The Structural Engineering Podcast

Hosted by Zach and Max

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116

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May 2026

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About the show

Hosted by Max and Zach, The Structural Engineering Podcast dives into the world of structural design, real-world engineering challenges, and the stories behind the structures that shape our world. Whether you're a practicing engineer, an aspiring student, or just curious about how buildings stand tall, tune in for expert insights, industry interviews, and relatable experiences from the field.

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May 27, 20261 hr 0 min

Episode 114 - Yielding for a Better Brace

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 in mass timber and other modern structural systems.Guest Profile:Brandt Saxey, SE, is the VP of Preconstruction Sales / Technical Director at CoreBrace. He brings deep technical experience in buckling restrained brace systems, including design support, preconstruction coordination, and helping engineers understand how BRBFs behave in real projects. His work sits at the intersection of seismic design, constructability, manufacturer coordination, and practical application of BRBs in modern structures.Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by IDEA StatiCa. Download the latest version of IDEA StatiCa Software | IDEA StatiCa 14-Day Free Trial | IDEA StatiCaLinks & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdReach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedinDisclaimer: Here

May 27, 202628 min

Episode 113 - How Software Leaders See the Future of Structural Engineering

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 structural design workflows continue to evolve.Guest Profile:Stephanie Bourgeois Kennard is the North American CEO of IDEA StatiCa, bringing a leadership perspective on software adoption, customer needs, and how structural engineering workflows are evolving across the industry.Vojtěch Chalupa is the Chief Product Officer at IDEA StatiCa, where he helps guide product strategy and development for tools used by structural engineers around the world. His work focuses on improving connection design workflows, interoperability, and practical software solutions for real-world engineering problems.Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by IDEA StatiCa.Download the latest version of IDEA StatiCa Software | IDEA StatiCa 14-Day Free Trial | IDEA StatiCa Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdReach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedinDisclaimer: Here 

May 17, 202652 min

Episode 112 – Good Connections Make Great Structures

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 design process, and how lessons from tension structures and “form follows force” design can shape the way engineers approach everyday projects. The conversation also covers the balance between engineering judgment and software automation, the risks of black-box design workflows, how digital tools can improve collaboration between engineers, fabricators, and detailers, and what AI and parametric design may mean for the future of connection engineering.Guest Profile: Andrea Castelo is a Technical Manager - Structural Engineer at IDEA StatiCa specializing in steel connection design, constructability, and engineering workflows that improve collaboration between engineers, detailers, and fabricators. Johan Lozada is a Product Engineer at IDEA StatiCa focused on structural steel connection design, BIM integration, and workflow automation for complex steel structures. Together, they work closely with the structural engineering industry to help engineers solve challenging connection problems and streamline real-world design workflows.Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by IDEA StatiCa. Download the latest version of IDEA StatiCa Software | IDEA StatiCa  14-Day Free Trial | IDEA StatiCaLinks & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdReach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedinDisclaimer: Here

May 17, 20261 hr 13 min

Episode 111 - Can Glass Really Be Structural?

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 control the performance of the entire system. The conversation also covers the differences between annealed, heat-strengthened, and fully tempered glass, how standards and testing inform design, common misconceptions about brittleness and safety, and why close collaboration between architects, fabricators, and engineers is essential when ambitious transparent structures are the goal.Guest Profile:Matt Soda, P.Eng., PE, SE is a Structural Project Engineer with RJC Engineers, where he specializes in structural glass and facade engineering. His work focuses on delivering high-performance glass systems that balance architectural vision with structural behavior, constructability, and long-term durability. He brings hands-on experience designing elegant transparent structures and insight into one of the most technically demanding materials used in modern construction. Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdExcellent references for architects and engineers interested in glass design:  Home - Structural Glass Design Manual Erin Mills Town Centre – Globe Structure | glassonweb.com Structural Glass Engineering in North America - RJC EngineersReach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin

