The Modern Facilities Management Podcast

Epizodai

• Peter Costanzo: AI, Sensors, and the Next Era of FM Tech 16.04.2026 28min

  In this episode, Griffin sits down with Peter Costanzo of ROI Consulting Group to explore how facilities management technology is rapidly evolving—and why the industry is finally hitting an inflection point.Peter shares his unexpected path into FM tech and what’s kept him in the space for over two decades: the increasing complexity, opportunity, and impact of technology on building operations. From the growing role of IT and HR in facilities decisions to the rise of workplace experience as a priority, facilities teams are becoming more integrated than ever before.The conversation dives into major trends shaping the future of FM, including AI, predictive maintenance, and the explosion of sensors. Peter highlights how falling sensor costs and improved connectivity are making smarter buildings more accessible—and how large players like Siemens, Schneider Electric, and Autodesk are investing heavily in this space.They also discuss common challenges, like outdated systems, overwhelming technology choices, and implementation failures. A key theme: success with FM tech isn’t just about buying the right tools—it’s about long-term thinking, cross-functional collaboration, and actually using the systems to their full potential.If you’re trying to make sense of where FM technology is headed—or where to even begin—this episode offers a grounded, real-world perspective on what’s changing and what it means for facilities teams moving forward.Resources:ROI Consulting GroupPeter Costanzo LinkedIn
• More Than Maintenance: Rethinking Facilities Leadership with Adam Cronk 19.03.2026 31min

  Adam Cronk joins The Modern Facilities Management Podcast to share his journey from the U.S. Air Force into leadership roles across fitness and hospitality facilities. He dives into how military structure shaped his leadership style—and the challenges of adapting to corporate environments.The conversation explores a major shift in how facilities teams are viewed: from siloed “fix-it” departments to strategic operators that directly impact business outcomes. Adam breaks down why facilities, cleanliness, and people form the core triangle of customer retention—and why maintenance teams must be embedded in operations, not hidden behind the scenes.He also shares practical insights on:Hiring for culture over technical skillBuilding trust through a strong “say-do” ratioElevating facilities leaders by stepping into cross-functional rolesLearning leadership lessons from both great—and terrible—examplesThis episode is a must-listen for facilities leaders looking to drive impact, build stronger teams, and secure a seat at the table.
• Ben Moller: Rethinking Asset Lifecycle Planning 22.01.2026 26min

  In this episode, Griffin Hamilton sits down with Ben Moller, VP at Modelve, to discuss how facilities teams can move from reactive asset replacement to long-term, data-driven capital planning.They explore leadership buy-in, scenario planning, and how using existing CMMS data can help organizations make smarter asset investment decisions, even with limited budgets. Key Takeaways• Leadership buy-in is essential for long-term asset strategy• Start with the data you have and improve iteratively• Scenario planning creates better, more transparent decisions• Strong asset plans support grants, bonds, and future fundingIf you're interested in learning more about Modelve, check out their website and contact Ben here.
• William Gordon: Emergency Planning, Water Damage, and Rapid Response 15.01.2026 27min

  In this episode, Griffin Hamilton speaks with William Gordon, Regional Business Coach at 1-800-WaterDamage, who brings over 40 years of experience in property restoration. The conversation focuses on how facilities teams can better prepare for emergencies, respond effectively when disaster strikes, and recover faster, whether the incident affects a single building or an entire region.Key Takeaways:Preparation matters more than the plan itself. You can’t predict every scenario, but thinking ahead and documenting response steps dramatically reduces damage and confusion.Document critical information and make it accessible. Water shutoffs, emergency contacts, and vendor info should be easy to find and available to every shift, not just one person.Have a trusted restoration partner before you need one. Restoration vendors deal with these situations daily and bring experience, resources, and vendor relationships you don’t want to scramble for mid-crisis.Speed and clear communication reduce impact. Calling for help early, designating a single point of contact, and coordinating updates across stakeholders prevents chaos and delays.Regional disasters require a different mindset. In hurricanes, fires, or earthquakes, infrastructure and supply shortages change priorities, preexisting relationships help your building get back online faster.This episode is a practical guide for facilities leaders looking to minimize risk, protect occupants, and recover quickly when emergencies inevitably occur.
• Micah Jacob: Rethinking FM Through Systems Thinking 18.12.2025 34min

