Episodes

  • E38: What Causes Debris Flows and How To Proactively Stop Them

    E38: What Causes Debris Flows and How To Proactively Stop Them
    Mar 20 2025
    Learn about the causes of debris flows and proactive measures to prevent them in this geotechnical engineering podcast episode. From climate change to geological factors, we'll discuss the science behind debris flows and how to mitigate their impact on communities. Tune in to learn more about this important geohazard and how geotechnical engineers work to keep us safe. In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Joseph McElhany to discuss the challenges and advancements in geotechnical engineering, particularly in the context of post-wildfire debris flows and the importance of proactive measures in mitigating geohazards. They explore misconceptions about debris flows, the role of soil investigations in project budgeting, and the need for innovative materials and methods to adapt to changing environmental conditions. In this conversation, Joseph McElhany discusses various aspects of geotechnical engineering, focusing on innovations in corrosion protection, the need for more research in geo hazards, and the importance of learning from failures in projects. He emphasizes the significance of communication among engineers and the potential role of AI in predicting geo hazards. The discussion also highlights common mistakes in geotechnical design and the necessity for engineers to understand geology better. Key Topics Discussed ✅Post-wildfire debris flows are becoming more common and require proactive mitigation. ✅Many people underestimate the likelihood and impact of debris flows after wildfires. ✅California has teams of engineers and geologists assessing post-wildfire risks. ✅Risk assessment prioritizes human life and critical infrastructure in debris flow mitigation. ✅Innovative monitoring systems can enhance early warning for debris flows. ✅Soil investigations are crucial to avoid unexpected project costs. ✅Contractors are increasingly recognizing the importance of ground investigations. ✅Historical data on past debris flows can inform current construction practices. ✅Designing infrastructure for extreme weather is becoming a priority. ✅Corrosion resistance in materials is essential for longevity in harsh environments. Stainless steel is costly but effective for corrosion protection. ✅New designs for debris flow barriers can reduce environmental impact. ✅There is a lack of research on geo hazards compared to earthquake engineering. ✅Publications and presentations are crucial for raising awareness in the field. ✅AI could enhance data awareness and monitoring in geo hazards. ✅Learning about geology is essential for civil and geotechnical engineers. ✅Failures in projects can lead to significant improvements in design. ✅Peer reviews can help validate engineering designs and decisions. ✅Understanding the relationship between drillers and engineers is vital for project success. Memorable Quotes from Joseph McElhany 🗣️"How do we keep our ground solid?" 🗣️"We're getting better at predicting geohazards." 🗣️"What is the impact to human life?" 🗣️"Data is everything in geohazard mitigation." 🗣️"Soil itself doesn't contribute to cost overruns." 🗣️"Soils investigations can avoid costly surprises." 🗣️"Let's use different types of corrosion protection." 🗣️"There's not as much research on geo hazards." 🗣️"Putting out publications really helps awareness." 🗣️"Communication is key in engineering projects." Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://geoexpertsearch.com
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    51 mins
  • E37: Innovative SOLUTIONS for Seismic SAFETY at SoFi STADIUM and LAX People Mover