May 17, 20261 hr 7 min

Episode 110 - Venues Aren’t “Just Code”: Vibration, Rigging & Mall Reuse

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 why exposed structure can either elevate architecture or become a liability. The conversation also covers adaptive reuse of malls and anchor boxes, what engineers look for when evaluating existing buildings, common misconceptions about reuse and overbuilding, how structural testing and “detective work” inform decisions, and why early engineering involvement is critical when design intent is ambitious but budgets and sites are constrained.Guest Profile:Travis Corigliano, PE, SE, is a Principal at Magnusson Klemencic Associates (MKA) in Seattle, where he leads the firm’s Retail & Entertainment market sector. His work focuses on designing spaces where people actively choose to go like concert venues, immersive entertainment, and redeveloped retail environments balancing strong architectural intent with structural performance, constructability, and long‑term flexibility.Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdStructural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp.Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin

May 17, 20261 hr 1 min

Episode 109 – How Coastal Structures Hold Back the Ocean

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 forces, and where standard structural intuition starts to fall apart. The conversation also covers how ASCE 7, ASCE 24, and FEMA guidance are used in practice, common misconceptions around seawalls and shoreline protection, how engineers communicate risk to clients, and what the future of coastal design may look like as conditions continue to evolve. Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdStructural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp.Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin

May 17, 202652 min

Episode 108 - What LEGO Can Teach Structural Engineers

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, and how to balance simplicity with technical accuracy.Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdStructural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp. Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin 

May 17, 202657 min

Episode 107 – The Structural Logic of High‑End Residential Design

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 open‑concept demands and social‑media‑driven ideas, and where early decisions can either unlock or constrain the design. The conversation also dives into renovations, including when selective demolition is necessary, common surprises hidden in existing construction, and how engineers adapt when plans change midstream.Finally, we reflect on lessons learned from managing scope creep and value engineering, to coordinating with contractors and mechanical systems, to handling complex roofs and tight architectural tolerances. The episode closes with practical advice for engineers new to residential work and insights that often surprise those coming from commercial design.Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdStructural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp. Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by CalcBook, the go-to calculation platform built specifically for structural engineers. Whether you're designing steel connections, concrete members, or timber framing, CalcBook helps you create transparent, organized, and code-referenced calculations in a fraction of the time.Spend less time formatting spreadsheets and more time engineering. Check them out at CalcBook.com. 

May 17, 202648 min

Episode 106 - Mast Frame: Rethinking Seismic Systems

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 architectural openness in ways that standard systems struggle to match. From nonlinear response history analysis to capacity design of mast members, we walk through the technical decisions that shaped the system. We also get into the practical realities detailing strategies that allow the mast to rock, base connections that handle massive overturning forces, and the construction challenges of erecting a tall, stiff truss inside a transparent building.Finally, we zoom out to discuss where mast frames fit in the future of seismic design. Will hybrid systems like BRBM become more common in dense urban environments? How might codes evolve to better capture their behavior? And what lessons should engineers carry forward before attempting a similar system on their own project?Links & Resources:StructurEd (our free study tool): TheEngineeringPodcast.com/StructurEdStructural Trivia:Sign up for our structural trivia! A quick email mid-week will keep you sharp. Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance; affordable, engineer-friendly liability coverage starting at just $29/month, designed to give structural engineers the protection they need with zero hassle. Go to NextInsurance.com/sepodcast and get a free quote today!

May 17, 202632 min

Episode 105 - Standardizing Tornado Resilience: Provisions of ASCE 7-22 Chapter 32

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 quick email mid-week will keep you sharp (FYI-Survey Monkey is often re-directed to the spam folder). Reach out to us:TheEngineeringPodcast.comInstagramLinkedin Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance; affordable, engineer-friendly liability coverage starting at just $29/month, designed to give structural engineers the protection they need with zero hassle. Go to NextInsurance.com/sepodcast and get a free quote today! 