
BUILDINGS Podcast
By Buildings Podcast
Find more facility management news at www.buildings.com
Send any comments or questions to buildingspodcast@gmail.com

BUILDINGS PodcastMay 15, 2023

The TOBY Awards: American Nevada Company’s Recipe for Success
American Nevada Company recently won its fifth consecutive local TOBY Award. Natalie Allred, vice president of property management, joins editor-in-chief Janelle Penny to talk about what it takes to win a TOBY and how listeners can position their own buildings for TOBY success.

ICYMI: Decarbonization Strategies to Reach Your Goals
Decarbonization is the logical next step for operating buildings sustainably. In our new In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) podcast feature, check out tips to help you start your journey.

Zombie Offices: Is There a Solution?
COVID has exacerbated the phenomenon of “zombie offices”—underutilized office buildings that are sitting nearly empty. One potential solution is turning these structures into multifamily housing via adaptive reuse.

Spring Storm Impact: How to Prepare Your Property
Spring storms are striking earlier this year due to the La Niña conditions. That means you need to prepare now to reduce the impact on your buildings. Join editor in chief Janelle Penny and Chuck Miccolis, managing director of commercial lines for the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), for research-backed preparedness guidance that will empower you to prepare your properties before severe weather strikes.

Conquer Your IAQ Issues
Building occupants are concerned about the air they’re breathing, but how do you know what’s in the air? Learn about your solutions for correcting issues, from ventilation and filtration to air purifiers and more, with Sissi Liu, cofounder and CEO of Metalmark.

Sustainability Part 3: Higher Education Targets Net Zero
In this third and final episode in our three-part series on sustainable design, we hone in on the higher education market to learn how colleges and universities are meeting aggressive sustainability targets.

Sustainability Part 2: Demystifying Design Tools & Third-Party Certifications
There is a myriad of ecolabels, third-party certification programs and green building rating systems on the market—enough to make an architect's or designer's head spin. In this episode, we sit down with a few industry experts to discuss the tools and programs that are available to help building professionals reduce their environmental footprints in the battle against climate change.

AHR Preview: HVAC Trends and Tech Update
What’s on deck for HVAC in 2023? Join editor in chief Janelle Penny and Doug Bougher, director of applied sales for LG Electronics USA, to hear about 2023’s top commercial trends and learn which technologies will become more popular as the industry moves toward decarbonization and electrification.

Cleaning for Health with ISSA
How do you know if your staff is truly cleaning for health? Learn how good cleaning practices can help mitigate disease risks and gain tips on demonstrating the business value of cleaning for health. Joining editor in chief Janelle Penny is Dr. Gavin Macgregor-Skinner, director of the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of ISSA. This podcast was produced in partnership with ISSA. Learn more from Rethink Clean.

Sustainability Part 1: The New Climate Reality
In this first of a three-part series on sustainability, we assess where the A&D industry is in the fight against climate change and how we can accelerate progress toward carbon neutrality. In this episode, Chief Content Director Robert Nieminen sits down with Jay Valgora, principal and founder of STUDIO V, and Jonce Walker, global director of sustainability and wellness at HLW, for a lively conversation in which they shared their passion for and perspectives on how to design for the new climate reality.

New Opportunities for Improving the Parking Experience
Technology advancements and data analytics are making it possible to improve safety and efficiency in parking facilities to create a hassle-free parking experience. Josh Feinberg of ABM joins editor in chief Janelle Penny to explain how parking facility operators can find new ways to navigate parking challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.

What’s on the Horizon for Healthcare Facilities
The healthcare industry is in a season of rapid change. What do healthcare facility teams need to know? Join BUILDINGS editor in chief Janelle Penny and Minta Ferguson of McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture to explore what healthcare facilities staffs can expect in the coming years.

The Inflation Reduction Act and You
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 contains a major incentive for commercial building owners and managers in the form of changes to the 179D deduction. Learn about the new changes to 179D with editor in chief Janelle Penny and Chris O’Neal, a senior manager with Marcum LLP.

New Energy Efficiency Funding: What You Need to Know
The Department of Energy recently published a notice of intent to provide $225 million for state and local governments to improve energy efficiency and resiliency in commercial buildings. At the same time, lawmakers in several major cities are enacting legislation to require more efficient buildings and lower carbon emissions. What do these critical developments mean for building owners and managers? Join editor in chief Janelle Penny and Nikki Mehta, director of energy and sustainability for Honeywell Building Technologies, to learn more.

The Great Disruption, Resiliency and the Workplace of the Future: A Look into Gensler’s 2022 Design Forecast
In this episode of the Buildings podcast, guests Janet Pogue, principal and global workplace research leader for Gensler’s DC office and Natalie Engels, principal, work sector leader and design director in the firm’s San Jose office to talk about Gensler’s 2022 Design Forecast. In this insightful conversation, Pogue and Engels explore how "The Great Disruption" has impacted the way architects and designers are looking at space now and in what ways will it impact the office. They also answer questions about how we design for sustainability and health now, and how do we ensure the built environment is flexible enough to deal with the kind of ongoing change we’re seeing?

How to Specify Cable Railings
Need to specify a durable, corrosion-resistant solution to define perimeters, connect spaces or complement your existing design? Cable railings may be the solution for you. Join BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny and Ultra-tec marketing director Lindsey Fox to explore the benefits and opportunities of cable infill. This podcast was created in partnership with Ultra-tec.

What is GBAC STAR?
Traveled lately? You may have seen information about hotels, convention centers or arenas pursuing GBAC STAR accreditation. Learn more about this designation and find out about an upcoming educational opportunity featuring actionable advice on keeping facilities clean.

Today’s Top Trends in HVAC Technology
What’s trending in the world of HVAC? Listen in and find out! Steve Scarbrough, senior vice president of LG Electronics USA, Air Conditioning Technologies, joins BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny at the AHR Expo to chat about today’s HVAC trends.
* This podcast was created in partnership with LG.

