The Modern Facilities Management Podcast

Summary In this episode, Griffin Hamilton is joined by industry veteran Michel Theriault [https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheltheriault/] 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 needs * The consequences of not advocating for specialized FM software (like CMMS or CAFM platforms) * How poor interdepartmental collaboration—especially with IT—can derail initiatives for years * The importance of positioning FM as a strategic function, not just a tactical one * Practical advice for facility managers to gain business fluency, advocate for better tools, and communicate their impact * The value of professional development Interested in learning more? Reach out to Michel on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheltheriault/]

This weeks guest is David Stephenson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-stephenson-cfm-1561473/], Studio Principal (Smart Building Studio) at Little Diversified Architectural Consulting [http://www.littleonline.com/] In 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 [https://issuu.com/littleonline/docs/smart_building_technologies_issuu]. 00:00 Introduction to Smart Building Technology 03:01 David's Journey in Facilities Management 05:48 Challenges in the FM Industry 09:01 Best Practices for Change Management 12:01 Implementation Strategies for Technology 15:04 Integrating Smart Building Technologies 18:06 Taking the First Steps in Tech Adoption

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 Technology 02:50 The Importance of Technology in Facilities Management 05:58 Understanding Margins and Cost Efficiency 09:04 Innovative Solutions: Proof of Presence Technology 12:09 Shifting from Reactive to Proactive Management 14:55 Addressing Employee Concerns with Monitoring Technology 17:49 The Value of Data in Facilities Management 21:01 Curiosity as a Driving Force in Career Development

In this episode of The Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin sits down with Dr. Tim Unruh, Executive Director of the National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO) and former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Renewable Power at the U.S. Department of Energy. Dr. Unruh breaks down how Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) are helping public institutions like K–12 schools, universities, and municipalities fund infrastructure improvements without upfront capital—while reducing energy costs, improving occupant comfort, and creating long-term operational resilience. If energy efficiency, capital planning, or deferred maintenance are top of mind for your organization, this is a must-listen conversation. Resources National Association of Energy Service Companies [https://www.naesco.org/esco/] (NAESCO) NAESCO ESCO Members [https://members.naesco.org/activemembercompanydirectory/Search/full-members-401637] NAESCO Accredited Members [https://members.naesco.org/accredited-companies] U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) [https://www.energy.gov/eere/ssl/energy-savings-performance-contracts] Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) (DOE) [https://www.energy.gov/femp/energy-savings-performance-contracts-federal-agencies] Energy Savings Performance Contract Campaign [https://www.energy.gov/scep/espc-campaign/home] (SCEP, DOE) Energy Services Coalition [https://www.energyservicescoalition.org/] (ESC) National Association of State Energy Officials [https://www.naseo.org/issues/energy-financing/espc#:~:text=Energy%20Savings%20Performance%20Contracts%20(ESPCs)%20enable%20public%20and%20institutional%20buildings,the%20energy%20cost%20savings%20they] (NASEO)

In this episode of the Modern Facilities Management Podcast, ⁠Griffin Hamilton⁠ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/griffin-hamilton/] interviews ⁠Scott Christopher⁠ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottchristopher1/], Senior Director of Facility Operations at the historic ⁠Fox Theatre⁠ [https://www.foxtheatre.org/] in Atlanta, GA. Scott shares insights into his extensive career in facilities management, the unique challenges of maintaining a 95-year-old venue, and the importance of balancing historical preservation with modern technology. He discusses operational strategies for maintenance, sustainability efforts, and the impact of mentorship on his career. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Fox Theater and Scott Christopher 11:50 Operational Strategies for Maintenance and Repairs 20:38 Sustainability Efforts and Waste Management 27:05 Mentorship and Career Impact Enjoy!