In this episode of the Blacktop Banter Podcast, Marvin recaps the 2024 PaveX show in San Antonio, Texas including the Blacktop Banter Kickoff Event, show floor and outdoor demos, special guests, community and collaboration, after party and the anticipation for next year's event. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Aquaphalt, Pave/X and World of Asphalt //DISCOUNT LINKS ►(Jobber) https://go.getjobber.com/blacktopbanter ► Code BB20 at https://www.worldofasphalt.com/ //SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams. //SHOW YOUR SUPPORT ►(Leave A Tip or Donation): https://blacktopbanter.com/support //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Business Inquiries: [email protected] The Blacktop Banter podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the challenges of owning your own asphalt maintenance business. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #pothole #potholerepair #pavex © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2024. All rights reserved.

In this conversation, JP Dinnell shares insights on managing expectations, driving ownership, and applying lessons and tactics learned from the military to personal and business life. He and Marvin discuss leadership methods, the importance of working smart, the value of hard work, and the power of belief and execution. They also explore the need for forward thinking, learning from setbacks, and developing a thinking culture within organizations. The conversation highlights the role of Echelon Front in teaching leadership principles and providing support to businesses. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the importance of giving permission to lead and addressing issues with clarity and support. He provides general advice for business owners and emphasizes the importance of assessing one's current environment. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Aquaphalt, Pave/X and World of Asphalt //DISCOUNT LINKS ►(Jobber) https://go.getjobber.com/blacktopbanter ► Code BB20 at https://www.worldofasphalt.com/ //SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams. //SHOW YOUR SUPPORT ►(Leave A Tip or Donation): https://blacktopbanter.com/support //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Business Inquiries: [email protected] The Blacktop Banter podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the challenges of owning your own asphalt maintenance business. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #pothole #potholerepair #echelonfront © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2024. All rights reserved.

In this episode of Blacktop Banter, Marvin Joles interviews Jamie Cochran, the Chief Operating Officer at Echelon Front. They discuss the importance of leadership and how to improve leadership skills. Jamie shares her journey to Echelon Front and how she developed her own leadership skills. She emphasizes that leadership is a skill that can be learned and improved upon. Jamie also highlights the importance of applying leadership principles at home and being an example for children. The episode concludes with advice to stop making excuses and take action to improve your own leadership skills. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Aquaphalt, Pave/X and World of Asphalt //DISCOUNT LINKS ►(Jobber) https://go.getjobber.com/blacktopbanter ► Code BB20 at https://www.worldofasphalt.com/ //SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams. //SHOW YOUR SUPPORT ►(Leave A Tip or Donation): https://blacktopbanter.com/support //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Business Inquiries: [email protected] The Blacktop Banter podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the challenges of owning your own asphalt maintenance business. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #pothole #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2024. All rights reserved.

Adrian and Arlun Alblas share the story of the growth of their company, Burnaby Blacktop, in the paving industry. They started with humble beginnings, knocking on doors to sell sealer and gradually expanded their services. Challenges in finding the right staff and creating a positive company culture were overcome through perseverance and dedication. The brothers focused on improving efficiency by investing in new technology, such as milling machines, and implementing systems and software for better organization. They emphasized the importance of integrity and customer service, always striving to leave customers satisfied. Lessons learned include staying calm in difficult situations and allowing others to excel in their roles. The Alblas brothers also discussed the role of social media in their business and expressed appreciation for Marvin's work in connecting people in the industry. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Aquaphalt, Pave/X and World of Asphalt //DISCOUNT LINKS ►(Jobber) https://go.getjobber.com/blacktopbanter ► BB20 at https://www.worldofasphalt.com/ //SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams. //SHOW YOUR SUPPORT ►(Leave A Tip or Donation): https://blacktopbanter.com/support //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Business Inquiries: [email protected] The Blacktop Banter podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the challenges of owning your own asphalt maintenance business. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #pothole #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2024. All rights reserved.

In this episode, Marvin and Naylor Taliaferro, the Lawn Care Rookie, discuss their backgrounds and how Naylor got into the lawn care industry. They talk about their experiences in retail management and the challenges they faced in balancing work and family life. Naylor shares how he discovered his passion for lawn care and the journey that led him to start his own business. They also discuss the importance of self-reflection and making changes to improve one's quality of life. The conversation covers the transition from retail to lawn care, starting a lawn care business, building a customer base, the importance of branding and route density, the growth of the community and the GIE Rally, creating a hub for communication, and the expansion of LCR Media and events. Takeaways Finding purpose and passion in your work is essential for personal fulfillment. Balancing work and family life is a challenge that many people face. Self-sabotage can be a sign of unhappiness and the need for change. Starting a business requires taking risks and making difficult decisions. Taking time for self-reflection and prioritizing personal well-being is crucial. Building a customer base requires strategic marketing and leveraging personal connections. Branding and route density are key factors in establishing a successful lawn care business. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Aquaphalt, Pave/X and World of Asphalt //DISCOUNT LINKS ►(Jobber) https://go.getjobber.com/blacktopbanter ► BB20 at https://www.worldofasphalt.com/ //SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams. //SHOW YOUR SUPPORT ►(Leave A Tip or Donation): https://blacktopbanter.com/support //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Business Inquiries: [email protected] The Blacktop Banter podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the challenges of owning your own asphalt maintenance business. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #pothole #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2024. All rights reserved.

