Watching Paint Dry

Scott Lewis Judkins is the Head of Facilities Management for Fortinet's Global Head Quarters at C&W Services, a leading integrated facility services provider. Fortinet is the global leader of cybersecurity solutions and services. As a highly accomplished construction and facilities executive, Scott's experience includes serving as the Regional Facilities Manager for the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, where he managed 14 historic buildings and grounds. He specializes in planning, building, and renovating facilities with complex electrical, mechanical, and automated building systems. In this episode… When it comes to developing buildings or office spaces, sustainability is a priority for many businesses. So, what do you need to consider when establishing sustainable sites to ensure optimal comfort and operational effectiveness? Adopting sustainable practices requires implementing automated technology to monitor carbon monoxide levels, measure air quality, and reduce carbon footprints. Scott Lewis Judkins affirms the importance of conducting examinations, engineering, and testing to determine the precise demand for this type of innovation. Facilities managers must acquire the range of knowledge needed to execute these projects successfully. Join Greg Owens in today's episode of Watching Paint Dry as he interviews Scott Lewis Judkins, Head of Facilities Management for Fortinet's Global Head Quarters at C&W Services, about how facilities managers should consider sustainability. Scott shares how Fortinet designs workspaces to fulfill its organizational goals, key considerations and functions of sustainable airflow technology, and advice for aspiring facilities managers.

Dave Scroggins is the Facilities Manager at Cushman & Wakefield, a global commercial real estate services firm. In his role, Dave manages two office locations. Before Cushman & Wakefield, he was the Facilities Manager at Hines Building Maintenance, the Maintenance Team Lead at Silicon Valley International School, and the Operations Manager at The Training Zone. Nic Guedenet is the Vice President of Operations at Hines Building Maintenance, a facilities service company. He was promoted to this position from Director of Facilities in May 2022. In his role, Nic works with clients to ensure the successful implementation of a preventative maintenance program. Before Hines Building Maintenance, he was the Director of Facilities and Facilities Manager at International School of the Peninsula. In this episode… The pandemic has created hybrid work models and the need to condense or expand building spaces. So, how can you reconstruct your facilities to overcome these challenges and comply with demands for innovative work styles? When developing new spaces, it's imperative to modernize your facilities to accommodate collaboration and encourage a smooth transition back to the office. These renovations require shutting down areas that no longer serve a purpose to make room for open spaces with inviting and comfortable environments. Through careful consideration of contemporary work approaches, you can manage your facilities effectively.   In today's episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Dave Scroggins of Cushman & Wakefield and Nic Guedenet of Hines Building Maintenance to discuss preparing facilities for expansion. Together, they share the challenges of managing projects, material shortages, and inflation, how hybrid work models affect facility spaces, and the process of managing corporate and other public facilities.

Nirmala Kovvali is the Director of Facilities and EHS at Carbon, a 3D printing technology company helping businesses develop products to bring to market. In her current role, Nirmala is responsible for real estate, facilities management, and engineering. She is involved in facility strategic planning for research and development, amenities/site services, vendor management, and environmental health and safety. Before Carbon, Nirmala was the Operations Manager at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and the Senior EHS Consultant at EORM. In this episode… Facilities management requires understanding the diverse processes and roles within an organization. Yet, many facilities managers lack knowledge in these areas and struggle to collaborate with their associates. So, how can you ensure consistent performance across all channels? When supporting a business at each stage of its process, it's important to remain curious. Consistently striving to learn new things about both the business and the industry allows you to acquire the technical knowledge needed to solve problems. And, by communicating productively with your colleagues, you can form connections with industry and trade experts to manage your operations seamlessly. Tune in to this episode of Watching Paint Dry as Greg Owens sits down with Nirmala Kovvali, Director of Facilities and EHS at Carbon, to discuss efficiency in facilities management. Nirmala shares the value facilities managers bring to corporations, tips for reorganizing your team and processes following the pandemic, and essential skills for facilities managers.

Jeffrey Holton is the Facilities Operations Manager at The Doctors Company, the nation's largest physician-owned medical malpractice insurer. He has a background in game development and project management. During the Clinton administration, Jeffrey served in the U.S. Army as a multi-channel transmission systems operator. He currently serves on the board of the City of Santa Rosa Planning Commission. In this episode… As a facilities manager, it's necessary to establish communication between your vendors and subordinates to ensure seamless operations for your buildings. So, how can you communicate clearly while maintaining authority in your position?  Jeffrey Holton urges facilities managers to build mutually beneficial relationships with their associates. This requires taking the time to get to know them personally and offering your assistance. By demonstrating loyalty and consideration for their needs, your colleagues are more likely to respect your work and provide you with professional services.  Join Greg Owens in today's episode of Watching Paint Dry as he talks with Jeffrey Holton, Facilities Operations Manager at The Doctors Company, about how to manage your facilities effectively. Jeffrey shares his tips for overcoming challenges in facilities management, the importance of building relationships with your vendors and subordinates, and his innovative solution to a complex repair problem.

Bryan Garza is the Director of Facilities at Filoli, a National Trust historic house, garden, and nature preserve. As the overseer of Filoli's infrastructure and property, Bryan supports the activities of all operations and programs. He leads an innovative team that focuses on high-quality solutions while maintaining national standards for historic preservation. Before joining Filoli, he served as the Technology Project Manager for the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). In this episode… Are you interested in a career in facilities management? Do you have a background in horticulture and think you can rise to the challenge? Consult with Bryan Garza, a skilled facilities manager with a background in horticulture and project management. Bryan fell in love with Filoli's nature preserve and now lives and works on site. His passion for nature allows him to excel as Director of Facilities, where he continuously works to gain additional knowledge of the horticulture industry. Bryan will teach you how to gain the skills needed for a successful career in facilities management.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Bryan Garza, Director of Facilities at Filoli, to discuss how facilities management and horticulture can build off one another. Bryan will divulge how he became Filoli's new Director of Facilities, the management style he uses to maintain Filoli's historic site, and the problem-solving skills he uses to innovate and maintain the historic premises. 

Bruce Mace is the Executive Director of Facilities and Support Services at UCSF Health, one of the nation's top 10 hospitals. Bruce has extensive experience in architecture, 2D and 3D design, construction, and project delivery. Over the past 15 years, Bruce turned to healthcare operations and has developed dedicated teams of professionals in the areas of safety, energy, leasehold, construction, call center, operations, and business applications. In this episode… How would you like to maintain your client's buildings with well-structured, well-executed facilities management programs? Better yet, would you like to improve them? Bruce Mace has experience in architecture, 2D and 3D design, construction, health operations, and project delivery, which he uses to manage and upgrade his client's buildings. Today, he shares lessons he has learned over the past 15 years to help others refine their facilities and boost their business.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Bruce Mace, the Executive Director of Facilities and Support Services at UCSF Health, to discuss ways brands can maintain and improve their facilities. Bruce talks about the challenges they've faced expanding UCSF Health during the pandemic, the lessons they've learned and the importance of having a backup plan, and new technology and tools in the construction industry.

Mark Hiddleson is the Owner of Specialized Storage Solutions Inc., which provides industry-leading warehouse storage solutions nationwide. Mark has been a storage racking industry professional since 1996. He became a top salesperson in the industry, working with a leading company that served Northern California before founding Specialized Storage Solutions Inc. in 2004.  Mark holds a master's degree in holistic health education, which has helped him build a successful business model based on holistic principles and trust-based relationships. According to Mark, the more we nurture business relationships, the more successful the entire business ecosystem will become. In this episode… Relationships are one of the most important facets of a business. But cultivating and nurturing great relationships can be difficult without the necessary skills. So where can leaders turn to gain expertise and grow their business holistically? With a master's degree in holistic health education, Mark Hiddleson knows exactly what it takes to shape a business model based on holistic principles and trust-based relationships. One of the main factors that continues to help Mark's business thrive is his practice in the Japanese martial art, Aikido. One of its main tenets is the emphasis on not only defending yourself, but protecting the attacker. How does this apply to business? Mark is here to tell you.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Mark Hiddleson, Owner of Specialized Storage Solutions Inc., to talk about applying holistic health practices in any industry. Mark shares how he got into storage solutions, his advice for others wanting to begin their career in the industry, and how holistic and relationship-based practices can benefit your business.

