{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute","title":"20. How Helical Piles Improve Seismic Performance and Retaining Wall Design | Paul Daysh","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":890,"description":"Live from the California Masonry Council Design & Expo, Adam sits down with Paul Daysh, second-generation leader at California Retaining Walls, to explore how innovation is reshaping the future of retaining wall construction. \n\nDrawing on decades of field experience, Paul shares how his family's company developed the patented GS2 wall system—combining helical pile foundations with reinforced masonry to solve many of the cost, schedule, and performance challenges facing today's construction industry.\n \nThe conversation dives into why traditional retaining wall systems are becoming increasingly difficult to build economically under modern building codes, and how alternative foundation solutions can reduce excavation, eliminate concrete cure times, and accelerate project schedules. Paul also discusses the importance of collaboration between engineers, geotechnical professionals, contractors, and manufacturers to ensure masonry continues to be one of the most resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective building materials available. \n \nIn This Episode:\nHow the patented GS2 retaining wall system combines helical piles with reinforced masonry\nWhy eliminating traditional concrete footings can dramatically reduce project timelines\nHow helical pile foundations perform in expansive soils, seismic regions, and challenging site conditions\nWhy focusing on total project costs—not just material costs—creates better outcomes for owners and contractors\nThe importance of collaboration between structural engineers and geotechnical engineers\nHow innovation can help masonry remain competitive against alternative building materials\nWhy preserving industry knowledge and attracting the next generation of skilled professionals is critical for masonry's future\nThe biggest opportunities—and threats—facing the retaining wall and masonry industries today\n \nConnect with Paul:\nLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-daysh/\n\nGS2 Wall Systems\nLinkedIn:...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/X1bb4Pa1Lwg4qVX_6duAicnGxz9s7Pi3P-AwJ-_qFL4/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9lOWY0/NDQ2M2MwMmEwN2I1/N2NjZTIwMGQ5OGQ2/ZDI2OC5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}