Workplace Innovator Podcast | Enhancing Your Employee Experience | Facility Management | CRE | Digital Workplace Technology

Episodios

• Ep. 408: "Be More Human" – Embracing AI, Robotics and the Future of Workplace Strategy with Kevin Sauer, MCR.w of Nhance.ai & Sauer Strategy Works, LLC 30.06.2026 24m

  Kevin Sauer, MCR.w, is Head of US Operations & Client Delivery at Nhance.ai, a digital twin and smart building platform, and Founder & CEO of Sauer Strategy Works, LLC where he is passionate about helping clients develop their workforce and workplace strategies, find the right technology, tools and resources, and guiding their change management programs. Mike Petrusky asks Kevin why he believes that human connection remains central to innovation and how engagement with colleagues, leaders, and outside perspectives is essential in the future of workplace strategy. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the acceptance and implementation of flexible workplace strategies, such as activity-based working and shared desking, and Kevin says that AI and robotics are poised to significantly impact the industry, from automating administrative tasks to optimizing facility operations. Workplace and facility leaders should focus on upskilling, embracing both human and technological intelligence, and maintaining a holistic view of the built environment, so Mike and Kevin share practical case studies and offer inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinsauer/ Learn more about Kevin: https://www.sauerstrat.com/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 407: "Stay Curious" – Using Smart & Adaptive Technologies to Build People-Centric Workplace Experiences with Daniel Grilli of VECOS 23.06.2026 26m

  Daniel Grilli is General Manager for Australasia at VECOS where he is passionate about using adaptive workplace technology to deliver operational strategy initiatives. Mike Petrusky asks Daniel why he believes that true innovation involves rapid learning from failure and requires organizations to be agile, experiment, and adapt quickly. They explore how design and management of workplaces are shifting from assumption-based to evidence-based, using real data about how spaces and amenities are actually used. Daniel says that adaptive technology should serve the people in the workplace, making experiences seamless and frictionless while integration and interoperability between workplace technologies are essential to overcome legacy system silos and unlock greater efficiency. The future of smart workplaces lies in their ability to adapt rather than simply being technologically advanced, so Mike and Daniel offer the encouragement and inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-grilli-3359b834/ Learn more about VECOS: https://www.vecos.com/en/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 406: "Prove That Value" – FM Innovation & Making Your Invisible Work More Visible with Alexander Wennerberg of Hives.co 16.06.2026 28m

  Alexander Wennerberg is CEO & Founder at Hives.co where he is passionate about helping organizations tap into their teams' best ideas and turn them into real improvements. Mike Petrusky asks Alexander why he believes that innovation is most effective when it empowers those closest to workplace problems to propose and implement solutions, rather than relying solely on top-down initiatives. They explore how facility management and real estate teams should focus on making their "invisible" work more visible, so they are recognized as value drivers rather than cost centers. Alexander says that organizations should treat workplaces as ongoing experiments, valuing continuous feedback from those who use the space rather than just executives and AI should be used to organize and surface employee feedback, not replace the genuine human observations and experiences that drive workplace progress. Successful change management treats employees as active participants rather than passive recipients while it encourages engagement and trust, so Mike and Alexander offer the practical advice and the inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Alexander on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderwennerberg/ Learn more about Hives.co: https://www.hives.co/en Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 405: "Get Aligned on Purpose" – Change Management and the Three Pillars of Workplace Strategy with David George of CRUX Workplace 09.06.2026 26m

  David George is CEO & Founder at CRUX Workplace where he builds on his decades of experience in workplace design, facilities management, real estate management and strategy to help clients co-create high performing, flexible workplace designs that enable people to do their best work. Mike Petrusky asks David why he believes that workplace strategists must be involved from the outset to understand business processes and create effective briefs for architects and designers, while innovation is centered on enabling people to perform their best and feel joy and connection at work. Engaging employees early in the design process leads to higher acceptance and ownership of the change, and David says successful change management relies on three pillars: employee engagement, clear communication, and sponsorship from leaders within the core business. He suggests creating a steering committee including CRE, IT, HR, and FM to drive workplace projects and says organizations must move beyond traditional office designs conceived decades ago and embrace new ways of work aligned with how people work today. Tune in to hear Mike and David share practical advice and the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgeorge1/ Learn more about CRUX Workplace: https://www.crux-workplace.com/ Join the Workplace Evolutionaries community: https://we.ifma.org/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 404: "What are the Outcomes?" – AI Strategies for Building the Responsive Workplace of the Future with Rebecca Swanner of HED 02.06.2026 26m

