Monument Matters

Monument Matters is MBNA’s bi-weekly podcast!

Get ready to dive deeper into the monthly themes you love, as each episode will be an extension of an MBNews topic. Whether you’re a big fan of our magazine or just looking to stay informed on the monument industry, this podcast is for YOU.

We have new episodes releasing bi-weekly on Tuesdays! Each episode will run around 30 minutes, and every new episode can be watched in a video or audio format!

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Check out our media kit and email us for more information!

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22. The Quiet Cost of Credit Card Fees Hurt Monument Builders and Their Families

In this episode of Monument Matters, we explore how MBNA members can take control of credit card processing costs without changing providers or disrupting daily operations. Host Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, is joined by Merchant Advocate’s Howard Goldstein and MBNA member Ryan Worthington, CM, who shares her firsthand experience using the service.

The conversation breaks down why processing statements are so hard to understand, how hidden fees add up, and how a performance-based advocacy model can deliver real savings. It’s a practical, easy-to-follow discussion focused on protecting margins, reducing stress, and helping monument businesses keep more of what they earn.

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, is joined by Michael S. George and Sarah Scott of AMJ Insurance to discuss the real-world risks monument builders face—and how the right insurance coverage can protect both businesses and employees.

The episode introduces MBNA’s new affinity partnership with AMJ Insurance that provides members with exclusive access to tailored insurance. Drawing on AMJ’s decades of experience serving associations nationwide, the conversation explores common coverage blind spots, the importance of installation and property insurance, and how monument companies can determine the right mix of protection for their operations.

Learn more about our affinity partners here.

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, talks to military researcher Bill Beigel, founder of World War II Research, Inc., about how monument builders can ensure accuracy and depth in veterans memorials.

Beigel shares how professional research can uncover forgotten heroes, correct misspelled names, and add meaningful personal stories to each engraved name. The conversation explores partnerships between researchers and monument builders, the ethical importance of getting every detail right, and how emerging technologies like digital markers and NFC chips can extend memorial experiences while preserving the sacred nature of stone.

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, speaks with Mark Harrison, president of Certified Safety Training (CST), about the real-world safety risks inside monument shops and how OSHA compliance goes far beyond checking boxes.

From silica exposure and air-quality testing to lifting hazards, respirator programs, and recordkeeping, Mark breaks down what every monument builder needs to know. He also shares why creating a culture of safety is essential for protecting employees and businesses alike. They also discuss common OSHA violations, cost-saving strategies, and the new free MBNA safety checklist designed to help members identify risks before they become problems.

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns Jr., CM, AICA talks with Mike Lannen, digital strategist and founder of Eternity, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping monument businesses.

From sales and marketing to customer service and design, AI can streamline repetitive tasks and free up time for what matters most—serving families. Lannen shares practical, affordable ways small shops can start using AI today, along with insights on addressing staff concerns and keeping the “human touch” central to every memorial project.

Discover how one simple AI tool could save you 30 minutes this week—and open the door to new efficiencies across your business.

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns Jr., CM, AICA welcomes grief expert Dr. Jason Troyer to explore the cultural shifts reshaping memorialization.

Troyer shares his concept of the “Four Horsemen of the Cemetery Apocalypse” — mobility, death denial, loss of religious ritual, and rising cremation — and how these trends impact monument builders.

Together, they discuss ways to rebuild trust, connect with today’s transient families, and communicate the lasting value of permanent placement. From offering grief resources to strengthening community relationships, this conversation reveals practical, compassionate strategies to keep monument businesses relevant and meaningful in a changing world.

This episode of Monument Matters offers monument builders a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the Ohio Veterans Memorial Park. Beyond its role as a place of remembrance, the park provides powerful lessons in vision, community collaboration, and the lasting impact of memorialization. Listeners will gain insight into how large-scale memorial projects overcome challenges, engage local support, and tell meaningful stories through design. For monument professionals, the episode highlights strategies that can be adapted to everyday work—whether it’s building trust with families, designing with purpose, or strengthening ties with the community. 