In this episode, Marvin interviews Jack Child, the founder of G-Force Parking Lot Striping. Jack shares his journey from being a pilot to starting his own franchise of veteran-owned line striping companies. He explains how he got into the driveway sealing business and eventually transitioned into striping. Jack also discusses the challenges and rewards of franchising, particularly focusing on veterans as franchise owners. He emphasizes the importance of a supportive network and company culture. Jack provides insights into the process of becoming a G-Force franchise owner and highlights the upcoming Ignite Summit and other ventures under the Veteran Service Brands umbrella. In this conversation, Jack Child discusses the importance of people in business success. He emphasizes that having the right team, who share the same values and apply the tools provided, is crucial. Jack also shares his experience in building a strong team and highlights the value of respect in all aspects of business relationships. Takeaways G-Force Parking Lot Striping is a franchise of veteran-owned line striping companies. Franchising allows G-Force to attract and support more veterans in starting their own businesses. The G-Force franchise network provides a strong support system and fosters a sense of camaraderie among franchisees. The process of becoming a G-Force franchise owner involves extensive training and ongoing support. Company culture and employee buy-in are crucial for success in the franchise industry. Support systems and networks are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving success in business. Building a strong team requires hiring the right individuals and fostering a positive work culture. Creating a remote work culture can be challenging, but regular team retreats and communication can help build connections. Respect for employees, customers, vendors, and oneself is key to maintaining successful business relationships. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Aquaphalt, Pave/X and World of Asphalt //DISCOUNT LINKS ►(Jobber) https://go.getjobber.com/blacktopbanter ► BB20 //SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams. //SHOW YOUR SUPPORT ►(Leave A Tip or Donation): https://blacktopbanter.com/support //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Business Inquiries: [email protected] The Blacktop Banter podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the challenges of owning your own asphalt maintenance business. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #pothole #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2024. All rights reserved.

In this episode of Blacktop Banter, Marvin interviews Shawn Prince, VP of Business Development at Attentive AI, about the benefits and misconceptions of AI in the construction industry. They discuss the hesitancy surrounding AI, the potential for AI to improve efficiency and accuracy in estimating and sales processes, and the future integration of AI in various aspects of the industry. Shawn emphasizes the importance of finding a partner, not just a product, when implementing AI technology and highlights the speed, accuracy, and support provided by Attentive AI. Learn more about Attentive AI at: https://attentive.ai Takeaways - AI technology can greatly improve efficiency and accuracy in estimating and sales processes for contractors. - Hesitancy towards AI is often due to misconceptions and a lack of understanding about its capabilities. -Finding a partner, not just a product, is crucial when implementing AI technology. - The future of AI integration in the construction industry holds great potential for further automation and improved productivity. //VENDOR DISCOUNTS ►(Jobber): https://go.getjobber.com/blacktopbanter ►(Stencil Plus): Use code BB10 during checkout at https://stencilplus.com ►(World of Asphalt): Use code BB20 during registration at https://worldofasphalt.com //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Aquaphalt, Pave/X and World of Asphalt //SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams. //SHOW YOUR SUPPORT ►(Leave A Tip or Donation): https://blacktopbanter.com/support //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Business Inquiries: [email protected] The Blacktop Banter podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the challenges of owning your own asphalt maintenance business. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #pothole #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2024. All rights reserved.

In this episode of Blacktop Banter, Chad Buck of Buck Brothers Asphalt, Paving and Concrete takes us on a fascinating journey through the trials, triumphs, and evolutions of a family business during a call with members of the Blacktop Banter Success Group. When Chad took over the family business at 21, the venture was struggling against the weight of outdated operations and practices. Chad dives into the difficulties encountered and successful strategies he implemented to turn the business from losing money to doing more than $10 MILLION in sales every year. He shares valuable insights for any aspiring entrepreneur dealing with painful setbacks while trying to steer their company on a path of resilience and evolution in order to leave family legacy. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Liberty Supply, Spot On Site App, Aquaphalt and Pave/X. //SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER (Coming 2024!) ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams: https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg //SUPPORT THE SHOW ►(Recurring Donation): https://blacktop-banter.ck.page/products/donate ►(Leave a Tip): https://blacktop-banter.ck.page/products/tip //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Inquiries: [email protected] This Podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the bumps of owning your own business along the way. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #potholepro #potholes #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2023. All rights reserved.

