The Drywall Podcast

Episode 169: The Brand New World of Rich Allen

Episode 169: The Brand New World of Rich Allen
In this episode, we sit down with a guest who truly lives up to his title as a "Drywall Extraordinaire." Rich Allen, the force behind BNW Drywall (Brand New World), joins the show to share an incredible journey of transition from skilled tradesman to industry CEO.
The story began when Rich was approached by Miguel, the developer of the Arcuate Drywall Taping Knife, to help market the innovative tool. However, it didn't take long for Miguel to realize that Rich’s vision and leadership capabilities extended far beyond marketing. Today, Rich serves as the CEO of Arcuate Drywall Knives, steering the ship for one of the most unique tools hitting the market.
But Rich isn't just focused on tools; he’s focused on the future of the craft. We dive deep into his latest mission: creating a dedicated class designed to teach up-and-coming professionals the trade the right way. Rich’s passion for elevating the industry standards is matched only by his character—he is genuinely one of the kindest guests we’ve had the pleasure of hosting.
Inside this episode:
The origin story of the Arcuate Drywall Taping Knife.
Transitioning from the field to the CEO chair.
The philosophy behind BNW (Brand New World) Drywall.
Rich’s new educational initiative for the next generation of finishers.
I love what Rich is building, and I know you will too. This is an inspiring look at how one professional is reshaping the trade through innovation and education.
This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. For high-quality drywall products and solutions, visit: www.panelrey.com

Episode 168: The Art of Innovation and Marketing with James Weihoenig

Episode 168: The Art of Innovation and Marketing with James Weihoenig
How do you take a tool into a crowded market and completely disrupt the status quo? In this episode, we are joined once again by James Weihoenig, the visionary behind Morph Sanding Solutions.
Since his first appearance back in November 2024, James has taken the drywall industry by storm. While his innovative corner sander is a game-changer, this conversation dives deep into the "secret sauce" behind his success: unconventional marketing. James shares how he defies industry norms to carve out a massive niche and build a brand that resonates.
In this episode, we discuss:
The Morph Journey: Reflecting on the growth of Morph Sanding Solutions since its Australian debut.
Marketing Mastery: How James uses creative energy to stand out in a saturated market.
Empowering Entrepreneurs: A look at a new platform James is championing to help the next generation of industry innovators find their footing.
The Power of Infectious Ideas: Why thinking differently is the most important tool in your bag.
James is a powerhouse of creativity, and his insights on business and branding are guaranteed to leave you inspired.
This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. Innovative solutions for the modern professional. Discover more at www.panelrey.com.
Listen now and join the conversation!

Episode 167: Off the Beaten Patch. Introducing Kevin Cost of Mudplugz

 
Guest: Kevin Cost,  of Mudplugz
In this episode, we take a slight detour from our usual industry-insider deep dives to talk with someone who found himself "smack dab in the middle" of the drywall world by sheer necessity. Kevin Cost, the mind behind Mudplugz, joins the show for his first appearance to share how a single moment of inspiration on Christmas Eve 2024 sparked a construction industry sensation.
Frustrated by the eyesore of holes in the wall and the lack of a quick, professional-grade solution, Kevin asked a simple question: Why isn't there a plug for this? Just two weeks later, the wheels were in motion.  Kevin has turned that "lightbulb moment" into a product designed to bring ease and speed to the tedious task of patching drywall.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
The Christmas Eve Epiphany: The origin story of Mudplugz and why the simplest ideas are often the most effective.
From Concept to Launch: How Kevin and his partner moved from a thought to a physical product in record time.
Solving the Patching Problem: How Mudplugz is streamlining the workflow for professionals and DIYers alike by eliminating the "unsightly hole" phase of repair.
A Fresh Perspective: What happens when an industry outsider brings a new solution to a traditional trade
This episode of The Drywall podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools.  Find out more by visiting www.Canamtool.com

Episode 166: From 50-Man Crews to Tech Sales and Back Again with Justin Thomas

In this episode of The Drywall Podcast, I’m joined by Justin Thomas, owner of Thomas Drywall. Our connection started in a unique way—Justin reached out after hearing my guest appearance on The Aggregate with Jeremy Mistretta a few months back. After one long conversation, I knew his story needed to be shared here.
Justin is a third-generation drywall professional who has seen every side of the industry. We trace his journey from scaling a massive operation with over 50 employees to the pivotal moment when the economy forced a total career pivot. You’ll hear how he successfully transitioned into tech sales, what that high-pressure environment taught him about business, and ultimately, what pulled him back to his roots in the drywall world.
We also get personal, discussing how his faith and background as a Mormon shape his perspective on work and family, and why he is never afraid to blow things up and try something new. Today, Justin is back in the trade with a refined focus on specialty finishes and Fresco Harmony.
About Today’s Guest:
Justin Thomas is the owner of Thomas Drywall. With a career spanning traditional hanging and finishing to high-tech sales, he now blends those skill sets to offer premium, decorative wall solutions.
Connect with the Show:
Subscribe: Be sure to follow Justin on Instagram
Follow: Find out more at www.thomasdrywallutah.com
Today's episode was brought to you by CanAm tools.  Find out more at www.canamtool.com

