The Structural Engineering Podcast

01:00:02

Episode 114 - Yielding for a Better Brace

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/27

In Episode 114, we dig into buckling restrained braced frames with Brandt Saxey, SE, of CoreBrace.We talk through how BRBFs work, what makes them different from traditional concentrically braced frames, and why yielding in both tension and compression without global buckling makes them such an effective seismic system. The conversation also covers brace behavior, energy dissipation, detailing considerations, coordination with manufacturers, common design misconceptions, and how BRBs are being used

en

00:28:18

Episode 113 - How Software Leaders See the Future of...

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/27

In this episode, we dig into the future of structural engineering software with the North American CEO and Chief Product Officer of IDEA StatiCa.We talk through why connection design is such a difficult problem to solve digitally, where traditional spreadsheets and simplified checks can fall short, and how engineers can balance speed, analytical rigor, and judgment. The conversation also covers AI, automation, interoperability, software adoption, and what skills young engineers need to build as

en

00:52:38

Episode 112 – Good Connections Make Great Structures

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we dig into structural connection design and explore why connections are far more than just the final step of a project. We talk through how engineers approach connections as critical components that influence constructability, architectural expression, fabrication efficiency, and even the overall behavior of the structure itself.We break down how engineers think about clean and efficient connection detailing, why exposed connections often require much earlier coordination in the

en

01:13:01

Episode 111 - Can Glass Really Be Structural?

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we dig into structural glass design and explore why glass in buildings can be far more than a transparent enclosure. We talk through how engineers approach glass as a true structural material in systems where stiffness, redundancy, detailing, and post-breakage behavior can be just as important as ultimate strength.We break down how engineers think about glass in tension, compression, and bending, how laminated assemblies and interlayers improve resilience, and why connections often

en

01:07:31

Episode 110 - Venues Aren’t “Just Code”: Vibration,...

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we dig into entertainment and retail design and explore why venues can’t be engineered by code compliance alone. We talk through how structural engineers approach performance-driven spaces like concert venues, theaters, and experiential retail where vibration, rigging, sightlines, and serviceability often control the design more than strength.We break down how engineers think about vibration tolerance and human perception, how rigging grids are designed for unknown future shows, and

en

01:01:05

Episode 109 – How Coastal Structures Hold Back the Ocean

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we dig into flood and wave design and explore when water transitions from a site consideration into a true structural load case. We talk through how engineers identify flood risk, interpret FEMA flood maps, and determine when flood, wave, or debris loads must be considered—especially for engineers who typically design in dry conditions.We break down the difference between flood loads and wave impact, how elevated structures, piles, and breakaway walls behave under water-driven

en

00:52:56

Episode 108 - What LEGO Can Teach Structural Engineers

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we explore structural engineering through an unexpected lens: LEGO. What starts as a simple building toy becomes a powerful way to explain fundamental concepts like load paths, stability, and structural behavior.We discuss how the idea began, why physical models can communicate more clearly than sketches or equations, and the first moment it became clear this approach actually works. The conversation highlights which concepts translate best to LEGO, where the analogies break down,

en

00:57:00

Episode 107 – The Structural Logic of High‑End...

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we explore the realities of high‑end residential structural engineering, using custom homes in the Hamptons to examine how architectural ambition, homeowner expectations, and constructability intersect. Although single‑family homes dominate the U.S. building stock, this conversation shows why residential work especially at the high end demands careful coordination and judgment.We discuss how the engineer–architect–owner relationship shapes project outcomes, how engineers respond to

en

00:48:37

Episode 106 - Mast Frame: Rethinking Seismic Systems

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we take a deep dive into mast frames a hybrid seismic system that challenges the traditional boundaries between elastic and energy‑dissipating components. Using the Samuel Merritt University project as a case study, we unpack why the design team stepped away from conventional BRB‑only frames and moment‑frame/dual systems, and instead embraced a BRBM (Buckling‑Restrained Brace + Mast) approach.We explore how mast frames redistribute stiffness, improve drift control, and preserve

en

00:32:23

Episode 105 - Standardizing Tornado Resilience:...

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/05/17

In this episode, we break down the landmark introduction of Chapter 32 in ASCE 7-22. For the first time, tornado-resistant design moves from a voluntary recommendation to a codified requirement for specific Risk Categories. We explore the probabilistic shift in how we view tornado hazards and the practical hurdles of implementing these loads in the design. Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEd Structural Trivia: Sign up for our structural trivia! A

en

01:20:05

Episode 104 - What’s Really Holding Up Your Building?

