
Advertise on podcast: GBA Podcast
Rating
5from
This podcast has
91 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Geoprofessional Business AssociationExplicit
No
Date created
2020/05/02
Latest episode
2026/04/21
Average duration
15 min.
Release period
9 days
Description
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.
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#3 - Case History - If Your Client Won't Listen...Get Out Your Checkbook
2026/04/21
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 [email protected] 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
#99 - Case History - How Did That Get There?
2026/04/14
GBA Case History Series – Case History #99 - How Did That Get There?
Summary
Member Firm provides geotechnical engineering services and CoMET for a new project on the site of an existing shopping center. CoMET services were provided “as needed” for demolition of the shopping center. A few years after the completion of construction, one of the three new retaining walls deflected significantly. Investigation of the backfill led to some surprises. On cue, the owner sued to reclaim the repair costs.
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.
Tim Rodriguez – COO/BSK Associates
Tim is the Chief Operating Officer of Geoprofessional Services at BSK Associates, an employee-owned engineering firm. With over 30 years in materials testing and inspection, he oversees six Northern California offices and chairs BSK's Board of Directors. Tim is Past-President of the California Council of Testing and Inspection Agencies.
Lessons Learned:
Value of a go/no-go analysis
Learn about your client
Make sure your project managers are qualified
Understand and explain the standard of care for your professional services
Respond to red flags whenever they pop up
Be aggressive about solving problems
Do not relax your client and project acceptance criteria
Quality always wins
Part-time construction materials testing and inspection services leads to part-time quality
Beware of complacency
If it isn't in writing it didn't happen
Demonstrate your financial fortitude
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #99
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 [email protected] 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
Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants
Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC
First Word - April 2026
2026/04/03
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 ICC Webinars for Field Professionals
NEW Best Practices: Value-Driven Proposals
March 3 Podcast Episode: Case History #45, Small Projects Can Create Big Risk
March 17 Podcast Episode: Case History #89, Don't Rush Go Along to Get Along. Don't Get Bullied
Joel’s Message from the AGS Annual Conference in London
Embark Class Graduation, March 2026
Ascend Class Information and Application
2026 GBA Annual Conference
#113 - Case History - Challenge Yourself...Be a Consultant...Serve your Client...The GBA Story
2026/03/31
GBA Case History Series – Case History #113 - Challenge Yourself...Be a Consultant...Serve your Client...The GBA Story
Summary
A GBA Member Firm performed construction materials engineering and testing (CoMET) services for a new nine-story hospital. Another firm’s geotechnical report recognized the pavement subgrade would include poorly graded soil-rock fill and recommended a bearing ratio that the GBA Member Firm recognized as a “worst case” for design purposes. It became apparent early in the grading process that the fill should produce a higher bearing ratio. This conclusion, based on field observations made during construction, proved to be correct. Despite a lack of precedent, the GBA-Member Firm recognized an opportunity to save the owner a significant amount on asphalt paving costs by reducing pavement section thickness. This resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars of savings. The result fostered a great relationship with a new client. Unfortunately, the Member Firm overlooked an opportunity to be fairly compensated for the additional risk and value derived.
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:
Always be sure you're right, then go ahead
Understanding the standard of care
Share and share alike
Confirmation-dependent recommendations
The importance of field observation
The standard of care isn't static
Balance risk with reward
Smart testing can turn a conservative design into a real cost saving success
Engineering isn't just about building the structures. It's about building trust, saving money, and protecting your client's interests.
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #113
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 [email protected] 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
#89 - Case History - Don't Rush Go Along to Get Along. Don't Get Bullied
2026/03/17
GBA Case History Series – Case History #89 - Don't Rush Go Along to Get Along. Don't Get Bullied
Summary
A GBA Member Firm’s scope of services included a geotechnical engineering study and construction materials engineering and testing (COMET) services for a medical office building in area with old fill, expansive soil, and shale. During construction, the Member Firm was discouraged (“if we want your opinion we will ask for it”) from making suggestions and was only responsible “to enforce the plans and specifications as written and recommend alternative approaches only if specifically requested to do so.” A few months after construction ended, sidewalks began to move due to frost heave. The Member Firm and constructor in charge got the blame, which eventually led to mediation. The client’s former project engineer “spoke highly” of the Member Firm, which got them released from the litigation.
