The Green Building Matters Podcast with Charlie Cichetti

Nostromo Energy’s Yaron Ben-Nun and the Need for Thermal Storage in Decarbonization Yaron Ben-Nun, Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Nostromo Energy (TASE:NOST) where his vision for reducing carbon emissions led to the development of the company’s IceBrick™ energy storage technology to help decarbonize buildings. A passionate environmental advocate, he has a background in big data analytics for industrial energy conservation and has held leadership positions at several clean-tech software companie Yaron’s team designed an ice thermal energy storage system that is challenging the current energy storage landscape. With proven technology, their system is perfectly safe with zero degradation over 10 years of operation. Their first commercial deployment has been running since June 2019 and they have 3 systems under construction in total capacity of 3.8 mWh. Show Highlights Nostromo focuses on using water as an energy storage medium. Technology allows for retrofitting existing buildings to become sustainable energy storage systems. Ideal project specifications and electric bill structure for determining project viability. The growing importance of buildings in energy management as the green economy evolves particularly in large buildings with high cooling demands. Nostromo's technology is best suited for buildings with significant cooling loads. Inefficiencies of traditional energy storage methods like lithium-ion batteries. Enabling retrofitting of existing buildings into sustainable energy systems. The green economy is growing, and clean energy transformation is inevitable. Buildings must become proactive participants in energy management. Local regulations like New York's Local Law 97 are crucial for driving sustainability in the building sector. “You should wish to fail fast. That's what I'm saying. After a few failures, if you actually learn something from it, you will have success. So you need not only to get up on your feet, you need to know that it's all about how you get up from failure.”- Yaron Ben-Nun Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2025 GBES

Dr Hannes Raoul Endriß has been leading the global and newly established Smart Sustainable Buildings Business Line at TÜV SÜD from October 2021. The business line covers topics such as green buildings, ESG, digital twins and drone operations. Hannes has worked in construction and project management on various national and international projects, as well as product owner for BIM and AR software. Most recently, he worked in a start-up company as CTO, operating BIM-capable software on all continents. Hannes started with an apprenticeship as a draftsman and now holds a Master of Engineering as well as a Master of Business Administration and a Doctor of Business Administration from Liverpool John Moores University. Show Highlights Necessity for existing structures to adapt to increasing sustainability mandates. Emphasizing on transparency and benchmarking in energy efficiency. The critical impact of technology in sustainable construction. TÜV SÜD’s focus on advancing sustainability initiatives over the next five years. The importance of integrating sustainable practices and technologies in building design and operation to reduce carbon footprints. Hannes discusses his role at TUF Suit and the company's international footprint. The growing trend of green building certifications like LEED, BREEAM, and Greenmark. The importance of these certifications in the global market. The need for existing buildings to adapt. Insights on the importance of these certifications in the global market. “I noticed that we have a problem in the building industry with this really significant carbon footprint and that our industry is contributing a lot to the carbon footprint. And once I've heard that, I recognize, ‘Okay, I want to change something and I want to shift my career from a general, from general work in the building industry in various fields and positions to a more specific job where I can impact this industry in a better way and work in the field of sustainability and have a positive impact on the whole movement towards sustainable buildings.’” “Every second building is a LEED certified commercial building. We are getting there in a more continuous or in a more closed landscape of certified buildings. And buildings still can stay competitive if they get certified and if they make measures to improve their performance in a stepwise approach. I definitely see this landscape growing also in Singapore where we have in certain parts like green building certification even being mandatory. Overall, globally in countries that are more on the wide side of green building certification, there is an emerging trend of getting certifications done and making real estate assets future proof.” “If I look at our technical monitoring service, we look in a building and interpret the data that we can get out of the building automation system. I see that we have so much potential to improve simply because buildings are not running smoothly because the commissioning was maybe too long ago and all of these different individual components are not running smoothly and interacting smoothly with each other. This really gives some opportunity to improve building operations without big investments.” “There are so many great tools. The user interfaces get better and better. The AI component supports it as well by making it easier to interact with technology, finding fast solutions to technology as well. There is no need to fear and also to make others aver on this change and make others, like, supportive as like a holistic industry to move forward, applying change methodologies together and improve the performance of our industry together.” “Leadership is definitely staying in the front line if things go right and not stepping back when things go. When things really go wrong and reverse. So if things go right, stepping back and giving the spotlight to the others.” “Green building, smart building, ESG compliance of the built environment will be the future. And there will...