  In this episode of The Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton is joined by Micah Jacob, a Melbourne-based Facilities Manager with over a decade of global FM experience across Australia, Europe, and large multinational portfolios.Micah’s journey into facilities management is anything but traditional. Originally trained in computer science, his career path took an unexpected turn—from a mailroom role to managing complex FM contracts across energy, banking, retail, and commercial real estate. Along the way, he’s worked with some of the largest global FM providers, gaining a rare, cross-functional perspective on how facilities management has evolved over the last 12 years.Together, Griffin and Micah explore:How a technical and systems-thinking background can shape better FM decision-makingThe expanding role of facilities teams post-COVID, from operations to strategyWhy emotional intelligence and stakeholder psychology are now critical FM skillsGlobal differences in FM best practices across Australia, the U.S., Europe, and the Middle EastThe promise—and challenges—of IoT, data, and predictive maintenance in facilitiesWhy adaptability beats “cause and effect” thinking in complex FM environmentsMicah also shares insights into mentorship, continuous learning, and his upcoming book project focused on complex systems thinking—bridging human psychology, infrastructure, and long-term outcomes in facilities and beyond.Enjoy!
• Lonnie Pilgrim: Navigating Capital Projects & Future-Proofing School Facilities 04.12.2025 28min

  In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin welcomes back Lonnie Pilgrim, Director of Operations & Maintenance for the Fort McMurray Public School Division in Alberta. Previously featured in Episode 101 for his crisis management expertise, Lonnie returns to discuss best practices in capital project management.Lonnie breaks down capturing daily maintenance data to annual lifecycle reporting, FCA cycles, emerging issues, and the metrics that ultimately built the case for the project approval. The conversation dives deep into best practices for capital project planning, including:How to demonstrate need using real maintenance and cost dataMistakes to avoid in early project designEnsuring operational efficiency post-constructionStandardizing equipment to streamline future maintenanceBuilding strong relationships with architects, GCs, and stakeholders to ensure a smooth turnoverEnjoy!
• Nick Queensland: Change Management in FM 20.11.2025 27min

  In this episode of The Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton sits down with Nick Queensland, a a healthcare facilities leader with more than 25 years of experience at Mayo Clinic, Luminis Health, and Johns Hopkins. Griffin and Nick dig into the realities of change management in hospital facilities—why buy-in matters, how to communicate effectively with stakeholders, and why reinforcing change is just as important as implementing it. Nick also reflects on the evolving expectations in healthcare facilities and the importance of engaging teams at every level.If you’re looking to grow your career or lead change in facilities management, this episode is packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons.Key Topics CoveredNavigating a 25+ year career in hospital facilitiesThe importance of understanding your role in healthcareLeadership philosophies and developing future FM talentChange management: buy-in, communication, and reinforcementEngaging stakeholders across clinical and non-clinical teamsHow expectations in hospital facilities have evolvedBuilding team culture during times of changeEnjoy!
• Jay Fiske: Turning Data into Action with Connected Kitchens and Smart Facilities 06.11.2025 29min

  In this episode of The Modern Facilities Management Podcast, host Griffin Hamilton sits down with Jay Fiske, President of Powerhouse Dynamics, to explore how IoT (Internet of Things) is transforming the food service and retail industries. Jay shares the fascinating journey of Powerhouse Dynamics—from a scrappy four-person startup to an acquisition by Middleby, one of the world’s largest commercial food service equipment manufacturers.They dive deep into how simple IoT sensors and data streams—like temperature, energy, and door sensors—can unlock massive operational efficiencies, prevent costly equipment failures, and optimize energy use. Jay also explains how facilities teams can start small, measure ROI, and scale their use of connected technologies without adding to their workload.Key Takeaways:What IoT really means and how it drives actionable insights.Real-world examples of how connected devices improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability.How AI and automation are redefining facility management and reducing labor burdens.A look ahead at the next 3–5 years of connectivity, automation, and AI in the facilities world.About the Guest:Jay Fiske is President of Powerhouse Dynamics, a Boston-based IoT company whose platforms—Open Kitchen and SiteSage—help multi-site operators manage critical infrastructure like HVAC, refrigeration, and cooking equipment through cloud-connected automation.
• Jessica Wicks, Brand President of DUCTZ 23.10.2025 22min

  In this episode, Jessica Wicks, Brand President of DUCTZ, joins us to discuss why proactive maintenance planning is vital to facilities management. She explains how deferred maintenance directly affects indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and overall building performance. Jessica also shares how HVAC systems play a pivotal role in sustainability, and offers practical insights on selecting the right maintenance partners. From coil cleaning to air duct restoration, this conversation underscores the importance of consistency and accountability in creating healthy, efficient buildings.Takeaways:Maintenance plans should include walkthroughs and system inventory checks.Deferred maintenance leads to costly breakdowns and potential health risks.Indoor air quality depends on consistent HVAC upkeep.Energy efficiency is tightly linked to system cleanliness.Coil cleaning helps extend HVAC lifespan.Facilities managers must prioritize proactive care to avoid disruptions.Vendor selection plays a major role in maintenance success.AI and technology are supporting skilled trades and ensuring long-term job stability.00:00 – Introduction to Jessica Wicks and DUCTZ04:59 – The Importance of Maintenance Plans09:45 – Impact of Deferred Maintenance on Indoor Air Quality14:27 – Energy Efficiency and Maintenance Strategies19:17 – Challenges in Maintaining Occupied Buildings20:12 – Selecting the Right VendorAbout DUCTZ:Founded in 2002, DUCTZ is the nation’s leading brand for HVAC and air duct cleaning. Since air duct cleanliness is directly tied to indoor air quality, DUCTZ technicians provide thorough services that improve system efficiency and safety. DUCTZ emphasizes long-term relationships with residents and businesses through exceptional service. In addition to air duct cleaning, the company offers HVAC restoration, dryer vent cleaning, coil cleaning, and exhaust cleaning.
• Michelle Sujka: Empowerment in Facilities Management 09.10.2025 22min