    E37: Innovative SOLUTIONS for Seismic SAFETY at SoFi STADIUM and LAX People Mover
    Mar 13 2025
    In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Dr. Santiago Caballero who shares his journey in geotechnical engineering, discussing his career path, significant projects like the LAX People Mover, and the unique challenges faced in different regions. He emphasizes the importance of communication, teamwork, and innovative solutions in overcoming geotechnical challenges, particularly in seismic areas. The conversation also highlights the critical role of pilot testing in ensuring project success and the lessons learned that can be applied to future work. In this conversation, Santiago Caballero discusses the complexities of geotechnical engineering, particularly in high-profile projects like Sofi Stadium and the LAX PeopleMover. He emphasizes the importance of understanding structural behavior, innovative solutions for seismic safety, and the balance between risk and cost. Santiago also shares insights on regional geotechnical conditions, career advice for aspiring engineers, and his passion for teaching, highlighting the need to connect real-world experiences with academic concepts. Key Topics Discussed ✅Santiago's journey into geotechnical engineering began with a project on liquefaction. ✅Geotechnical challenges vary significantly across regions due to available equipment and methods. ✅Seismic considerations are vital when working near existing structures. ✅Pilot testing can provide critical data for foundation design and project approval. ✅Design codes may not always be accurate; engineering judgment is essential. ✅Innovative solutions can arise from understanding project-specific challenges. ✅Sofi Stadium faced significant geotechnical challenges due to its location. ✅Balancing risk and cost is essential in high-profile projects. ✅Regional geotechnical conditions greatly impact project execution. ✅Teaching allows for sharing real-world experiences with students. Memorable Quotes from Santiago Caballero 🗣️"I think I need to explore more about this field." 🗣️"It was very challenging in that aspect." 🗣️"You definitely need to have that support." 🗣️"The pilot test is what you want to get." 🗣️"I want my stadium here." 🗣️"Engineers are here to provide solutions." 🗣️"We can dig down." 🗣️"It was a very cool work from the structural engineers." 🗣️"You have to convey the proper message for them." 🗣️"California has unique challenges." 🗣️"Ask what projects you're going to be working on." 🗣️"Teaching is always gonna be there." Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://geoexpertsearch.com
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • E36: Life of a Geotechnical Engineer: Explore Engineering Across the Globe with Jay Doddaballapur

    E36: Life of a Geotechnical Engineer: Explore Engineering Across the Globe with Jay Doddaballapur
    Feb 27 2025
    In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Jay Doddaballapur, an experienced geotechnical engineer with a global career spanning the UK, New Zealand, and the US. They discuss Jay's transitions between countries, the differences in geotechnical engineering practices, the challenges of relocating, and the contrasting mindsets in contracting versus consulting. Jay shares insights into technical challenges faced in major projects, his expertise in seismic design, and the complexities of dynamic modeling in geotechnical engineering. In this conversation, Jay Doddaballapur shares his insights on the importance of mentorship in engineering, the challenges of applying theoretical knowledge in practice, and the common pitfalls faced by engineers pursuing chartership. He discusses the process of converting international engineering qualifications to meet US standards and offers advice for engineers navigating this journey. Additionally, Jay highlights emerging trends in geotechnical engineering, particularly the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and emphasizes the importance of learning to say no to avoid project overload. Key Topics Discussed ✅Jay transitioned from the UK to New Zealand for seismic experience. ✅Differences in geotechnical practices are influenced by local codes and standards. ✅New Zealand emphasizes work-life balance compared to the US. ✅Relocating can be challenging for families, especially with children. ✅Converting between metric and imperial units poses professional challenges. ✅Contracting requires a fast-paced design approach compared to consulting. ✅Understanding both contracting and consulting is essential for engineers. ✅Technical challenges often arise from a lack of data in projects. ✅Seismic design in the US incorporates research from New Zealand and Japan. ✅Dynamic modeling requires educating teams on complex analysis techniques. Mentorship is a moral responsibility in engineering. ✅Bridging theory and practice is crucial for young engineers. ✅Attention to detail is vital in engineering work. ✅Peer pressure can lead to premature chartership attempts. ✅Health and safety should always be prioritized in reports. ✅Independent judgment is essential for engineers. ✅The process of obtaining a PE can be complex but rewarding. ✅International engineers should understand state-specific requirements. ✅Emerging technologies like AI will shape the future of engineering. ✅Learning programming languages is increasingly important for engineers. Memorable Quotes from Jay Doddaballapur 🗣️"Uprooting yourself is going to be hard." 🗣️"You need to rewire your whole brain." 🗣️"You do need both parts of the puzzle." 🗣️"Each project has its own sort of challenges." 🗣️"The whole project is based on about 400 piles." 🗣️"Learning when to say no." Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://geoexpertsearch.com
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    47 mins
  • E35: The Difference Between Geotechnical Monitoring in Mining and Infrastructure is Huge