Rohan Rawte based in Singapore, is the Managing Director at IESVE Singapore Pte Ltd. He brings experience from previous roles at IES Ltd., Integrated Environmental Solutions India Pvt. Ltd., SimCosm India Pvt. Ltd. and In-Finite Solutions. Director Asia and Middle East, Rohan has been involved in the Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) industry for almost 20 years. Initially specialising in the use of digital twins for avoiding failure, extending life/warranty, and optimizing cost in the mechanical and automotive industries, Rohan transitioned from the mechanical industry to the built environment when he joined IES in 2010. Rohan now manages multiple divisions for IES across the Middle East, India and Asia. Based in Singapore, he is currently focused on developing the company’s regional HQ in Asia, drawing on his experience in facing new markets, supporting the development and sale of new products, developing global and local partnerships and fostering multi-disciplinary global teams to drive results. Show Highlights An essential tool for optimizing building performance to ensure buildings operate as designed. The integration of AI with digital twins is expected to enhance predictive modeling and data optimization. The need for AI in real estate and the importance of decarbonization efforts. Addressing decarbonization in buildings to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Immediate action is needed from the building sector to address their contribution to global carbon emissions. Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) focus on building design Technology that aids in designing and operating high-performance buildings. Sustainability and decarbonization. The company's flagship product, the Virtual Environment. The integration of digital twins with IoT systems and AI technologies enabling predictive modeling and optimization of building operations. “One of the areas where there is a lot of action that's taking place is on the embodied carbon side where it's not just about efficient operations, but it's also about what's in the material. I think this is a very green area for exploration, for growth, and for really getting into depth of understanding how we produce, how we use, and how we recycle.” - Rohan Rawte Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Michael is a seasoned business strategist in the AEC tech sector with a focus on structural engineering and fabrication. He practiced as a structural engineer at Ellerbe Becket, holds an MS in Civil Engineering, an MBA from Michael J. Coles College of Business and is a Professional Engineer from California. He is also certified in AI for Business Managers from MIT. Michael Gustafson is an Innovative business strategist with a demonstrated history of impactful change in the architecture, engineering and construction sector. Customer-centric professional skilled in Strategic Planning, Sales, Marketing, Product Management, Go-to-Market Strategy and Strategic Partnerships. Michael has deep industry and technology expertise in Structural Engineering, Building Information Modeling and AI/Generative Design. Proven leader that inspires others to create success. Passionate about reducing the carbon footprint of our built environment to address climate change. Show Highlights Reducing embodied carbon in construction for mitigating climate change and achieving sustainability goals. The potential of AI in concrete and steel optimization to analyze vast datasets. Commercializing cost-carbon analysis for steel connections. Interactive design optimization to minimize waste in steel connections while maintaining necessary standardization for ease of construction. Sublime Systems and Carbon Cure innovations in concrete space. Highlights Nucor's efforts in using nuclear energy for steel production. Expresses concern about embodied carbon in global construction. The industries need international cooperation in reducing embodied carbon. “Over the last two years, we've been making a slight shift with the technology to be more focused upstream because we've seen the impact on reducing waste inefficiency as well as better carbon planning, focusing more on owners, general contractors, and structural engineers. Recently we've released new technologies integrated on Autodesk Revit.” Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Corey Squire, AIA, is a dedicated leader in sustainable design and advocacy within the architectural industry. With a career focused on advancing high-performance design, Corey has played a pivotal role in enabling award-winning firms to integrate sustainability into their work. His expertise has positioned him as a recognized thought leader, with frequent lectures on sustainability topics nationwide. Notably, Corey was a lead author of the AIA Framework and Toolkit, which are transforming standards of excellence in the built environment. Corey’s academic foundation includes a Master of Architecture from Tulane University and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from Oberlin College. As an Associate Principal, he continues to push the boundaries of sustainable architecture, guiding leadership and practice toward a carbon-free future. Show Highlights Insights into the challenges and strategies for advancing sustainable architecture. A Framework for Design Excellence for AIA that has influenced