Catalyst Conversations

Part 3 in our acoustic door series continues the conversation between Grace Jacob of IAC Acoustics and Mike Sirna of Hensel Diversified Construction, and takes it a step further to look at what happens during installation because even the best designed acoustic door can run into problems if the installation isn't done correctly. Whether you’re an architect writing specs or a contractor installing...

Part 2 in our acoustic door series continues the conversation between Grace Jacob of IAC Acoustics and Mike Sirna of Hensel Diversified Construction, digging deeper into something that surprises a lot of people: the door itself is only part of the acoustic performance equation. Whether you’re an architect writing specs or a contractor installing in the field, this episode offers practical insight...

Listen in as we focus on engineering services for noise control solutions, not as a product, but as a decision-making tool. We discuss why acoustical, noise, vibration, and seismic decisions are often unclear early in a project, what risks those unknowns create, and how engineering analysis helps teams reduce rework, improve accuracy, and meet demanding schedules, especially in high-stakes environ...

Kit door or factory pre-hung? It’s a question that surfaces on nearly every project where sound control matters. In this episode of Catalyst Conversations, Grace Jacob of IAC Acoustics and Mike Sirna of Hensel Diversified Construction discuss the differences between the two. Whether you’re an architect writing specs or a contractor installing in the field, this episode offers practical insight int...

In this episode, we explore how acoustical products are conceived, tested, and refined through the lens of Riverbank Acoustical Laboratories and one of the most forward-thinking voices in acoustic design. We discuss how product aesthetics have evolved, how testing methodologies shape product outcomes, and what the future holds for acoustic innovation across industries. We are joined by Eric Wolfra...

In this episode, we focus on the synergy between Kinetics Noise Control and CurbTech. We explore Kinetics’ history in the roof curb market, the recent Catalyst acquisition of CurbTech, and how these two businesses are partnering to deliver the industry’s best curb solutions, while driving growth and innovation for their customers. We are joined by Joe VanHoorn from Kinetics and Trent Globetti from...

In this episode, hear about a topic that quietly impacts our daily lives yet is often overlooked in the early stages of design: acoustics . Michael Fay, a 45-year veteran AV and acoustical design engineer, former editor of Recording Engineer/Producer magazine, and author of Acoustic Essentials for Architects , has a gift for breaking down complex concepts into practical, no-nonsense guidance—makin...

This episode takes you behind the scenes of a Discoshow project in Las Vegas, where we explore the unique acoustical challenges of transforming a former sports betting room into a dynamic space featuring an LED dance floor, towering video walls, and an interactive crowd experience. You’ll hear how the expert collaboration between Kinetics Noise Control, Acousthetics, and Schwob Acoustics delivered...

Tune in to hear Mark Rich and Aaron Duncan of Sound Seal delve into the critical role of acoustics in educational environments and how proper sound management can enhance learning experiences for students and teachers alike. Our guests will provide an overview of industrial and architectural solutions offered by Sound Seal, discuss seasonal trends, and introduce a new fabric line. If your acoustic...

This episode recaps the Data Center World tradeshow in Washington, DC., where Kinetics Noise Control and Noise Barriers exhibited. We are joined by John Sofra and Jerry Davis from Kinetics, and James Thomas and Austin Rupp from Noise Barriers. To learn more about Kinetics, please visit https://kineticsnoise.com/ To learn more about Noise Barriers, please visit https://www.noisebarriers.com/

This webinar helps attendees learn more about the launch of a new industry event - Catalyst Connect. Hear from Catalyst CEO, Joe Lupone, and Catalyst CMO, Jennifer Chagnon, to discover the details about what you can expect when attending. Catalyst Connect is a highly focused networking event that brings together a dynamic community of professionals in the acoustics space. Enjoy keynotes and for-cr...

This presentation by Eric Wolfram focuses on the key concepts in building acoustics and how occupants experience each. Key topics covered include: - An explanation of the most common ASTM classifications cited in building codes and architectural specifications, including STC, NRC, and IIC. - Insight into the physical properties of materials that contribute to real performance in each of these cate...

This episode focuses on what it means to be a rep for Catalyst brands, including the unique opportunities available for reps across many product lines and services, benefits that help elevate their sales performance, and continued marketing support received that is unmatched in the marketplace. We are joined by Jennifer Chagnon, Chief Marketing Officer at Catalyst, and Eric McNeal and Angela Olsen...

