Stone Chatter Podcast

President Trump has officially enacted the imported quartz tariffs—and the stone industry is entering a new chapter.
In this special episode, Rich, Erik, and Ed break down one of the most significant developments to impact the stone industry in years. We discuss what the new tariffs mean, when they take effect, how they will work, and what fabricators, distributors, suppliers, and importers should expect in the months ahead.
This episode also includes a recap of the latest Cal/OSHA meeting regarding the proposed quartz restrictions, making this a comprehensive update on two major industry developments happening at the same time.
In this special update
President Trump's imported quartz tariff decision
When the new tariffs take effect
How the tariff process will work
Immediate impact on imported quartz products
What fabricators should expect
Pricing and supply chain implications
Potential opportunities for domestic manufacturers
Industry reactions and early market outlook
Latest updates from the Cal/OSHA quartz meeting
What's next for the stone industry
Whether you're a fabricator, supplier, distributor, or stone industry professional, this episode provides practical insight into how these changes may affect your business and what to watch as the industry adapts.

For the first time, Stone Chatter is broadcasting live from the All Slab Fabbers Workshop in Salt Lake City, Utah. Hosted on-site during one of the industry's most hands-on educational events, this special episode captures conversations with shop owners, fabricators, suppliers, industry leaders, and attendees from across North America. The All Slab Fabbers Workshop brings together professionals committed to improving craftsmanship, shop operations, safety, and business growth through collaboration and education.
In this special live episode
Live interviews with industry professionals
Highlights from the All Slab Fabbers Workshop
Audience questions and live conversations
And much more.
Whether you attended the workshop or couldn't make the trip to Salt Lake City, this special episode brings you directly into the event, featuring real conversations with the people helping shape the future of the stone industry. Thank you to All Slab Fabbers (ASF) for hosting another outstanding event dedicated to education, collaboration, and advancing the fabrication community.

Many business owners assume the value of their company is based on equipment, inventory, or annual sales but the reality is often very different.
In this episode hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed are joined by industry experts to discuss how fabrication businesses are valued, what buyers actually look for, and the practical steps owners can take today to increase the value of their companies whether they plan to sell next year or twenty years from now.
Guests include Scott Hartman (KAT Fabricators), Chabun Hieblinger (Twin Shore Advisors) and Aaron Crowley (No Lift Install System). 
Whether you're planning to sell your shop someday or simply want to build a stronger business, understanding how your company is evaluated can help you make better decisions today.
This episode provides practical insights from professionals who work with acquisitions, valuations, and business growth within the stone industry.

In this episode, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed discuss some of the latest developments affecting fabricators, suppliers, and industry professionals across North America.
From updates on the ongoing ITC trade review to conversations around industry associations, upcoming events, silicosis developments, and other important industry news, this episode provides a broad look at the issues and trends shaping today's stone business.
In this episode
Latest updates from the ITC trade review process
What the current trade discussions could mean for the industry
Industry association news and developments
Upcoming events and opportunities to connect with industry professionals
Recent silicosis-related updates and conversations

The stone industry offers a variety of associations, organizations, buying groups, certifications, and networking opportunities but how do you know which ones are actually worth your time and investment?
In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed explore the strengths, weaknesses, and real-world value of some of the industry's most recognized organizations. Whether you're a shop owner, general manager, or industry professional, this discussion focuses on helping businesses understand what each organization offers, where they provide value, and where opportunities for improvement still exist.
In this episode
The strengths and weaknesses of today's industry associations
What organizations like NSI, ISFA, SFA, ASF, Artisan, and Rockheads offer
Which benefits are most valuable to shop owners and employees
Networking opportunities and industry connections
Silica and safety certifications
Buying groups and purchasing advantages
Regulatory support and industry advocacy
Healthcare and employee-related benefits
Which organizations may fit different stages of business growth
What the industry still needs from its associations
If you could change one thing, what would it be?
Guests
Kelly O`Connor – Former General Manager, Granite Mountain Montana
Geoffrey Gran – Owner, The Countertop Factory
Andrew Clyde – Owner, Ashcraft Granite & Marble

The conversation around quartz, workplace safety, and regulation continues to evolve and the industry is watching closely. In this special episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed discuss major updates surrounding the recent Cal/OSHA board meeting, ongoing conversations about a potential quartz ban in California, and what the next steps could look like for fabrication shops moving forward. This episode also covers industry organization efforts, the latest developments from the ITC trade review meeting, and where the broader conversation may be heading next.
In this episode
Updates from the recent Cal/OSHA board meeting
Discussion surrounding the proposed quartz ban in California
What the recent vote and resolutions could mean for the industry
Conversations around fabrication organization efforts
Practical next steps shops should be considering now
Insights from the latest ITC trade review meeting
Industry reactions and concerns moving forward 
A preview of upcoming Stone Chatter episodes
This episode focuses on one of the most important and sensitive moments currently facing the stone fabrication industry — balancing safety, regulation, business realities, and the future of fabrication itself.
 