industry standards and practices. Sustainable design strategies that prioritize environmental impact, occupant well-being, and social justice. Encourages collaboration among project teams to ensure consistent application of sustainability strategies. Research on passive survivability key considerations. Reducing peak cooling load can enhance building resilience against extreme weather events. Simplifies complex sustainability topics for non-professionals. Discusses non-traditional building systems like trees and occupant behavior. “...what the Framework For Design Excellence did, was formally integrate these ideas so now sustainable design, resilient design, healthy design, and equitable design is just…good design…this was a major step forward for the profession and we're still moving that direction.” - Corey Squire Show Resource and Information (Corey’s Book) Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Don is the founder of Just Capital Quotient, where his team is focused on driving sustainable transformations for businesses. While sustainability in residential and smaller-scale projects is important, Don's mission is to show how businesses can integrate green building principles to create healthier, more sustainable environments in larger-scale commercial developments. His work goes beyond traditional green buildings, offering a holistic approach that blends sustainability with ethical and spiritual considerations, making it relevant for the business community. Don's unique background as a consultant and theologian allows him to address sustainability from practical and values-driven perspectives. Don shares new insights into how commercial spaces—often overlooked in sustainability conversations—can be transformed to benefit not only the environment but also the people who work and operate in them. A dedicated online professional who began his career in the Internet space right out of college, never looking back. He loves everything about working online, from non-standard hours and unconventional workplaces to challenging projects and engaging people. Over the years, his career has spanned various industries, but he found his true calling in research around 14 years ago. The dynamic, project-based nature of online research, with its short timelines and constant transitions to new challenges, perfectly matches his drive for variety. Curiosity is a significant part of what fuels his passion. He’s constantly intrigued by unusual client requests—such as surveying one-armed yak farmers in Memphis—and loves figuring out how to meet client needs while winning their business. Despite the humor in these unconventional requests, he thrives on the challenge. He is the co-author of Jesus Wants to Save Christians with Rob Bell. You may have seen him in Huffington Post, The New York Times, CNN, or NPR. In addition to his work with JCQ, he is the Chief Impact Officer at Threefold Private Equity. Specialties: Online marketing, business development, online research, product development, MR panel management, sales, and sales team management. Show Highlights The concept of 'intrinsic impact' in business. A multi-capitals framework that incorporates profit, people, place, and planet. The need for personal growth and engagement to drive sustainable change in their organizations. Innovative projects aimed at reducing costs and improving efficiency in traditional industries. Emphasizes the importance of the inner life of business leaders in driving change. Highlights challenges of introducing disruptive technology in static industries. 'Necessity of You' framework: wake up, grow up, and show up. Uncover the resistances people have to the disruptive technology. “What I love to do is work with companies to help them find that category of one leadership where they become the most impactful and sustainable solution in their industry. That's what I love doing.” Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

T.R. is a seasoned leader in the clean energy sector, bringing more than a decade of expertise in management and executive roles within the solar industry. He has guided both large and small solar companies, with a strong emphasis on sales, marketing, and finance, and played a key role in advancing solar lending in the Northeast. T.R. earned his MBA from the Maastricht School of Management in the Netherlands and was one of the first in the U.S. to achieve NABCEP Technical Sales certification, solidifying his standing as a pioneer in the solar industry. ABCEP PV Technical Sales, Solar Power Financing, Solar Leasing, Residential Marketing and Sales, Database Marketing, Business Development. Major Account Relationship Management, selling IT Strategy and Management services, IT Consulting Sales Specialties: Vendor selection, negotiation, benchmarking, industry analysis, opportunity planning, go-to-market strategy, and channel strategy Show Highlights The future of solar and storage, highlighting the concept of virtual power plants and the hurdles of battery deployment. The founding of Brooklyn Solarworks and the innovative solar canopy product for flat roofs in NYC. Solar and storage systems and exploring the Amicus Solar Cooperative for mission-driven initiatives. New York City solar incentives: Federal, state, and unique local incentives available. The need for innovative solutions, such as solar canopies, to address challenges