GBA Podcast

Geoprofessional Business Association

5.0 (37)
BUSINESS
UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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.

3 DAYS AGO

First Word - February 2025

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: Career Continuum Early Professional Class GBA Website GBA NEWSlog GBA Podcast GeoHeroes Podcast Series GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Ed Alizadeh, Ed Alizadeh, P.E., J.D., F.GBA GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Stewart Osgood, P.E., F.GBA GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Kurt Fraese, L.G., F.GBA GBA Book Club 2025 GBA Crystal Ball Workshop 2025 GBA Annual Conference Registration and Information

5 min
6 DAYS AGO

GeoHeroes - Kurt Fraese

GeoHeroes - Kurt Fraese About This Episode In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Kurt Fraese, exploring Fraese's career journey, from his childhood interests to his leadership roles at various firms, including his time as CEO of GeoEngineers. His experiences highlight the importance of adaptability, preparedness, and a long-term vision. Fraese also discusses the future of the geoprofession, emphasizing the need for embracing technology and strengthening community engagement. Finally, he shares advice for aspiring geoprofessionals, focusing on the interconnectedness of businesses, clients, and communities. Series Summary In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. About Our Guest Kurt Fraese has provided consulting services to clients in the Energy, Development, Transportation, Federal Government and Water and Natural Resource markets since beginning his career with Woodward-Clyde Consultants in 1983, serving in their geophysics division and later in their dams and tunnels group. Kurt joined GeoEngineers in 1988, became CEO/President in March of 2007 and retired from the firm in April 2017. His technical expertise is primarily focused on assessment and remediation of hazardous substances in various media. He has served as project manager and/or principal in charge of over 1200 site studies. His business experience includes strategic planning, mergers/acquisitions, market intelligence, client feedback/engagement, ownership/leadership transition, executive coaching, conflict resolution, professional development and peer review. Fraese and Associates provides business facilitation, advisory, and coaching services for organizations and executives. Our Host Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations. Discussion Topics: Kurt's Journey Early Life and Influences: Early Life and Formative Years Early jobs Firefighting Experience Career Path: Career at Woodward Clyde and GeoEngineers Leadership and Communication Skills Life After "Retirement": Post-Retirement Activities The Geoprofessions: Current State and Future Global Perspective and Long-Term Thinking Community Service and Involvement Insights on the Geoprofession Looking Ahead: Future of the Geoprofession Personal Reflections Life Lessons and Perspectives: Preparation and Advice for the Future Speed Round [BOOK] Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing [BOOK] Orbiting the Giant Hairball: A Corporate Fool's Guide to Surviving with Grace by Gordon MacKenzie Conclusion Calls-to-action: 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: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC