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.
Tim Rodriguez – COO/BSK Associates
Tim is the Chief Operating Officer of Geoprofessional Services at BSK Associates, an employee-owned engineering firm. With over 30 years in materials testing and inspection, he oversees six Northern California offices and chairs BSK's Board of Directors. Tim is Past-President of the California Council of Testing and Inspection Agencies.
Lessons Learned:
A Limitation-of-Liability Provision Is Essential
Don’t Use Two Contracts When One Will Do
Understand the Personalities Involved: Use Personal Diplomacy
Don’t “Go Along to Get Along”
Know the Limits of Your Authority to Deviate from the Plans and Specifications
Professional Performance Is Essential
Document
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #89
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 [email protected] 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
Elizabeth Brown, PE - Principal Geotechnical Engineer/JLT Consultants
Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC
#45 - Case History - Small Projects Can Create Big Risk...Yet Again, and Again and Again...
2026/03/03
GBA Case History Series – Case History #45 - Small Projects Can Create Big Risk...Yet Again, and Again and Again...
Summary
A GBA Member Firm performed an environmental site assessment (ESA) for a commercial real estate developer. After the Member Firm reported the laboratory tests, which indicated unacceptable levels of a contaminant, the prospective purchaser reneged and demanded a return of its deposit. After getting a second ESA from another laboratory, the Member Firm reviewed the second laboratory’s results and agreed that the initial lab did not record the results correctly, and the contamination levels were not as severe. Both the developer and prospective purchaser sued the Member Firm who, in turn, sued the other laboratory. The Member Firm prevailed against the initial lab but recovered less than half the total amount of the settlement it reached with the developer and prospective purchaser.
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:
Exercise Due Diligence When Hiring Chemical Analytical Laboratories
Contract Carefully
Keep Internal QC in Mind
Realize That Small Projects Can Create Big Risks
Provide Appropriate Oversight
Try Mediation
Written Agreements Are Essential
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #5
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 [email protected] 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
First Word - March 2026
2026/03/01
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:
Remembering GBA Past-President David Lourie, P.R., D.GE, F.GBA
GBA Ascend Class Information
GBA Geoprofessional Career Ascent Program
GBA Ascend Class Application
Post-Installed Anchors ICC Webinar
Board Slate for FY2026-27
2026 GBA Annual Conference
#5 - Case History - If the Bus Driver Doesn't Have a License, Get Off the Bus
2026/02/17
GBA Case History Series – Case History #5 - If the Bus Driver Doesn't Have a License, Get Off the Bus
Summary
An architect for a church retained a GBA member firm to perform a limited-scope geotechnical study for a federally funded retirement home. Only boring logs and a brief letter report to the structural engineer were needed for the design of a pile foundation. Unfortunately, the design was not within the budget and the structural engineer refused to change the design and withdrew from the project. The replacement structural engineer redesigned the foundations and satisfactory load tests were performed but the federal agency balked until a geotechnical study was provided for the revision. A new geotech was retained but after the agency reviewed their report, the agency directed that a mat foundation be used. The church filed suit against the original member firm for the new costs.
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:
Professional Firms Must Respond in a Professional Manner
Professional Firms Need to Be Compensated Appropriately
Take Heed When Others Withdraw
Cheap Can Be Expensive
Develop a Deliverables-Issuance Protocol
Writing-Skills Improvement Should Be an Important Element of Professional Development
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #5
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 [email protected] 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
#1 - Case History - Beware! A Friend's Small Project Can be Hazardous to your Firm's Health
2026/02/03
GBA Case History Series – Case History #1 - Beware! A Friend's Small Project Can be Hazardous to your Firm's Health
Summary
The GBA member firm performed a preliminary geotechnical study to estimate foundation-construction costs for a small housing development. The project stalled and years later the developer sold the land with the geotechnical report to another developer. The new owner retained a different firm for a geotechnical study for the new project. When the new geotechnical firm identified problematic soils necessitating a deep foundation system, the new owner filed a $650,000 claim against the member firm alleging negligent misrepresentation. Adamant that the suit was unjustified, the member firm’s CEO finally acquiesced and accepted a $70,000 settlement offer from the new owner rather than risk the uncertainty of a jury trial.