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns Jr., CM, AICA, speaks with Brad Myers, CM and Cristine Bouwkamp, CM about MBNA’s new PR Toolkit—an essential resource for helping monument builders connect with their communities.

This guide goes beyond marketing tips, offering strategies for meaningful engagement, reputation management, crisis communication, and using technology to reach today’s families. With practical checklists and clear steps, the toolkit empowers small businesses to share their story, build trust, and become known as local leaders in memorialization.

In this episode of Monument Matters, Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, talks with attorneys Jacqueline Flint and Kevin Tharp about copyright and trademark issues in monument design. They explain how to protect original creations, avoid infringement, and navigate legal claims, offering practical tips for monument builders to safeguard their work and support grieving families.

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns Jr., CM, AICA, speaks with Ryan Worthington, CM, AICA, and attorney William Stalter about the MBNA Advocacy Council. They discuss common challenges monument builders face with cemeteries, landmark legal cases that shape the industry, and how advocacy helps protect families’ rights to fair memorialization choices.

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns Jr., CM, AICA, talks with Anthony Minozzi of Travis Monument Group about lessons learned in acquiring and integrating family businesses. 

From valuing companies to honoring legacy, managing staff, and standardizing processes, Anthony shares candid insights into growth strategies that balance respect, culture, and sustainability.

In this episode of MBNA Monument Matters, host Mike Johns Jr., CM, AICA, sits down with Jerry Mascola of Granite City Tool and retired conservator Tom Podnar of McKay Lodge Conservation Laboratory to explore the fascinating history, craftsmanship, and challenges surrounding white bronze—or zinc—memorials.

Learn why these 19th-century monuments are considered an example of American ingenuity, how to identify them in cemeteries, and what not to do when restoring them. Whether you’re a monument builder, preservationist, or history enthusiast, this episode offers expert insight into a rare and often misunderstood memorial material and emphasizes the importance of knowing when to call in a pro.

In this episode of Monument Matters, go behind the scenes at the 2025 School of Hard Rocks with host Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, and guests Bobby Mattos, Houston Gordon, and Aaron Faehnle, AICA.

Discover how hands-on stone carving, mentorship, and creative freedom are shaping the next generation of memorialists in this unique, immersive experience like no other in the monument industry.

In this inspiring episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, speaks with Eric Gunnoe and Eden Griesheimer-Smith of Chillicothe Monument & Hardy Memorials about their Aspire Award-winning project: restoring Soldiers’ Circle, a veterans’ cemetery that hadn’t seen a cleanup since 1928.

What began as a local observation turned into a major community effort, uniting nearly 100 volunteers to honor forgotten heroes. Eric and Eden share how they organized the event, uncovered meaningful veteran stories, and sparked renewed interest in memorialization. Their work exemplifies the spirit of MBNA’s Aspire Awards and serves as a blueprint for community impact through memorial care.

In this week’s episode “Marking a Legacy: Honoring Timothy Jellow’s Monumental Impact,” host Mike Johns, Jr., CM, AICA, speaks with Brandon Billester of the Monument Lettering Center about a remarkable design initiative to honor industry pioneer Timothy Jellow—co-founder of the Spacerite Company and creator of the iconic Modified Roman font.

Though Jellow revolutionized monument lettering, his own grave remains unmarked. This episode explores his innovations, their lasting impact, and MBNA’s upcoming design challenge to finally create a fitting memorial. Tune in for a blend of history, design insight, and a heartfelt call to action to recognize a man who shaped the way we remember others.

In this special episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA, talks with Scott McLaughlin, Executive Director of the Vermont Granite Museum, as it celebrates its 30th anniversary. Discover how this community-founded museum is preserving Vermont’s granite heritage, reviving local pride, and inspiring a new generation of artists and artisans. Learn about the challenges facing the museum, its educational outreach programs, and opportunities for monument builders to support and collaborate.

In episode #6 of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA, talks with Scott Neal of Paradise Pictures about how MBNA membership has shaped his career and company success. They explore the value of conventions, peer connections, and industry trends, while reflecting on takeaways from the 2025 Monument Industry Show in Cleveland.