Jeremy Salles is the Senior Director of Facilities and Real Estate at Sony Interactive Entertainment, known to most as the company responsible for the PlayStation brand. Having previously worked in facilities management for UPS, eBay, and Cisco, he's honed his skills in workplace services, property management, employee experience, and more. As a Bay Area local, Jeremy's job has become increasingly unique as tech companies shift course to accommodate their newly-remote workforces. In this episode… What are tech companies planning to do with their properties in the aftermath of the pandemic-driven shift to remote work? Can and should higher-ups convince happy and comfortable remote workers to return to the office? Is workplace camaraderie soon to be a thing of the past? Greg Owens starts a conversation on these topics and more with Jeremy Salles, Senior Director of Facilities and Real Estate at Sony Interactive Entertainment — better known as the providers of PlayStation. With a vast portfolio of facilities management experience spanning prestigious companies like Cisco and eBay combined with a steadfast heart for helping others, Jeremy weighs the pros and cons of remote workforces in tech. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, host Greg Owens is joined by Jeremy Salles, Senior Director of Facilities and Real Estate at Sony Interactive Entertainment. With Sony PlayStation locations worldwide, Jeremy travels often and offers unique insight into how facilities management trickles down to affect all workers in the tech field. He explains how remote work has changed the industry for better and worse, the role of camaraderie in a healthy workplace, and how you can get into his line of work.

Roger Silveira is the Director of Facilities Maintenance and Operations at East Side Union High School District and the Founder of We Need Fresh Air. We Need Fresh Air is an organization focused on reducing the health problems caused by indoor air pollution and poor ventilation in the classroom.  He has been in the construction and building maintenance industry for over 30 years. Roger found his true calling in education and helping to deliver a healthy learning environment for students. In this episode… What is the importance of building proper ventilation in classrooms? What are the benefits? Do school CO2 levels matter when it comes to education? For Roger Silveira, proper ventilation and monitoring of CO2 levels have been at the forefront of his work, especially as we navigate through the pandemic. According to Roger, there is a correlation between student achievement, attendance, and the levels of CO2 in the classroom. Air quality can play a role in your feelings and cognitive abilities — and in the classroom environment, mental sharpness is essential for children. When the air is properly filtrated, test scores and student performance increase.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens talks with Roger Silveira, Director of Facilities Maintenance and Operations at East Side Union High School District and Founder of We Need Fresh Air, about the importance of recirculation systems inside the classroom. Roger discusses funding the filtration systems, the correlation between CO2 levels and the student environment, and techniques to promote the education of air purification systems.

Bill Martorana is the Director of Facilities at IGM Biosciences. He has over 15 years of experience managing multi-site and multi-building facilities. Throughout his career, he's worked to create a culture of trust with his team, build connections, and ensure assets and people are safe. He previously served as the Head of Facilities and EHS for ViewRay, Director of Facilities, Security, and EHS for Velodyne Lidar, Global Senior Manager of Facilities and Real Estate for Rambus, and the Associate Director of Facilities Operation for Nektar Therapeutics. In this episode… Have you ever wondered what a workday is like at a cancer research facility? Are you thinking of beginning a career in lab facility operations, but you're not sure where to start? Bill Martorana, Director of Facilities at IGM Biosciences, is here to walk you through his day and tell you how to begin.  Bill has created a culture that drives workforce dedication by cultivating trust with his team. Working with scientists, time is of the essence when something needs addressing. Bill says having a partnership with your vendors is crucial for the success of a facility, especially when the clock is ticking. So if you're wanting to start in lab facility operations, what do you need to do? In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Bill Martorana, Director of Facilities at IGM Biosciences, to talk about creating a culture built on trust and dedication. Bill discusses finding balance and developing a mindset of trust with your team, how technology has helped shape the facilities management industry, and his advice for anyone looking to begin a career in facilities management. Stay tuned!

Michael Kistler is a Senior Facilities Manager with over 15 years of experience in project management and a demonstrated history in facilities services. He began his career with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, where he ​​managed 13 projects valued at $68 million. During his tour of Afghanistan, Michael completed over 33 contingency construction projects, valued at $2.8 million. He graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor's in civil engineering. In this episode… How can you build your skills and trade knowledge to market yourself for facilities management programs? What does it take to become a valuable facilities manager? Michael Kistler is an experienced facilities manager who began his career in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, and he uses his invaluable skillsets to help his clients effectively maintain their facility. He recommends gaining broad experience to equip yourself with more responsibilities and tools so you can leverage your know-how for a competitive industry.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Michael Kistler, Senior Facilities Manager, to discuss breaking into the realm of facilities management. Michael shares the effects of the pandemic and world events on the industry, navigating the difficulties of recruiting and supply chain disruptions, and educational tools for building a career in facilities management.

Natasha Vinitsky is the Senior Property Manager at R&C Brown Associates, a privately held real estate investment company that specializes in acquisition, redevelopment, leasing, and management in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has years of experience working in the commercial real estate industry as the Property Manager for Longfellow Real Estate Partners, LLC, the Assistant Manager of Operations for Irvine Company, and the Assistant Property Manager for BioMed Realty.  Natasha has a bachelor's in communications from Notre Dame de Namur University. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family. In this episode… How can you build value in your leased buildings and manage the risks that come with ownership? What does it take to create a comprehensive portfolio for steady growth and scalability? Natasha Vinitsky has extensive experience working in the commercial real estate industry, which she uses to help cultivate healthy relationships with her tenants. She says it's essential for you to find the right balance and opportunity for development. The result? A place of value that you've helped create.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Natasha Vinitsky, Senior Property Manager at R&C Brown Associates, to discuss the complexities of managing and creating value in rental properties. Natasha talks about cultivating a sense of merit with tenants and distributors, the financial ecosystem surrounding building maintenance, and how to establish a network of properties for your real estate portfolio. 

Jacob Quint is the Senior Facilities Manager at Mission Barns, an innovative company that takes animal fat cells and creates plant-based meat. Growing up on a horse ranch, he is no stranger to animals and uses that knowledge to enhance his management and project skills to build his team.  He has been in operational management roles, working as the Facilities Manager for NewTropic, a cannabis manufacturer, and as a general manager for Gravity Wine House. In this episode… When the global demand for meat is rapidly growing, is there a way to cultivate a healthier, more environmentally friendly, and humane option for the meat market? Jacob Quint is at the frontlines of creating a sustainable solution for meat production — without the animal. Through innovative technology, scientists can isolate fat cells and grow the fat naturally, just as an animal does. The end result is a more scalable and delicious plant-based product.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens joins Jacob Quint, Senior Facilities Manager at Mission Barns, to discuss connecting teams and specialized components for breaking into the plant-based food industry. Jacob talks about how supply chain disruptions affect growth, the challenges of setting up a workforce during the pandemic, and the harvest and cultivation process of growing plant-based meat.