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:
Some Preliminary Studies Can Be Dangerous
Make a Study’s Limitations Clear
Use the Term “Confirmation-Dependent Recommendations”
Project Risk Is Inversely Proportional to Project Size and Complexity
Construction-Cost Estimates
Claims Are a Business Issue
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #1
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 [email protected] 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
#41 - Case History - Don't Worry. We Don't Plan to Build There
2026/01/13
GBA Case History Series – Case History #41 - Don't Worry. We Don't Plan to Build There
Summary
The Member Firm performed a geotech study for a housing development and observed grading of the site during the construction of ten buildings. Six years after construction, the developer built two additional units but, because the Member Firm could not provide a representative to monitor the earthwork construction, they recommended another geotech firm. The second geotech firm monitored the placement of at least four feet of fill but without reviewing the Member Firm’s report. Four years after the second phase was completed, settlement problems arose and the developer sued the two geotechs, the civil engineer, and the earthwork constructor. After claims were dropped against the civil engineer and constructor, the geotechs settled with the developer for nearly $1,000,000.
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:
Small Projects Can Create Big Risks
Geoprofessionals Who Act as Their Own Attorneys Have Fools as Their Clients
Operating without Professional Liability Insurance Is Foolhardy
Understand the Risks and Take Appropriate Preventive Measures:
If It Isn’t in Writing It Didn’t Happen
Use Caution When Serving Housing Developers
Assume Nothing
Provide Effective Guidance
Experience Pays
Don’t Trust What You Don’t Check
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #41
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 [email protected] 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
#91 - Case History - Is There Value in Value Engineering? Beware of Panic Mode!
2026/01/06
GBA Case History Series – Case History #91 - Is There Value in Value Engineering? Beware of Panic Mode!
Summary
Member Firm conducts forensic evaluation of mold in a crawl space of a 180 unit nursing home and gives an “Engineering Opinion of Probable Cost” for the remediation of mold condition. When the owner investigated the construction records, it was found that the constructor- in- charge was at fault.
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:
Follow-up Is a Professional Essential
Effective Communication Is Essential
Emphasize the Value of Construction-Materials Engineering and Testing (CoMET) Services
Cheap Engineering Can Be Expensive
Residential Projects Create Elevated Risks
Use Important Information about This Geotechnical-Engineering Report
Risk and the Go/No-Go Analysis
Understand Why You Should Not Issue Cost Estimates
Be Cautious When Design-Team Members Lack Experience
Calls-to-action:
Download Case History #91
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 [email protected] 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
Day 1 - Most Downloaded Document
2026/01/01
12 Days of GBA – Day 1: Most Downloaded Document
Summary
Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. The final episode of GBA's 12 Days of GBA series reveals 2025's most downloaded document: Crane Pad and Working Platform Design and Inspection. This isn't a technical design guide—it's comprehensive risk reduction guidance developed collaboratively by Geotech and CoMET committees. The document addresses preventing catastrophic crane and drilling rig failures by defining clear roles across all parties: geotechnical engineers, contractors, inspection firms, crane operators, and engineers of record. Key topics include thorough geotechnical evaluations, information sharing protocols, liability limitations, field observation templates, and reinspection requirements after weather events. Bottom line: reducing risks, clarifying responsibilities, and ensuring everyone goes home safe. Members-only download available.