54 min
JAN 15

GeoHeroes - Stewart Osgood

GeoHeroes - Stewart Osgood About This Episode In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Stewart Osgood, the former president and CEO of Dowl. Osgood recounts his career journey, starting from his upbringing on a Vermont dairy farm to his unexpected path into engineering and his eventual leadership of a significantly grown company. He discusses his approach to retirement and leadership, emphasizing planned obsolescence and the importance of cultivating a team environment. Finally, he shares his perspective on the geotechnical engineering profession, including concerns about risk aversion and a need for more innovation, and offers advice to those entering the field. Series Summary In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. About Our Guest Stewart Osgood - Stewart is the former President and CEO of a top 150 engineering firm with 550 employees located in 20 offices in the western U.S. During Stewart’s 22 years of leadership the company grew 10-fold in real terms. The company has 50 employee/manager owners and is poised to poised to continue under this ownership model long into the future. Stewart also oversaw the leadership transition to the next generation with the selection and successful turnover of top spots in the organization including CEO, COO, CIO, CPO, CRO, and Chairperson of the Board. Stewart founded and developed an Emerging Leader training program at the firm as a means of training and inducting next-next-gen leadership, and created a synthetic equity program to share in the financial successes of the company with up-and-coming early career rainmakers. Stewart enjoys cycling and home improvement projects. He had two adult children that are early career professionals in technical and legal circles. He and his long-term partner Amy live in Scottsdale Arizona with their two dogs Georgie and Brutus. Our Host Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations. Discussion Topics: Stewart's Journey Early Life and Influences: Growing Up on a Dairy Farm [1:11-3:25] Impactful Mentors [3:25-6:24] Career Path: Transition from College to Career [6:24-10:48] Leadership at Dowl [10:48-11:31] Company Growth and Transitions [11:31-14:21] Planning for Retirement and Succession [14:21-17:20] Life After Dowl: Post-Retirement Plans [17:20-18:55] Passion for Cycling [18:55-19:56] Insights on the Geoprofession Current State: Overview of the Geoprofessional Landscape [19:56-23:14] Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry [21:41-23:14] Forces of Change: Alternative Project Delivery [23:40-24:44] Disruptive Technology (AI) [24:44-25:29] Changes in Demographics and Diversity [25:29-27:19] Looking Ahead: Future of Geoprofessional Businesses [27:19-28:46] Advice for New Geoprofessionals [34:44-36:33] Personal Reflections Making a Difference: Impactful Contributions [32:06-33:23] Life Lessons and Perspectives: Reflections on Career Choices [33:23-34:44] Optimism Index [30:52-32:06] Favorite Books [29:32-30:46] [BOOK] The Last Place on Earth by Roland Huntford [BOOK] Books about Ernest Shackleton by Roland Huntford Calls-to-action: 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: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC

36 min
JAN 1

First Word - January 2025

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: Career Continuum Early Professional Class GeoHeroes Podcast Series GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Mark Kramer, P.E., F.GBA GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Charlie Head, P.E., P.G., F.GBA GeoHeroes Episode, Guest Elizabeth Clarke GBA Book Club Winter Reading List for Geoprofessionals Woodward L. Vogt Project Excellence Award Information 2025 GBA Annual Conference Registration and Information GBA NEWSlog Follow GBA on LinkedIn Join the GBA Group on LinkedIn GBA’s New Member Site GBA Resource Library

6 min
JAN 1

GeoHeroes - Ed Alizadeh

GeoHeroes - Ed Alizadeh About This Episode In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Ed Alizadeh, a Director at UES and former CEO of Geotechnology, Inc. The conversation covers his career journey, from his upbringing with engineer parents to his leadership roles in prominent firms and the eventual sale of Geotechnology. Alizadeh discusses the challenges and rewards of his profession, including navigating family expectations, balancing work and education, and leading through periods of growth and loss. He offers insights into the future of geoprofessionals, emphasizing the importance of technological adaptation, workforce development, and highlighting the crucial societal impact of their work. Finally, he shares career advice and reflects on his key accomplishments and lessons learned. Series Summary In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. About Our Guest Ed Alizadeh, P.E., is a Director at UES and was formerly the CEO of Geotechnology, Inc. Ed graduated from the University of Tulsa with a B.S. in petroleum engineering and from St. Louis University with a JD in 1996. Mr. Alizadeh is a strong believer in giving back to the community and served on the Board of Kids in the Middle and Habitat for Humanity St. Louis and currently serves on the Board of Pedal the Cause. Ed has also served the engineering profession; he served as President of GBA in 2008-09, as Chairman of ACECMo from July 2011 to June 2012 and on the Executive Committee of ACEC National from 2020-2022. Mr. Alizadeh was recognized as the Engineer of the Year in Private Practice by the St. Louis Chapter of the Missouri Society of Professional Engineers in 2013. Our Host Guy Marcozzi is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations. Discussion Topics: Introduction [0:00-2:22] Ed's Formative Years: [2:23-9:13] Growing up in St. Louis [2:23-3:21] Focus on education [3:22-4:42] "Tough love" parenting [4:43-5:36] Early jobs and love of sports [5:37-7:51] Experiencing prejudice after the Iranian Revolution [7:52-8:44] Choosing a career path [8:45-9:13] From Petroleum Engineering to Geotechnology [9:14-16:34] First job prospects and working in the oil industry [9:14-13:45] Transitioning to Geotechnology and the environmental business [13:46-16:34] Leading Geotechnology and the Decision to Sell [16:35-23:14] Challenges and growth at Geotechnology [16:35-18:06] Decision to go to law school [18:07-19:48] Working with his father [19:49-20:51] Growth trajectory and decision to sell [20:52-23:14] The Future of Geoprofessionalism [23:15-30:00] Opportunities and challenges [23:15-26:21] The evolving workforce [26:22-27:46] The importance of purpose and impact [27:47-28:41] Anticipating changes in the profession [28:42-30:00] Speed Round [30:01-38:00] Favorite books [30:01-31:55] [BOOK] The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson [BOOK] First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently by Marcus Buckingham Optimism index for the future: 4-5 [31:56-32:57] Biggest career impact: Helping others grow and develop [32:58-33:51] What he would change: Nothing, embraces learning from experiences [33:52-36:13] Advice for new professionals: Say yes to opportunities [36:14-37:24] Conclusion [37:25-38:00] Say Yes More Often Calls-to-action: 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: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC

40 min
12/18/2024

GeoHeroes - Elizabeth Clarke

GeoHeroes - Elizabeth Clarke About This Episode In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Elizabeth Clarke, CEO of Structures Group, who recounts her non-traditional career path. Starting with a childhood in a close-knit Italian-Portuguese family, she shares her varied early interests and experiences, including a stint on Star Search and time as a police dispatcher. Clarke details her unexpected transition into the geosciences industry, highlighting the role of resilience and strong relationships in her success. The conversation also touches on her views of the geoprofessional field and the importance of collaboration and adaptability. Finally, she offers advice to aspiring professionals, emphasizing continuous learning and embracing diverse team environments. Series Summary In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. About Our Guest Elizabeth Clarke is the Owner and President of Structure Groups, a civil engineering firm specializing in construction inspection and materials testing for public and private projects. Recently featured in 110° Magazine, Fortune, and Entrepreneur for their Extraordinary Women’s issues, she is celebrated for her leadership and vision. A Discovery Bay resident since 1995, Elizabeth lives with her husband, Mike, and is a proud mother and grandmother. She serves as President of the DB Chamber of Commerce and actively leads community service projects with the Byron Delta Lions Club. Elizabeth also holds board roles with the Geoprofessional Business Association and the California Council of Testing & Inspection Agencies. Our Host Guy Marcozzi is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations. Discussion Topics: Early Life and Interests (0:00-3:04) From Singing Aspirations to Criminal Justice (3:04-8:47) Discovering the Geoprofessions: A New Path Unfolds (8:47-14:06) From Tragedy to Triumph: Founding Structures Group (14:06-20:50) Geoprofessions: Value, Visibility, and the Future (20:50-28:51) Adaptability, Resilience, and Embracing Change (28:51-39:35) Final Thoughts (39:35-39:43) [BOOK] The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Calls-to-action: 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: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC

41 min
12/11/2024

GeoHeroes - Charlie Head

GeoHeroes - Charlie Head About This Episode In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Charlie Head, a co-founder of the geo-environmental firm Sanborn Head & Associates. The conversation covers his career journey, including his educational background, professional experiences, and the challenges and rewards of building a successful company. Head also discusses his current semi-retired status, focusing on his passions for music and the outdoors. The interview concludes with advice for those entering the geotechnical and environmental professions and reflections on the evolving nature of the field. Series Summary In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. About Our Guest Charlie Head - Currently Founding Principal and Chair Board of Directors at Sanborn, Head & Associates, Inc. responsible for helping to lead implementation of the firm's Strategic Plan. Professional experience includes remedial investigation of subsurface environmental conditions; design and implementation of remedial actions nationally and internationally, including projects throughout North America, and in Europe, Asia, and South America. Our Host Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations. Discussion Topics: Introduction & Background (0:00-2:20) Educational and Early Career Journey (2:20-6:58) Founding and Growing Sanborn Head (6:58-15:51) Mentorship and Recognition (15:51-18:48) Life After Management: Embracing New Chapters (18:48-22:43) The Evolution and Future of the Geoprofession (22:43-30:08) Speed Round: Insights and Reflections (30:08-36:47) [BOOK] Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr [BOOK] Shantaram by Gregory Roberts [BOOK] Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard Rohr [BOOK] Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom by John O'Donohue [BOOK] Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Advice for New Geoprofessionals and Closing Remarks (36:47-39:42) You get out of it what you put into it. Keep challenging yourself, keep meeting new people, keep learning, and dont ever stop! Calls-to-action: 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: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC

37 min
11/27/2024

GeoHeroes - Mark Kramer

GeoHeroes - Mark Kramer About This Episode In this episode Guy Marcozzi interviews Mark Kramer, a successful geotechnical engineer and CEO of SME. The conversation explores Kramer's career path, including his childhood experiences and educational background, highlighting the influence of his father and a pivotal college professor. He discusses the challenges and rewards of the geotechnical engineering profession, offering advice to aspiring professionals on building confidence and communication skills. Kramer also shares his perspectives on technological advancements, particularly AI, and its potential impact on the field in the coming decades. Finally, he addresses the issue of attracting new talent to the industry. Series Summary In this podcast series Guy Marcozzi will interview past, present, and future leaders in the geoprofessional industry to explore their personal and career journeys. The goal is to understand what motivates these individuals and what insights they have for the future of the profession. The podcast will examine the skills and qualities that have contributed to their success, as well as their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. About Our Guest Mark Kramer - Mark Kramer is CEO and Chairman of the Board of SME, a leading civil engineering and environmental services consulting firm headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. SME has 15 offices in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. Since 2002, he has led SME as the CEO and he has grown SME to over 380 professional and technical staff. The firm has continually been ranked among the top 500 design firms within the United States by the Engineering News Record (ENR) and is currently ranked at 289 in the country. Under his leadership the company has won numerous awards for employee engagement and client satisfaction including recently be named the overall winner of Best and Brightest firms to work for in SE Michigan two years in a row as well as being named a national winner for a number of years. Our Host Guy Marcozzi – Guy Marcozzi is the current GBA president and an experienced CEO, President and Board Member with a demonstrated history of working in the engineering, science and data technology industries and in leadership for various boards of ESOP, non-profit, professional and business organizations. Discussion Topics: Introduction (0:00 - 2:18) Early Life and Career Influences (2:19 - 13:50) Defining the "Master Builder" in the Modern Age (13:51 - 18:40) Disruptive Technologies and Their Impact (18:41 - 25:45) The Future of the Geoprofessional Industry (25:46 - 34:10) [BOOK] Who Not How by Dan Sullivan [BOOK] Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times by Rebecca Homkes Personal Reflections and Advice (34:11 - 41:30) Conclusion (41:31 - 43:40) Calls-to-action: 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: Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/PBS Engineering and Environmental LLC

32 min

See All (41)

out of 5

37 Ratings

Fabulous conversation on DEI

10/20/2021

cdf1910

Very commendable of GBA for having the conversation on DEI, especially now that times are changing, generations are changing, more females are thriving and achieving more educationally and professionaly. It is important for not only engineering companies to have this discussion but it also leads other companies into the vision and help forge the change.
Great Content

04/07/2021

jps628

Very insightful content for geoprofessionals. Keep it up!
Listening to old friends

08/05/2020

Laura (Reinbold) Register

I’m enchanted by each GBA podcast. It’s visiting with old friends, celebrating catching up as we all learn together. I am grateful for Joel bringing us the next best thing to being together in person.

Creator

Geoprofessional Business Association
Years Active

2020 - 2025
Episodes

41
Rating

Clean
Show Website

GBA Podcast

Comedy

Comedy

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Politics

Updated Daily
Business

Business

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GBA Podcast

Episodes

First Word - February 2025

GeoHeroes - Kurt Fraese

GeoHeroes - Stewart Osgood

First Word - January 2025

GeoHeroes - Ed Alizadeh

GeoHeroes - Elizabeth Clarke

GeoHeroes - Charlie Head

GeoHeroes - Mark Kramer

Ratings & Reviews

Fabulous conversation on DEI

Great Content

Listening to old friends

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