How the HFC Refrigerant Phasedown Affects You
The manufacturing and consumption of widely used refrigerants known as hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, will be phased down over the next 15 years to reduce the refrigerants’ climate impact. How will that affect building owners and managers whose equipment relies on HFC refrigerants? Ken West, vice president and general manager of fluorine products for Honeywell, joins editor in chief Janelle Penny to discuss how the phasedown impacts existing equipment and what alternatives are on the market.

What You Need to Know About Outdoor Air Ventilation
Bringing conditioned outdoor air into a building is crucial for improving indoor air quality and helps building owners meet sustainability goals. Dedicated outdoor air handling systems, or DOAS, facilitate outdoor air ventilation by introducing fresh outside air inside.
BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny sits down with Ed Ferrier, senior engineering manager at LG Air Conditioning Technologies, to learn more about DOAS technology and the benefits of outdoor air. Learn more.
* This podcast was created in partnership with LG.

How to Rev Up Your Recycling Program
Businesses and consumers are increasingly prizing sustainability, and that demand for eco-friendly properties requires building owners to invest time in improving recycling programs. Learn how to create a robust recycling program with Jeff Roney, vice president of operations for RWS Facility Services, and BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny.

EV Chargers: A Hot Tenant Amenity
Talk about sustainable tenant amenities was already circulating before COVID-19, but now that property owners are trying to draw people back to the office, the conversation is heating up again.
BUILDINGS editor in chief Janelle Penny welcomes Aaron Fisher and Hooman Shahidi of EVPassport to discuss why electric vehicle chargers are an in-demand property amenity and how they can appeal to people who otherwise might continue working from home.

Secure a Smooth Transition from Cooling to Heating
Fall is upon us, and with the change in seasons comes a transition from cooling equipment to heating equipment. Mark Orlovsky, the service, warranty and quality manager for Modine HVAC, joins editor in chief Janelle Penny to discuss the HVAC maintenance you need to do this fall and how to know your HVAC system isn’t performing as efficiently as it could.

What to Know About Buildings and IAQ
What factors have the biggest impacts on indoor air quality in commercial buildings, and what can facilities managers do about them? BUILDINGS tackles this question and more with guest Dr. Jordan Peccia, who walks us through what causes poor IAQ, the biggest misconceptions people have about indoor air quality and red flags to watch for in commercial buildings.

Benefiting Benefield: How 3form is Helping Transform a Community
BUILDINGS and i+s have partnered with global design firm HKS and nonprofit Boaz + Ruth on a new community-based project in Richmond, Virginia—the Benefield Building.
This community center will feature retail, makers’ studios, co-living units and important connections to the surrounding area and transit.
One of the generous sponsors helping make this project a reality is 3form. Karli Slocum, vice president of marketing for 3form, joined BUILDINGS to talk about the company’s involvement in the Benefield project and how 3form’s new product line, Flek, embodies 3form’s commitment to sustainability.

Top Tips for Better Stormwater Management
How do you manage stormwater at your facility? Too many property teams fall behind on maintaining stormwater management features, which can mean a notice of violation or a steep fine. Bring your stormwater management up to speed and avoid the fines with these tips from Erin Zaske, chief development officer for AQUALIS.

Announcing the Inaugural Purpose Awards from BUILDINGS and i+s
In this episode, VP of Media Steven Sloan joins Chief Content Director Robert Nieminen to announce a brand new awards program: The Purpose Awards. Find out why we're launching this new program to celebrate and elevate the products, projects, designs, and spaces that contribute most to the Triple Bottom Line—People, Planet, Profit. The products and projects that not only do no harm, but best support the health and wellness of humans and the planet.

Why Are Building Codes So Important?
The recent building collapse in Surfside, Florida, underscores the importance of strong building codes that require resilient building. Dr. Anne Cope of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety joins BUILDINGS Editor in Chief Janelle Penny to explain how strong codes reduce damage from natural disasters and what building owners in less resilient states should know.

How to Take Advantage of VRF Control Solutions for Mid- to Large-Sized Commercial Buildings
Whether the goal is to preserve the architectural integrity in a retrofit or contribute points towards LEED® certification for new construction, having the right VRF control solutions with a proven track record of performance is critical. LG's Carl Barnard discusses how to make the most of this innovative technology in this episode of the BUILDINGS podcast.
*Podcast created in partnership with LG Air Conditioning Technologies.

Are You Recycling Your Thermostats?
Mercury thermostats are no longer in production, but may remain in buildings—and when those buildings upgrade to smarter HVAC systems, the old mercury thermostats must stay out of the landfill. Danielle Myers of the Thermostat Recycling Corporation explains how to recycle your building’s mercury thermostats and why it’s important.
*Podcast created in partnership with the Thermostat Recycling Corporation.

What Building Owners Need to Know About COVID-19 Vaccines
As more people receive the COVID-19 vaccine, employees are asking about returning to work—and whether a vaccine will be required to do so. Learn what building owners need to know about COVID-19 vaccination policies with employment attorney Brian Weinthal and editor-in-chief Janelle Penny.

Biophilic Design in the Post-COVID Office
With COVID-19 vaccines rolling out, companies are looking at the ways in which the post-COVID workplace needs to embrace health and wellness. Bob Wislow, chairman and CEO of Parkside Realty, Inc., joins editor-in-chief Janelle Penny to discuss how biophilic design can support health and wellness.

Joining Forces to Revitalize a Local Community, Sustainably
Nick Cooper, AIA, Citizen HKS, and Megan Rollins, president/CEO, Boaz & Ruth, talk about their collaboration on Benefield, a community based project that revitalizes the Highland Park corridor in Richmond, Virginia, that will become a place that anchors and supports the community’s youth, serving as a catalyst for change and hope.

Meet Our Advisory Board: Colin Rohlfing
Get to know Colin Rohlfing, director of sustainable development for HDR and a new member of the BUILDINGS advisory board.

Meet Our Advisory Board: Sean Ahrens
Get to know Sean Ahrens, security market group leader for Affiliated Engineers and a member of the BUILDINGS advisory board.

What Does 2021 Hold for the Roofing Industry?
Jennifer Ford-Smith, incoming chair of the EPDM Roofing Association, joins BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny to discuss what the roofing industry will look like in 2021 and beyond.

