GBA Podcast Spotlights Risk, Judgment, and Inclusive Communication
Three new episodes of the GBA Podcast are now available, offering geoprofessionals insights into risk management, decision-making, and the power of intentional communication. Listen to learn from real-world experience—both technical and interpersonal—to improve project outcomes, strengthen teams, and reduce risk in your firm.
Inclusion Advancement Series, Episode 1: Communication Basics—Intentional and Inclusive Communication
The newest episode marks the launch of a three-part podcast series developed by GBA’s Inclusion Advancement Committee. This first conversation explores why communication is not a “soft skill,” but a core competency in geoprofessional practice.
Moderated by Inclusion Advancement Committee Chair Rob Howard, P.E., the episode features a panel discussion with Dee Watson, B.A.Sc., SHRM-CP, Kent Bannister, P.Eng., and Margaret Panatera, P.E. These geoprofessionals share practical examples of how tone, listening, assumptions, and experience gaps can either reduce friction—or amplify it—within teams.
Upcoming episodes in the series will dive deeper into inclusive language and everyday communication choices that shape workplace culture.
Developed by GBA’s Inclusion Advancement Committee, this new podcast series supports the committee’s mission to advance inclusive leadership, communication, and workplace practices across the geoprofessions. Through facilitated discussions and real-world examples, the series aims to help firms build healthier cultures, strengthen collaboration across disciplines and experience levels, and improve long-term business performance.
Case History #3 Episode: If Your Client Won’t Listen…Get Out Your Checkbook
In this episode, hosts Elizabeth Brown, P.E. and Abi Corbett walk listeners through GBA Case History #3 involving a municipal wastewater treatment facility where roles became blurred, key recommendations were ignored, and contractual risk shifted in unintended ways. What begins as a seemingly routine scope evolves into a costly situation shaped by incomplete investigation, communication breakdowns, and exculpatory contract language.
The discussion highlights why clearly defining responsibilities—and documenting recommendations and rejected advice—can make the difference between managing risk and absorbing it.
Case History #4 Episode: Compromise Must Be a Part of Your Business Strategy
Another new episode explores a project documented in GBA Case History #4, where a value-engineered construction approach—intended to save money—introduced unforeseen risks during drilled shaft construction.
Rather than focusing solely on technical details, the episode examines shared responsibility, the limitations of visual observations, and the realities of value engineering when risk ownership is unclear.
As Brown notes during the discussion, “Value engineering doesn’t eliminate risk—it just redistributes it.” That lesson and others make this episode especially relevant for firm leaders navigating client expectations and cost pressures.
The GBA Case History Podcast Series brings GBA’s written Case Histories to life through candid conversation. Each episode examines a real project challenge faced by a GBA member firm, highlighting lessons learned related to risk management, contracts, communication, and professional judgment. The series is designed to help firms learn from both successes and missteps—without having to experience them firsthand.
All three new episodes are available now on the GBA Podcast website and all major podcast platforms.