Episode 165: Global Drywall Power Duo – Paul & Bridget from Manners

In this episode, Nick sits down with Paul and Bridget, the dynamic force behind Manners, to discuss the critical role of the distributor in the modern drywall world.
The Story Behind the Episode
Sometimes the best connections take a little time to ferment. Nick first crossed paths with Paul and Bridget at the AWCI show in Las Vegas back in 2023. While they were immediately intrigued by Fresco Harmony, their business card eventually fell victim to the "office abyss" for a few months.
Thanks to a well-timed nudge from Wolfgang, Nick reconnected with the Manners team, and it’s a good thing he did.
What We Cover:
The Distributor Matrix: Why the relationship between the manufacturer, the retailer, and the finisher is more complex—and important—than you think.
Product Intricacies: Paul and Bridget share their deep knowledge of the drywall space and what makes a product stand out in a crowded market.
Going Global: How this "power duo" is successfully navigating and expanding their footprint across New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.
Behind the Brand: We dive into their personal lives and the passion that fuels their business growth.
Paul and Bridget are as friendly as they are knowledgeable. If you've ever wondered how the gear actually gets from the factory to your trowel, this is an episode you can't miss.
Connect with Manners
Check out their full range of tools and expertise online: 👉 Website: www.manners.co.nz
This episode of The Drywall Podcast was brought to you by CanAm tools.  Find out more by visiting www.canamtool.com  

Monica Schafer and Jud Togerson - Paonia Property Services - Take 2

What happens when a standard drywall inquiry turns into a deep dive into the world of decorative finishes? In this episode, we sit down with Monica Schaefer and Judd Togerson to discuss their journey from traditional drywall to exploring the "many ways of plaster." After a transformative visit to Nick Boyd at the drywall supply yard in Montrose, the duo discovered that the ceiling for their craft was much higher than they initially thought. We explore the transition from functional drywall to the vast world of specialty finishes on this, the 164th, episode of The Drywall Podcast.
Today's episode of The Drywall Podcast was brought to you by CanAm tools.  Find out more by visiting CanAmtool.com

Ken Landin

This is a special episode about evolution. Joining us for his second visit is a man who has completely redefined what it means to be a tradesman in the modern age—Ken Landon from Albany, New York.
Three years ago, Ken was in a different place. We’re going to dive into the raw reality of how losing his brewery forced a total career 're-mix,' leading him to recreate himself in the digital space. From a suggestion on a job site to becoming a pillar in mentorship programs like BOCES and TradeMentor.org, Ken has turned the trowel into a microphone.
We’re discussing the end of the brewing chapter, the birth of his media presence, and his collaboration with Anthony from Lincoln Street Media. If you’ve ever wondered about the real cost of building a platform and why the trades needhigh-quality media, this is the episode for you. Ken, welcome back to the show!"
This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools.  Find out more by visiting www.canamtool.com

Marvin Maatita - The European Pioneer: Automatic Tools, Global Markets, and Finding Balance with Marvin

The Drywall Podcast: Episode 162
The European Pioneer: Automatic Tools, Global Markets, and Finding Balance with Marvin
  After months of scheduling and a little persistent "bugging," we finally sat down with a true titan of the trade. In Episode 162, we are joined by Marvin Maatita, a man whose name is synonymous with the evolution of drywall finishing in Europe. From his home in Holland, Marvin shares his journey as a pioneer who helped introduce automatic finishing tools to a continent steeped in traditional methods.
We trace his impressive career path working with industry giants like Columbia Taping Tools, Drywall Europe, CanAm, and most recently, TapeTech. Marvin has sat at the helm of large-scale operations, but today, he’s found a different kind of success—the kind that comes with working solo and prioritizing what matters most: life and his six-year-old daughter.
In this episode, we discuss:
The unique landscape of the European drywall market and how it differs from North America.
The "Consultant Era": Why major tool companies seek Marvin’s expertise to break into European territories.
The shift from managing big companies to finding peace.
A look at the various finishing styles across the pond.
Whether you're a tool junkie or just looking for some perspective on the work-life balance, this conversation with one of the most respected names in the game is one you can't miss on this, the 162nd, episode of The Drywall Podcast.  
Episodes in the month of February are brought to you by CanAm Tools.  Find out more by visiting www.canamtool.com
 

Wes McPeek - Legacy of the Trowel - Full podcast

Episode 161: The Legacy of the Trowel
 In the summer of '23, a training session in Surrey, BC, brought together some of the best minds in the industry. It was a collaboration with Columbia Tools, but the real magic happened in the quiet moments between the mudding. This episode introduces you to Wes—a man of few words but incredible depth—and honors the memory of his best friend, Kam.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The Journey of a Finisher: We trace Wes’s path through the various jobs and specialized skills that led him to his current mastery of the wall.
The Impact of Mentorship: How Kam’s friendship didn't just shape Wes's technique, but his entire outlook on the drywall community.
Carrying the Torch: A deep dive into how Wes is preserving a legacy through his work, ensuring that the standards set by those who came before us are never lowered.
A Personal Look: Beyond the technical, you’ll get a glimpse into the host's perspective, making this one of the most intimate episodes of The Drywall Podcast to date.
Sponsor Shoutout: This episode is proudly brought to you by CanAm Tool. For tools that work as hard as you do, visit www.canamtool.com.

Wes McPeek - Episode 161: The Legacy of the Trowel

Episode 161: The Legacy of the Trowel
 In the summer of '23, a training session in Surrey, BC, brought together some of the best minds in the industry. It was a collaboration with Columbia Tools, but the real magic happened in the quiet moments between the mudding. This episode introduces you to Wes—a man of few words but incredible depth—and honors the memory of his best friend, Kam.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The Journey of a Finisher: We trace Wes’s path through the various jobs and specialized skills that led him to his current mastery of the wall.
The Impact of Mentorship: How Kam’s friendship didn't just shape Wes's technique, but his entire outlook on the drywall community.
Carrying the Torch: A deep dive into how Wes is preserving a legacy through his work, ensuring that the standards set by those who came before us are never lowered.
A Personal Look: Beyond the technical, you’ll get a glimpse into the host's perspective, making this one of the most intimate episodes of The Drywall Podcast to date.
Sponsor Shoutout: This episode is proudly brought to you by CanAm Tool. For tools that work as hard as you do, visit www.canamtool.com.