In this special crossover episode of Monument Matters and We Rock, Mike Johns, Tony Watson and Austin Keese explore how education, networking and association involvement continue to shape the monument industry. The discussion highlights the evolving value of Monument Builders of North America, the role of regional associations, mentorship, workforce development and the importance of sharing knowledge across generations. Along the way, the conversation touches on Monument Builders Academy, industry events, leadership and why staying connected may be one of the most valuable investments monument professionals can make.

• (00:00:05) - Monument Matters
• (00:02:04) - MBCN News Nightly
• (00:03:00) - MBNA and the Member Value
• (00:10:53) - Regional Association Connection
• (00:16:17) - What's in it for the monument industry?
• (00:17:17) - The Value of the NBNA Smba
• (00:24:33) - MBNA Membership and the
• (00:31:49) - Regional Conferences Are Growing in Attendance
• (00:39:32) - Volunteers: Our Industry's Turnaround
• (00:40:28) - MBNA: The Middle East Connection
• (00:46:25) - The Secret Life of Work
• (00:47:12) - A Taste of We Rock Podcast
• (00:48:17) - There We Rock
• (00:49:46) - Good Morning, Everybody

In this special takeover episode of Monument Matters, the leadership team of WinMBNA shares personal stories, career lessons, and insights into the future of the monument industry. Cristine Bouwkamp, Courtney Swart, Abbey Metcalf, and Ryan Worthington discuss mentorship, networking, women in leadership, and the importance of creating supportive spaces for professional growth. The conversation also explores how WinMBNA provides education, scholarships, webinars, community discussions, and meaningful industry connections that help members grow personally and professionally. From learning to speak up with confidence to adapting to AI and new technologies, this episode focuses on carving a stronger path forward together

• (00:00:00) - Women in Monument Builders
• (00:01:49) - NbNA Take Over the Podcast
• (00:02:06) - Three Women Get Involved in the Monument Industry
• (00:05:56) - How to Work More effectively
• (00:11:36) - Craft Industry Voices: Opportunities for Women
• (00:15:58) - What does the Wynn NBNA provide that may not exist elsewhere
• (00:19:21) - Wonders of the Retail Industry Facebook Group
• (00:23:06) - What's the future of the monument industry?
• (00:26:19) - Winsnbna Conference & Programs
• (00:27:53) - Virtual 5K
• (00:30:08) - Wynn 5K
• (00:31:33) - MBCNA volunteer opportunities
• (00:33:40) - Monument Matters: Members Benefit

Lettering is often treated as a secondary step in monument design—but should it be? In this episode, Brandon Billester of the Monument Lettering Center joins the conversation to explore the evolution of typography in the monument industry, from hand-drawn craftsmanship to today’s standardized digital fonts. He explains how new font technologies are reintroducing customization, creativity, and artistic expression, while also offering practical advice for shops looking to experiment without overcomplicating their process. From kerning to ligatures, this discussion highlights how thoughtful lettering can elevate design, create differentiation, and deliver greater value to families—even when they can’t quite explain why.