with solar installations to comply with fire department regulations. The integration of solar and storage systems is expected to enhance energy resilience and reliability for homeowners and businesses. Virtual power plant concept for distributed energy resources. Challenges with battery deployments in NYC due to fire department restrictions. “It’s never too late! If you've got special skills and you can bring something to the table, there's definitely a place in solar renewables for you. Because this industry and this sort of general set of technologies is going to grow so fast in the next ten years because of things like the Inflation Reduction Act, climate change, energy prices, etc. There's going to be so much opportunity…so go for it, get your foot in the door, do whatever you have to do to just get some experience.” Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Leading two groundbreaking ventures, Wild Orchard and RePure, my journey in the wellness industry is marked by innovation and a commitment to health and regeneration which goes beyond sustainability. At Wild Orchard, we've successfully introduced the world's first Regenerative Organic Certified teas, a testament to our dedication to exceptional quality, beyond sustainable farming practices, and farmworker fairness. Wild Orchard teas have earned 24 medals at the most prestigious global tea competitions, and can be found in top organic retailers like Whole Foods, Wegmans, and many others. Our award-winning teas are also featured in Michelin-rated restaurants, where they are celebrated for their purity and exceptional quality. With RePure, we've turned our focus to the home environment, providing families with top-tier wellness technology that prioritizes indoor air and water quality. Our healthy home operating system has earned accolades such as the 2023 CTA Wellness Product of the Year, and Health & Wellness Project of the Year at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, reflecting our impact on creating smarter, healthier living spaces. By merging my expertise in regenerative organic products and wellness technology, I'm steering both companies toward a future where we regenerate our soil, bring more nature into our lives and use a bit of technology to fill in the gaps for a longer healthspan for all. Show Highlights Michael's Dual Roles: Michael shares insights from his work optimizing indoor environments through his company, RePure, and his regenerative organic tea brand. Cross-Industry Innovation: Both businesses are interconnected, allowing for the innovative application of health and wellness principles across different industries. Healthier Living Spaces: Focus on optimizing indoor air and water quality for improved health in residential and commercial environments. Regenerative Organic Tea: The tea company emphasizes regenerative practices, is regenerative organic certified, and promotes health benefits while supporting environmental sustainability. Career Advice: Michael reflects on overcoming growing up as an introvert and how traveling when young broadens perspectives and fosters personal growth. Consumer Demand: Growing interest in healthier living spaces is driving innovation and investment in wellness real estate. Wellness Real Estate Growth: As the fastest-growing sector in the wellness industry, it presents lucrative opportunities for architects, builders, designers, and developers. Design Impact on Health: Michael highlights that architecture and design are never neutral—they either contribute to or degrade health. Community Engagement: Emphasizing the importance of volunteering and mentoring, Michael discusses the value of engaging with communities and supporting emerging entrepreneurs. "The demand for wellness solutions in real estate is rapidly growing. Whether you are a builder, architect, designer, integrator or developer, I encourage you to explore offering wellness-focused products and services. Doing so will not only elevate your business but also bring significant value to the clients you serve." —Michael Don Ham Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Levar Jackson, CEO of Yogh Group | Sustainable Technology and Hospitality Visionary Levar Jackson is the Founder and CEO of Yogh Group, a sustainable and impactful hotel development and management company. Yogh Group is making significant strides to be at the forefront of hospitality and sustainability as society transitions to an interconnected, intelligent, low-carbon world. The company integrates hospitality, art, agriculture, and cuisine into its operations to help lead the way into this new era. Prior to founding Yogh Group, Levar was the Founder and CEO of Visual Renaissance, a full-service art strategy firm that operated from 2009 to 2022 with notable success. Visual Renaissance specialized in sourcing and curating unique wall art, paintings, sculptures, and installations for high-end hospitality, residential, and commercial properties. Now part of Yogh Group, Visual Renaissance manages the company’s art museums. Show Highlights Sustainability focus: developed infinitely reusable canvas for hotel art. Realized importance of attaching ROI to sustainability efforts. Shifted focus during COVID pandemic to effective sustainability in hospitality. Yogh Group aims to make sustainability more profitable than non-sustainability. Algo Helix system: algae