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/01/21

In Episode 104, we dig into the world beneath our buildings, foundation systems. From shallow footings to deep foundations, we explore how engineers match soil behavior, structural demands, and constructability to choose the right system for the job.We break down the fundamentals of spread footings, mats, piles, drilled shafts, and ground‑improvement‑based systems. You’ll hear how load paths shift depending on soil conditions, why “simple” footings aren’t always simple, and what engineers should

en

01:05:17

Episode 103 — Space Frames, Cable Nets, and ETFE Systems

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2026/01/07

In Episode 103, we dive into space frames, cable nets, and ETFE membrane systems — the lightweight structural forms that make some of today’s most iconic buildings possible. From the geometry that drives space frame efficiency to the tension‑based behavior of cable nets and the surprising performance of ETFE, we break down how these systems work, where they shine, and what engineers need to consider when designing them.Tune in to hear how these structures balance form, efficiency, and

en

01:13:18

Episode 102 - Navigating Emergency Response Engineering

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/12/23

In Episode 102, we chat with Scott Collins and Mike Riccitiello about the role of structural engineers in emergency response. From the first phone call to on-site triage, we break down how engineers gather information, assess danger, and make judgment calls while coordinating with other emergency response officials. Tune in to hear real stories and learn how emergency response work changes the way you design long after the crisis is over.Links & Resources:Scott Colllins:

en

00:55:50

Episode 100 - Max and Zach: Candid Conversations

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/11/25

Celebrating a milestone! This week marks our 100th episode of The Structural Engineering Podcast.We're reflecting on the journey from our very first episode to where we are today. More importantly, we're thanking you, our incredible community of listeners, for your support.Join us for this lighthearted celebration as we dive into a special Q&A segment.Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): theengineeringpodcast.com/structuredStructural Trivia:Join our structural trivial A quick email

en

01:11:44

Episode 99 - Engineering a Startup: The CalcBook Story

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/11/11

In this episode of the Structural Engineering Podcast, we sit down with the founders of CalcBook, Nick and Peter, a tech startup that’s rethinking how engineers document and share structural calculations. What started as a frustration with scattered spreadsheets and inconsistent workflows has grown into a powerful, cloud-based platform built by engineers for engineers.We dive into the full journey:How the idea for CalcBook was bornThe leap from side project to startupChallenges of building a

en

00:57:27

Episode 98 - Post-Tensioned Concrete with Ryan Musgrove

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/11/01

This episode is brought to you by CalcBook — the modern way to perform and document your structural calculations. Visit calcbook.com and use promo code SEPOD for 50% off your first three months. Episode Summary:In this episode of The Structural Engineering Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Musgrove from Kramer Gehlen & Associates to dive into the world of post-tensioned (PT) concrete design. Ryan walks us through the fundamentals of PT systems, their advantages over conventional reinforced concrete,

en

00:45:23

Episode 97 – Innovating Mass Timber Design with SPEC...

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/11/01

In this episode, we sit down with Adam Jones from SPEC Toolbox, a company reshaping how engineers approach mass timber design. From CLT panels to connection detailing, Spec Toolbox offers a suite of digital tools that streamline workflows, reduce errors, and bring clarity to the often chaotic world of timber documentation.We explore the challenges of designing with mass timber, navigating code compliance, coordinating across disciplines, and managing ever-evolving changes and how Spec Toolbox helps

en

00:48:06

Episode 96 - AI Is Reinventing Structural Engineering

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/11/01

Is AI about to redesign the future of structural engineering? In Episode 96, the Structural Engineering Podcast sits down with a leading AI expert to explore how artificial intelligence is shaking up the AEC industry. From automated design to predictive modeling, we dive into the tech trends that could transform how engineers work, build, and innovate. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or already experimenting with AI tools, this episode is your starting blueprint for what’s coming next.Join our

en

00:31:22

Episode 95 - Understanding D.G. #1

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/11/01

In this episode, we test our knowledge of an AISC design document, Design Guide #1 - Base Plate Connections. This is the first DG we read as we entered the working world, and we think it's worthwhile to revisit it occasionally.Want to look at all the guides available? https://www.aisc.org/publications/design-guides/Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder) Here or

en

00:49:14

Episode 94 - Famous Failures

The Structural Engineering Podcast ·

2025/11/01

In this week's episode, we discuss famous structural engineering failures. From the Hyatt Regency Collapse to Ronan Point, these instances have been crucial in helping us develop our profession and design safer, more appealing structures for the world. Creating the built environment inevitably involves mistakes; they only become a complete loss when we fail to learn from them. Structural Trivia:Join our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI - Survey Monkey is often

en

All Episodes

Similar Podcasts

The Deep Dive Lab: Unraveling Materials Science

Son Hoang

New Books in Political Science

New Books Network

Station 151

Pale Matter | Realm

Beyond the Divide

Koala Moon

StarTalk with Neil deGrasse Tyson

Neil deGrasse Tyson