Real conversations. Real concerns. One industry.

Strong relationships between slab suppliers and fabrication shops have always been a major part of the stone industry but are those relationships changing?
 
In this special Stone Chatter Arena episode, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed are joined by respected leaders from both the fabrication and supplier sides of the industry to have an open conversation about trust, loyalty, collaboration, and the future of working relationships across the stone business.
 
This discussion explores where friction may exist today, what both sides expect from each other, and how stronger partnerships could benefit the industry as a whole.
Guests:
Jerry Lee – Owner, Canaan Stoneworks
Jeff Erickson – Owner, Cutting Edge Countertops | Current NSI President
Katie Jensen – Owner, Triton Stone
Joseph Dwyer – Owner, Dwyer Tile & Stone
Intro Music “Drink Away Your Love - Live at Johnny’s Place” by Travis Blaine, featuring Eric Knight Support the artists: Music used with permission from the artists.

The stone industry continues to navigate shifting regulations, trade policies, and real-world impacts on business operations. In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed break down the latest developments affecting the industry from ITC updates and tariff refunds to the ongoing impact on imports and supply chains.
This conversation focuses on what is already happening on the ground, how businesses are being affected, and what industry professionals should be paying attention to moving forward.
In this episode
Updates related to the ITC (International Trade Commission)
Discussion around tariff refunds and what they mean for the industry
The impact already being seen on imports and supply chains
Continued conversation around silicosis and safety awareness
The role of industry associations in shaping the future
Key insights and ongoing trends across the stone industry
This episode highlights the reality of an industry in transition — where policy, safety, and market forces are all actively shaping what comes next.
 
Real conversations. Real impact. One industry.
 
About Stone Chatter:
Stone Chatter is a podcast dedicated to open conversations about the stone fabrication industry — covering safety, fabrication practices, industry news, and the real challenges faced by professionals working with stone every day.
A place where the industry talks.
 
Intro Music “Drink Away Your Love - Live at Johnny’s Place” by Travis Blaine, featuring Eric Knight Music used with permission from the artists.

The stone fabrication industry is entering a new phase driven by technology, automation, and smarter ways of working.
In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed are joined by industry leaders to explore what the next 3–5 years could look like for fabrication shops.
From machinery advancements to digital transformation, this conversation dives into the real opportunities and decisions shaping the future of the industry.
Guests:
Meagan Hegland – Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Park Industries
Nick Wadenstorer – Owner, Total Stone Solutions
Alex Bores – Consultant | Former Western Sales Area Manager, CMS North America
In this episode:
Machinery advancements expected in the next 3–5 years
How technology is reshaping fabrication shops
First steps for shops looking to become more digital
How to choose the right machinery when starting or scaling
The role of AI and robotics in stone fabrication
How industry events are evolving
Insights on the new trade show planned for Indiana in 2027
 
This episode brings together manufacturers, consultants, and operators to share real-world perspectives on where the industry is going and how shops can stay ahead.
Real conversations. Real insight. One industry.
About Stone Chatter -  Stone Chatter is a podcast dedicated to open conversations about the stone fabrication industry — covering safety, fabrication practices, industry news, and the real challenges faced by professionals working with stone every day.
A place where the industry talks.
Join the conversation:
Is your shop moving toward automation or digital systems?
What technology are you most interested in adopting?
How do you see the industry evolving in the next few years?
 
Share your thoughts below and be part of the conversation.
Intro Music “Drink Away Your Love - Live at Johnny’s Place” by Travis Blaine, featuring Eric Knight
Support the artists: Travis Blaine: Eric Knight:
 
Music used with permission from the artists. Disclaimer The views expressed are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect Stone Chatter or its affiliates. Content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals and follow official regulations.
#StoneIndustry #StoneFabrication #Automation #A.I. #Robotics #DigitalTransformation #Machinery #FabricationShop #IndustryFuture #StoneChatter

The stone industry is feeling the pressure from rising tariffs to evolving safety regulations and shifting market dynamics. In this episode of Stone Chatter, hosts Rich, Erik, and Ed break down some of the most important updates impacting the industry right now.
From cost pressures to compliance and major industry events, this conversation brings real insights into what’s changing — and what it means for fabricators, shop owners, and the industry as a whole.
 
In this episode
How tariffs are impacting costs and supply chains
Key highlights and takeaways from KBIS
Updates around OSHA regulations and compliance
Current news shaping the stone fabrication industry
Market shifts and what businesses should be watching
A preview of what’s coming in the next episode
 
This episode reflects what Stone Chatter is all about — real conversations, real insights, and a space where industry professionals can stay informed without the noise.
 
Three hosts. Real talk. One industry.