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.
Drawing 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.
The 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.
In This Episode:
- How the patented GS2 retaining wall system combines helical piles with reinforced masonry
- Why eliminating traditional concrete footings can dramatically reduce project timelines
- How helical pile foundations perform in expansive soils, seismic regions, and challenging site conditions
- Why focusing on total project costs—not just material costs—creates better outcomes for owners and contractors
- The importance of collaboration between structural engineers and geotechnical engineers
- How innovation can help masonry remain competitive against alternative building materials
- Why preserving industry knowledge and attracting the next generation of skilled professionals is critical for masonry's future
- The biggest opportunities—and threats—facing the retaining wall and masonry industries today
Connect with Paul:
GS2 Wall Systems
Calwalls
Learn more about the Northwest Masonry Institute:
What is In The Mix by Northwest Masonry Institute?
In the Mix is a podcast dedicated to the people, projects, and innovations shaping the masonry industry—block by block, brick by brick.
Hosted by Adam Hutchinson, Executive Director and professional engineer, this show brings together architects, engineers, contractors, and industry leaders to explore how masonry drives resilient, sustainable, and high-performance building design.
Each episode breaks down real-world applications of masonry construction, from structural integrity and fire resistance to long-term durability and environmental impact. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes insights, industry challenges, and practical conversations that matter to those designing, building, and specifying with masonry.
If you’re passionate about stronger buildings, smarter construction, and advancing masonry in modern design—this is your place to get in the mix.
Join us in supporting the Masonry Industry mission: https://masonryinstitute.com/in-the-mix