Mark Moses is an author and municipal finance consultant. He's a former municipal CFO/Treasurer and industry consultant with 29 years of financial management experience. Throughout his career, he was a Senior Finance Advisor for Regional Government Services Authority, where he provided assessment and consultative services to municipal agencies throughout California. He was also the West Coast Regional Director for Innoprise Software and the Chief Financial Officer for the city of Stockton.  Additionally, Mark recently published a book, The Municipal Financial Crisis: A Framework for Understanding and Fixing Government Budgeting. In this episode… It's no secret that most city government financial systems are a mess. Rather than evaluate and change old practices, officials just add on layer after layer of new requirements. Is there any way out of the maze of antiquated systems and traditions?  Mark Moses has a few ideas about the solution. That's why he's published his new book, The Municipal Financial Crisis: A Framework for Understanding and Fixing Government Budgeting. After years of advising governments throughout California, he knows exactly what works — and what doesn't work — for city government financial services.    In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Mark Moses, author and municipal finance consultant, to discuss solutions for city budget planning. Mark explains how many city governments have made a mess of their financial systems, why politics interferes with budgeting, and options for re-evaluating your city's budget.

Steve Wallis is the Vice President of Operations at GSH Group, a premiere provider of global integrated facilities management and building engineering services. With over 20 years of experience in the facilities engineering field, Steve oversees the operations of dedicated professionals as they efficiently accomplish their objectives for the global clientele. In this episode… How can you create greater value for your clients by having well-structured, executed facilities management programs? What does it take to be a manager that can deliver outstanding value to their clients? Steve Wallis has more than 20 years of experience in the facilities engineering field, which he uses to help his clients achieve their goals. He says that people need to understand the industry they are in to be able to tackle any issue that arises and achieve their goals in the long run. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens and Katrina Stephenson sit down with Steve Wallis, Vice President of Operations at GSH Group. Together, they talk about facilities management, the impact of the pandemic on the industry, trends in the industry, and predict how the future may look. Steve also shares his journey of how he got to where he is so he can encourage other people to achieve their goals too.

Jack Lau is the Facilities Manager at Perfect World Entertainment, a leading publisher of online games most known for creating titles based on Star Trek,Dungeons & Dragons, and Magic: The Gathering. He has been in managing and coordinating roles, bringing knowledge to connect people through content creation, and fostering an environment that empowers everyone.  Before joining Perfect World Entertainment, Jack worked at Tubular Labs as a Workplace Experience Manager and at Compass Group USA as a Director of Catering and Events for Microsoft and LinkedIn. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in English. In this episode… How can you create a space that brings out the best in people? The world turned upside down during the pandemic, so how do you do what is right for your employees? If you're looking for a better way to connect with your employees, Jack Lau has helped businesses forge and connect their teams during fluid times. Since the pandemic hit, Jack's top priority has been transitioning the workplace into an inclusive and healthy environment to further employee production and engagement. He believes a building is more than four walls — it is the people inside that make it valuable.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Jack Lau, Facilities Manager at Perfect World Entertainment, to discuss overcoming the challenges of the pandemic in an office space. Jack talks about remaining connected with employees in a hybrid environment, leveraging technology in your favor, and cultivating an environment centered around employee engagement.

Jourdan Murray is the Property Manager for Read Investments, a company that owns and operates over 2 million square feet of retail, multifamily, and industrial real estate throughout Northern California, Oregon, and Washington.  Before her role at Read Investments, Jourdan was a Senior Assistant Community Manager at Essex Property Trust and a Senior Assistant Property Manager at Cushman & Wakefield. Currently, she's a member of BOMA Oakland East Bay and the Cushman & Wakefield Emerging Professional Committee.   In this episode… How can you successfully transition into a new role, a new company, or even a new industry? What does it take to become an exceptional manager and leader in an entirely different space? After working various customer service jobs out of high school, Jourdan Murray knew she wanted to do something different. She was craving a career that would bring responsibility, provide her with challenges, and help her grow. Once she landed a job in property management, Jourdan dove headfirst into the industry and began conquering her fears. Now, she's learning something new every day and working to improve properties — and most importantly, communities.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens and Katrina Stephenson sit down with Jourdan Murray, Property Manager for Read Investments. Together, they talk about Jourdan's journey into property management, how she continues to overcome industry challenges, and the software that helps her succeed. Plus, Jourdan discusses the power of being kind, connecting with your community, and building strong relationships. Stay tuned!

Mashona Marsh is the Facility Manager for Subsea 7, a global leader in the delivery of offshore projects and services for the energy industry. Mashona has been in the facilities management industry for over 28 years, building his strengths in strategic planning, communication, facility and human resource modeling, and resource coordination.  Before joining Subsea 7 in 2001, Mashona worked in facility services at Mercer and was a Site Manager for Alliance Strategic Business Services. He attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha and won the gold medal for 110m high hurdles at the 1975 Nebraska State High School Track and Field Championships, setting the record at 13.8 seconds. In this episode… How do the best facilities managers solve the most difficult problems?  As a record-breaking athlete-turned-facilities manager, Mashona Marsh has lived through some challenging obstacles. His biggest piece of advice for working through them? Look beyond the hurdles. There's often a fear of failure when you come face-to-face with a big task, but when you keep your goals at the forefront, you'll push through whatever comes your way. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Mashona Marsh, Facility Manager for Subsea 7, to discuss the challenges of the industry and how to overcome them. Mashona shares how the pandemic affected his work, advice for achieving your loftiest goals, and how being thoughtful and composed can help you become the facilities manager you've always dreamed of. Stay tuned!

Rick Boyce is the Multifamily Sales Lead at Villa Homes, California's #1 builder of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Rick and his team help multifamily property owners add ADUs to their parcels to increase revenue, NOI, cash flow, and property value. Before Villa Homes, Rick held executive sales positions at companies including Quantcast, Monster Worldwide, IGN Entertainment, and Lycos. Rick has also been a guest lecturer at Washington State University, his alma mater, where he taught a course that provided foundational tools and training to help students land jobs after graduation. In this episode… What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), and why are they becoming so popular? As someone who's leading ADU sales, Rick Boyce is here to share all of the details on these secondary, on-lot homes. According to Rick, the state of California wanted to engineer a breakthrough solution to the current housing crisis. In 2020, laws went into effect stating that any property owner in California can add an ADU to their backyard under specific guidelines and regulations. Now, people across the state are building these units to shape multi-generational homes and generate affordable housing options.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens and Katrina Stephenson talk with Rick Boyce, Multifamily Sales Lead at Villa Homes, about the process of building and owning an ADU. Rick discusses the benefits of creating these affordable living spaces, the #1 reason why people want an ADU, and how ADUs minimize waste and maximize property value. Rick also shares tips to determine if an ADU is right for your property. Stay tuned!

Ben Landers is the President and CEO of Blue Corona, a data-driven marketing and analytics company. Ben has been building, growing, and leading the Blue Corona team for over 10 years, landing them on the Inc. 5000 list nine times. Blue Corona is an industry leader, helping home service companies grow through measurable marketing solutions that increase sales, reduce costs, and differentiate brands online.  Ben is a Houzz Certified Marketing Consultant. Before Blue Corona, he was the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for DrinkMore Water, the Regional Sales Manager for Windy City Publishing, and an Account Executive for WorldCom/MCI and HotJobs.com. In this episode… How can your business take advantage of the many resources available in your industry? When should you keep your services in-house, and when should you outsource?  According to Ben Landers, small businesses often need to outsource work; that way, the team can stay in their zone of genius. In Ben's field, most small business owners don't accurately track their advertising and marketing campaigns. It can be difficult to afford in-house marketing — especially when your employees already wear many hats. That's why it's Ben's mission to provide service companies with cost-effective, outsourced marketing efforts.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens and Katrina Stephenson sit down with Ben Landers, President and CEO of Blue Corona, to talk about hiring and learning from other companies. Ben discusses Blue Corona's services, outsourcing versus in-house work, and the lessons he learned from mentors along his journey. Ben and Greg also talk about the organizations they're a part of and how they support industry leaders and business owners. Stay tuned!