  Rebecca Swanner is Associate Principal and a Senior Workplace Design Leader at HED where she is passionate about creating interiors that strengthen culture, support the evolving nature of work, and amplify human potential. Mike Petrusky asks Rebecca why she believes that workplace leaders should initiate big picture conversations about desired outcomes before making workspace or logistical decisions. They explore how AI is absorbing low cognitive load tasks, increasing the need for humans to focus on strategic and creative work while leading to a "cognitive bar" that requires protecting focus. Rebecca says the workforce is ready for more responsive workspaces that use wearable tech and data to adapt environments to personal needs and tasks. By dynamically adjusting lighting, temperature, and acoustics using real-time biometric data, we can begin to optimize human performance. Effective workplace transformation requires piloting and iterating designs and success metrics should shift from measuring occupancy to measuring outcomes as the future of work will be more integrated, asynchronous, and hybrid. Tune in as Mike and Rebecca offer some practical advice and the inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-swanner-b8a9a55/ Learn more about HED: https://hed.co/ Read about HED Intelligence in PLACE: https://hed.co/intelligence-in-place/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 403: "Start with the Strategy, Not the Lease" – The Integration of Design, Behavior and Technology in Workplace Transformation with Lisa Copland of Presynct 26.05.2026 26m

  Lisa Copland is Managing Director and Founder at Presynct, an Australian consultancy that helps organizations with workplace strategy, transition, and portfolio decision‑making. Mike Petrusky asks Lisa why she believes that successful workplace transformation involves aligning business strategy, workplace experience, spatial design, technology, and change management as interconnected elements. They explore how workplace design and portfolio decisions are most effective when integrated with an understanding of how people work and broader organizational goals. Lisa says that innovative workplace solutions often come from diverse perspectives and a willingness to challenge industry norms, so she encourages technology integration and using AI to dynamically optimize space allocation by grouping teams based on actual attendance and work patterns, moving away from static floor plans. Optimizing existing space usage via technology and behavioral change can be a valuable step before committing to changes in property portfolios, so Mike and Lisa offer the practical advice and inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-copland-99601312/ Read the article discussed called "Reframing the Workplace: How strategy, technology, and human behavior are coming back into sync": https://eptura.com/discover-more/blog/reframing-the-workplace/ Learn more about Presynct: https://presynct.com.au/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 402: "Solve the Most Complex Problems" – A Deep Dive into "The Psychological Safety Playbook for Changemakers" with Author Minette Norman 19.05.2026 24m

  Minette Norman is an award-winning author, speaker, and leadership consultant who previously spent decades leading global technical teams in the Silicon Valley software industry and realized that we needed a new, more human model of leadership. Mike Petrusky asks Minette about her new book, "The Psychological Safety Playbook for Changemakers: Transform Your Workplace Culture" and what motivated she and he co-author, Dr. Karolin Helbig, to write it. They explore how innovation thrives in a team environment where psychological safety allows open, respectful debate and diverse ideas to flourish. Minette says that anyone can be a changemaker and encourages us all to positively influence workplace culture through small, deliberate actions that create ripple effects. Successful change management prioritizes the human side of change by listening to concerns, anticipating impact, and fostering inclusion to reduce resistance, so the book offers practical strategies for addressing skepticism. Curiosity and open-minded listening are essential leadership qualities, so Mike and Minette offer the encouragement and inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Minette on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minettenorman/ Buy Minette's new book "The Psychological Safety Playbook for Changemakers": https://thepsychologicalsafetyplaybook.com/the-psychological-safety-playbook-for-changemakers/ Learn more about Minette: https://www.minettenorman.com/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 401: "If You Don't Measure, You Can't Improve" – Neuroarchitecture, Data & Human-Centered Design with Helia Taheri, Ph.D., Assoc. AIA, EDAC 12.05.2026 27m