    E35: The Difference Between Geotechnical Monitoring in Mining and Infrastructure is Huge
    Feb 21 2025
    In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor sits down with André Silva, a seasoned geotechnical engineer with over 14 years of experience. André shares his journey into geotechnical engineering, highlighting his passion for instrumentation and monitoring. The conversation delves into the advancements in geotechnical monitoring, particularly the role of automation and wireless technologies, and how these innovations enhance project effectiveness. André also discusses the comparative challenges and approaches in landslide monitoring between Brazil and the UK, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making in geotechnical projects. In this conversation, André Silva discusses the advancements in geotechnical monitoring, emphasizing the importance of automated data collection and the need for knowledge sharing within the industry. He highlights the expertise gap and the role of podcasts in disseminating information. The discussion also covers emerging technologies such as wireless loggers and AI, and offers career advice for newcomers in the field. Key Topics Discussed ✅André's journey into geotechnical engineering was influenced by his family's background ✅Automation and wireless technologies are transforming geotechnical monitoring. ✅High-frequency readings from automated systems enhance project safety. ✅The observational method allows for real-time data analysis and decision-making. ✅Geotechnical instrumentation can lead to significant cost savings in projects. ✅Brazil's mining sector has mandated automation following recent accidents. ✅The regulatory environment for mining is stricter than for infrastructure projects. ✅Landslide monitoring in Brazil and the UK reveals different geological challenges. ✅Data-driven insights from instrumentation can optimize project designs. Automated data collection allows for detailed monitoring. ✅Knowledge sharing is essential for industry growth. ✅There is a significant expertise gap in geotechnical monitoring. ✅Emerging technologies like wireless loggers and AI are shaping the industry. ✅Networking at conferences is crucial for knowledge sharing. ✅Language barriers can hinder communication in the industry. Memorable Quotes from Andre Silva 🗣️"There's a huge gap that you can fill." 🗣️"You need to manage our risks." 🗣️"It tells you that something is up." 🗣️"It's fantastic for health and safety." 🗣️"You can get these small details." 🗣️"AI will affect the industry significantly." 🗣️"You need to explore and find your niche." 🗣️"It's an eternal learning curve." Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://geoexpertsearch.com
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    58 mins
  • E34: Geotechnical Project Expert Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero Reveals Local Conditions Are Key

    E34: Geotechnical Project Expert Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero Reveals Local Conditions Are Key
    Feb 21 2025
    In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor sits down with Dr. Sebastian Lobo Guerrero as he shares his journey into geotechnical engineering, highlighting the influence of his family background and his passion for soil mechanics. He discusses rewarding projects, including significant bridge designs and the lessons learned from both successes and failures. Dr. Lobo Guerrero reflects on his achievements, including prestigious awards, and emphasizes the importance of deep foundations in infrastructure. He also talks about advancements in materials and technology, co-authoring the Delaware Bridge Design Manual, and offers advice for aspiring engineers on the importance of early involvement in professional societies. Finally, he shares insights on balancing his roles as a project manager, lecturer, and contributor to professional organizations. In this conversation, Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero shares his extensive experiences in geotechnical engineering, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge, communication, and the balance between passion and professionalism. He reflects on personal challenges that shaped his approach to problem-solving and highlights the evolving landscape of recruitment and sustainability in the field. The discussion also touches on innovations that are driving the future of geotechnical engineering, as well as the need for effective communication within multidisciplinary teams. In this conversation, Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero shares his insights on innovations in geotechnical engineering, the importance of hard work and passion in one's career, and the necessity of self-advocacy in professional settings. He discusses his personal goals, the legacy he hopes to leave in the field, and his current projects, emphasizing the significance of finding and pursuing one's passion in life. Key Topics Discussed ✅The Path to Geotechnical Mastery ✅Lessons from the Field: Projects and Mistakes ✅Celebrating Achievements in Engineering ✅Deep Foundations: The Backbone of Infrastructure ✅Innovations in Geotechnical Engineering ✅Crafting the Future: The Delaware Bridge Manual ✅Empowering Young Engineers for Leadership ✅Juggling Roles: A Geotechnical Engineer's Life Memorable Quotes from Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero 🗣️"I absolutely fell in love with soil mechanics." 🗣️"The most impactful learning is with mistakes." 🗣️"It changed the way that the drill shafts are done." 🗣️"I started collecting design manuals as a hobby." 🗣️"Communication is everything." 🗣️"The more that you plan ahead, the better." 🗣️"We only have one planet." 🗣️"You need to be passionate and love what you do." 🗣️"Success is preparation plus opportunity." Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://geoexpertsearch.com
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • E33: Navigating Geotechnical Leadership: Lessons from Luke Turko

