MASONRY STRONG Podcast Episode 19 Recap: Mike & Tom Finch

Words: Justin Stengel

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Mike and Tom Finch join the set in Indianapolis to crack jokes, talk about how they both got started in this industry, and the ways they've seen this trade advance and evolve over the years.

The Roots of a Family Business

The story of Mike and Tom Finch is linked to their father's legacy. The Finch family has been involved with the masonry industry for over 78 years in San Diego.

A Humble Beginning with a Life Lesson

The Finch brothers shared their unique start in the family business, emphasizing their father's role in shaping their career path. Mike humorously recounts borrowing money for a 10-speed bike, only to work it off by repaying his father—a first step into the business world without ever filling out a traditional job application.

Tom took a similarly unconventional path, starting at a young age in what he jokingly refers to as "slave labor" before progressing to more advanced roles. These early experiences were foundational, instilling a strong work ethic and unbreakable ties to the family business.

Daily Interactions and Dynamic Family Meetings

Mike and Tom often cross paths at work, with offices located conveniently next to each other. Their narrative paints a vivid picture of a vibrant family atmosphere, making light of typical sibling dynamics.

Family meetings often resemble friendly hallway chats, with various kids, sisters, and even the occasional crying baby making appearances. This close-knit environment seems to bolster flexible discussions from sales to operations, nurturing the family legacy further.

Adapting Roles and Responsibilities

Mike's early career consisted of wearing many hats—from sales to HR—while Tom was expected to manage the trial-ready mortar plant immediately after college, diving head-first into operations. These diverse roles allowed the brothers to understand multiple facets of the business, eventually developing their areas of specialization.

Introducing Innovation and Automation

The Finch brothers have witnessed monumental changes in the masonry industry, particularly in automation. This innovation has drastically reduced the labor intensity and traditional challenges once inherent in masonry work.

Masonry has evolved beyond red brick and gray block. Now, it includes innovative approaches like split face, grind, ground face, and shot blasts, diversifying the aesthetic options for architects and builders.

Technology and Safety

One of the significant shifts both Mike and Tom have noted is the improvement in safety protocols both on job sites and within plant operations. The increasing focus on protective gear and safer practices signifies a positive change from the loose safety standards of the past.

Engaging with the Next Generation

While automation has set the stage for production innovation, engagement with the next generation remains a crucial focus. Mike highlighted the importance of the industry's emerging youth, praising their intelligence and the fresh perspectives they bring.

Dealing with Uncertainty and Being Open to Change

For Mike and Tom, embracing change is a constant. Whether through technological advancements or evolving industry standards, they acknowledge that the future involves perpetual evolution.

Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations

While the Finch brothers plan to continue contributing to the family business, personal aspirations are also on the horizon. With relaxed dreams of becoming ski bums, they envision a future where they can still play a part in steering the business from the sidelines while pursuing personal passions.

Family Legacy and Generational Wisdom

The Finch brothers highlighted the rewards of creating long-lasting, beautiful constructions that outlive the generations and contribute value to future builders and architects.

As their journey unwinds, Mike and Tom Finch's central takeaway is how a family business can create shared experiences, offering both a livelihood and a community touchstone bridging past achievements and future innovations.

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Tune in to listen to the MASONRY STRONG Podcast every Thursday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.


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