  Helia Taheri, Ph.D., Assoc. AIA, EDAC is an Associate and the Research & Insights Lead at Arcadis where she is passionate about shining a light on the silent yet powerful impacts of buildings, neighborhoods, and cities on our connections, health, and behaviors. Mike Petrusky asks Helia about her research and experiences promoting human-centered design with a focus on the whole person's physical, mental, and social health in the workplace. Helia says that curiosity and intellectual humility fuel innovation, with openness to being wrong and learning from failure as essential components of her research and design strategies. She shares about neuroarchitecture, which is a blend of neuroscience and architecture, as a way to measure how design affects both our brain health and human behavior. Mike and Helia agree that "if you don't measure, you can't manage or improve", so they explore practical methods to help you enhance the effectiveness of the built environment and offer the encouragement and inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Helia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heliataheri/ Learn more about Arcadis: https://www.arcadis.com/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 400: "Do or Do Not" – Celebrating Star Wars, Facility Management and the Future of the Workplace with Friends from our IFMA Community 05.05.2026 56m

  Host Mike Petrusky welcomes six past guests from the show to reflect on his past decade of podcasts, the current state of FM, and the future of the workplace as we celebrate our 400th episode. Recorded in San Francisco during IFMA's Facility Fusion 2026, the conversation centers on how the facility management landscape has dramatically shifted over the years with the need for leadership, culture-building, and understanding human behavior becoming essential for success in the workplace today. Mike and his guests explore how AI and automation are reshaping the FM industry enabling professionals to focus more on strategic work, their personal upskilling, and delivering value beyond transactional tasks. Relationships in the IFMA community enable professional growth, collaboration, and innovation as we emphasize the need for resilience, optimism, and human connection as we care for the built environment. Music and pop culture serve as unifying elements as Mike and his guests share stories from the show, along with the encouragement and the inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with René Jackson, MBA, CFM on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rene-jackson/ Connect with Lena Thompson, IFMA Fellow, FMP, SFP on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-thompson-fmp-sfp/ Connect with Amanda Muzzarelli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandamuzzarelli/ Connect with Vik Bangia, MCR on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vik-bangia-mcr-0b54522/ Connect with James Waddell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcwaddell/ Connect with Wayne Whitzell, CFM, FMP, SFP, LEED AP, BEP, IFMA Fellow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-whitzell-cfm-fmp-sfp-leed-ap-bep-ifma-fellow-147870b/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 399: "Thoughtload" – Manage the Madness and Free Your Team to Do Great Work with Author Liane Davey, PhD 28.04.2026 28m

  Liane Davey, PhD is a Keynote Speaker, a NYT Bestselling Author, and Co-founder and Principal at 3COze, Inc. where she is passionate about building high performing teams in a world of perpetual change, conflict, and burnout. Mike Petrusky asks Liane about her brand new book, "Thoughtload: Manage the Madness and Free Your Team to Do Great Work", in which she argues that the root cause of the madness sapping productivity in today's offices is with our excessive thoughtload. The "thoughtload" includes not just cognitive workload, but also emotional burdens and depleted energy reserves affecting individuals and teams. Mike and Liane explore how workplace leaders should shift their focus from activity and output to meaningful outcomes, ensuring team efforts are aligned with organizational goals. As open office designs and constant interruptions have a measurable negative impact on focus, productivity and wellbeing, Liane says that intentional rest can restore creativity and energy. Environmental, emotional, and behavioral factors all amplify each other, making holistic approaches to wellness and productivity essential, so Mike and Liane share practical advice and the inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Liane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lianedavey/ Preorder Liane's new book "Thoughtload": https://lianedavey.com/books/thoughtload/ Learn more about Liane: https://lianedavey.com/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 398: "The Ubuntu Workplace" – Designing for Humanity and the Future of Work with Workplace Strategist Hassan Shaikh, PhD 21.04.2026 23m