Inside WELL's New Health-Safety Rating
What is the new WELL Health-Safety Rating and why are organizations like the New York Yankees earning it?
Rachel Gutter, president of the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), joins BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny to explore why the new rating resonates with facilities professionals in the age of COVID-19.

SYLVANIA Natural Series with TruWave Technology from LEDVANCE: Product Innovations 2020
Learn how you can easily deliver the benefits of natural light all while saving energy with the Natural Series of LED lighting products with innovative TruWave Technology from LEDVANCE LLC.

Smart City by Mohawk Group: Product Innovations 2020
Mohawk Group’s Smart City carpet collection reinterprets transit maps into soft surfaces. Contributing editor Sarah Kloepple explores this sustainably created flooring system with Mark Page, Mohawk’s senior director, creative design and development.

Transira Window Solutions by Winco Window Company: Product Innovations 2020
Transira Window Solutions embeds a shade between panes of glass so that dust and germs can't stick to the shade. Editor in chief Janelle Penny explores the details with Gantt Miller IV, Winco’s sales representative for Northern California, and product specialist John Iffland.

Illinois' New Biometrics Law: What It Means for Facilities
Illinois' Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) imposes new requirements on companies that collect biometric information. BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny and attorney Brian Weinthal break down what you need to know.

COVID-19: Have You Kept Up with Pest Control?
Buildings that have sat unoccupied or under-occupied while occupants worked from home are at risk for pest infestations. If you didn't continue your regular pest control service while people were out of the office, it might be time to look into extra mitigation measures. Dr. Brittany Campbell, staff entomologist and research scientist for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), discusses the risks with editor-in-chief Janelle Penny.

How Hospitality Spaces Become Healthcare Facilities
Meeting venues like the Javits Center have been pulled into service as field hospitals and other spaces for healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jim Henry, healthcare sector leader at CallisonRTKL, walks us through what it takes to transform hospitality and meeting spaces into sophisticated healthcare facilities.

What Will Hotels and Conferences Look Like Post COVID-19?
Coronavirus has crippled the U.S. and global economy, with the hospitality industry especially hard hit. Estimates predict that 4 million hospitality jobs could be lost before the pandemic runs its course.
After COVID-19 is in the rear-view mirror, how will the meetings and hotel industry have changed forever? What will be the proverbial “new normal?”
BUILDINGS Chief Content Director Robert Nieminen discussed what this new world may look like with top designer Michael Suomi, founder of Suomi Design Works, for this BUILDINGS podcast.
From social distancing to a hyper-aware focus on cleanliness, the world of hospitality design and the meetings and conventions experience may never be the same.

COVID-19: What Happens to Piping in Unused Buildings?
When closed buildings reopen, occupants may face contaminated drinking water. That's because piping is at risk for corrosion, as well as the growth of microorganisms that can happen when chlorine dissipates in stagnant water and becomes less effective. Erica Walker, director of environmental policy and programs for 120Water, chats with editor-in-chief Janelle Penny about the steps facilities professionals can take now and when facilities are ready to reopen.

COVID-19 and Roofing
Roofing is open for business, and roof projects can continue safely. That's the message roofing associations are emphasizing in these uncertain times. Ellen Thorp, associate executive director of the EPDM Roofing Association, joins BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny to discuss what facilities professionals should know if they need a roof repair or replacement during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also touch on the industry's letter to the White House asking President Trump to protect roofing as an essential industry.

How to Design for Acoustic Sensitivity
Does a one-size-fits-all approach to acoustic comfort work for every occupant? What about people who are more sensitive to noise than others? Guests Reetika Vijay and Grzegory Kosmal from IA Interior Architects join writer Robert Nieminen to discuss acoustics and how to tailor it to occupant comfort.

Are Privacy Pods the Answer to the Problem of Noisy Offices?
Privacy pods have been popping up all across open offices to help solve the problem of unwanted noise and lack of space for focus work. Join writer Robert Nieminen as he talks to Jim Abraham, Steelcase director for Orangebox Americas Business, and Adrian Welch, global key account manager with Orangebox, about this trend and whether it's just a bandage or a viable solution for workplace design.

Money-Saving Editors’ Choice: Danfoss’s Interlaced Microchannel Heat Exchanger
This HVAC product was one of just three products to win the Editors’ Choice Designation out of the 45 winners in 2020’s Money-Saving Products competition. Here's how this ultra-efficient heat exchanger reduces HVAC operating costs.
See transcript and photo here.

How Healthcare Facilities Can Prepare for Influx of Patients
What can hospitals do to prepare for current and future contagious disease outbreaks?
For this FM Friday episode, Jenny Han, director of healthcare design for Skender, joins editor Janelle Penny to explain what healthcare facilities can do to prepare for a rapid influx of people and discusses modular “pod” exam rooms for existing hospitals.

Money-Saving Editors’ Choice: Singlewire’s InformaCast Fusion
This mass notification tool was one of just three products to win the Editors’ Choice designation out of the 45 Money-Saving Product winners. Learn more about this versatile notification system that integrates with the tools most buildings already have in place.
See transcript and images here.

Money-Saving Editor’s Choice: Ceilume’s Thermoformed Drop-Out Ceilings
Ceilume’s innovative ceiling panels were one of just three products to win the Editors’ Choice designation out of the 45 Money-Saving Product winners. See why these thermoplastic panels wowed our judges.
See transcript and photos here.

Pro Tips for Workplace Hygiene
Personal hygiene has been in the news lately, and the winter illness season is still winding down. What steps can managers of individual buildings take to help reduce the risk of illness?
Amna Handley, director of clinical development for Georgia-Pacific Professional, and Darin Squires, GP Pro’s general sales manager for commercial real estate, chat with editor-in-chief Janelle Penny about key hygiene concepts and how to help promote healthy work environments.
*This podcast was created in partnership with GP Pro.

Looming and Potential Financial Risks with Commercial Building Systems
The conversation around vertical transportation and uninterruptible power supplies often centers around efficiency and resilience, but there’s much more at stake with both of those systems—namely, the risk of major loss.
Bruce Peterson, the manager for the Pacific Northwest region in Mitsubishi Electric’s elevator/escalator division, and Aaron Schott, Mitsubishi Electric’s product manager for UPS solutions, join BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny to talk about the risks for commercial buildings.
*This is a sponsored podcast, created in partnership with Mitsubishi Electric.