Keith Ryan is the Co-founder and CEO of ScanQuo, a leading software that is transforming the way pricing is handled in facilities management. After 32 years of working in the cleaning industry, Keith discovered that there was no consistency or accuracy with contract pricing. So, he teamed up with Jeffrey Teglas to create ScanQuo and provide accurate measurements, avoid underpricing or overpricing, and allow businesses to save significantly.  Before starting ScanQuo, Keith worked in various management positions at Kier Group, NationwideFM & BBCS cleaning, OCS Group UK, and Xcell Cleaning. In this episode… Are you exhausted from spending too much time pricing contracts? Do you wish there was an easier way to analyze the cost of your work? With his company, ScanQuo, Keith Ryan is making contract pricing effortless for businesses in the cleaning and facilities management industries.  ScanQuo is getting more scientific about pricing. Using 3D scanning technology, the software takes into account a building's internal DNA, allowing for a more accurate pricing algorithm. Plus, ScanQuo is fully automated; what used to take months to finalize can now be completed in minutes! Now, Keith is here to share all of the details behind the software. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens and Katrina Stephenson are joined by Keith Ryan, the Co-founder and CEO of ScanQuo, to talk about how the company is transforming pricing models in the facilities management space. Keith explains the benefits of the software, discusses his hopes for the future of the business, and talks about how technology is changing facilities management operations for the better. Stay tuned to learn how ScanQuo can help your company!

Homer Lee Gibbins is a Building Manager for Meadows & Ohly, LLC. He is also a Master General Mechanic at the Atlanta Medical Center, the Owner of DJ G's Entertainment, and the Owner of RoomsbyHomer.com. Homer is a certified quality control manager and safety officer with experience in JCAHO accreditation standards and OSHA training.  Outside of his construction industry expertise, Homer is a two-time world boxing champion. Homer was a professional boxer for 19 years, boasting a record of 46 wins, 16 losses, and 33 KOs. He won the World Boxing Foundation Jr. Welterweight title in 1992 and the International Boxing Union Welterweight title in 2006. In this episode… How did Homer Lee Gibbins go from winning as a professional boxer to succeeding as a building manager? What lessons did he learn along the way? While pursuing a boxing career, Homer also worked in the construction industry. Why? Homer wanted plenty of opportunities to meet people across different disciplines. For Homer, one of his most important values is to learn something from everyone you meet and pass knowledge along to others. When you surround yourself with people who want to grow, you'll be on the right track to improve yourself. So, how can you do the same? In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Homer Lee Gibbins, Building Manager for Meadows & Ohly, LLC, to talk about his journey from boxing to facilities and building management. Homer shares the lessons he learned from his father, his journey through the worlds of boxing and construction, and the values that continue to lead him through life. Stay tuned!

Jay Hsueh is the CEO and Founder of Roby, a conversational AI service that streamlines the modern office. Roby's mission is to create an engaged, productive workplace by making customer operations efficient, simple, and personalized. Before Roby, Jay served as the Analog Design Engineer for NXP Semiconductors and participated in Techstars' Alexa Accelerator program. He has also founded two other companies, LiWi LLC and Room2music. Jay attended the National Cheng Kung University and the University of Southern California. In this episode… Are you getting distracted in your work environment because the room is too hot or too cold? Is your company spending too much time, energy, and money on employee requests and facilities management calls? We may have the solution for you: Roby.  The AI service hub, Roby, is transforming businesses across all industries. The platform automates employee requests and uses energy-saving equipment and data analytics to keep everyone in the office comfortable, happy, and productive — while saving your business money. So, how exactly does this service work, and how can you implement the software into your company today? In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens and Katrina Stephenson sit down with Jay Hsueh, the CEO and Founder of Roby, to talk about how the platform is helping companies become more efficient. Jay breaks down the Roby process, shares examples of how the software is supporting innovation for both legacy companies and small businesses, and talks about his predictions for the future of AI. Stay tuned!  

Dave Stockton is the Senior Facility Manager at Brinker International, a global leader in the casual dining restaurant industry. Dave has over a decade of experience managing high-risk, high visibility projects with changing priorities that are characterized by significant financial and business impact. Before his current role at Brinker International, Dave has worked in various facilities and management positions at companies including TDIndustries, Lone Star Steakhouse, and Topgolf. In this episode… Have you ever wondered what a typical workday is like for facilities managers in the restaurant industry? Are you thinking of beginning a career in facilities management, but not sure where to start? Dave Stockton, a Senior Facility Manager for restaurant chains across Texas (and beyond), is here to tell all. According to Dave, you don't need a technical background to get into facilities management. However, you do need to be flexible and multifaceted. Dave says that every day brings something new, which means it's vital to keep up with technology trends, work through unforeseen emergencies, and deal with difficult markets — all while keeping the customer happy. So, how does he do it? Dave Stockton, Senior Facility Manager for Brinker International, joins Greg Owens and Katrina Stephenson in this episode of Watching Paint Dry. Together, they discuss the dos and don'ts of working in the restaurant and facilities management industries. Dave talks about the challenges of the restaurant labor shortage, how he juggles various tasks across the field, and his advice for anyone looking to begin their career in facilities management. Stay tuned.

Erick Humbser is the Facilities Operations Manager at Cisco Meraki. With 15 years of experience in the facilities management industry, Erick has sharpened his leadership prowess as well as his aptitude for the development and oversight of high-performing, multi-disciplined, and quality oriented teams.  Erick is a creative problem solver who is skilled at discovering solutions for employees, processes, and costs. Before Cisco Meraki, he was the Facilities and Property Manager for companies including Swift Navigation and Walz Properties. In this episode… What does the future hold for your company? What will happen to your company culture in a hybrid work environment? How will you keep up with the oncoming and inevitable technological changes in the facilities management industry? Ever since the pandemic hit, companies across all industries are searching for the answers to big questions. For Erick Humbser, one of his top priorities for transitioning back to the workspace is to create an inclusive environment for everyone returning. With people working both at home and in the office, you have to make a plan for reconfiguration while upholding company culture and accommodating the needs of all employees. How has Erick done it?   In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Erick Humbser, Facilities Operations Manager at Cisco Meraki, to talk about strategies for adapting to workplace changes. Erick discusses his predictions for the future of the industry, tips for leveraging technology, and his ideas for creating a collaborative work environment. Stay tuned!

Peter Belden is the Operations Manager at Blue & Gold Fleet, a ferry and water excursion company that has been serving San Francisco Bay for over 40 years. In 1979, Blue & Gold Fleet began cruising the San Francisco Bay with only three passenger vessels from PIER 39's West Marina. Since then, the company has expanded to include commuter ferries between Alameda, Oakland, San Francisco, and Vallejo.  In 2012, Blue & Gold Fleet was selected to operate the San Francisco Bay Ferry System by the Water Emergency Transportation Authority. The company is now the largest ferry and land tour transportation provider for San Francisco Bay's commuters, residents, and visitors. In this episode… What career opportunities are in the maritime industry? How is the industry evolving from generation to generation?  As someone who transitioned from captain to the head of facility operations, Peter Belden knows how the maritime industry works. There's an abundance of companies looking to hire new talent and there are many job opportunities, from entry-level positions to senior engineers. According to Peter, some of the best captains started out as deckhands and worked their way up through experience and mentorship. Want to learn more about starting your journey in the maritime industry? In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Peter Belden, Operations Manager at Blue & Gold Fleet, to talk about careers, challenges, and changes happening within the maritime industry. Peter shares how his company is managing rules and regulations with the public, the next big things happening within the industry, and how you can begin your career. Stay tuned!