growth for textiles, food, and more. Key Energy system: modular energy generation for properties and beyond. Need for intelligent design incorporating global architectural wisdom. Passive home design is becoming more common, but challenges remain. Heat pump limitations in large cities due to heat island effects. “We're very much about sustainability and impact. You have to be sustainable for the planet and for the people. If you're doing something that's hurting people, they won't do it, even if it saves the planet. And when you do something that's saving the planet, you're saving the people. Climate change is real, and it's fairly deadly when you get caught in heavy storms or floods. And heat is actually a killer. A lot of people die from heat related deaths per year, and it's getting worse.” x Show Resources and Information LinkedIn Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Rebecca Riss is originally from White Plains, New York. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Studio Art from Carleton College in Minnesota and Master of Architecture from Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. Her passion for sustainability has led her to be active in AIA New York COTE, a steering committee member for the Carbon Leadership Forum New York Chapter, and the Carbon Leadership Hub Policy Lead, just to name a few. A true environmentalist, Rebecca is excited by the change in architecture, as the approach to sustainability continues to respond to new research, technology, and priorities. Her involvement and initiative have helped develop and implement updated standards, advocate for meaningful policy changes, and explore more holistic methods for evaluating a project’s health and environmental impacts across the industry. Rebecca’s motivation comes from the colleagues and the communities she serves. She states, “It is inspiring to work with smart, caring, and inquisitive people to positively impact our neighbors and our future generations.” AIA Framework for Design Excellence design principles that integrate sustainability into all aspects of architecture. Exploring tools for embodied carbon analysis and outreach to suppliers for detailed reporting. Excited about AIA Materials Pledge and increased manufacturer disclosure. Material vetting strategies for lower embodied carbon products ensuring products with lower environmental impact are prioritized. Implementing life cycle assessments (LCAs) to evaluate the overall sustainability of materials throughout their entire lifecycle. Integrating both operational and embodied carbon strategies to minimize overall carbon footprint in building design. Encouraging client education and advocacy for sustainable practices. Sustainable design practices tailored to meet the unique needs of educational, public facilities, and municipalities to enhance community infrastructure. “...If you're getting into this green building movement now - just be proactive about going outside of your comfort zone. Take initiative to do what interests you and explore the questions that you're invested in. And you don't need to ask permission of people to take those next steps and dive into the sustainability issues that you're particularly interested in exploring.” -Rebecca Riss Show Resource and Information LinkedIn Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Andrew Pace, Healthy Building Expert, Creator of the Non Toxic Environments podcast. Andrew Pace is a Healthy Home Concierge and Founder of The Green Design Center, a leading resource for homeowners and contractors looking to source products that are healthy and green and receive expert consulting advice on designing and building healthy green homes. Andrew is the host of the Non Toxic Environments Podcast. He is a worldwide expert on green and healthy building products and services customers and contractors from around the globe. As founder of the oldest healthy building supply company in the United States, Andrew has become one of the single most helpful and educational experts dealing with the day-to-day concerns of those individuals who suffer from allergies, asthma and chemical sensitivities. Andrew serves as a board member of the Change the Air Foundation and has been featured in numerous national media outlets. Please follow along at @nontoxicenviornments and https://www.thegreendesigncenter.com. His projects and expertise have been featured in numerous media outlets and industry podcasts including Real Simple, Men's Health , Architectural Digest and Wellnessmama just to name a few. He has recently presented alongside Gwyneth Paltrow and Deepak Chopra as part of the 2023 Change The Air Summit with host Michael Rubino and discussed The Science of Healthy Buildings at the Healthier Tech Summit. Andrew serves as a board member of the Change the Air Foundation. Eye opening health risks associated with traditional construction methods. Growing concern over mold due to energy-efficient building practices. Focuses on human health concerns in construction to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants in indoor building design. Industry trends and a renewed excitement in healthy building post-pandemic. Wisconsin climate challenges create challenges for building design and materials. Whole-home projects to create healthier living environments. A proactive approach to adapting to industry changes in the