Links
Download Crane Pad and Working Platform Design and Inspection
The 10 Most-Used Tools in the GBA Library
Top 10 Most Downloaded Case Histories
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 [email protected] 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:
Tiffany Vorhies – Principal, Vice President/SME
Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC
Day 2 - GBA Conferences
2025/12/31
12 Days of GBA – Day 2: GBA Conferences
Summary
Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. GBA's conferences are where the magic happens—Ryan and Tiffany share why these events are annual highlights. Spring Conference features the Business Snapshot for industry pulse-checks, legendary keynote speakers (Jim Abbott, Rob Samuels, John Acuff), and the invaluable round tables where 6-10 peers tackle real challenges with practical solutions across experience levels. Amazing locations include Phoenix (2026) and Vancouver BC (2027). The Stay and Play tradition caps each conference with memorable adventures—from St. Augustine boat tours to exploring new cities. Fall Leadership Summit focuses on committee work and shaping industry future. Bottom line: connections, content, inspiration, and fun.
Links
Register for 2026 Spring Conference in Phoenix, Arizona
Check out the GBA Event Calendar
Past GBA Events
Join a GBA Committee
Join the GBA Mailing List
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 [email protected] 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:
Tiffany Vorhies – Principal, Vice President/SME
Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC
Day 3 - Business Briefs
2025/12/30
12 Days of GBA – Day 3: Business Briefs
Summary
Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. GBA's Business Briefs deliver short, focused reads on timely topics—free for members. Ryan and Tiffany highlight three standouts: Crystal Ball Workshop 2025 (co-authored by Tiffany and Matt Van Rensler) covering AI guardrails, innovation culture, data hygiene, and pricing strategies; Utilizing Artificial Intelligence examining five insurance policies (cyber, general liability, professional liability, D&O, EPLI) and their AI-related coverage gaps; and Beyond gINT, a practical comparison table of geotechnical data management software that Ryan used to evaluate gINT replacements. These briefs provide actionable insights—from talking with your insurance broker to selecting the right technology. Stay updated through GBA's NewsLog, where new Business Briefs are always highlighted.
Links
Download GBA's Business Briefs
Crystal Ball Workshop 2025: Addressing Shrinking Workforce, Demand for Services
Utilizing Artificial Intelligence: Is Your Firm Adequately Insured?
Navigating New Horizons: Beyond gINT New Era in Geotechnical Data Management
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 [email protected] 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:
Tiffany Vorhies – Principal, Vice President/SME
Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC
Day 4 - GBA Podcast
2025/12/29
12 Days of GBA – Day 4: GBA Podcast
Summary
Tiffany Vorhies and Ryan White present a year-end series highlighting their favorite GBA resources, counting down from Day 12 to Day 1. Born from Emerging Leaders Class 4 during COVID, the GBA podcast has evolved into a powerful member benefit amplifier. While episodes are free to the public, GBA members unlock the real value—downloadable resources, best practices, contract clauses, and tools referenced in each episode. Ryan and Tiffany explore how the podcast supports different learning styles when paired with downloadable documents, making lunch-and-learns more effective. Featured series include Encore Performances with keynote speakers, GeoHeroes interviews, DEI discussions, and Case Histories. What's next for the podcast -- expanded video content and a geotechnical startup series.
Links
Visit GBApodcast.com
December First Word with Executive Director, Joel Carson
GeoHeroes Interview with Matt Moler
Management Best Practices: Professional Goal Setting
Leadership Lounge: How to Communicate Like a Hostage Negotiator, with Dan Oblinger
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 [email protected] 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:
Tiffany Vorhies – Principal, Vice President/SME
Ryan White, PE, GE – Principal Geotechnical Engineer/Apex Companies, LLC
Podcast reviews
Read GBA Podcast podcast reviews
cdf1910 2021/10/20
Fabulous conversation on DEI
Very commendable of GBA for having the conversation on DEI, especially now that times are changing, generations are changing, more females are thrivin...
jps628 2021/04/07
Great Content
Very insightful content for geoprofessionals. Keep it up!
Laura (Reinbold) Register 2020/08/05
Listening to old friends
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 u...
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