  In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, host Griffin Hamilton sits down with Michelle Sujka to discuss her journey into facilities management. Michelle shares how relationship building, self-reflection, and embracing discomfort have shaped her growth in a male-dominated field. She also highlights how COVID-19 offered a moment for personal and professional reset, and how her podcast, I’m Done Apologizing, empowers women to step into leadership with confidence.Takeaways:Building strong relationships is foundational to success in facilities management.Self-reflection and vulnerability fuel personal growth.Networking and mentorship are essential career tools.Women should apply for roles even before they feel 100% qualified.Having allies and diverse perspectives strengthens the industry.Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Michelle Sujka02:45 – Transition from Higher Education to Facilities Management05:40 – The Power of Relationship Building09:00 – Self-Reflection and Growth11:50 – Empowerment Through Podcasting15:00 – Women in a Male-Dominated Industry18:00 – COVID-19 as a Moment for Reset
• Billy Holder: Leveraging AI for Facilities Inspections 25.09.2025 30min

  In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton speaks with Billy Holder about his extensive journey in the facilities management and construction industry. They discuss the significant changes in the industry over the past year, the core problems faced by facilities managers, particularly regarding time management and inspections, and how innovative technology, including AI, is being utilized to address these challenges. Billy shares insights on the importance of networking and the impact of organizations like IFMA on his career, emphasizing the need for professionals to embrace technology to stay competitive in the evolving landscape.Enjoy!Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background04:53 Identifying the Main Problem10:06 Innovative Solutions in Facilities Management15:09 The Role of AI in Facilities Management19:51 Embracing Technology and Future Trends24:55 Networking and Career Impact
• Micah Remley, CEO of Robin Workplace Management 28.08.2025 25min

  On this episode, Griffin Hamilton interviews Micah Remley, CEO of Robin, a workplace management platform.Micah and Griffin dive into the evolving landscape of workplace management, particularly in the context of hybrid work environments. They discuss the challenges and strategies for returning to the office, the importance of data in managing facilities, and how to create a workplace that fosters collaboration and productivity. Micah emphasizes the need for intentionality in office design and operations, drawing parallels with the hospitality industry to enhance employee experience.Key Takeaways:Hybrid work has created a disconnect between employee and management expectations.Team days can significantly improve collaboration and office attendance.Data analytics is crucial for understanding office usage and employee behavior.The role of facilities managers is evolving to include more strategic planning and data analysis.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Workplace Management02:03 The Evolution of Hybrid Work05:09 Challenges of Returning to Office09:58 Leveraging Data and Tools for Facilities Management20:02 The Future of Workplace Experience
• Jonathan Price: Navigating Leadership in Facilities Management 14.08.2025 27min

  On this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton interviews John Price, a Facilities Director at Elevate Eye Care. They discuss John's journey into facilities management, the challenges of leadership, including imposter syndrome, and the importance of curiosity and servant leadership. The conversation also explores the integration of AI in facilities management and its potential impact on the industry. John shares his insights on team development, the role of technology, and the future of human-AI collaboration.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership in Facilities Management02:49 The Journey into Facilities Management05:47 Understanding Imposter Syndrome in Leadership08:45 The Role of Curiosity in Leadership11:42 Servant Leadership and Team Development14:34 Embracing AI in Facilities Management20:32 The Future of AI and Human Collaboration
• Michael LoVaglia: The Third Space 07.08.2025 23min

  On this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, host Griffin Hamilton sits down with Michael LoVaglia, Director of Facilities Management and Real Estate for Canvas Worldwide. Michael shares his journey into the facilities management industry, highlighting the unique blend of creativity and technical skills required in the field. They delve into the concept of the "third space" and discuss how companies can create dynamic work environments that encourage collaboration and innovation. Tune in to discover insights on balancing work-life dynamics, the evolution of workspace design, and the importance of having a dedicated personal workspace. Enjoy!
• Bob Miller: Facilities Management in Hospitality 17.07.2025 24min