Edward Johnson is the Procurement Manager at ON24, a cloud-based digital experience platform that helps businesses grow. Powered by AI, ON24 provides a system of engagement that enables businesses to scale conversions and drive revenue growth. The ON24 platform supports an average of four million professionals a month, equipped with global offices in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region.  Edward is highly skilled in team and project management, facilities supervision, analysis, and problem-solving. Before working at ON24, Edward worked in facilities management for Dropbox and Keurig Green Mountain, Inc., and as a Construction Foreman for Rain Pro's. In this episode… In any industry, this holds true: you're only as good as your employees. However, there are certain principles a leader should uphold to cultivate healthy relationships and an exceptional work environment.  With 10 years of facilities management experience, Edward Johnson knows that a great leader should be able to mediate between tradesmen and corporate while building up their emotional intelligence to pivot during challenging times. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining relationships — and trust — between all members of a team. According to Edward, you can improve these relationships by taking the time to appreciate a person and their potential, not just the transaction.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Edward Johnson, Procurement Manager at ON24, to talk about the qualities of a great leader. Edward discusses his principles of leadership, the people that inspire him, and how facilities management is evolving. Plus, Edward shares all of the exciting things happening within the industry and how you can begin your career! Stay tuned.

Kate Peevey is the Manager of Facilities and Real Estate Services at Telecare, a family- and employee-owned company that has been treating individuals with serious mental illness since 1965. Telecare specializes in innovative, outcome-driven services for high-risk individuals with complex needs. Its programs are recovery-focused, clinically effective, and designed in partnership with local, county, state, and other behavioral health organizations.  Previously, Kate worked as a Job Captain, Architectural Associate, and Architectural Designer for Pacific Design Group and Weston Miles Architects. She holds a bachelor's degree in architecture, conceptual design, and urban development from Woodbury University.  In this episode… According to Kate Peevey, your environment has a big impact on your mental health development. That's why she's working to provide services, programs, and healthy environments that will help individuals — and the community — grow. However, Kate's role in facilities management comes with its challenges. So, how is she navigating these obstacles to help the community thrive? Through Telecare, a mental health service provider, Kate designs home-like, barrier-free facilities that allow a diverse group of individuals to feel comfortable. When the pandemic came along, Kate and her team had to create spaces that supported social distancing practices while still making patients feel at ease. Even in 2021, Kate, along with many other facilities managers, face difficulty getting the items and tools necessary to complete their jobs — but this won't stop her from designing spaces to aid Telecare's customers. Kate says that the industry is always changing, and in order to keep up, you have to continue to learn and say yes to new challenges and opportunities.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Kate Peevey, Manager of Facilities and Real Estate Services for Telecare. Together, they discuss how Kate is helping individuals improve their mental health through the facilities management industry. Kate talks about her role at Telecare, the importance of strengthening relationships within the community, and how you can get your career started in facilities management. Stay tuned! 

De'Shawn Kelly is the Facilities Manager at Homeward Bound of Marin, a community nonprofit working to end homelessness by providing shelter and services for homeless families and individuals in Marin County, California. De'Shawn is a facilities maintenance professional with a history of working in property management, medical, senior retirement living, and homeless shelter fields.  De'Shawn is an exceptional leader and is highly skilled at improving customer satisfaction, team morale, property appeal, maintenance mentorship, and more. In this episode… In Marin County, California, Facilities Manager De'Shawn Kelly is aiding the community in the wake of COVID-19 and the increase in homelessness that came along with it. In his role, De'Shawn is supporting the movement to end homelessness by helping individuals and families transition to housing. So, how does De'Shawn keep up with the challenges, and what opportunities are out there to begin your career in facilities management?  Since joining Homeward Bound of Marin in November of 2019, De'Shawn calls himself a “battle-tested” facilities manager. While working in a new position during the pandemic, De'Shawn learned how to quickly overcome unprecedented obstacles. Now, he has a fierceness to pursue any challenge that comes his way, and he's here to share this knowledge with you!   In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens talks with De'Shawn Kelly, Facilities Manager at Homeward Bound of Marin, about the challenges and learning opportunities in a facilities management role. De'Shawn discusses what he learned on the job, the challenges that many nonprofits face, and how you can begin a career in the dynamic, diverse area of facilities management. Stay tuned.  

Tina Vitali is the Facilities and Administration Manager of HomeLight, a real estate tech startup that connects home buyers and sellers to top real estate agents. At HomeLight, Tina works directly with the CEO and Founder to leverage his knowledge of business functions and management across 32 states.  Tina has a history of working in tech-based firms, and she specializes in facility management, asset management, and project management. In 2017, Tina was a finalist for the San Francisco Bay Area Office Manager Award. She is also a member of the International Facility Management Association. In this episode… How do you create a strong team that works across multiple states — or even countries? How can you build a great company culture that will benefit all employees?  Tina Vitali is here to share how you can promote a collaborative workplace while operating remotely, in person, or a combination of the two. As someone who works with a business spanning across 32 states, Tina knows how to adapt and create systems that will meet employees' needs while helping the company grow significantly.   In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens talks with Tina Vitali, Facilities and Administration Manager at HomeLight, about the post-COVID future of the workplace. Tina discusses the different processes from state to state, how to hire a great team — even when working remotely, and the value of asking questions and growing your network to get the job you want. Stay tuned!

Katie Mitchell is the Senior Property Manager at Matrix Group, Inc., a commercial real estate company that services the Denver Metropolitan area. At Matrix Group, Inc., Katie trains and supports her team, implements processes to maximize productivity and streamline customer service, and collaborates closely with multiple departments.  Katie is a credentialed real estate professional with over five years of commercial property management experience. She has obtained LEED GA and BOMA RPA certifications and is a licensed broker in California and Colorado. In this episode… Is your career heading in the direction you want it to? Have you ever wanted to take some time off, travel, and gain a new outlook on your professional life?  Before settling down in Colorado, Katie took an 11-month sabbatical with her husband to cycle across Europe, backpack in India, and live in a camper van in South America. Traveling allowed her to adjust to the challenges of the pandemic, see a new perspective, and bring value back to her team in the real estate industry. According to Katie, you can travel, too — as long as you map out your priorities and plan accordingly.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens talks with Katie Mitchell, Senior Property Manager at Matrix Group, Inc., about her career, her travels, and the effects of COVID-19 on the facilities management industry. Katie shares how small businesses are making a comeback following the pandemic, the value that travel can bring to your personal and professional life, and the best ways you can get a career started in the property management industry. Stay tuned.

Joe Annino is the Engineering Manager at GSH Group, a leading facilities management company that provides clients with custom-tailored services, products, and resources. At GSH Group, Joe is responsible for the organization and support of stationary engineers and staff in commercial office buildings, campus facilities, and industrial complexes. He also created a four-year academy program for GSH Group that includes educational courses on HVAC/R, electrical, motor controls, pneumatics, building monitoring systems, safety, communication, and customer service.  Joe's specialties in facility management, stationary engineering, building maintenance, business management, strategic planning, and energy conservation have led him to successfully implement processes that enhance efficiency. He is currently a part of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), which has designated him as a Facilities Management Professional in Operations and Maintenance. In this episode… As companies start to open back up, there are certain challenges — and opportunities — forming for the facilities management industry. What are these changes, and how will they affect the future of the industry? Joe Annino is working with clients to craft a customized plan for reopening. According to Joe, this looks different for every business; however, they all have something in common: developments in technology, systems, and processes as we prepare for the post-pandemic world.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Joe Annino, Engineering Manager at GSH Group, to talk about the changes taking place in the facilities management industry. Joe discusses his own career path in the industry, how companies are trying to be more efficient following the pandemic, and the best steps for getting your career started in facilities management. Stay tuned! 