Secrets to Savings: Inside Atlanta's Better Buildings Challenge Success
One of the first cities to sign on to the Better Buildings Challenge, Atlanta recently met its 20% energy savings goal two years ahead of schedule. AJ Robinson, president of Central Atlanta Progress, discusses the challenges Atlanta faced and the public-private partnership that helped deliver results in more than 450 buildings representing over 115 million square feet.

Flu Season and Facilities Managers
The flu, norovirus and other contagious illnesses cost businesses roughly $10.4 billion in sick days and lost productivity each year. This flu season also saw the arrival of another contagious illness – COVID-19, a severe respiratory illness caused by a new coronavirus. Christiny Betsch, marketing manager for Cintas Corporation, joins editor-in-chief Janelle Penny to discuss how facilities managers can reduce the health risks in their buildings.

Cool Roofing Dialogue at IRE 2020 with ARMA
Reed Hitchcock, executive vice president of the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) chats with BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny about cool roofing, California initiatives and the dialogue being had across the country about what’s happening in the industry.
*This podcast was created in partnership with the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association.

What's Trending in Today's Commercial Retail Spaces
BUILDINGS associate editor Sarah Kloepple chats with Dana Reeves, commercial practice leader for national architecture, engineering and planning firm Bergmann, about the trends that are shaping today's brick-and-mortar commercial retail spaces, as online shopping steadily increases.

How Johnson Controls Aims to Help FMs Drive Efficiency (AHR 2020)
Live from the AHR Expo 2020, associate editor Sarah Kloepple sits down with Mike Ellis, chief customer and digital officer at Johnson Controls. Ellis discusses how Johnson Controls focuses on customer experience and implements digital tech into not only HVAC products, but security and fire protection as well.

Creating a Building Ecosystem with LG Electronics, and a Look at Its Exciting New Hotel Project in Texas
Live from the AHR Expo 2020, associate editor Sarah Kloepple sits down with Donald Decker, director of owner sales for LG Air Conditioning Technologies. He discusses the ways in which LG solutions and controls can help create a full building ecosystem for FMs and building owners. He also unveils an exciting new case study of LG's work with The Sinclair Hotel in downtown Fort Worth, Texas.

New York's Bird-Friendly Glass Policy is a Game-Changer for Buildings Description
BUILDINGS staff writer Adrian Thompson and design director Fatih Ergun of Marin Architects discuss how New York's new legislation requiring bird-friendly glass to be included on any new construction and major renovations will affect the future of construction.

Why Don’t More Companies Have Efficiency Targets?
Energy efficiency is good for the environment, your company’s brand and its bottom line, but few companies have set specific energy efficiency targets. BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny explores how facilities managers can turn the tide.

Australia Bushfires and How You Can Battle the Climate Crisis
In this FM Friday Buildings Podcast, associate editor Sarah Kloepple explains what scientists say is causing the unprecedented bushfires in Australia. She directs you to useful tips, how-tos and case studies, highlighting sustainable solutions that can leave a greener footprint for your building.
Check out additional resources here.

An Open Office Debate
Editors Valerie Dennis Craven and Janelle Penny discuss the evolution of open offices, including solutions, considerations and what the future holds.

Products That Save You Money
Janelle Penny discusses products that affect the bottom line by reducing the use of resources and cut down on time and labor investment. She chats about the annual Money-Saving Products program results from last year, a new toilet that is supposed to promote productivity and health, and more.

Editors Chat About the 2020 Colors of the Year
Editors Valerie Dennis Craven and Sarah Kloepple talk about color of the year announcements, how they expect to see the colors used, and what the colors mean for design and occupants in a space.

BUILDINGS Editors on the Top Stories of 2019
Editor-in-chief Janelle Penny and associate editor Sarah Kloepple dive deep into the stories that resonated most with readers this year, from VRF HVAC further assimilating into the North American market to interior design trends to gender-neutral restrooms. Listen now.

Solving the Power Flexibility Puzzle in Office Design
Helping people thrive is the key to achieving maximum productivity and ROI, but too many spaces aren’t flexible enough to do that. Learn how raceways help facilities managers reconfigure spaces to support users’ work needs.
*Podcast was created in partnership with Connectrac.

Acoustics Considerations for Shared Spaces
Sound can inspire or detract from a space, and shared spaces such as restaurants or open rooms can be difficult to control. Anthony Poon of Poon Design Inc. provides considerations and solutions for a positive experience in shared spaces.

How Building Materials Turn Toxic During a Fire
As wildfire season continues in California, it's important to be aware of the less-obvious hazards of wildfires (and building fires in general). Buildings that end up being destroyed and burned can emit hazardous toxins from different kinds of materials when they burn, including insulation, carpeting and piping.
This can create serious health concerns for occupants, first responders and even the surrounding community. Kathleen Hetrick, a senior sustainability engineer with BuroHappold, discusses her research into this topic, how to tell whether or not a material is toxic and the importance of lifecycle assessments. Listen now.

Productivity and ROI Drivers in Open Offices
Every open office design is different, but they all have one thing in common: the need to drive productivity and ROI. Angie Lee, vice president of buildings and global workplace sector leader for Stantec, explains how to create open office spaces where people can thrive, using Stantec's new Portland, OR, office as an example.

Restroom’s Role in Today’s Office: GP Pro Series #3
The restroom is the one part of your facility that nearly everyone will see. It plays an outsized role in how people perceive your building. Darin Squires, GP Pro’s general sales manager for commercial real state, and director of segment insights Abhijeet Jadhav discuss common restroom pain points, transformation tips and what to expect from the restroom of the future.
*This podcast was created in partnership with GP Pro.

Electrical Needs? IBEW and NECA Equals Problem Solved at IFMA
Straight from the IFMA World Workplace floor in Phoenix, Janelle Penny speaks with Roger King, international rep in business development for NECA [National Electrical Contractors Association] and IBEW [International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers].
Roger talks about how they partner up facility managers and building owners with electrical contractors, labor to get your electrical jobs completed, safety training and more.
*This podcast is created in partnership with NECA and IBEW.