rapidly evolving green building industry. Engaging with clients and peers provides valuable insights that contribute to personal and professional growth. Traveling to learn about sustainable practices in different cultures can provide unique insights into local environmental stewardship. Diverse approaches to sustainability can inspire innovative solutions for modern challenges. “A lot of the problems that people are going through health-wise can be attributed to how we live in our built environment. Understanding what's happening from a health standpoint really helps me decide on how we're going to approach our new podcast season, who we're going to talk to, maybe the things that we need to look for.” -Andrew Pace Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Jennifer Taranto brings more than 20 years of experience in the commercial real estate and construction industry. She joined Structure Tone in 2001, where she served as a superintendent and project manager before becoming STO Building Group’s Vice President of Sustainability. She ensures that environmental, social and governance (ESG) principals are incorporated into client projects and STOBG organizational strategy. As a passionate advocate for reducing the environmental impact of the built environment, Jennifer gets involved in the early stages of design and construction to define the client’s ESG goals and help the project team create an internal roadmap to achieve them. With her guidance and expertise, organizations around the world have been able to improve people’s health and wellbeing while reducing the construction and operating impacts of facilities. As a founder of the non-profit, Built Environment Plus, and the current Chair of the organization’s Board of Directors, Jennifer is a recognized sustainable construction leader and frequent speaker. She has been recognized by the International WELL Building Institute with their WELL AP award in 2018 and the WELL Faculty award in 2019, 2020 and 2021. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Engineering from North Carolina State University. Show Highlights Overview of the integration of green building programs such as LEED, WELL, Fitwel, and BREEAM into construction practices. Key strategies of the benefits of forming a green team, promoting ride-sharing, enforcing no-idling policies, and using electric vehicles on construction sites. The importance of green materials, prefabrication, temporary systems like LED lighting and solar power, and technologies such as drones Attention was given to reducing embodied carbon and future green construction trends, followed by a Q&A session. Discussion on the importance of LEED credentials and the growth of the green building movement. Discussion on the importance of certifications for corporate sustainability and green financing. Introduction to the top ten ways to green a construction site. The role of technology in construction, including drones and virtual meetings. the evolution of green materials and the importance of EPDs and HPDs Examples of innovative materials and construction methods being used in the industry to reduce waste. “You're going to start to see a lot of designs that are going to shift toward lower embodied carbon materials. A lot of our clients are getting savvier and asking those questions. I think the other, the pie chart that maybe you don't have, Charlie, in the deck is the fact that 49% of the embodied carbon is in the building the day that the contractor hands over the keys to the client. So half of the lifetime amount of carbon is in the building before anybody even occupies it. There's a big opportunity there in order to really ratchet those numbers.” -J Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Olga Itsiou, Chief Operating Officer at DIMAND S.A. | Architect | RIBA Joined DIMAND in 2005 as Technical Director and currently holds the position of Chief Operating Officer, distinguished for adeptness in finding solutions in challenging scenarios, orchestrating efficient team dynamics, and pioneering the implementation of new, innovative, and sustainable policies and technologies into the operations of DIMAND. Prior professional roles include positions at HOK International Ltd in London as a Project Architect, REDS S.A. of the ELLAKTOR Group as a Consultant and Design Manager, and INTRA DEVELOPMENT S.A. as a Design Manager. Graduated as an Architect Engineer from the University of Greenwich with a BA (Hons) in Architecture. Completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture at Kingston University and obtained a Post-experience Certificate in the Professional Practice of Architecture (RIBA Part 3) from the same institution. Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in the United Kingdom. Show Highlights The role of transportation in addressing indirect emissions. The value of travel for broadening perspectives in green building. DIMAND focuses on large redevelopments and major renovations revitalizing underutilized urban areas. Responsible for 45% of LEED certified projects in Greece Piraeus Tower Project: a landmark development and a key part of Greece's transition into a new era of urban renewal. Aim to repurpose existing structures, reducing the environmental impact associated with new construction. Community engagement is a key focus to meet local needs and enhance neighborhood vitality. Involve facility management from pre-design phase for optimal operation. Comprehensive carbon footprint assessments allow for the identification of both direct and indirect emissions, enabling targeted strategies to reduce overall environmental impact. Incorporating facility management expertise early in the design phase can optimize building performance and ensure that sustainability features are effectively utilized throughout the building's lifecycle. Emphasizing a lifecycle approach helps in understanding the environmental impact of a building from design through demolition, ensuring sustainable practices are integrated at every stage. Involve facility management from pre-design phase for optimal operation. “It's better to regret something you have done than something you haven't done. The planet is suffering. We seriously need to do something about it. So all of you that are jumping in the green building movement just keep focused, try your best to reverse the harm that has been done over the past years, and always be positive. Also, travel. I think by traveling, you get so many ideas and you get to see what other countries are doing. And it helps a lot in focusing and seeing things from a different perspective.” -Olga Itsiou Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Enzo Tessitore, Licensed Architect & Urban Planner, LEED Fellow, sustainability advocate, local community supporter, amateur baker and classic car lover is a sustainability-driven executive with international experience in bringing people, organizations, and money together to help drive the global property industry toward green practices. In 2023, in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the global green building movement and LEED, the USGBC recognized him as the youngest LEED Fellow in the world. As an Architect and Urban planner, Enzo is responsible for the Green Building Council Brazil operations, where he has worked for over seven years. He also served on the global business development team for Latin America at the US Green Building Council, focusing on developing the Brazilian market for Arc buildings’ operational performance benchmark platform. He participates on several steering and technical committees, such as in the Ministry of Mines and Energy, ABNT (Brazilian Association of Technical Standards), in the global project Better Places for People, of the World Green Building Council, where strategies are discussed to increase the demand and the adoption of sustainable buildings that support the health, well-being, and productivity of the people within them, as well as in the Advancing Net Zero, also from the WorldGBC, which aims to increase adoption of Net Zero buildings throughout the world. For the past five years, he has maintained his professional practice in architecture and urban planning, working with projects focused on sustainability at different scales. Born in Brazil and educated in California and Sao Paulo, Enzo holds a double major in Architecture and Urban Planning from Escola da Cidade in Sao Paulo. Show Highlights Enzo became the youngest LEED Fellow at age 30. Brazil's status as the fifth-largest market for LEED certifications. Explains structure of World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) and local chapters. Focus on decarbonization strategies and biodiversity. The absence of supportive legislation contributes to green buildings remaining a niche market despite a growing interest. The push for new construction and existing building retrofits is essential for achieving sustainability goals. AI's potential impact on green building design leading to more sustainable choices. Clear communication fosters understanding and alignment among diverse stakeholders in green building projects. “Green buildings are not going away… Green buildings are an umbrella. There's a whole bunch of things underneath it, whether you're an energy efficiency geek or you really love to study how the built environment affects our forests or maybe you're really into passive design. There's a whole bunch of things that are underneath that sort of green building umbrella. There's going to be more and more legislation that requires your building to be efficient. There's going to be more and more incentives for your building to be efficient. I hope at some point we're not allowed to build inefficient buildings...” -Enzo Tessitore Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

[smart_track_player url="https://traffic.libsyn.com/gbespodcast/GBES_With_Lee_Newton_1.mp3" ] is an entrepreneur who works tirelessly to educate the industry on more sustainable practices, from sourcing to implementation. After facing frustration with sustainable sourcing she began a project that allows designers to easily find vendors that meet rigorous sustainability criteria. Through the process of building the greenList platform. She was surprised to learn that over 80% of the residential designers do not have a formal education. And even those that do did not have sustainability as part of their curriculum. By creating a new platform that’s accessible to residential designers closes a longstanding educational gap and creates new stands in conscious design. Drawing inspiration from unfamiliar spaces and traditional, time-honored elements, Megan lives not just for design, but for design that helps others love what they do, where they live, and