Nicole Price is the Associate Director of Cushman & Wakefield, a leading global real estate services firm. With over a decade of experience in the real estate industry, Nicole has made a positive impact on both her clients and her community, and she is living out her childhood dreams of being a rockstar — in her own way.  In addition to her role at Cushman & Wakefield, Nicole is a Board Member at Lake Merritt-Uptown District Association and BOMA (Building Owners and Managers Association) Oakland/East Bay. She is also a Board Member and Director at Large for the nonprofit, urban university. She holds a degree in business administration and marketing from DePaul University and an MBA from California State University-Long Beach. In this episode… Since the pandemic, many industries have been facing challenges, the real estate industry included. However, as we move further into 2021, there are new opportunities arising for those in facilities management areas. As someone who has over a decade of experience in real estate, Nicole Price has an awareness of industry trends and what it means for workers in these areas. According to Nicole, there is an increasing demand for real estate services, and there are plenty of technological innovations moving the industry forward. So, how will the real estate and facilities management fields grow following COVID-19? And how can you get your career started? In this episode of the Watching Paint Dry podcast, Greg Owens sits down with Nicole Price, Associate Director of Cushman & Wakefield, to talk about impacts on the real estate and facilities management industries. Nicole discusses how the industries will transform in a post-COVID world, the resources she turns to for continued education, and how you can utilize networks, associations, and programs to begin your career in the industry. Stay tuned.

David Brown is a contractor in the Sales and Estimating department at Metcon. Through Metcon, David is helping provide pre-construction and tenant improvement work. Metcon specializes in building success for corporate offices, life science, industrial spaces, retail, and building repositioning. In this episode… What does it take to get into the construction industry — especially when you have no prior experience? And what opportunities are arising out of the pandemic?  David Brown is sharing the steps that anyone can take to start their career in construction management. According to David, you have to love what you do if you want to succeed. In his experience, there have been many challenges and educational moments. But, there are also plenty of opportunities stemming from advancements in medicine and technology. As the world begins to reopen, David predicts that the construction industry will thrive on many new projects. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by David Brown, from Sales and Estimating at Metcon. David talks about his career advancement in the construction industry, how he navigates projects and communicates between multiple departments, and his strategies for educating clients on the construction process. Plus, David shares how you can get your career started in the industry. Stay tuned!

William (Bill) Wells is the Facilities Manager for Napa Valley Community Housing (NVCH), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to develop, preserve, and manage affordable homes. Through their Resident Services Program, NVCH also teaches successful life and leadership skills. Bill has 15 years of experience in new construction, facilities, project management and estimating, and tenant improvement. Before joining NVCH, Bill worked as the Capital Manager for Burbank Housing, the Project Manager for Imperial Contracting, and the Assistant Superintendent for CalAtlantic Homes. In this episode… The pandemic, California wildfires, and other natural disasters have made companies and their employees learn to adapt. This is especially true for the facilities management industry, whose employees have learned to work under stringent restrictions, continue efforts with limited materials, and prepare for future hardships. So, how is the facilities management industry continuing to benefit communities despite these circumstances? And how can you get your start in the industry? As a facilities manager, Bill Wells is providing stability for families in Napa Valley through an affordable housing service. According to Bill, your role is more than just a title: you should always be working towards growth for yourself, your company, and your community. The key to doing so? Seek out training and education — even after you've been hired. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Bill Wells, Facilities Manager for Napa Valley Community Housing (NVCH), to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the facilities management industry. Bill talks about his experience building community outreach, the future of the housing market, and how you can start — and develop — a career in the facilities management industry. Stay tuned.

Andrew Gardner is the Director of Marketing and Business Development at Peacock Construction. As a creative thinker and long-term strategist, Andrew drives brand strategy and growth at Peacock Construction. He began his construction career in project management, estimating, and developing an appreciation for the intricacies of construction. He now uses this knowledge to develop partnerships with new clients and look after existing partners at Peacock Construction. Andrew is also the Chair of the Emerging Professionals Committee at BOMA San Francisco and the Chair of the Young Leaders Programs Committee at CoreNet Global's Northern California Chapter. In this episode… Construction is a long-lasting industry with immense opportunities to develop your career. For Andrew Gardner, the industry has allowed him to connect with a variety of people and establish a strong sense of community. There are plenty of different roles and possibilities within construction, and Andrew is here to share all of the details with you. Andrew began his career in project management, where he was the intermediary between the owner, subcontractors, architects, and everyone else involved in the project. He then built on this knowledge to become a marketing and business development expert. So, what's the key to figuring out where you fit in? According to Andrew, the best thing you can do for your career is to just get started — even if you don't know exactly what you want to do. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Andrew Gardner, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Peacock Construction, to discuss everything you need to know about the construction industry. Andrew shares how he landed his current role, his steps for overcoming current challenges, trends to look for in the industry, and how you can get your career started. Stay tuned.

Nils Welin is a highly accomplished serial entrepreneur and the CEO of ProGuard Security Services, a company that provides personalized and professional security services to the San Francisco Bay Area. He is also the Founder of EON Venture, a specialized investment company that provides strategic growth and business development guidance. Nils currently serves as a Board Member at the California Association of Licensed Security Agencies, Guards & Associates (CALSAGA) and is a Board Member at the Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Foundation (SAF).  Nils is an authority in sales and marketing with the expert ability to develop new teams and companies. He is skilled in generating ROI by focusing on the strengths within a company and applying new strategies. In this episode… As the pandemic swept through the world and enforced change, in more ways than one, industries have adapted and found new strategies for growth. For the security services industry, there has been an increasing demand as tensions rise in regards to COVID-19, racial injustice, and political unrest. How is the industry changing, and what are the plans for future growth? Nils Welin is in the security services industry in the San Francisco Bay Area, and he has witnessed the challenges and transformations taking place over the past year. As the pandemic shut down businesses and increased health and safety risks, security companies began focusing on training, protective equipment, and workplace adjustments. Now, Nils and his team are looking ahead at the future of technology to aid their development plans. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Nils Welin, serial entrepreneur and CEO of ProGuard Security Services, to talk about changes taking place within the security industry. Nils discusses the obstacles his company's faced, security robots and the future of technology, and how you can start your career in the security services industry. Stay tuned!

Alyssa Cooper is the Manager of Facilities and Asset Management at Philz Coffee. Alyssa has been in the facilities management industry since 2013, where she began her career as a Facilities Coordinator for The Taubman Company. She sharpened her expertise in facilities management as the Repair and Maintenance Analyst for Gymboree and the Facilities Maintenance Coordinator at Cycle Gear Inc. before joining Philz Coffee. Alyssa is skilled in project management, departmental goal-setting, and advanced problem solving. In this episode… The facilities management industry is more than just maintenance and project management; collaboration and team support are important aspects of any facilities management role. So, how exactly can a facilities manager help your company? And how can you get your foot in the industry's doorway? With experience on both the facilities management side and retail side of operations, Alyssa Cooper's approach is people-oriented. What does this mean? You have to be an advocate for your vendors and a support system for your whole team. And, when you position people first, the industry will reward you.  Listen to this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, as Greg Owens talks with Alyssa Cooper, Manager of Facilities and Asset Management at Philz Coffee, about the detailed roles within the facilities management industry. Alyssa discusses Philz's development through the pandemic, what she has learned throughout her career, and her advice for anyone looking to get their start as a facilities manager. Stay tuned.

