Raising The Grade
Welcome to a podcast that celebrates the visionaries and trailblazers of the hardscape and landscaping industry in the vibrant Phoenix Metro Valley. Each episode delves into the stories of industry leaders who are redefining landscapes and elevating the standard of excellence in their craft. But we don’t stop there—we also spotlight dynamic businesses and inspiring personalities from diverse fields who are “raising the grade,” offering fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. Whether you're a seasoned professional or simply someone with a passion for transformation, this podcast promises to inspire, inform, and elevate your vision.
Raising The Grade
The Power of Quality and Teamwork with Antonio Fernandez | Raising The Grade Podcast
What does it take to build lasting partnerships, grow an industry, and deliver world-class hardscapes? In this episode of Raising the Grade, I sat down with Antonio Fernandez, Hardscapes Sales Manager for Mirage Porcelain & Bellegarde, to talk about the evolution of the industry, the power of collaboration, and the importance of quality over quick wins.
Antonio’s journey from IT to the world of building materials is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days at Thompson Building Materials to becoming a key player in Mirage Porcelain & Bellegarde’s hardscape solutions, Antonio has seen firsthand how education, innovation, and strong relationships can shape a thriving industry.
In this episode, we dive into:
- The rise of porcelain pavers and their impact on the industry
- Why training and education are crucial for contractors
- The biggest mistakes in hardscape installations (and how to avoid them)
- How industry partnerships are reshaping the way we build outdoor spaces
If you're a contractor, landscaper, or just someone looking to learn more about quality materials, installation best practices, and the future of hardscapes, this episode is a must-watch.
Watch the full episode now and drop your thoughts in the comments!
Key Moments:
0:10 – Who is Antonio Fernandez?
3:50 – From IT to Hardscapes: Antonio’s Journey
11:00 – The Evolution of Porcelain Pavers
17:00 – The Importance of Vendor & Contractor Relationships
25:30 – Common Installation Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
35:00 – Training & Education: Why It Matters
42:30 – How Quality Materials Affect Long-Term Results
57:00 – Future Innovations in Hardscaping
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