  On this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton speaks with Bob Miller, the General Manager at Camp Margaritaville. They discuss Bob's journey in the hospitality industry, the importance of communication in enhancing guest experiences, and the unique challenges of facilities management in hospitality. Bob shares insights on preventative maintenance strategies, balancing emergencies with planned maintenance, and the significance of key performance indicators in ensuring operational efficiency. The conversation highlights the critical role of teamwork and communication across departments to deliver exceptional guest experiences.Enjoy!
• Gerrayl Bryson: From Military to Facilities Management 26.06.2025 24min

  In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton interviews Gerrayl Bryson, a Facilities Supervisor for the Nevada Department of Veterans Services. Gerrayl shares his journey from military service to civilian life, highlighting the skills and experiences that have shaped his career in facilities management. He discusses the unique challenges and rewards of managing facilities for veterans, the importance of safety culture, and the need for sustainability in aging facilities. TakeawaysThe importance of finding purpose in civilian life after military service.Facilities management is crucial for enhancing residents' daily experiences.A culture of safety is built through communication and empowerment.Reporting near misses can prevent future incidents.Embracing change and ambiguity is vital in facilities management.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jeral Bryson02:33 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life07:47 Unique Aspects of Managing Veteran Facilities10:10 The Impact of Facilities Management on Residents12:15 Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Goals14:12 Sustainability and Future Planning15:36 Building a Culture of Safety19:49 Understanding and Reporting Near Misses20:00 Advice for Aspiring Facilities Managers21:22 Influences on Career Development
• Steven Atkins: Healthcare Facilities Management 12.06.2025 27min

  In this episode, Griffin Hamilton speaks with Steven Atkins, the Director of Facilities Management at Methodist University Hospital. They discuss Steven's journey into healthcare facilities management, the unique challenges faced in this sector, and the importance of compliance and paperwork. Steven shares insights on documenting tribal knowledge, emergency preparedness, and building a culture of safety. The conversation also delves into sustainability efforts and capital projects, emphasizing the role of optimization in achieving energy efficiency and cost savings. Key TakeawaysHealthcare facilities management involves navigating complex regulations and compliance requirements.Capturing tribal knowledge is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency in aging facilities.Emergency preparedness requires a multidisciplinary approach and regular drills.Sustainability initiatives can lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency.Building trust with administration is essential for successful emergency management programs.
• Michel Theriault: Advocating for FM 08.05.2025 28min

  SummaryIn this episode, Griffin Hamilton is joined by industry veteran Michel Theriault to unpack a recurring pain point in facilities management: the lack of fit-for-purpose tools and the undervaluation of FM’s strategic role. With decades of experience in in-house, outsourced, and consulting environments, Michel shares compelling insights on:Why many organizations still use subpar or misaligned systems (like IT helpdesks) to manage complex FM needsThe consequences of not advocating for specialized FM software (like CMMS or CAFM platforms)How poor interdepartmental collaboration—especially with IT—can derail initiatives for yearsThe importance of positioning FM as a strategic function, not just a tactical onePractical advice for facility managers to gain business fluency, advocate for better tools, and communicate their impactThe value of professional developmentInterested in learning more? Reach out to Michel on LinkedIn
• #135 David Stephenson: Smart Building Technology 24.04.2025 24min

  This weeks guest is David Stephenson, Studio Principal (Smart Building Studio) at Little Diversified Architectural ConsultingIn this episode, Griffin and David talk about the evolution of smart building technology and its implementation in facilities management. David shares his extensive experience in the industry, discussing the challenges faced by facility managers, the importance of change management, and best practices for technology adoption. If you'd like to learn more about Little's Smart Building Studio, check out their brochure here. 00:00 Introduction to Smart Building Technology03:01 David's Journey in Facilities Management05:48 Challenges in the FM Industry09:01 Best Practices for Change Management12:01 Implementation Strategies for Technology15:04 Integrating Smart Building Technologies18:06 Taking the First Steps in Tech Adoption
• #134 John Kunzier: Proof of Presence 17.04.2025 30min

  In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton interviews John Kunzier, president of Invisible Sun Technology. They discuss the importance of technology in facilities management, particularly IoT solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity. John shares insights on the challenges of tight margins in the industry and how small changes can significantly impact the bottom line. The conversation also covers innovative technologies like Proof of Presence, which improve service delivery and shift management from reactive to proactive. John emphasizes the value of data in justifying operational decisions and the importance of curiosity in driving career development.Enjoy!00:00 Introduction to John Kunzier and Invisible Sun Technology02:50 The Importance of Technology in Facilities Management05:58 Understanding Margins and Cost Efficiency09:04 Innovative Solutions: Proof of Presence Technology12:09 Shifting from Reactive to Proactive Management14:55 Addressing Employee Concerns with Monitoring Technology17:49 The Value of Data in Facilities Management21:01 Curiosity as a Driving Force in Career Development