In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns speaks with military researcher Bill Beigel, founder of World War II Research, Inc., about how monument builders can ensure accuracy and depth in veterans memorials. Beigel shares how professional research can uncover forgotten heroes, correct misspelled names, and add meaningful personal stories to each engraved name. The conversation explores partnerships between researchers and monument builders, the ethical importance of getting every detail right, and how emerging technologies like digital markers and NFC chips can extend memorial experiences while preserving the sacred nature of stone.

• (00:00:05) - Monument Matters
• (00:00:45) - Bill Beagle
• (00:02:45) - The Challenges of Building Veterans Memorials
• (00:09:03) - Finding the stories of World War II soldiers
• (00:12:35) - What Would a National Monument Cost?
• (00:13:41) - Using Digital Markers to Enhance Monument Experience
• (00:15:46) - When Technology Meets Necessity
• (00:20:05) - What's the Memorial of the Future?

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns speaks with Mark Harrison, president of Certified Safety Training (CST), about the real-world safety risks inside monument shops and how OSHA compliance goes far beyond checking boxes. From silica exposure and air-quality testing to lifting hazards, respirator programs, and recordkeeping, Mark breaks down what every monument builder needs to know—and why creating a culture of safety is essential for protecting employees and businesses alike. They also discuss common OSHA violations, cost-saving strategies, and the new free MBNA safety checklist designed to help members identify risks before they become problems.

• (00:00:05) - Monument Matters
• (00:01:28) - Five of the Most Deadly Work Hazards
• (00:04:14) - Veteren Audit
• (00:05:52) - OSHA Compliance: Building a Safer Company
• (00:08:52) - Asbestos in Cigarettes
• (00:12:04) - What's the First Billboard You See When You Land in the US
• (00:13:28) - OSHA fines for granite or sandblasting
• (00:19:00) - OSHA Compliance Programs
• (00:24:25) - MBNA Membership Checklist
• (00:24:47) - Memorial Production Facility Safety Podcast

In this episode of Monument Matters, host Mike Johns talks with Mike Lannen, digital strategist and founder of Eternity, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping monument businesses. From sales and marketing to customer service and design, AI can streamline repetitive tasks and free up time for what matters most—serving families. Lannen shares practical, affordable ways small shops can start using AI today, along with insights on addressing staff concerns and keeping the “human touch” central to every memorial project. Discover how one simple AI tool could save you 30 minutes this week—and open the door to new efficiencies across your business.

• (00:00:05) - Monument Matters
• (00:01:20) - When Did AI Make Your Work?
• (00:04:48) - Are You Ready to Use AI in Your Monument Business?
• (00:07:43) - Will AI Replace Your Jobs?
• (00:12:25) - Robot Service: The Replacement of Human Workers
• (00:14:25) - AI Money Builders: The 3 Tips
• (00:16:56) - Monument Matters: Future Podcasts /