    E33: Navigating Geotechnical Leadership: Lessons from Luke Turko
    Feb 6 2025

    In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor sits down with Luke Turko, a civil engineer with over 19 years of experience in geotechnical engineering and design. As Director of Geotechnical Services at Navarro & Wright Consulting Engineers, Luke oversees projects across Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Florida, and Virginia, managing a highly skilled team across four offices.

    Luke shares his journey into geotechnical engineering, the challenges of managing large teams across multiple locations, and the evolving role of AI in engineering. From high-stakes infrastructure projects to mentoring the next generation of engineers, Luke provides valuable insights into leadership, technical excellence, and the future of the industry.

    Key Topics Discussed

    ✅ How a high school field trip inspired Luke’s engineering career
    ✅ The impact of mentorship and education on his professional journey
    ✅ Managing 18 professionals across multiple offices and states
    ✅ The biggest geotechnical challenges in Pennsylvania and beyond
    ✅ Balancing technical excellence with financial performance
    ✅ The role of AI in geotechnical engineering – where is it heading?
    ✅ The importance of early contractor involvement in large projects
    ✅ Why teaching civil engineering to young students is crucial for the industry's future
    ✅ The challenges and opportunities in renewable energy projects
    ✅ The most complex project Luke has ever worked on and what made it so demanding

    Memorable Quotes from Luke Turko

    🗣️ "If you produce a technically poor product or cut corners, you won’t get repeat work. The cost of a mistake is far higher than the cost of doing it right the first time."
    🗣️ "Geotechnical engineering is never boring. One side of the state has coal mining issues, the other has karst and harder rock—it’s always a challenge."
    🗣️ "AI is going to change engineering. We don’t know exactly how yet, but it’s happening fast."
    🗣️ "Teaching young students about civil engineering was one of the most rewarding things I’ve done—it’s amazing to see how engaged they are."

    Subscribe to the show to join our host, Michael Taylor, as he continues to explore the intricacies of running a business in the ground investigation industry, bringing geological experts to share their wisdom, insights, and plans for the future, and shedding light on what they believe will enhance the ground investigation industry moving forward. Don't forget to stay connected by visiting https://girec.co.uk/.
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    37 mins
  • E32: Geotechnical Truths & GeoTales with Ed Medley

    E32: Geotechnical Truths & GeoTales with Ed Medley
    Jan 30 2025

    In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor sits down with Dr. Ed Medley, a geological engineer, researcher, and storyteller with a 45-year career spanning mineral exploration, litigation, consulting, and academia. Known for his work on BIMROCKS (Block-In-Matrix Rocks), Ed shares some of the most unexpected, humorous, and insightful moments from his global career—including mapping toilet paper at a major San Francisco sinkhole failure.

    Beyond the stories, Ed offers hard-earned wisdom on resilience, curiosity, and the ever-evolving geotechnical industry. Whether you’re an engineer, student, or just love a good geotechnical adventure, this episode is packed with insights.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Wild Journey of Ed Medley

    🔹 How he went from dishwasher on a Norwegian cargo ship to geotechnical expert
    🔹 His early career in helicopter geophysics, blasting, and mineral exploration
    🔹 The unexpected career pivots that shaped his geotechnical path

    BIMROCKS & Engineering Chaos

    🔹 What BIMROCKS are and why they’re so complex
    🔹 Why engineers struggle to characterize mixed geological materials
    🔹 How he created the term BIMROCKS to help engineers think differently