Mark Schmidt is the Owner of Unicorn Group, a company that provides professional print-to-mail solutions for local businesses and nonprofits. After working in the corporate world for 12 years and completing his MBA in marketing, Mark began his entrepreneurial career by purchasing a local business: Unicorn Printing. To take it further, Mark purchased two direct mail marketing companies, Guarantee Mailing Services and Mail Communications, and consolidated these three companies into Unicorn Group.  At Unicorn Group, Mark and his team help businesses and nonprofits save time, make money, and get better results. In 2011, Unicorn Group was named San Rafael's Small Business of the Year. In this episode… Being an entrepreneur requires problem solving, creativity, and the desire to learn. But what resources are out there to keep developing on both a personal and professional level? And how can you build a career in any industry—even when you don't have prior knowledge? Before Mark Schmidt began his career in the printing industry, he worked in the chemical engineering and marketing fields. But this didn't slow him down: because of his wide range of experience, Mark knows how to continue challenging yourself as a leader and entrepreneur no matter what industry you're in.  In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Mark Schmidt, Owner of Unicorn Group, to talk about the ways you can grow as an entrepreneur. Mark discusses new technologies, the most effective ways to challenge yourself, and how to bring creativity into the workplace. He also shares insight from his own experience as he leads, learns, and innovates within the printing industry. Stay tuned.

Michael Yorker is a Facilities Management Consultant with over 22 years of experience in facilities management. He specializes in risk mitigation, team development, safety, and relationship building. As a leading facilities management consultant, Michael has overseen the management, scaling, and renovation of facilities up to 150,000 square feet, including both domestic and international company relocations. Currently, he's a Facilities Management Domain Advisor for Sensfix, where he provides insights for the development of a new facilities CMMS software. In this episode… The COVID-19 pandemic has changed workplace routines all over the world; however, there are some benefits that come along with those adjustments. Within the facilities management industry, what changes are taking place? What does the future of the industry look like, and how can you get involved? Facilities management consultant Michael Yorker has learned how to navigate the many adjustments within the industry. From safety precautions to remote work, to new technologies, Michael has worked through the changes happening within facilities management careers—and he's here to share his expert advice with you. In this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens is joined by Michael Yorker, Facilities Management Consultant. Together, they discuss how life has transformed during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically within the facilities management industry. Michael talks about what it's like to be a facilities management consultant in the age of the coronavirus, his favorite technological advancements, and how you can begin a career in the industry. Stay tuned.

Heidi Duffy is an Asset Manager at Meridian, a full-service real estate developing and investing company. At Meridian, Heidi is responsible for analyzing the qualifications of prospective tenants, driving lease negotiations to secure profitable returns for Meridian's portfolio, and overseeing the Western portfolio assets.  Heidi is the Vice President of the Building Owners & Managers Association (BOMA) of Oakland/East Bay Medical Office Building Special Interest Group and chairs their Annual Medical Office Summit. She graduated from California State University East Bay with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. In this episode… Think back to when you were a kid. What did you want to be when you grew up? The answers are usually the same. Doctor, firefighter, maybe a lawyer, or an astronaut. Many kids also dream of growing up to be artists. But, what if there was a job that would value your problem-solving skills, your outgoing nature, and your creativity equally? According to Heidi Duffy, this job does exist—and it's called asset management. At Meridian, Heidi handles the company's Western portfolio assets, creates value lines, and oversees tenant improvements. Although Heidi started working at Meridian fairly early in her career, beginning as an office manager and then working in the marketing department, it took her some trial and error before she landed in asset management. Was all the pivoting worth it? For Heidi, the answer is simple: yes.  On this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens sits down with Heidi Duffy, Asset Manager at Meridian, to talk about the world of asset management. Together, they discuss the importance of getting creative when adding value, the market in Tucson, and Meridian's two main business lines. Plus, Heidi shares how she got started in the industry and how you can, too.

Joe Williams is the President of Package Unit Pros, a company of commercial light HVAC experts. Their focus on light commercial HVAC removes additional worries and overstretched responsibilities, solely focusing on what they do best: giving their customers direct consultation and maintenance on the units needed. Joe has worked in the construction and HVAC for more than 20 years, designing and overseeing projects of up to $1 million.  Before Package Unit Pros, he was the General Manager at a mechanical contracting company. In this episode… Service is the basis of every industry. From fashion to HVAC, these industries are built on performing expert services to benefit and enhance their customer's lives. Joe Williams, President of Package Unit Pros, is no stranger to providing brilliant client services—and he believes that doing one thing well is the key to success.  In the week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, host Greg Owens sits down with Joe Williams, President of Package Unit Pros. They discuss the benefits of trade as a career path, how Package Unit Pros has adjusted their business to keep their customers and employees safe, and the importance of small business in reviving the economy. Joe also shares his advice for anyone interested in the construction or HVAC industries. Stay tuned.

Christian Grzywinski is a Project Manager at Therma, California's premier mechanical solutions provider. As part of the Therma team, Christian works to provide customer solutions for mechanical designs and constructions.  Before joining Therma, he was a Project Engineer for ACCO Engineered Systems and a Project Manager at Chris Plumbing and Allied Air Conditioning and Heating Co. Christian graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in Rhetoric before finding his career in the HVAC world. In this episode… HVAC companies have become even more important in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Air quality is important not only for the comfort but for the health of a building's occupants. And now, different methods and products are being developed to accommodate growing needs, making it a broad field.  Take Therma, for example. A company based throughout Southern California, Therma covers that broad field from plumbing services to AC repair, to sewer inspections—and more. On this episode of Watching Paint Dry, Christian Grzywinski of Therma joins Greg Owens to offer his personal insight as a project manager. Christian discusses his own entry into the field, Therma's specialties, and the newest innovations in the industry. He also talks about the opportunities available for up-and-coming workers in HVAC companies. Listen in to hear all of this and more!

Hafsa Burt is the President and Managing Principal of HB+A Architects, a firm focused on environmental sustainability and blending avant-garde design with a strong commitment to the bottom line. Hafsa's approach to design and space management doubles down on reducing waste and improving workspace balance.  Hafsa is a frequent speaker on indoor air quality and how it relates to architecture and is considered an industry expert on healthy building practices. She has been awarded the title of ENR's Top 20 Under 40 and the American Institute of Architects' Young Architects Award. In this episode… What do you think is most important: functionality or trends? Over the last year in particular, companies are quickly reimagining their workspaces and beginning to utilize functionality features over inspiring design. Hafsa Burt, President of HB+A Architects, believes in designing environmentally sustainable buildings where dedicated workspaces marry intentional design.  In this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, host Greg Owens sits down with President and Managing Principal of HB+A Architects, Hafsa Burt. They discuss functionality over trends, environmentally sustainable buildings, and how COVID-19 regulations will change office floor plans. Hafsa also shares her tips for creating a better work-from-home office layout and how students can learn more about the architectural industry. Stay tuned.

Peter Ankerstjerne is Chief Strategy Officer at Planon and the Chairman of the Board of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). Planon is the leading global provider of innovative real estate and facility management software, proven best practices, and professional services that support building owners, occupiers, and service providers. Before joining Planon, Peter was the Global Lead of Facility Management and Experience Services at JLL, the Head of Facility Management and Workplace Experience for PxWe at WeWork, and the Group Chief Marketing Officer at ISS A/S. For over 27 years, Peter has sharpened his expertise in leadership, team management, inclusion, and marketing. In this episode… Facility Management is a $1.1 trillion industry and growing. More than ever, companies have started to take an interest in how they can improve workplace interaction and productivity.  Among the many things 2020 has taught us, one of the most valuable lessons we've learned is that the hybrid work-from-home model is effective for productivity—and creating a sustainable workspace is critical to the current population. Peter Ankerstjerne, Chief Strategic Officer of Planon, knows the importance of creating a co-working environment and just how companies can use data to put their offices to better use.  In this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, host Greg Owens is joined by Peter Ankerstjerne, Chief Strategic Officer of Planon, and Chairman of the Board of IFMA. They discuss the future of remote work, how data can help businesses become sustainable, and why the workplace will become an even bigger social hub in the next ten years. Peter shares why co-working spaces are needed more than ever during the pandemic and the unique opportunity hotels and resorts have to step into the co-working industry. 