In this week’s episode “Monument Builders in Action: Lessons from the Monument Industry Show Floor” host Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA, talks with Lauri Haines-Allen and Scott Allen of Haines Memorials Ltd. in Jefferson, OH. They discuss their century-old family business, MBNA membership, and their hands-on experience setting up the 2025 Monument Industry Show. Listen and discover how collaboration, innovation, and relationships continue to shape the future of memorialization!

This week’s episode features a great conversation between MBNA’s President Nathan Lange, CM, AICA, and host Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA.

In this episode of Monument Matters, MBNA President Nathan Lange, CM, AICA, shares how deeper involvement in our association transformed his business and his leadership. From building lasting friendships to navigating challenges alongside fellow members, Nathan reflects on the power of connection and community within MBNA. He also looks ahead to exciting developments in member education, including a revamped Certified Memorialist program designed to support the next generation of industry professionals. It’s the story of his journey from MBNA member to leader—built on meaningful connections and a commitment to the betterment of the industry.

Welcome to the third episode of MBNA’s Monument Matters with host Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA, of The Johns-Carabelli Co. Semerano Monuments & Flowers.

They discuss the art of monument building, the passion required to do this craft and give some tips and tricks for getting started in the monument industry.

Episode Guests:

Guest 1: Sculptor AC Button II founded Carolina Sculpture Studio in 2003, extending his family’s unbroken USA heritage in granite excellence since 1891. Button’s work in stone sculpture began with family apprenticeship under his cousin as they worked under Master Sculptor Gary Sassi at Celestial Memorial Sculpture Studio in Barre, VT. As a Journeyman, he moved south and established Carolina Sculpture Studio following the retirement of in-law and Master Sculptor Dario Rossi in nearby Elberton GA. Button’s popular YouTube channel features the Virtual Stone Carving Apprenticeship series currently on video 137. View his videos on Youtube!

Guest 2: Steve Kaczmarczyk is the Shop Manager at Hunt Memorial where has worked for 11 years. So far, he has been making monuments for 31 years. 

Guest 3: Stan Mullins is Chief Creative Officer (CCO) at Stan Mullins Art Studio headquartered in Athens, Georgia. In the last quarter-century, Stan has created thousands of works of art in multiple mediums.

Guest 4: John Theis has been a dedicated member of the Coldspring team for an impressive 43.5 years, contributing his expertise across all areas of granite fabrication. For the past 33 years, he has specialized as a stone carver and sculptor, crafting intricate designs and sculptures on projects both large and small. With his deep knowledge and skill in working with a variety of granites, he has played an integral role in creating lasting works of art and craftsmanship.

Welcome to the second episode of MBNA’s Monument Matters with host Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA, of The Johns-Carabelli Co. Semerano Monuments & Flowers.

Today, we are talking about cremation trends with Barbara Kemmis, Executive Director of the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), and MBNA member Troy Caldwell, a Certified Memorialist and a Fellow with the American Institute of Commemorative Art (AICA); Troy and his brother Tony are third-generation owners of Caldwell Monument Company in Indiana.

As cremation rates continue to rise, especially in North America, this episode explores the challenges and opportunities for memorialists and cemeterians.

Listeners will learn about the innovative ways cemeteries and monument builders are adapting to meet the needs of families choosing cremation. From creative memorials to understanding the cultural shifts influencing these trends, this episode provides valuable information for those in the remembrance industry.

Welcome to the first episode of MBNA’s Monument Matters with host Mike Johns, Jr. CM, AICA, of The Johns-Carabelli Co. Semerano Monuments & Flowers.

Mike talks with representatives from the Granite and Marble level sponsors who are supporting the upcoming 2025 Monument Industry Show in Cleveland, OH. They discuss what they are planning to exhibit, the importance of attending the show, and some new products they have in the works. 

Episode guests:
Paige Lamthi & Mark Gherardi, Buttura and Gherardi Granite Artisans
Vaishnavi Ramasamy and Mr. Cannon, Amman Granite
Rita Campbell, Precious Souvenir
Lenin Kailasammani, Salem Stone 
Doug Grahn, Barre Granite Association
Matthew Pruett, Elberton Granite Association