    Legendary Geotechnical Stories

    🔹 Mapping toilet paper to solve a massive sewer failure in San Francisco
    🔹 Flying over the wilderness and facing bears during mineral exploration

    Lessons from a Career in Chaos

    🔹 Why Ed says: “Get fired. It’ll teach you something.”
    🔹 The mantras that guided him through challenges:
    ✔ Nothing is simple.
    ✔ Nothing is what it seems.
    ✔ Nothing stays the same.
    ✔ Excellence is not convenient.
    🔹 Why resilience, curiosity, and humility are essential for success

    The Evolution of Geotechnical Engineering

    🔹 How technology like AI, GIS, and LiDAR is changing site investigations
    🔹 Why over-reliance on software is risky—"Computers make pretty pictures, but that doesn’t mean they’re right."
    🔹 The globalization of geotechnical engineering and differences between UK, US, and Canadian practices
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    53 mins
  • E31: Numerical Modeling in Geotechnics: Insights from Yichi Du

    E31: Numerical Modeling in Geotechnics: Insights from Yichi Du
    Jan 23 2025

    In this episode of The Ground Investigation Podcast, Michael Taylor interviews Yichi Du, a geotechnical engineer whose career journey spans academic research and practical industry applications in the U.S. and China. Yichi shares his passion for geotechnical engineering, highlighting his research on shrink-swell clays and the innovative use of numerical modeling in understanding soil behavior. The discussion also explores his experiences transitioning from academia to industry, the unique geotechnical challenges in Texas and California, and the future of machine learning in geotechnical engineering. Yichi emphasizes the importance of balancing experimental testing with modeling, and how engineers can better communicate their findings to diverse stakeholders.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    1. Global Perspective on Engineering:

      • How Yichi’s studies in China, Florida, and Texas shaped his geotechnical outlook.
      • Lessons from his Ph.D. at Texas A&M and their impact on his work today.

    2. Numerical Modeling Insights:

      • Practical applications of Yichi’s research on shrink-swell clays and desiccation cracking.
      • Challenges and innovations in modeling unsaturated soils using tools like Plaxis 2D and Abaqus.
      • The potential of the Mesh Fragmentation Technique (MFT) for addressing desiccation cracking.

    3. Regional Challenges in Geotechnics:

      • Key differences between geotechnical engineering in Texas and California.
      • How seismic risks in California influence design decisions.
      • Managing environmental factors and soil behavior in diverse regions.

    4. Future of Geotechnics:

      • Yichi’s take on integrating numerical modeling into everyday design practices.
      • The role of machine learning in advancing soil behavior analysis.
      • Bridging the gap between academic research and industry practice.

    5. Career Reflections & Advice:

      • Yichi’s most rewarding career moments and aspirations for tackling global geotechnical challenges.
      • Tips for young engineers passionate about numerical modeling and geotechnical design.

    Highlights:

    • Behind-the-scenes look at modeling expansive soils and desiccation cracking.
    • Practical examples of balancing academic precision with real-world industry needs.
    • How seismic and environmental conditions influence geotechnical decisions.
    • Yichi’s vision for the evolution of numerical modeling and its integration into sustainable design practices.

    Who Should Listen:
    This episode is perfect for:

    • Geotechnical and geological engineers at any career stage.
    • Professionals interested in numerical modeling and advanced geotechnical techniques.
    • Students eager to learn about transitioning from academia to industry.
    • Industry leaders exploring the role of machine learning in geotechnical design.

    Resources and Mentions:

    • Learn more about numerical modeling tools like Plaxis 2D and Abaqus.
    • Connect with Yichi Du on LinkedIn to follow his professional journey.
    • Subscribe to the show for more insights from industry experts like Yichi Du, as Michael Taylor delves into the challenges, innovations, and future of geotechnical engineering.

    Visit https://girec.co.uk/ to stay updated on the podcast and learn more about the ground investigation industry.
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    36 mins