  Hassan Shaikh, PhD is a South African-born workplace strategist who brings over two decades of global experience to reimagining how people and organizations connect through space. Mike Petrusky asks Hassan about his research and the "Ubuntu" philosophy, which means "I am because we are" and serves as an inspiration to design workplaces that elevate our collective wellbeing. Successful workplace innovation requires challenging outdated models and embracing new approaches that center on human experience and diversity, so Mike and Hassan explore how human needs, cultural context, neurodiversity, and wellbeing must become core considerations in workplace strategy. As facility management and corporate real estate leaders evolve from support roles to "architects of organizational culture and performance", Hassan encourages continuous learning, curiosity, bravery, and empathy. It is time for our industry to make positive impact on the future of work, so Mike and Hassan offer the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Hassan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hassan--shaikh/ Learn more about his Hassan's journey: https://hassanshaikh.org/ Find out more about Eptura Flex/26 New York: https://eptura.com/discover-more/events/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 397: "Ahead by a Century" – AI Ethics, Continuous Learning, and the Future of Facility Management with Lorri Rowlandson of BGIS 14.04.2026 29m

  Lorri Rowlandson is Senior Vice President, Strategy and Innovation at BGIS where she is a strategic and operational real estate executive with global experience delivering integrated real estate services in a distributed portfolio of diverse assets. Mike Petrusky asks Lorri about her updated perspectives on delivering "practical innovation" in the workplace with a focus on measurable results rather than just ideas or "innovation theater". They explore how AI and automation are rapidly evolving and encourage FM professionals to view change through a variety of lenses including personal productivity, organizational efficiency, and client value creation. Lorri says that leadership and change management, including emotional intelligence and process documentation, are essential skills today when adopting new technologies and optimizing operations. Curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving are more valuable than static knowledge, which is increasingly accessible via AI tools, so Lorri shares how workplace leaders can continuously upskill to prepare for the future. A sense of humor, pop culture references, and staying connected with industry peers contribute to a vibrant and innovative workplace culture, so Mike and Lorri offer the practical advice and the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Lorri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorri-rowlandson/ Learn more about BGIS: https://www.bgis.com/ Find out more about Eptura Flex/26 New York: https://eptura.com/discover-more/events/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 396: "Just Stay Human" – Designing Solutions that Create Value and Enhance Employee Experiences with Workplace Consultant Tonya Thornburgh 07.04.2026 17m

  Tonya Thornburgh is an accomplished workplace leader with years of experience and a passion for leaving people, places and things better than she found them. Mike Petrusky asks Tonya about her career journey and why she believes continuous evolution, experimentation, and learning from failures are essential to long-term innovation and maintaining relevance in the workplace industry today. They explore how innovation in the built environment is less about adopting flashy new tools and more about deeply understanding human behavior, removing friction, and designing adaptable systems. As AI is transforming workplace strategy by enabling more personalized, intuitive, and data-driven experiences for employees, Tonya says that empathy and human experience should remain central to workplace innovation. Mike and Tonya agree that FM and workplace leaders should maintain curiosity, be open to continuous learning and nurture cross-functional relationships to stay relevant and effective, so they offer inspiration and encouragement to help you be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Tonya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonya-thornburgh-4440186/ Find out more about Eptura Flex/26 New York: https://eptura.com/discover-more/events/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 395: "Beyond Aesthetics" – How Multi-Sensory Design Transforms the Workplace with Raul Garcia-Moncada, IIDA, NCIDQ, LEED AP, WELL AP of BR Design Associates 31.03.2026 22m