Solutions for Your Building’s Life Cycle from Gordian at IFMA
Live from the IFMA World Workplace convention in Phoenix, Janelle Penny speaks with Alyssa Chapman from Gordian about their solutions for the full building life cycle; JOC, their intuitive software platform; as well as other innovative services they provide.
*This express listen podcast was created in partnership with Gordian.

Get Your Building Ready to Enter the TOBY Awards
In this episode, Janelle Penny talks about our shared spaces features as well as some tangible ways you can showcase how you're elevating your building if you choose to enter your facility for consideration for a TOBY Award.
Here's a sneak peek: Share the impact you have on your local community, your emergency preparation plans and how you conserve energy. (This is a previously recorded podcast.)

Tips to Combat Heat Island Effect Around Your Building
You don't have to live in a large city or be in the middle of summer to experience the heat island effect. Janelle Penny, editor-in-chief of Buildings, shares what this is and what you can do to lower the impact it has on your facility.

Generation Z and the Office of the Future: GP Pro Series #2
Generation Z—people born after 1996—is entering the workforce, and with it comes a major shift in the way offices operate. This generation prizes flexibility, amenities and a premium experience.
Darin Squires, general sales manager of the commercial real estate vertical for Georgia Pacific Professional, and Justin Silver, associate category manager for GP Pro’s tissue and wiper category, dive into Generation Z’s impact on commercial office space.
*Podcast was created in partnership with GP Pro.

The Future of Solar Power
Solar panels look much like they always have, but their consistent appearance belies big improvements in efficiency and affordability.
Editor-in-chief Janelle Penny discusses the next frontier of solar power with Brian Lynch, director of solar and energy storage systems sales for LG Electronics USA, on the eve of Solar Power International 2019.
*Podcast was created in partnership with LG Electronics USA.

Upward Elevator Trends Taking Over the Industry
The elevator industry is going through some exciting innovations, including fitting more elevators into fewer shafts that operate independently from each other. Janelle Penny talks about advancements like these and more trends we're seeing.

Security Red Flags in Existing Healthcare Facilities
Experts who work with security issues all day, every day, Alan Butler of HSS and Sean Ahrens of Affiliated Engineers Inc., share their insights with Janelle Penny, editor-in-chief of BUILDINGS, who shares them with you during this FM Friday episode.

Upgrading Amenities and the Impact on Your Business: GP Pro Series #1
What are your amenities saying about your business? Suzanne Maynard and Darin Squires of GP Pro explore what tenants and employees are looking for in the 21st Century workplace, including how to keep your expenses under control while still providing up-to-date amenities.
*This podcast was created in partnership with GP Pro.

Eliminate Fall Claims By 90 Percent with this Adhesive-Backed Mat
Slips, trips and falls are three things any facility manager wants to avoid within their building. New Pig Corporation created the world’s first proven adhesive-backed mat—the Grippy Mat—which can lower slip, trip and fall claims by up to 90 percent.

8 Facility Management Certification Resources on a Tiny Budget
Searching for ways to upgrade your facilities knowledge on a low- to no-funded budget? Janelle Penny shares these free or low-cost educational resources that help you keep up with the latest industry trends while maintaining your bottom line.
You can also read the transcript here.

Connect With Your Smart Building Technology
Smart building technology continues to evolve, but it’s not a thing of the future. Chances are you’re already using it in your facility. There are ways to leverage what you already have to drive improvements in operation, improvements in the business, as well as the client and employee experience. Find out the possibilities for connecting the technology in your smart buildings.
*This podcast was created in partnership with Acuity Brands.

Carlisle Roofing Series #3: Alternative Attachment Methods
You don’t always need a bucket of adhesives to attach a single-ply roof. In the third installment of the Carlisle Roofing Series, we explore two alternative methods - RapidLock hook and loop attachment and VacuSeal wind-vented attachment.
Carlisle’s Chad Buhrman, insulation product manager, and Alex Drescher, VacuSeal product manager, walk editor-in-chief Janelle Penny through the options.
*This podcast was created in partnership with Carlisle SynTec Systems.
Missed the first two? Listen here:
#1: Resilient Roofing Strategies #2: Roof Gardens
How a Smart Building Evolved into a Strategic Asset
Is your building connected? If not, Trevor Palmer from Acuity Brands talks with Janelle Penny about what happens when it is. He sheds light on the evolution of the connected building, growing from just energy savings and comfort to the occupant journey and experience in your facility. He shares three steps you can take to move forward.
*This podcast was created in partnership with Acuity Brands.

Hand Dryers: What You Need to Know About Maintenance, New Tech
BUILDINGS staff writer Sarah Kloepple chats with Bill Gagnon, vice president of sales and marketing with Excel Dryers, about all things hand dryers—including maintenance, ADA compliance, misconceptions and new innovations in recent years.

Predict and Prevent Issues With Artificial Intelligence: BOMA 2019
Move from a respond-and-react to a predict-and-prevent type of scenario using artificial intelligence to notice trends and stay ahead of the issues that might occur at your building site. I met with Brian Wilson and Lindsay King from Allied Universal about their new product featured at BOMA 2019.

Renovating a Nonprofit Organization on a Budget
Architectural and interior design and strategic planning firm Oculus recently worked on renovating the St. Louis Arc Office and Community Center. Ron Reim, executive vice president and co-founder of Oculus talks about the limitations and challenges nonprofits face when renovating their spaces.

Tenants Are Aware of Your Building’s Hygiene: BOMA 2019
How clean is your building? Deb Mazzuca, an expert from Essity, explains why tenants are more aware of hygiene in public spaces—and how you can improve cleanliness in your facility.

Smart Irrigation Controller: BOMA 2019
Manage your water irrigation system from your phone using weather data to more accurately determine how much water to use. Some property managers have cut costs by about 35%. Christoph Trappe talks with Jake Bryan from Smart Rain about the many benefits of their water consumption solution.

