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

Episodi

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  Ep. 415: "Build a Community" – Making Connections and Finding Your Path in Facility Management with Workplace Operations Leader Anthony Lucca 18.08.2026 23min

  Anthony Lucca is a young professional based in New York City with a passion for workplace operations, facility management, project management, and enhancing the employee Experience. Mike Petrusky asks Anthony about his aspiring career journey in the world of the workplace and they explore why building and fostering genuine relationships and professional networks is essential in facility management. Anthony says that his professional growth often involves learning from the experiences of others and that is why he is constantly seeking mentorship and has plans to get involved in communities such as IFMA. The workplace is fundamentally about people, and FM leaders are responsible for creating environments where employees feel connected, valued, and engaged in the age of hybrid and remote work. While individual innovation and adaptability are necessary for success in the future workplace, leaders look to the hospitality and service industries to provide valuable lessons when creating great cultures, so join Mike and Anthony as they offer the inspiration needed to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonylucca/ Learn 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/  
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  Ep. 414: "Innovation Starts with Why" – Strategy, Change, and the Human Side of Facility Management with Martin Ruppe MBA, MCR, SFP of IFMA's Workplace Evolutionaries 11.08.2026 26min

  Martin Ruppe MBA, MCR, SFP is the Executive Director for IFMA's Workplace Evolutionaries community where he is passionate about transforming facilities and workplaces through strategic consulting, digital innovation, and data-driven solutions. Mike Petrusky asks Martin why he believes innovation in FM is not about using the latest tools, but about identifying organizational gaps and aligning technology choices with strategic objectives. Having a clear strategy and understanding the 'why' behind workplace transformation is essential, so Martin encourages workplace leaders to focus on their strategic vision and adaptability, while maintaining a human-centric approach. This episode explores the importance of change management and communication as AI and digital solutions are increasingly disrupting the FM industry. Building a strong professional network and participating in communities like IFMA brings long-term benefits for workplace professionals, so Mike and Martin offer the encouragement and inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Martin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinruppe/ Learn more about Ruppe Consulting: https://www.ruppe.cc/ Explore the Workplace Evolutionaries at IFMA: 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/  
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  Ep. 413: "Always Be Connecting the Dots" – The Role of Hospitality in Culture and the Future of the Workplace with Jason Leeds of Dartcor Enterprises 04.08.2026 21min

  Jason Leeds is Chief Growth Officer at Dartcor Enterprises where he helps organizations use hospitality to create workplaces that strengthen culture, connection, and employee engagement. Jason brings a unique perspective at the intersection of hospitality, commercial real estate, and the future of work, so Mike Petrusky asks him how hospitality helps people connect and thrive at work. They explore intentional, detail-driven experiences that can contribute to a sense of belonging and increase employee engagement as facility management leaders seek to reinvent workspaces and make them more attractive. Technology and AI, when used thoughtfully, can automate routine tasks and provide more space for genuine human interaction in the workplace, and Jason says collaboration across FM, HR, and IT is essential for delivering seamless workplace experiences. Small, consistent actions can create significant positive change in the workplace over time, and the future workplace will be more flexible, experience-based, and focused on human connection, so Mike and Jason offer practical advice and the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-leeds-7b253a87/ Learn more about Dartcor Enterprises: https://www.dartcorenterprises.com/ Explore Dartcor Hospitality: https://www.dartcorhospitality.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/  
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  Ep. 412: "Where the Design Should Start" – Aligning Workplace Experience with Organizational Strategy with Beth Goff-McMillan of SKG and FOLIO 28.07.2026 25min

  Beth Goff-McMillan is CEO of SKG and Founder of FOLIO where she is passionate about helping organizations create environments that inspire people, elevate performance, and reflect purpose. Mike Petrusky asks Beth why she believes that workplace design should start with asking "why" and how FM leaders should focus on understanding the purpose behind bringing employees together and what the organization aims to achieve from the space. The physical office is not the strategy itself but a direct reflection of a company's strategy and desired outcomes for people and culture, so successful workplace innovation relies on the intersection of business vision and employee engagement. Beth says that "earning the commute" emphasizes the need to create inspiring, engaging workspaces that make employees want to come to the office and technology can help streamline the process, accelerate decision-making, and ensure thoughtful, repeatable approaches to workplace design. Leaders and facility management professionals must work strategically with HR and executive teams to support their people, so Mike and Beth offer the inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Beth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-goff-mcmillan/ Learn more about SKG, Inc.: https://skgtexas.com/ Explore FOLIO Project Software: https://skgtexas.com/about/folio/ 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/  
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  Ep. 411: "Flexibility is Key" – FM Change, AI, and the Future of Workplace Experience with Tanja Stojanovski, FMP, SFP of Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. 21.07.2026 18min