  Raul Garcia-Moncada, IIDA, NCIDQ, LEED AP, WELL AP is Principal & Director of Design at BR Design Associates where he is passionate about collaborating with real estate executives to develop strategies and resource plans that empower teams to achieve high-quality, sustainable results. Mike Petrusky asks Raul why he believes that good design is not just about aesthetics but is intrinsically linked to positive business outcomes. They explore innovation in workplace design and encourage leaders to embrace flexibility, adaptability, and prioritizing well-being in their organizations. Raul says that multi-sensory design which includes fragrance, lighting, and even influences from fashion and music, can subtly enhance the workplace experience and emotional connection for occupants. Hospitality and residential influences are shaping the evolution of workplace design, and technology can help measure space utilization, but understanding sensory impact often requires direct feedback from users. Cross-functional collaboration, particularly with HR, IT, facilities, and commercial real estate, is vital for successful workplace transformation, so Mike and Raul share the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Raul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raulgarciamoncada/ Learn more about BR Design Associates: https://www.brdesignassociates.com/ Find out more about Eptura Flex/26 New York: https://eptura.com/discover-more/events/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 394: "You Need Intelligence First" – Smart Buildings, AI, and the Future of Workplace Technology with Melissa Marsh of PLASTARC 24.03.2026 32m

  Melissa Marsh is Founder & Executive Director at PLASTARC where she is a passionate practitioner of workplace strategy and a leader in change management services delivering social research and people analytics for the built environment. Mike Petrusky asks Melissa why she believes organizations need to focus on digitizing their real estate assets, ensuring system interoperability, and bridging the gap between people and building data to truly realize the benefits of AI and IoT. They explore how the post-pandemic world has fundamentally changed how cities and offices are occupied, leading to less predictable and more variable patterns of use, which necessitates new strategies for space management. Melissa says smart buildings are increasingly defined by their ability to connect digital and physical assets, so the transition to smart workplaces requires an investment in data systems and a clear understanding of desired outcomes before layering on AI tools. The true potential of AI in our workplace environments lies not just in automation, but in enhancing the workplace experience by integrating HR data, building systems, and personalized services, so Mike and Melissa offer practical advice and the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaemarsh/ Learn more about PLASTARC: https://plastarc.com/ Find out more about Eptura Flex/26 New York: https://eptura.com/discover-more/events/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 393: "Grow Your Strengths" – How FM Leaders Can Embrace Self-Care and Lead with Awareness to Transform Workplace Experience with Sarah Sims of FTI Consulting & IFMA 17.03.2026 27m

  Sarah Sims is Americas Regional Head of Workplace Experience at FTI Consulting and President of the Capital Chapter of IFMA in Washington, DC where she is passionate about designing human-centered workplaces at enterprise scale. Mike Petrusky asks Sarah about why she believes that self-awareness and focusing on personal strengths are foundational for professional growth and leadership in her facility management journey. They explore the fast-changing world of the built environment and share stories from their local FM community. Sarah says that innovation in the workplace involves both preserving what works well and embracing new changes, while leveraging technology can simplify processes, provide valuable data, and enhance the overall workplace experience for employees. Community service and peer support through IFMA provide knowledge sharing, professional growth, and the tools needed for adapting to industry changes, so Mike and Sarah offer the encouragement and inspiration you will need to get connected and be a Workplace Innovator! Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sims-pro/ Learn more about FTI Consulting: https://www.fticonsulting.com/ Find out more about IFMA: https://www.ifma.org/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 392: "Bringing Their A-Game" – How FM Leaders Can Prioritize Employee Experience and Create Environments Where People Thrive with Bex Moorhouse of WPP 10.03.2026 26m