This discussion focuses on the recent addition to the Catalyst family in Madrid Inc. , where we explore the details about[nbsp]who Madrid is, its rich history, and its vision for the future. We are joined by Bob Ellis, President of Madrid, and Joe Lupone, CEO of Catalyst Acoustics Group , to further examine the acquisition and long-term plans for Madrid.

During this episode, we explore a crucial aspect of design that often goes unnoticed — designing for the experience, not just the appearance, when creating spaces. Joined by Dave Novak from Ketchum & Walton and Jason Ehrlich from Kinetics Noise Control , this conversation covers how architects and interior designers need to consider noise and sound control in their projects to ensure functiona...

This episode provides a deep-dive conversation between Richard Lenz, founder of RealAcoustix, and Sam Berkow, founder of SIA Acoustics. Both are experts in acoustics and share their thoughts and experiences on ten featured industry topics. Founded in 2008 as an architectural acoustics manufacturer, RealAcoustix prides itself on offering customization paired with top-notch customer service and sati...

This conversation focuses on a music practice rooms project involving IAC Acoustics and QuietStar Industries at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Hear from industry experts Rodrigo Muzquiz from IAC and Steve Dutton from QuietStar as they detail this unique project and review how several critical obstacles were overcome to produce tremendous results.

This episode focuses on the rapidly growing Data Center industry and how critical controlling noise is for employees at the facility and neighboring areas to follow city ordinances. Hear from Kinetics noise control experts, John Sofra and Robert Hassler, as they sit down for a thorough discussion on the noise issues data centers face and solutions that can be implemented.

This discussion is led by Noise Barriers’ Regional Sales Manager, Kevan Mann, and Noise Barriers' Mid-West & West Regional Sales Manager, James Thomas. Noise Barriers was formed by a group of highly motivated and experienced individuals with the desire to provide a vast array of noise control products and services. The Noise Barriers product family includes architectural and industrial doors, wind...

This discussion between Mary Neill, an audiologist with Hearing Diagnostics LLC, and Rodrigo Muzquiz, IAC’s Architectural Enclosures Sales Manager, dives into the details of audiology testing and audiology booths. Since 1949, IAC Acoustics has built over 40,000 audiometric rooms in hospitals, clinics, universities, schools, labs, and medical centers across the US and around the globe, making them...

On this episode of Catalyst Conversations, we went outside of Catalyst to find our guests, and are thrilled to share we’ll be speaking with John Storyk , a founding partner of Walter-Storyk Design Group (WSDG) and a registered architect and acoustician, and Keith Peterson of the manufacturer’s representative firm, K. Peterson & Associates. During the conversation, we’ll discuss what goes into...

On the next episode of Catalyst Conversations, we discuss outdoor noise control solutions with Aaron Dunca n, Industrial Division Sales Manager for Sound Seal, one of the companies in Catalyst’s portfolio, and Doug McDanie l, CEO of Pacific Sound Control. During this conversation, you’ll learn about a range of Sound Seal industrial products and hear Doug’s firsthand account about how their applica...

We're back to our regular format for the latest episode of Catalyst Conversations featuring two acoustic experts from IAC Acoustics . Andrew Polte , NVH & Test Facility Sales Manager, and Ted Marquis , Industrial Sales Manager, discuss considerations and best practices for designing and using acoustic testing chambers. During the talk, Andrew and Ted give us insights into the importance of dif...

The third episode of Catalyst Conversations will sound a little different than our previous two episodes. In this edition, Slavi Younger , Educator on Acoustics and the Co-Founder of Fräsch , one of the companies in Catalyst’s portfolio, speaks with Sue Ann Highland , a National Education Strategist and Industrial/Organizational Psychologist with School Specialty, in a previously recorded webinar...

In the second edition of "Catalyst Conversations" by Catalyst Acoustics Group, we speak with Eric Wolfram , the laboratory manager of Riverbank Acoustical Laboratories . If you’re in the world of acoustics, chances are, you’ve probably heard that name before. In this episode, Eric will give us insight into what services Riverbank offers, how to read an acoustical test report, and how best to utili...