Tips for Water Conservation and Efficiency
Water efficiency expert Mike Orlando from T&S Brass shares tips on how to be green and efficient with water use. He shares some eye-opening stats about water usage and what each building can do to help sustain this crucial-to-life natural resource.

Relaxing Floors: These Carpet Patterns Reduce Stress
Showcased at NeoCon 2019, Relaxing Floors collection from Mohawk is a kind of experiment between art, science and human-centered design based on these fractal patterns they uncovered in nature that have been identified to draw in the human eye. It has a significant impact on stress reduction.

Color Trends from Scandinavian Spaces
Christoph Trappe chats with Scandinavian Spaces about how they use color to inspire productivity at NeoCon 2019. Plus, check out the 360 degree VR video of their showroom.

Open Plan Overhaul: Bending Rail Desk
Straight from the NeoCon 2019 showroom, Christoph Trappe chats with Cia Mooney from Watson about their open office floor plan overhaul, which birthed the idea of the bending rail desk system. Make your furniture choices be flexible to support your company growth.

NCARB Updates On Architectural Licensing Requirements
Christoph Trappe sat down with NCARB CEO Michael Armstrong at AIA in Las Vegas 2019 and got an update on what’s happening in the industry, the history of architectural codes and education as well as who the key players are and what actually goes into licensing architects.

Look and Feel of Real Wood with the Benefits of Laminate
Everyone loves the look and feel of real wood. But wood is not without its issues. Christoph Trappe speaks with Lisa Thornton from Egger Wood Products at the AIA Conference about the many benefits of using laminate materials for items like desks and doors, including cost-effectiveness, lighter weight and more.

Security in Parking Garages, Retail and Schools
Security is one of the top items on the minds of facility managers and owners—and your occupants. Christoph Trappe talks to Adrienne Reitz from Cornell Cookson about the latest security trends in parking garages, retail and schools.

AIA 2019: BIM Perpetual License - Your Projects Are Yours
SaaS subscriptions tend to be month-to-month and if it lapses, designers and architects lose access to their projects. Go from concept to completion all in one BIM software with Vectorworks and keep what’s yours.
Christoph Trappe speaks with industry expert Sarah Barrett about their perpetual license that allows users to keep the software permanently.

Reasons to Have a Skylight in Your Building
Christoph Trappe spoke with Mark Brink from VELUX about their skylight products. During this conversation, they chat about the multi-level benefits for including or retrofitting a skylight in your facility.

AIA 2019: Acoustics that Enable Architectural Design
CertainTeed created an acoustical solution that enables architects to create aesthetically pleasing, functional designs that can be tailored to suit colors, shapes, and other customized elements needed for schools, hospitals and more.
Christoph Trappe chats with Chris Bourque on the AIA Conference floor.

AIA 2019: Commercial AC Unit Marries Function with Design
In this podcast from the AIA conference in Las Vegas, Christoph Trappe speaks with Ron Schumacher of LG Electronics about their new air condition unit used in commercial buildings that is functional and also has the look.

FM Friday: Innovative Products
Janelle Penny chats about trending smart building innovative products, such as wayfinding apps, occupant-centered technology, sensors, access control and more.

Unique Multi-Use Security Sensors Go Where Cameras Can’t
In this podcast, Christoph Trappe chats with David Antar, president at IPVideo, about how the company’s product—Halo Smart Sensors—helps with building security.
It uses sensors to catch: vapes, fires, aggression, glass breaking and gunshots. They discuss the security impact and dive into what it means to privacy.

LIGHTFAIR 2019: Lighting’s Ability to Disinfect a Space
At LIGHTFAIR International 2019 in Philadelphia, PA, Sarah Kloepple spoke with David Korow, senior lighting specialist with Current by GE about the evolution of the technology behind lighting’s ability to disinfect spaces.
He also touches on the installation process and what facilities managers need to know.

Prescriptive Maintenance: The Next Generation Solution
Preventative maintenance is a crucial component to your facilities systems. Taking this one step further is prescriptive maintenance—or RxM.
Joel Wheatley from C&W Services speaks with Janelle Penny about how this next generation option builds upon current maintenance strategies to provide an innovative solution before the equipment fails.
*Podcast was created in partnership with C&W Services.

Carlisle Roofing Series #2: Roof Gardens
Vegetated roofs aren’t just beautiful—they’re valuable tools for managing stormwater, reducing the urban heat island effect, and providing more usable space for building occupants.
In the second installation of the Carlisle Roofing Series, BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny chats with Chris Kann, roof garden product manager for Carlisle, about best practices for green roof projects.
Check out the other episodes in this series:
#1: Resilient Roofing Strategies #3: Alternative Attachment Methods*This podcast was created in partnership with Carlisle SynTec Systems.

Carlisle Roofing Series #1: Resilient Roofing Strategies
Resilience starts with a roof you can trust to protect your building.
Ron Goodman, EPDM product manager for Carlisle SynTec Systems, and BUILDINGS editor-in-chief Janelle Penny discuss EPDM’s resistance against weathering, heat damage and hail.
Don't miss the next episodes of this roofing series:
#2: Roof Gardens #3: Alternative Attachment Methods*This podcast was created in partnership with Carlisle SynTec Systems.

The Changing Relationship Between People and Data Centers
Valerie Dennis Craven speaks with Gabe Clark, principal for data centers with Corgan. They discuss the changing relationship between people and data centers, looking at edge data centers and those in an urban footprint.

How to Reduce Noise in Your Building
Christoph Trappe usually likes it quiet in his work space. One day a meeting was interrupted by loud external noise and he thought: What a great starting point to learn about noise reductions in commercial buildings.
In this episode, Christoph chats with three professionals about the topic: Stan Gatland, John Hauenstein and Alex Morales.

Rebates, Tax Incentives and Financing for Building Upgrades
Looking for tips on how to finance your building upgrades with rebates and tax incentives?
Janelle Penny speaks with Emily Naden, director of federal affairs, and John Bryant, vice president of advocacy and building codes, both from BOMA International, about where you should start as well as more of what you need to know.