  Bex Moorhouse is Global Head of Strategy, Ops Excellence & Performance - Procurement & REWS at WPP where she is passionate about helping to prioritize employee experience and create environments where people thrive. Mike Petrusky asks Bex about her new role and her passion for cultivating such engaging environments where all employees feel seen, valued, and empowered. She believes that empathy and curiosity are crucial "power skills" for workplace professionals, enabling them to adapt, learn, and lead effectively in changing environments, so she shares that storytelling and clear communication are essential. Bex and Mike discuss how real estate and facility management teams often need to better articulate their value in business terms and focus less on justification and more on impact for end users. Continual adaptation, embracing new technologies, and focusing on both operational excellence and human experience will keep the FM profession relevant, so Mike and Bex offer the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Bex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bexmoorhouse/ Learn more about Bex's work: https://www.bexmoorhouse.com/ Find out more about WPP: https://www.wpp.com/en-us Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 391: "Shaping the Felt Environment" – The Science and Practice of Emotional Wisdom in the Workplace with Joshua Freedman of Six Seconds EQ Network 03.03.2026 21m

  Joshua Freedman is CEO and cofounder of Six Seconds, the global emotional intelligence (EQ) network where he is passionate about helping organizations achieve higher engagement, better leadership, and scalable culture change. Mike Petrusky asks Joshua about his new book, "Emotion Rules: The Science and Practice of Emotional Wisdom", in which he equips leaders with scientific and practical tools for harnessing emotional intelligence to create a positive "felt environment" at work. Emotional intelligence is not only individually measurable but can also be assessed and developed at the organizational level to improve workplace culture and team effectiveness, so Joshua says emotional data is just as important as cognitive data in decision-making and leadership. Mike and Joshua discuss the increasing complexity and rapid change in the workplace today and explore how authenticity, empathy, and the willingness to acknowledge emotions in the workplace can help leaders to build trust and facilitate successful change management strategies. Tune in to hear the inspiration and encouragement that you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freedman/ Order Joshua's new book "Emotion Rules": https://www.6seconds.org/emotionrules Learn more about the Six Seconds EQ Network: https://www.6seconds.org/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 390: "Critical Connections" – How Leaders Can Harness the Power of Community in the Workplace with Dr. Tracy Brower of Steelcase 24.02.2026 27m

  Tracy Brower, PhD, MM, MCRW is a sociologist studying community, happiness, and the future of work and life. She is VP of Workplace Insights at Steelcase and a Senior Contributor for Forbes and Fast Company. Mike Petrusky asks Tracy about her brand new book, "Critical Connections: Build Relationships and Harness the Power of Community in Work and Life", in which she delivers inspiration and pragmatic new insights on community and connection. They discuss how organizations can help to foster connections among employees, which can lead to higher levels of well-being and performance. Research shows that 50% of people globally are lonely with record levels of depression and anxiety, so Tracy believes the workplace can provide a sense of stability and identity for the workforce. Proximity and presence can increase performance and knowledge sharing among employees, and leaders should be intentional about creating cultures that support connections and community, so Mike and Tracy share some inspiration that will encourage you to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Tracy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybrowerphd/ Order Tracy's new book "Critical Connections": https://tracybrower.com/9218-2/ Learn more about Steelcase: https://www.steelcase.com/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  
• Ep. 389: "Onwards and Upwards" – Technology, Workplace Innovation and Transforming Work with Sophie Wade of Flexcel Network 17.02.2026 29m

  Sophie Wade is a work transformation strategist, workforce innovator and well-known authority on the future of work. She is Founder of Flexcel Network where she advises executive leaders on human-centric, AI-driven change while also hosting her own show, the Transforming Work Podcast. Mike Petrusky asks Sophie about her latest book, "Empathy Works: The Key to Competitive Advantage in the New Era of Work", and why she believes we need a more holistic approach to workplace innovation, considering the human element and the psychology of collaboration. They explore the importance of integrating different departments such as facilities management, HR, and IT to create a cohesive work environment and discuss the role of technology and AI in shaping the future of work. FM leaders must embrace empathy and understanding in our distributed and hybrid work environments, so Mike and Sophie share stories about collaboration, music, and next generation connections as they encourage and inspire you to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-sophie-wade/ Learn more about Sophie's work: https://www.sophiewade.com/ Subscribe to The Work in Progress Report: https://theworkinprogressreport.substack.com/ Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSkmmkVFvM4H3pwnlU2AuqynuRDpvnh4J Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/workplace-innovator/ Learn more about Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/