The Maker & The Mix; The Craft Concrete Experience Jeff Girard

In Episode 8 of Season 2, "Crafting the Future - Innovations in Concrete," hosts Jeff and Caleb embark on a deep dive into the latest materials and techniques revolutionizing the concrete countertop industry. They revisit the pros and cons of various casting surfaces like melamine, MDO, and more, discussing how each impacts the art of mold making, since Caleb got a new Steel casting table. The duo also sheds light on the importance of integrating technology to enhance efficiency and profit margins. The episode culminates in the exciting announcement of CCI's 20th anniversary celebration, happening from June 26-28, 2024, marking two decades of innovation and excellence in concrete craftsmanship. Join us as we explore how these advancements and strategic approaches are setting the stage for the future of the industry.

Don't miss our upcoming Ultimate Craft Concrete Workshops:


April 29-May 3, 2024
October 14-18, 2024

Join us for CCI's 20th Anniversary Celebration, open to all, featuring crafting concrete, camaraderie, bonfires, BBQ, and festivities from June 26-28, 2024.

Season 2, Episode 7: Embracing the Soul of Craft Concrete

Are you ready to immerse yourself in a world where authenticity meets artistry? Join Caleb Lawson and Jeff Girard in a captivating conversation that transcends the boundaries of craftsmanship and explores the profound philosophy of working with concrete. In this thought-provoking episode of The Maker & The Mix, Caleb and Jeff peel back the layers of convention to reveal the raw, emotive essence; the soul of this versatile material.

Concrete isn't just a medium; it's a canvas for the soul. As Caleb and Jeff passionately discuss, each pour carries with it a story, a fingerprint of the human touch, and an invitation to embrace imperfection. From the rugged charm of a weathered finish to the subtle nuances of color and texture, concrete speaks a language of its own—one that resonates deeply with those who dare to listen.

But this conversation goes beyond mere technique; it's an exploration of the heart and mind behind the craft. Caleb and Jeff share their insights on the value of embracing imperfection as a hallmark of true craftsmanship, challenging the notion of uniformity in a world obsessed with mass production. They remind us that authenticity isn't found in flawless precision but in the honest, imperfect strokes of creation.

As the discussion unfolds, you'll find yourself drawn into a world where passion meets precision, where every project is a labor of love, and every imperfection is celebrated as a testament to the human spirit. Whether you're an experienced artisan or a curious novice, this episode promises to inspire, enlighten, and reignite your love for the craft.

The Ultimate Craft Concrete Workshop


Spring Workshop: April 29-May 3, 2024 - Register Now
Fall Workshop: October 14-18, 2024 - Register Now

And for those eager to bring a piece of this authentic craftsmanship into their own homes, shop our collection of artisan products crafted with passion and precision. Each piece tells a story, carries a soul, and invites you to embrace the beauty of imperfection.

Click Here to Shop our Curated Craft Concrete ingredients and tools

Don't miss out on this opportunity to dive deep into the world of concrete craftsmanship. Tune in, reserve your spot, and discover the beauty of imperfection with Caleb and Jeff on The Maker & The Mix.

Season 2, Episode 6: Mastering the Surface: The Conundrum of Casting Tables

Join us in Season 2, Episode 6 of "The Maker and the Mix," as Jeff and Caleb delve into the art and science of choosing the perfect casting surfaces for concrete projects. In this insightful conversation, they explore the nuances of working with various materials like melamine, Corian, and laminate, discussing the advantages and challenges each brings to the table. From personal anecdotes to professional tips, they shed light on how to select the right casting surface for any project, big or small.

Episode Highlights:


Material Matters: Unpack the pros and cons of popular casting surfaces, including melamine’s affordability versus its limitations, Corian’s durability with heat sensitivity, and laminate's cost-effectiveness against susceptibility to damage.
Table Talk: Dive into the importance of table size, understanding how the dimensions of your casting table can impact the success of your projects.
Steel Solutions: Explore the benefits and maintenance requirements of using steel as a casting surface, ensuring stability and longevity in your creations.
Finishing Touches: Learn about the crucial decisions in finishing concrete surfaces, from protecting edges to choosing between cream and non-cream finishes for durability and aesthetics.
Character Counts: Celebrate the unique character and variation that concrete brings, embracing the natural beauty of this versatile material.

Jeff and Caleb also highlight the importance of durable finishes, the practicality of non-cream finishes, and the value of embracing the inherent character and variation in concrete. As the conversation wraps up, listeners are invited to discover more about crafting quality concrete tables through upcoming training classes and specialty products designed for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Don't Miss Out:

- For those eager to expand their knowledge and skills, stay tuned for information on our upcoming training classes and explore our specialty products that elevate the craft of concrete casting.

Visit our Shop Page for supplies and our Workshops Page for expert-led training opportunities.

Tune in toThe Maker & The Mix for a deep dive into the world of Craft Concrete, where Jeff and Caleb guide you through making informed choices that elevate the quality and aesthetics of your concrete projects.