NRCA at the White House and the Challenges of Recruiting
Janelle Penny, editor-in-chief of BUILDINGS, talks about the National Roofing Contractors Association’s (NRCA) meeting with the White House chief of staff to discuss the shortage of qualified roofers. This was the first time the roofing industry has had a presence in the West Wing.
This topic spills over into every industry in facilities management due to a lack of school FM degrees, and other factors. Find out what Janelle has to say.

System 4500 Doors and Windows: Editors’ Choice
REHAU’s System 4500 windows and doors are an affordable way to let in daylight and fresh air without the potentially costly pitfalls posed by other window materials.
REHAU was recently honored as a Money-Saving Products Editors’ Choice winner for this product.
Janelle Penny speaks with Corrie Neukirchner about how it saves facility managers and building owners money in various ways.

Retrofit Kit with Indigo-Clean Technology: Editors’ Choice
Kenall Lighting’s Retrofit Kit with Indigo-Clean Technology is targeted toward any lighting products you already use that have florescent fixtures. The goal is to reduce facilities mangers’ energy costs, as well as their maintenance costs.
But this Editors’ Choice winner is also a life safety product that disinfects, even kills staph.
Sarah Kloepple speaks with Frank Gonzalez from Kenall Lighting about this winning product.

Building Analytics Solution Clockworks: Editors’ Choice
Clockworks automated buildings analytics brings automated fault detection and diagnostics to empower facilities teams to make their operations proactive, minimize energy use and improve occupant comfort.
Clockworks was awarded an Editors’ Choice distinction in the 2019 Money-Saving Products program.
Valerie Dennis Craven speaks with Alex Grace, vice president of KGS Buildings about this product.

LEED Zero: New Designation for Net Zero
Emma Hughes, project manager for LEED, speaks with Janelle Penny about how project teams pursuing LEED certification for buildings now have a new option: LEED Zero.
Learn more about this designation, including the requirements behind it and how it can benefit your building.
Done listening? Read more about this topic here: 4 Ways to Add Net Zero to Your LEED Certification

March Madness and How to Get the Most Out of Conferences
In this Weekly Roundup, senior writer Janelle Penny talks about March Madness brackets and high-stakes athletic facilities. Plus: a preview of our BOMA conference coverage next week.

Weekly Roundup: Sandy Hook Redesign, Recruiting Millennials & Human-Centric Lighting
From an interview about the Sandy Hook redesign to recruiting millennial talent to BOMA 2019 highlights to human-centric lighting, Janelle Penny chats about the week it’s been during this new weekly roundup BUILDINGS podcast.

BUILDINGS: Our First Live Broadcast
Senior writer Janelle Penny introduces a new BUILDINGS feature - a weekly live broadcast on social media where BUILDINGS editors review the week's top stories and offer a sneak peek into upcoming facilities management content.

Hydronic Snow & Ice Melting Systems for Buildings
Janelle Penny speaks with Mike East from REHAU about hydronic snow and ice melting systems and how they benefit commercial buildings.
Rather read the transcript? Here you go: Important Considerations for Hydronic SIMS from REHAU

Tenant Amenities are Trending at Industry Trade Shows
Christoph Trappe and Janelle Penny discuss the tenant amenities they’ve seen at industry trade shows like BOMA International Conference & Expo.
They provide examples of what an amenity could include, explain some things you will want to consider beforehand, and how to get them started in your facility.
Read the transcript here.
Don’t miss it! Register for the BOMA International Conference & Expo 2019 now.

Specifying Money-Saving Products
How can you be sure a product will save you money?
Mick Metzger, vice president for Pepper Construction Group, explains smart strategies for vetting vendors.

IRE: Duro-Last Roofing Solutions Help Your Budget
From the IRE trade show floor, Jason Dark from Duro-Last discusses with Janelle Penny how their labor-saving roofing solutions benefit buildings owners and managers.
Making installation easier on contractors means less mistakes are made, which equates to lower costs and other benefits.
Rather read the transcript? You can do so here: Easier Roofing Installation Means Less Costs

IRE: Staying Ahead with TRUFAST Roofing Fasteners
Jason Wigboldly, from TRUFAST roofing fasteners, chats with Janelle Penny at IRE 2019. Jason talks about providing fasteners to the entire building envelope for commercial roofs, side walls and below grade.
He also discusses new energy codes for insulation and how they are staying ahead of the curve.
Rather read the transcript? Here you go: TRUFAST Fasteners Address Changing Trends

IRE: Roofing Trends Seen by EPDM Roofing Association
Janelle Penny speaks with Mike DuCharme, of the EDPM Roofing Association (ERA), at the IRE Expo 2019. Mike talks about the many changes he’s seen over his 35 years in the industry, as well as current trends that have popped up.
Rather read the transcript? Start here: Resilient Roofing, Tech and Future Trends

Put a Lid On It: Acoustics from TURF Design
TURF Design in Chicago provides customizable acoustics solutions for open-offices and school environments.
Christoph Trappe of interiors+sources and Buildings speaks with Zoe Post and Dustin Headley from TURF Design about their headquarters, products and how they help clients, “Put a lid on it.”
You can read the transcript and watch the 3D video here: Acoustics Solutions: Ceiling is Believing at TURF Design

The RELi Standard and the Future of Resilient Design
BUILDINGS’ senior staff writer Janelle Penny talks to Doug Pierce, director of Perkins+Will Resilience Research Lab, about the Building Resilience Standard RELi.
Doug explains the requisites and credits for RELi that are focused on things like climate change and adaptation, improving biodiversity, and social equity and social cohesion topics.
Learn more about this topic here: Designing for Disaster with the Resilience Standard

Security Threats of Tailgating in Your Facility
Sean Ahrens, a leader in the field of security and resilience, as well as a project manager for Affiliated Engineers, Inc., shares insights with Janelle Penny into the security threats of tailgating and piggybacking in respect to the access control of your building.
Read the transcript: Tips to Eliminate Tailgating Risks in Your Building

Tips to Get Through TSA Security with Your Sanity Intact
Getting through TSA security can already present challenges for travelers. Add in a government shutdown with workers who aren’t getting paid and it can be even more stressful.
World traveler Christoph Trappe and Sarah Kloepple chat about their airport ventures to the AHR Expo in Atlanta and share tips to keep your sanity.

