advice Should Be Someone Else's Client

    GBA Case History Series – Case History #2 - Client's Who Don't Follow Advice Should Be Someone Else's Client Summary The GBA Member Firm performed a geotechnical study for a repeat client, a custom-home builder, to identify potential groundwater problems for construction of a two-story home near the flank of a ridge. It was a hand-shake deal. Despite recommendations for drainage provisions and construction monitoring, the client went silent. Two months after completion, the basement began experiencing cracking, buckling, and water seepage. While admitting he ignored important recommendations, the client representative wanted the Member Firm to contribute money to help pay for repairs. In exchange for a full release, the Member Firm contributed a token amount for the repairs and quickly walked away. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: Residential Projects Pose High Risk • Foolish Clients Create Risks • Lack of a Written Agreement Creates Risk • Use the Term “Confirmation-Dependent Recommendations” • Settle and move on • Be Wary of Groundwater Issues Calls-to-action: Download Case History #2 Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC

    17 min
  3. Geoprofessional Women's Group

    Jun 2

    Geoprofessional Women's Group

    Geoprofessional Women's Group Summary: The GBA Geoprofessional Women's Group (GWG) podcast features a panel of women with 5–30+ years of experience discussing the group's founding, purpose, and vision. GWG aims to address ongoing isolation, retention, and leadership gaps for women in the geoprofessional industry. Panelists discuss mentorship, career pivots, work-life balance, imposter syndrome, and the power of cross-firm networking. The group, already 40 members strong, aspires to become a recognized resource for women's leadership in the AEC industry. Takeaways: Women still frequently face isolation, even as industry gender gaps narrow Dedicated peer networks improve retention more than internal firm resources alone Mentorship across career stages benefits mentors and mentees equally Career pivots are normal and do not represent failure or wasted experience Parenthood builds transferable leadership skills, not career liabilities Imposter syndrome often signals growth, not inadequacy Women tend to understate accomplishments; visibility requires intentional practice In-person connection builds trust virtual meetings cannot easily replicate GBA's cross-firm openness uniquely enables honest, competitive-barrier-free dialogue Early initiatives include a retention playbook, mentorship matching, and school outreach Steering Committee The GWG is guided by a steering committee of engaged women leaders across GBA member firms, including: Liz Brown, PE (JLT Consultants) Shana Carroll, PE, LEED BD+C (D.W. Kozera) Catherine Ellis, MBA, PE, GE (Shannon & Wilson) Cassandra Langley (GBA) Keri Nutter, CPG (DOWL) Laura Register, PE, F.GBA (Terracon) Carrie Rodriguez, PE, GE (BSK Associates) Calls-to-action: Learn More About the GWG Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Tim Rodriguez – COO/BSK Associates Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC

    1h 10m
  4. First Word - June 2026

    Jun 1

    First Word - June 2026

    Summary On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful! Links to resources referenced in this video: GBA Safety Committee GBA Podcast GBA Podcast Episode: Communication Basics—Intentional and Inclusive Communication GBA Podcast Episode: Case History #4, Compromise Must be a Part of Your Business Strategy GBA Podcast Episode: Case History #3, If Your Client Won't Listen...Get Out Your Checkbook 2026 GBA Fall Leadership Summit 2027 GBA Annual Conference Geoprofessional Career Ascent Program Class (Embark and Ascend) Information and Applications

    4 min
  5. Communication Basics: Intentional and Inclusive Communication

    May 5

    Communication Basics: Intentional and Inclusive Communication

    Communication Basics: Intentional and Inclusive Communication Summary The GBA Inclusion Advancement Committee explores why communication is more than a soft skill—it’s a core competency in the geoprofessional industry. Moderator Rob Howard and panelists Dee Watson, Kent Bannister, and Margaret Panatera discuss how intentional and inclusive communication can reduce friction, strengthen collaboration between disciplines, and support healthier project teams. Through real‑world examples from geotechnical, environmental, and engineering practice, the panel highlights practical techniques for better listening, navigating tone, and creating safe spaces for open dialogue. Our Moderator: Rob Howard, PE - Vice President/Geo-Technology Associates, Inc. (GTA) Our Panel: Dee Watson, B.A.Sc., SHRM-CP – Human Resources Administrator/Geotechnincal Consultants Inc. Kent Bannister – President, CEO/Trek Engineering Margaret Panatera - Principal/GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. Lessons Learned: Communication is a mutual responsibility — speaker and listener both own it Always assume positive intent going into conversations Tone shapes the message as much as words do Aim for awareness and growth, not perfection Experience gaps create hidden breakdowns — don't assume shared context Stay curious with questions; defensiveness closes conversations Pause before reacting — in person or in writing Inclusive culture must be modeled by leaders first Calls-to-action: The Power of Words: Inclusive Language in the Geoprofessions Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Brad Nielsen, PE – Project Manager/Kleinfelder Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC

    33 min
  6. First Word - May 2026

    May 2

    First Word - May 2026

    Summary On the first of each month, GBA Executive Director Joel Carson provides an inside look at the latest GBA member resources, events, and news. These short and information-packed videos will make you and your firm smarter, stronger, and more successful! This Episode The May episode of The 1st Word is live—and it’s a great (and quick) watch if you want a clear snapshot of what made GBA’s 2026 Annual Conference in Phoenix, Arizona so meaningful. GBA Executive Director Joel Carson reflects on the theme Vibrancy, Impact, and Professionalism, the momentum coming out of Board and committee work, and the ideas shared across keynotes, roundtables, and awards—plus what’s ahead for GBA this year. You’ll also hear a look forward to the Fall Leadership Summit in Denver, Colorado and an early invitation to join us in Vancouver, British Columbia in 2027 as we go “all in” for the geoprofessions.

    8 min
  7. #4 - Case History - Compromise Must be a Part of Your Business Strategy

    Apr 28

    #4 - Case History - Compromise Must be a Part of Your Business Strategy

    GBA Case History Series – Case History #4 - Compromise Must be a Part of Your Business Strategy Summary The Member Firm performed a geotechnical engineering study for a major structure and recommended drilled shafts that would require permanent casing. The drilled-shaft constructor offered an innovative “value-engineered” approach to remove the casing and save money. Unfortunately, construction problems developed and resolution required extensive investigation, testing, redesign, and big dollars. Surprisingly, by sharing responsibility and costs, litigation was avoided. Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: Looks can be deceiving High risk procedures often go awry Compromise can often just be the smartest solution Calls-to-action: Download Case History #4 Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC

    16 min
  8. #3 - Case History - If Your Client Won't Listen...Get Out Your Checkbook

    Apr 21

    #3 - Case History - If Your Client Won't Listen...Get Out Your Checkbook

    GBA Case History Series – Case History #3 - If Your Client Won't Listen...Get Out Your Checkbook Summary The civil engineer retained the Member Firm to perform a geotechnical engineering study for a major municipal wastewater treatment facility but dictated a generalized scope despite a challenging site. After learning of unfavorable foundation conditions (near-surface rock), the civil engineer relocated a portion of the facility and directed the Member Firm to perform additional study but, against the firm’s recommendations, ignored the rock. The firm completed the additional study and the final report and construction began. Predictably, the Member Firm learned that the contractor had encountered rock and had submitted numerous change orders (CO) for rock excavation. Because the COs were rejected by the civil engineer, the contractor filed a claim for damages based on unforseen subsurface conditions. (Resolution was not reported.) Our Hosts: Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Elizabeth is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer at JLT Consultants in Boise, Idaho. Elizabeth has performed and/or assisted with numerous geotechnical investigations throughout Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming managing projects, providing geotechnical design, project quality control, cost and value engineering, and evaluating geotechnical constructability issues. Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Abi is a Project Consultant at SME experienced in managing a variety of steel, concrete, coatings, and nondestructive testing projects. She specializes in managing projects related to DOT fabrication quality assurance reviews but also supports project managers throughout SME’s various service groups. Lessons Learned: Define roles and do it explicitly If it isn't in writing, it didn't happen Survey boring locations whenever possible Don't rely on exculpatory provisions Be your own best friend Calls-to-action: Download Case History #3 Visit the following link to access all of GBA’s Case Histories: https://www.geoprofessional.org/gba-case-histories/ An account is required to download the individual Case Histories, which are free for GBA Member Firms. Visit the GBA Website at https://www.geoprofessional.org for other training resources and reference materials and/or to become a member. Visit https://www.gbapodcast.com for future Podcast Episodes Contact us at info@geoprofessional.org with any podcast-related questions or comments Subscribe Subscribe to the GBA Podcast https://www.gbapodcast.com/subscribe This episode was produced by the following GBA Members: Abi Corbett – Project Consultant/SME. Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC

    19 min
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About

Welcome to the GBA Podcast, where we present information and expertise from geoprofessionals around the globe to provide you with wisdom and insight to help in your pursuit of knowledge.   GBA was founded over 50 years ago to serve geotechnical, environmental, and other geoprofessionals by giving them proven tools to achieve business success by confronting risk and optimizing performance.

Information

  • Creator
    Geoprofessional Business Association
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    96
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Geoprofessional Business Association
  • Show Website
    GBA Podcast

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