Season 2, Episode 5: Concrete Connections: Crafting Quality and Creativity

In this enlightening episode of our podcast, we dive into the fascinating interplay between entertainment and education in the realm of craft concrete. Join us as we explore the nuances of effective communication, the art of engaging an audience, and the importance of a strong foundation in both knowledge and creativity within the craft concrete community. Additionally, we address the recent online rumors surrounding our Omega Concrete Countertop Sealer (The last sealer you'll ever need!) Recently, the word "pro" began appearing next to "Omega" on the website, prompting some to assume the product itself had changed. It has not. Any misconceptions about a change in formulation are just that. We clarify that the designation of 'Pro' level vs 'DIY' level products does not imply any change in the product's quality or composition. This episode puts to bed the falsehoods and reaffirms our commitment to transparency and quality.

Key Highlights:


The Art of Balance: Discover how to weave entertainment with information, ensuring your content captivates and educates.
Communication Mastery: Unpack the significance of tailoring your communication style to meet audience expectations, fostering deeper connections.
Creative Foundations: Delve into the world of craft concrete, where knowledge meets creativity, pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Community and Collaboration: Learn about the power of building a supportive community through connection, collaboration, and continuous learning.
Precision in Practice: Understand the critical role of precise measurements, accurate testing, and detailed result interpretation in crafting top-quality concrete products.
Addressing the Rumors: Clarifying the 'Omega vs. Omega Pro' misconception, ensuring our community knows our products remain consistent in quality.

We also tackle the realities of manufacturing, from maintaining consistency and quality control, navigating supply chain challenges, to the excitement of product development and finding passionate distributors. Plus, don't miss our discussion on upcoming courses and workshops designed to enrich your craft concrete journey.

Engage with Us:

- Looking to deepen your concrete crafting skills? Visit our Workshops Page for the latest in expert-led training.

- In need of supplies? Our Shop Page has everything you need to get started or to take your craft to the next level.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about crafting, creativity, and community in the concrete industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, join us for a deep dive into the world of concrete, where every discussion is as enriching as the craft itself.

Season 2, Episode 4: The Perfect Mix - Choosing the Right Concrete Mixer


Season 2, Episode 4: The Perfect Mix - Choosing the Right Concrete Mixer
Season 2, Episode 4 of 'The Maker & The Mix' takes you on an explorative journey into the world of concrete mixers. Listen in as the hosts dissect the functionalities and applications of different mixer types—from the hand-held varieties to the more substantial Imer Mortarman, high shear vertical shaft mixers, and traditional drum style mixers. This episode is a rich resource for understanding the impact of the right mixer on mix consistency, efficiency, and the overall success of concrete projects.

In the realm of concrete craftsmanship, the right tools make all the difference. This detailed discussion addresses the merits and challenges of each mixer type, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed choice based on the desired consistency of your mix and the size of your batches.

Moreover, the episode emphasizes the importance of reliable information when selecting equipment, echoing CCI’s dedication to empowering artisans through knowledge-sharing and training. With a focus on practical challenges, such as the consistency and availability of concrete ingredients, this conversation is vital for both seasoned professionals and newcomers.

Looking ahead, don't miss the chance to expand your expertise with CCI's acclaimed training programs. Mark your calendar for the upcoming Ultimate Concrete Countertop Training dates:


April 29-May 3, 2024
October 14-18, 2024

Join us for these sessions to not only perfect your craft but also to stay abreast of new technologies and tailor solutions to fit your unique artisanal needs.

Season 2, Episode 3: Seven Success Tips for the Craft Concrete Artisan


Season 2, Episode 3: Seven Success Tips for the Craft Concrete Artisan
Join us in Season 2, Episode 3 of 'The Maker & The Mix' for a deep dive into 'Seven Success Tips for the Craft Concrete Artisan'. Caleb and Jeff bring their combined wealth of knowledge to the forefront, offering practical advice and advanced techniques for anyone looking to excel in the craft concrete industry.

Business Strategies:

Patience is Key: Caleb underscores the importance of not rushing projects, sharing insights from his own experiences.
Laser Templating for Precision: Learn about the benefits of a small investment in laser templating to save time and enhance accuracy in your projects.
Dynamic Contract Management: Discover how adapting contracts, such as adding blackout dates, can lead to smoother business operations.

Concrete Techniques:

Innovative Casting with Baking Soda: Jeff delves into using baking soda in concrete for unique textures and effects.
Expert Recipes for Alpha SCC and Hand Pack: Master specific Alpha SCC and Hand Pack recipes, complete with mixing and application techniques.
Choosing the Right Sealer: Explore the differences between Ovation prime, Omega prime, and their combinations for the perfect finish.
Cold Weather Strategies: Tips for managing concrete production during colder months, including maintaining shop heat and using heating blankets.

Our February workshops are fully booked, but don't miss the chance to join us at the Ultimate Craft Concrete Workshop on April 29-May 3, 2024, and October 14-18, 2024. These workshops are designed to refine your craftsmanship and business acumen.