AHR Expo: How HVAC Industry Recruits Next Generation
BUILDINGS’ Sarah Kloepple speaks with Susan Kaufman from Daikin Applied about their Next Generation Event they hosted at AHR Expo 2019 in Atlanta.
The event, created exclusively for engineering and technical trade students during the show, helps to foster interest in HVAC professions.
When you’re done listening, read the related article and transcript next.

AHR Expo: Benefits of Using UV to Clean Coils
Christoph Trappe and Dan Jones, president of UV Resources, chat about the benefits of using UV to clean coils. These can include better IAQ, less spending on energy costs and sometimes an ROI of six months.
Read the full transcript here.

AHR Expo: The HFC Refrigerant Phase Out
Christoph Trappe speaks with Mark Menzer, director of public affairs with Danfoss, about what facility managers and building owners should know about the evolving HFC refrigerant phase out and what you can do to move forward.
Rather read? Here’s an article and podcast transcript instead.

AHR Expo: Ever-Changing Facilities Industry
Christoph Trappe speaks with Sudhi Sinha, VP & GM, Data Enabled Business, from Johnson Controls about the dynamically changing environment in facilities management and how facility managers and owners can keep at the forefront.
Read the full transcript.

Health Risks of 3D Printers
Based off a research report conducted by Georgia Tech and UL Chemical Safety, Sarah Kloepple and Christoph Trappe chat about the rising popularity of 3D printers for businesses, schools and personal use.
They discuss topics like the health risks associated with these printers as well as some tips to keep everyone safe.

Express Listen: Better Plans for Emergency Evacuations
Do your occupants know how to evacuate your building during an emergency? Where will they go once they leave? Mariah Obiedzinski, BUILDINGS’ director of content services, chats with senior writer Janelle Penny about what belongs in an evacuation plan.
The inspiration behind this conversation: Christmas Eve Chaos: Evacuation of Sydney Opal Tower
Enjoying this episode? View more Buildings Podcasts!

Year in Review: Staff Favorites
Active shooter training, tunable lighting, living walls, glass envelopes, Heat Island Effect and the next generation: writers share insight into their favorite articles of the year. Interestingly, these are also trending topics in 2019.

Omni Hotel - Brings Innovative Approaches to New Properties
Privately owned Omni Hotels & Resorts places a premium on design, art and surrounding historic architectural offerings in its properties.
We sat down with Laura Trussel McKoy, Omni’s creative director and vice president of interior design, and senior VP of sales and marketing Dan Surette to get the skinny on the brand standard of the rapidly growing company.

The Many Considerations of Healthcare Facility Design
From children’s hospitals to outpatient facilities, the challenges and opportunities in healthcare design are uncovered by interiors+sources editor-in-chief Kadie Yale. She speaks with expert designer Rebecca Donner, principal and founder of Inner Design Studio.

Active Shooter Training Eye Openers
Mass shootings are unfortunately becoming more common across the United States. Does your building have a plan?
Christoph Trappe and Janelle Penny discuss the eye-opening lessons learned from their company active shooter training.
Find out how you can increase the survivability of the occupants in your facility and prepare them for this horrific situation.
Because this is literally a life-and-death circumstance, here are more life-saving tips.

Investigating Irma: What Today’s Hurricanes Mean for Building Design
Hurricane Irma was the costliest storm in Florida’s history and devastated the U.S. Virgin Islands. The investigative teams examining both places after the storm discovered design issues that have wide-ranging implications for building codes and design strategies.
Learn what did and didn’t stand up to the storm with structural engineer William L. Coulbourne.

Express Listen: Trendy Moxy Hotel Review
Christoph Trappe and Valerie Dennis Craven sit at the outside bar at the Moxy Hotel in Minneapolis and do an impromptu review.
Like to hang out in hammocks? Sure. There’s a spot for that. Enjoy gathering and listening to records? Sure. They have those too. Need motivation on the treadmill? A doughnut neon sign is there to remind you to keep going. Hear what they have to say about this trendy, unique way to stay!
Enjoying this episode? View more episodes of the Buildings Podcast!

Airport Lounges: Home Away from Home
A. Razzak Memon thrives on ever-changing technology, providing a total solution for current and future needs. He also has been a frequent flyer at 300,000 miles every year. Needless to say, he spends more time in airport lounges than anywhere else.
Christoph Trappe and Adrian Thompson discuss some of his favorite lounges over the years.

Architectural Salvage: Benefits of Reusing Old Buildings
This maker creates art from salvaged materials.
What happens to the buildings that aren’t in good enough shape to upgrade? Empty, decaying buildings are an eyesore – but demolishing them means valuable, reusable materials take up space in a local landfill.
That’s where Chris Rutherford comes in.
Architectural Salvage WarehouseRutherford, the executive director of the Architectural Salvage Warehouse of Detroit, rescues wood from Detroit-area buildings for use in everything from furnishings and wall treatments to guitars and speaker cabinets.
His training in interior and furnishing design led him to develop a solution for the materials coming out of Detroit’s abandoned residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
Listen to Chris talk to Christoph Trappe and Kadie Yale about the many benefits of repurposing the materials from abandoned homes and buildings in Detroit.

Express Listen: Bike Parking at Commercial Buildings
Wellness programs at workplaces are becoming more common, as are other ways of getting there, like on a bicycle. With this comes the need for facilities managers and building owners to provide adequate parking for these bikes.
Christoph chats with Mike Arvidson from Duo-Gard about the bike parking trend from the expo floor at BOMA 2018.
Enjoying this episode? View more episodes of the Buildings Podcast!

Express Listen: Wellness Activities for Commercial Buildings
Employee wellness in commercial buildings is trending for facilities managers and building owners. Christoph Trappe is on the frontlines at the 2018 BOMA International Expo in San Antonio, Texas. He is seeing this evolution of wellness in the workplace on the expo floor and he speaks with Jeff Stirling from Fitspot Wellness.
Find out what Jeff has to say about how companies across the country are utilizing this idea of happiness and health at work. When you're done, email Christoph at christoph.trappe@stamats.com to share your workplace wellness stories.