Demo Dispatch Episode 1: Nick McGarel & David Griffin Jr. on Safety, Workforce and the Future of Demo
November 17, 2025
Welcome to the launch episode of Demo Dispatch! This new monthly podcast from the National Demolition Association brings you timely updates, safety lessons from the field and real-world conversations with the professionals shaping the future of demolition.
🎙️ In this episode:
-
The Rundown (00:42): NDA President Ben Hayden introduces the podcast relaunch, highlights the association’s latest legislative wins, and shares updates on upcoming events and certification programs.
-
From the Field (4:45): Safety Committee Chair Nick McGarel (Brandenburg) recounts a high-risk utility verification failure at a chemical plant — and how early field action prevented a serious incident.
-
Member Conversation (15:11): David Griffin Jr., president of D.H. Griffin Companies, joins NDA’s Jim Graham to talk about running a multigenerational business, adapting to workforce challenges, and why “AI will never replace the craft worker.”
Want to share your story or get involved in a future episode? Email aschlosser@demolitionassociation.org to express your interest.