  Tanja Stojanovski, FMP, SFP is Manager, Workplace Experience at Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. where she is passionate about operations, property, facility and corporate management. Mike Petrusky asks Tanja about the future of the facility management and workplace experience profession as the industry faces constant change and requires daily adaptation. She believes that flexibility is key and says that the role of the FM team is shifting from being execution-focused to strategic partners who participate in business decisions and innovation. AI and data-driven technologies are already integral to workplace management, and professionals must embrace these tools to remain relevant and efficient. So, Tanja suggests pursuing professional credentials and engaging in continuous learning, both through formal courses and networking at IFMA and conferences like Facility Fusion and World Workplace. Collaboration, sharing perspectives across industries, and broadening skills are valuable for tackling new challenges in FM, so Mike and Tanja share the encouragement and inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Tanja on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanja-stojanovski/ Learn more about Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc.: https://www.rbhinc.ca/en/home Discover the benefits of IFMA membership: 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/  
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  Ep. 410: "Safe, Significant, and Situated" – Getting to Better: Elevating Human Potential at Work and in Life with Author Stephen de Groot of Brivia 14.07.2026 24min

  Stephen de Groot is President & Co-Founder of Brivia where he is passionate about making work and life meaningful for everyone and he is author of the new book, "Getting to Better: A New Model for Elevating Human Potential at Work and in Life". Mike Petrusky asks Stephen about his business philosophy, and they discuss how he believes workplace leaders can align their values and behaviors by creating environments where individuals feel safe, significant, and situated. They explore Steve's book in which he offers practical strategies for value alignment including identifying the value, developing shared understanding, and practicing aligned behaviors. Steve says that innovation should be viewed as ongoing growth and adaptation, rather than just "thinking outside the box" and he believes most workplace issues stem from value incongruence, not lack of competency. Effective workplace leadership involves simplicity, clarity, and fostering conditions for others to exceed their current performance, so Mike and Stephen share practical advice and the inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephendegrootofficial/ Order Steve's book "Getting to Better: A New Model for Elevating Human Potential at Work and in Life": https://gettingtobetter.com/ Learn more about Brivia Consulting: https://briviaconsulting.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/  
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  Ep. 409: "Things are Changing Rapidly" – Workplace Culture and the Human Side of Facility Management with Melissa Van Hagan, CFM, IFMA Fellow of Hill Physicians Medical Group 07.07.2026 24min

  Melissa Van Hagan, CFM, IFMA Fellow is Director, Facilities & Corporate Real Estate at Hill Physicians Medical Group where she is passionate about collaborating to ensure that relevant stakeholders are kept appraised of progress and challenges while delivering appropriate level of detail for each audience. Mike Petrusky asks Melissa why she believes that building strong industry relationships and community through IFMA and events like World Workplace is essential for personal and professional growth in facility management. They explore how hybrid and remote work have dramatically reshaped the modern workplace, requiring adaptive approaches to space management and employee needs, acknowledging that change management depends on both leadership vision and the willingness of employees to embrace new ways of working. FM professionals must stay open-minded, strategic, and passionate, so Mike and Melissa share the encouragement and inspiration needed to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Melisaa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-van-hagan-cfm-ifma-fellow-b2220314/ Learn 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/  
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  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 24min

  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/  
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  Ep. 407: "Stay Curious" – Using Smart & Adaptive Technologies to Build People-Centric Workplace Experiences with Daniel Grilli of VECOS 23.06.2026 26min

  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/  
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  Ep. 406: "Prove That Value" – FM Innovation & Making Your Invisible Work More Visible with Alexander Wennerberg of Hives.co 16.06.2026 28min

  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/  
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  Ep. 405: "Get Aligned on Purpose" – Change Management and the Three Pillars of Workplace Strategy with David George of CRUX Workplace 09.06.2026 26min

  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/  
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  Ep. 404: "What are the Outcomes?" – AI Strategies for Building the Responsive Workplace of the Future with Rebecca Swanner of HED 02.06.2026 26min

  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/  
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  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 26min

  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/  
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  Ep. 402: "Solve the Most Complex Problems" – A Deep Dive into "The Psychological Safety Playbook for Changemakers" with Author Minette Norman 19.05.2026 24min

  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/  
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  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 27min

  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/  
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  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 56min

  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/  
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  Ep. 399: "Thoughtload" – Manage the Madness and Free Your Team to Do Great Work with Author Liane Davey, PhD 28.04.2026 28min

  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/  
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  Ep. 398: "The Ubuntu Workplace" – Designing for Humanity and the Future of Work with Workplace Strategist Hassan Shaikh, PhD 21.04.2026 23min

  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/  
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  Ep. 397: "Ahead by a Century" – AI Ethics, Continuous Learning, and the Future of Facility Management with Lorri Rowlandson of BGIS 14.04.2026 29min

  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/  
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  Ep. 396: "Just Stay Human" – Designing Solutions that Create Value and Enhance Employee Experiences with Workplace Consultant Tonya Thornburgh 07.04.2026 17min

  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/