By Robby 
A Little Overview Of Me
About Me. Hi there, I’m Robin, better known to friends & colleagues as Rob or Robby. I’m no stranger to the rhythmic hum of the construction site; it’s been my second home since my early days in the workforce. The call to build wasn’t just a fleeting whisper; it was a resounding declaration that guided me into the architectural cast stone sector back in the early ’90s.
My journey in the world of cast stone was more circumstantial than planned. I remember vividly the moment a customer, stranded due to a delayed work order from another supplier, turned to me in desperation. Seizing the challenge, I converted my double garage into a workshop; little did I know, that this would plant the seeds for what would become an industry-leading enterprise.
Growth wasn’t just a goal; it became my reality. My business rose from humble beginnings to a renowned name, even before the harsh tide of the 2008 financial crisis. When the global markets crashed, my business wasn’t the only casualty; I grappled with a personal downturn that left me confronting a nervous breakdown and burnout. Though I plan to speak more on this in my blog, it was a defining period that reshaped my values and outlook.
I believe in transparency and in sharing not only the peaks but also the valleys of my career. It’s through my highs and lows that I’ve gathered invaluable insights I now aim to pass on. With Cast Stone HQ, my mission extends beyond commerce; it’s about creating a repository of experience, a vault of shared knowledge, and sparking conversations that might just light the path for others.
Casting Insights: My Passion for Architectural Stone
Enduring beauty and versatility are qualities that drew me to architectural cast stone. As the creator behind Cast Stone HQ, I cherish the opportunity to share the rich history and the intricate process behind these sublime materials. When I first encountered this niche, I was captivated by how a well-crafted piece of cast stone could transform an ordinary building into a work of art.
Cast Stone HQ isn’t just a brand; it’s a culmination of years of dedication and a testament to the expansiveness of my professional journey. I’ve witnessed the ebbs and flows of the industry and enjoyed the unexpected durability of the cast stone trend. It became much more than a fleeting trend; it’s a crucial part of our architectural heritage that I had the privilege to help expand and evolve.
The successes of my many previous ventures, including building many huge homes in several countries, were milestones in my career. However, they were more than just financial achievements. They symbolized the fusion of innovation with tradition – something I’ve strived to continue throughout my professional life.
In addition to my work with architectural cast stone, I have also applied my skills and knowledge to the parallel worlds of crafts and DIY. The processes involved in creating models and molds for crafts are remarkably similar to those used in cast stone, albeit on a smaller scale. This crossover has allowed me to refine my techniques and expand my expertise. My diverse skill set, honed through years of experience as a high-end home builder, enables me to tackle a wide range of DIY projects with confidence and precision. Whether it’s crafting intricate models or undertaking ambitious home renovations, through management, I bring the same level of dedication and craftsmanship to every endeavor.
Higher Bar
My approach has always been to set the bar higher, and with Cast Stone HQ, I aim to preserve the legacy while paving new paths. By openly sharing insights, tips, and personal anecdotes from the stone-soaked trenches, I am determined to support and inspire those in the industry—veterans and newcomers alike.
Beyond my dedication to cast stone, I’ve found a renewed sense of purpose in the digital world. Joining Wealthy Affiliates has reignited my passion for learning and growth. Building websites and delving into the world of e-commerce has been incredibly fulfilling, even after retirement.
This incredible platform, with its free starter package and supportive community, has empowered me to achieve my goals from the comfort of my home and embrace the freedom of a digital nomad lifestyle. As I turn the page, I see this website as a bridge connecting my past achievements with the bright futures of others. I look forward to fostering a community where knowledge is not just bestowed, but shared collaboratively, ensuring that the art of architectural cast stone is cherished and advanced for generations to come. Thank you for joining me on this remarkable journey.
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