Rocky Singh Kandola is the Founder and CEO of Hair Maiden India, a world-leading company in high-quality hair & dedicated customer service. Hair Maiden India connects business owners to the products they need to help their customers maintain and create new hairstyles. Rocky has connected with hundreds of beauticians and hair care companies that wish to push the barrier of using and styling human hair.  Rocky is a successful businessman, entrepreneur, and felon. He's had near-death experiences, lived his youth in and out of facilities, and has been the victim of an attempted murder. Despite the odds stacked against him, he's persevered and shares his story of incarceration, opportunity, business, and growth in his upcoming book. He loves to travel and speaks 4 different languages.  In this episode… The human hair extensions and supply industry has experienced an incredible amount of growth recently, with forecasts of the industry increasing by USD 2.42 billion during 2020-2024. Rocky Singh Kandola, the Founder of Hair Maiden India, is no stranger to transformation, going from near-death experience after the other to successful entrepreneur. How, exactly did Rocky turn things around? In this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, Greg Owens and Katrina Stevenson are joined by Rocky Singh Kandola, the Founder of Hair Maiden India. Rocky shares his life story, why Hair Maiden India is special, and a message of hope for troubled kids and their parents. Rocky discusses what it means to have an entrepreneurial spirit from an early age, how to market your business, and the importance of facing challenges with an opportunistic mindset—and how it made all the difference.

Joe Peterson is the Head of Global Workplace Programs for Snowflake, a data platform that utilizes cloud data to help thousands of organizations harness and analyze their data for direction and growth. Joe worked in food and beverage management for more than 12 years before starting his current position in April of 2020 with a unique combination of facility, food and beverage administration, and consulting. With his expertise, he has helped organizations structure their initiatives and come out on top with better recipes and building processes. In this episode… Facility Management is changing faster than you can order an Uber. When the pandemic first started, countless companies had to shift from the office to their homes—but that didn't stop Joe Peterson from transforming his career as the Head of Global Workplace Programs.  Joe's background in large-scale food management and as a consultant gives him the edge to see where the office space is going and how to direct the company's initiatives. With a little elbow grease and a chef's coat, Joe is taking what it means to be a chef and merging it with facility management in the best ways possible.  In this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry Podcast, host Greg Owens interviews Joe Peterson, Global Workplace Programs at Snowflake. They discuss what it was like interviewing and creating a safe environment during the pandemic, what space reallocation will mean for the future of office floor plans, and his plans for restructuring their offices. Joe also shared how he and his team are creating better dining experiences and maintaining the facility. Stay tuned!

John Fahmy is the Vice President of Operations and Sales at Planned Companies, a conglomerate that provides industry-leading janitorial, maintenance, security, and concierge services for commercial and residential properties. With over 10 years of management experience, John is an expert at senior level negotiation, project planning, and scheduling.  Before joining Planned Companies, John was the Director of Operations at 39th Avenue Holding LLC. He has a consistent track record as a team trainer, relationship builder, and operational leader. In this episode… What is the secret to achieving success in the facility management industry? According to John Fahmy, the Vice President of Operations and Sales at Planned Companies, the answer may be simpler than you think: start from the bottom.  John first began his career as a front desk agent for a hotel in New York. After transitioning into sales, and then back into hospitality, John eventually joined Planned Companies as an Executive Director. As he says, it was his early experience that taught him the empathy he needed to be successful in his leadership roles. So, what is John's advice to listeners looking to break into the industry? Start small, and work your way up.  Join host Greg Owens in this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry as he interviews John Fahmy, the Vice President of Operations and Sales at Planned Companies. Together, they talk about how Planned Companies pivoted during the global pandemic, the impact of remote work on daily business operations, and what it's like to work in California right now. John also shares his sage advice to listeners looking to join the facility management industry. Stay tuned!

Primo Orpilla is the Principal and Co-Founder of Studio O+A, a San Francisco design firm that strives to create an environment that translates any company's culture into a tactile experience. Primo has worked in workplace strategy and design for more than 30 years, becoming a thought leader on what it means to translate culture and innovation. He has worked with countless companies like Facebook, Microsoft, Slack, Nike, and many more to bring innovation and seamless design to their offices.  After his years of teaching design education, Primo is convinced that the next generation of designers will influence politics, the arts, and social justice. In this episode… When you walk into an office space, what is the first thing that comes to mind?  Primo Orpilla is redesigning how we think about our work environment and what it means to innovate while reflectively analyzing our core values and culture. Creating an atmosphere that lends itself to its occupants is the basis of a balance between form and function in workplace planning—and it's more important than you might think.  In this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, host Greg Owens sits down with Principal and Co-Founder of Studio O+A, Primo Orpilla. They discuss what it means to create a space that reflects a company's vision, what defines a space, and the future of workplace planning. Primo reveals what it means to blend the old and new of a company and why leaving a part of the past untouched is imperative for creating a strong culture. Stay tuned.

Badreddine Benabdallah is a Facilities and Workplace Expert at BUILDEENG. BUILDEENG is a real estate and project management consulting agency that specializes in supporting clients as they transform, improve, and upgrade their facility and processes. At BUILDEENG, Badreddine leads and supports facility management outsourcing projects, managing change, transition, transformation, and stabilization.  Badreddine has a consistent track record of successfully employing the best practices for facility management with a broad range of expertise in real estate, workplace management, facilities management, building operations and maintenance, and more. In this episode… How do you create a safe and comfortable environment for your employees? A survey or a few case studies can provide a few insights on what makes employees feel comfortable at work. But that's not always the case; sometimes, you need a consultant with over ten years of experience in creating a stable and productive environment for countless employees.  Badreddine Benabdallah has worked with numerous clients on an international stage to improve and assist companies on both a large and smaller scale. At BUILDEENG, he's provided customers with profile consolidation to upgrade and transform their facility—and, eventually, exit their building with ease of mind.  In this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, host Greg Owens welcomes experienced Workplace and Facilities Expert, Badreddine Benabdallah. They discuss the differences and similarities between France and the US around the pandemic, the future of work-from-home, and creating a safe environment for employees returning to the office. Badreddine also shares his thoughts on how the shift of employees moving away from the city will create a new work culture.

Malou Carreon is a Facilities Consultant, helping clients relocate and connect with vendors and other facility managers year-round. She has worked closely with clients worldwide for over 20 years to make office expansion, relocation, and events a breeze.  Malou prides herself on building strong relationships with clients as they grow and providing them with a safe and holistic environment to ease their concerns on new COVID requirements and regulations. When she isn't jumping from one facility to the next, you can find her enjoying the great outdoors and sharing photos with her family in the Philippines. In this episode… Facility management is full of surprises: from relocation and expansion to updating machinery and maintenance, each day brings new challenges and rewards. Due to COVID regulations, facility managers and consultants are working harder than ever to keep buildings up-to-date, meet requirements for staff returning to the office, and maintain relationships with building owners and vendors.  It's not an easy job, but Malou Carreon, a jill of all trades, has learned the art of balance and innovation in helping clients meet their office needs. Her belief that facility management starts with building relationships and ends with a satisfied customer has become a key building block for her business—and for all the successful facilities she's run.   In this week's episode of Watching Paint Dry, host Greg Owens sits down with Facility Consultant, Malou Carreon. They discuss family, the role of a facility consultant, and the future of touchless technology in facility management. Plus, she recalls her transition from international relations to focus on facility management. Stay tuned for more on how Malou Carreon balances clients, hiking, and building meaningful relationships.