Straight Talk – an ISSA Podcast

Autonomous Cleaning Needs More Than Autonomous Machines

Autonomous cleaning is everywhere right now—but what actually works in the real world? In this episode, Chris Ford, EVP of Robotics and Innovation with KBS, shares a grounded, provider-side perspective on how robotics and AI are being deployed in cleaning operations today.

The Human Side of Artificial Intelligence

Laurie Sewell, president of ISSA, shares insights and strategies for C-Suite professionals.

What to Do When AI Does Not Deliver

Most business owners have experimented with AI—but many walked away frustrated by generic answers, weak output, and complicated prompts. In this conversation, Dean Mercado explains why the problem usually isn’t the AI tool itself. It’s the missing foundation behind it.

Stop the Information Dump: Why Clearer Proposals Win More Cleaning Contracts

A great proposal should build confidence—not confusion. In this conversation, we explore why clarity often outperforms complexity in cleaning and restoration proposals, how overloaded estimates can hurt sales, and what business owners can do to create proposals customers actually understand and trust.

From the Lab to the Reprocessing Floor: How Enzymatic Detergents Get Tested, Chosen, and Trusted

What does it take to develop effective enzymatic detergents for today’s healthcare environments? In this episode, we explore how detergent manufacturers validate cleaning performance, differentiate their products, and support healthcare facilities searching for safer, smarter cleaning solutions.