In this episode of Blacktop Banter, Marvin interviews Drew Mohatt, the Business Development Manager at Holcim US. Drew shares his journey in the asphalt industry and discusses the focus on safety and sustainability at Holcim US. He emphasizes the importance of communication between contractors and material producers and encourages feedback to improve processes. Drew also highlights the value of networking and maintaining relationships in the industry. In this conversation, Drew Mohatt discusses the importance of collaboration in the asphalt industry. They then delve into the topic of cold mix design, exploring the different types and brands available. The conversation also touches on Holcim US's approach to cold mix and their plans to enter the market. The barriers to entry and differences in cold mix production are discussed, as well as the factors that affect cold mix quality. The conversation concludes with a focus on green solutions and sustainability, and a discussion on the value and quality of different cold mix products. Takeaways Safety and sustainability are key focuses in the asphalt industry. Effective communication between contractors and material producers is crucial for successful projects. Building and maintaining relationships is essential for personal and professional growth. Feedback and continuous improvement are important for optimizing processes and operations. Collaboration is crucial in the asphalt industry, and the ability to support and cheer others is essential. There are different types and brands of cold mix available, including traditional cold mix and high-performance cold mix with modified polymers. Holcim US is looking to enter the cold mix market and provide clients with different mix designs to meet their specific needs. The barriers to entry for cold mix production are relatively low compared to hot mix, but the quality and performance of the product can vary. Factors such as the type of aggregate used, the presence of polymers, and adherence to environmental regulations can affect the quality of cold mix. There is a growing focus on green solutions and sustainability in the asphalt industry. The value and quality of different cold mix products can vary, and it's important to consider the specific requirements of each project. Setting goals and continuously improving oneself is key to personal and professional growth. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Liberty Supply, Spot On Site App, Aquaphalt and Pave/X. //SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER (Coming 2024!) ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams: https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg //SUPPORT THE SHOW ►(Recurring Donation): https://blacktop-banter.ck.page/products/donate ►(Leave a Tip): https://blacktop-banter.ck.page/products/tip //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Inquiries: [email protected] This Podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the bumps of owning your own business along the way. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #potholepro #potholes #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2023. All rights reserved.

Summary In this conversation, Eli Stoehr shares his journey in the asphalt industry and his role in The Pavement Group. He discusses his upbringing in Wisconsin, his parents' careers, and the importance of work-life balance. Eli also talks about his transition into the asphalt industry and the challenges he faced. He emphasizes the significance of building authentic relationships in sales and shares a tactical tip of using selfie videos to connect with clients. Eli's story highlights the importance of patience, perseverance, and continuous learning in achieving success. Takeaways Building authentic relationships is crucial in sales and business. Patience and perseverance are key qualities for success. Using selfie videos can be an effective way to connect with clients and build relationships. Learning from failures and continuously improving is essential for personal and professional growth. //SHOW SPONSORS This episode is brought to you by Crafco, the official sponsor of Blacktop Banter. Learn more at crafco.com Podcast sponsors: Crafco, Dynapac, KM International, 800 Pavement Network, Stencil Plus, Liberty Supply, Spot On Site App, Aquaphalt and Pave/X. //SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER (Coming 2024!) ►Asphalt industry news and articles made BY and FOR asphalt contractors, delivered straight to your inbox: https://blacktopbanter.com //JOIN THE SUCCESS GROUP ►A group of professional asphalt contractors sharing their knowledge, tools and resources to help you build the asphalt business of your dreams: https://blacktopbanter.com/bbsg //SUPPORT THE SHOW ►(Recurring Donation): https://blacktop-banter.ck.page/products/donate ►(Leave a Tip): https://blacktop-banter.ck.page/products/tip //BLACKTOP BANTER MERCH ►https://www.blacktopbanter.com/store Visit us online at https://www.blacktopbanter.com For Inquiries: [email protected] This Podcast discusses Asphalt Sealcoating, Hot-Rubberized Crack Sealing, Patching, Base Information, Recycled Asphalt Millings, Hot-Mix Asphalt, Line Striping, and Paving for residential and commercial customers. We also discuss how to stay motivated as an entrepreneur and how to deal with the bumps of owning your own business along the way. #wespeakasphalt #AsphaltRepair #RoadConstruction #PavementMaintenance #PavementManagement #AsphaltSealing #ChipSealStreet #AsphaltInstallation #PavingContractors #AsphaltSpecialists #potholepro #potholes #potholerepair © Blacktop Banter, LLC, 2023. All rights reserved.