how they feel when they step into a space that feels like them. For Megan, no two days are the same and this unparalleled edge that every day and every project brings just ensures an unmatched, custom design for all clients. You’ll notice Megan’s relaxed personality and tasteful wit as she collaborates on projects with you, the vendors, contractors, and installers. Show Highlight Her Projects include both residential and commercial renovations. Targeted messaging to attract sustainability-focused clients. Interior Design Greenlist is a platform for designers that aims to simplify the sourcing process by pre-vetting companies based on sustainability criteria. Sustainability is becoming more prominent in the interior design community. The rise of eco-friendly materials and practices has led to demand for sustainable design solutions among homeowners and commercial clients. Understanding product lifecycles and identifying genuine sustainable practice. Regulatory pressures and market trends are driving innovation in sustainable materials and manufacturing processes. Challenges in identifying greenwashing. Focus on net-zero construction and enhancing indoor air quality. Show Resource and Information Don’t forget to catch more episodes and resources for all of your green building news at the website. Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES: GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more insurances that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Dr. Lee Newton is an optometrist who has learned to build, develop, and invest in real estate profitably. He loves to help others learn to do the same. Beginning his health care career as his own tenant and landlord, he quickly learned the benefits of real estate as a preferred asset class and began investing in both residential and commercial properties. Having been able to assist many medical clients with design/build projects, Dr. Lee’s primary area of interest is new construction. He is particularly adept in the area of value engineering, the art of shaping the cost of the project to meet both functional and budgetary needs without sacrificing quality. His assistance is frequently sought in this realm. Other areas of expertise include building science, thermal design, and building performance. With a proven track record of quality and transparency in both cost and timeline, Dr. Lee has been known to save clients as much as $1M on a single build. Given the effects of inflation in the post-pandemic era, his current area of passion is the design and construction of affordable residential housing. Show Highlights Focus on net-zero construction and enhancing indoor air quality. Promoting all-electric designs and the use of advanced air purification systems. Value-engineered home designs focus on optimizing cost while maintaining quality and functionality. All construction activities have some negative impact on the environment, emphasizing that there is no absolute green building. Adaptation of sustainable practices to improve building performance and reduce harm to the planet. Integrating heat pump technology and solar readiness in building designs supports sustainability goals and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to lower carbon emissions. Recommends investing in well-positioned raw land for future development. Increasing MERV ratings on furnace filters and adding individual room air purifiers significantly enhance air cleanliness. “I've come to the conclusion that there is no green building that occurs at an absolute level. Everything we do to the earth results in the earth being less green than when we started. There's only green buildings in a relative sense. And it just makes the most sense to try to leave the least impact on earth as we go about constructing and rehabbing.” Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

Jane Frederick, FAIA. LEED AP, Architect, Author, AGLN Fellow & 96th President of the American Institute of Architects. Designing sustainable houses that connect clients to the place they call home never gets old for Jane Frederick. She loves working with people who are ready to create the house of their dreams and enjoys thinking through everything, from the ideal room that captures the views to finding the perfect tile for the bathroom. For over 35 years, Jane has been working alongside her husband, Michael Frederick, creating award-winning houses in the hot, humid Lowcountry of South Carolina. They are both passionate about sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of their houses. As participants in the AIA’s 2030 Commitment, they meet the goal most years. In 2023, Jane Frederick, was awarded the AIA South Carolina Medal of Distinction, the highest honor given by the chapter, and was the first woman to receive this prestigious award. Jane Frederick, also believes in giving back, and everyone on her team actively supports a variety of organizations, both personal and professional. Locally, they support the Open Land Trust, Coastal Conservation League, The Spanish Moss Trail, and the Historic Beaufort Foundation. This commitment to service also inspired Jane to become the 2020 President of the American Institute of Architects. Show Highlights The importance of sustainable practices in the evolving landscape of architecture. In-house HVAC design allows for tailored solutions that enhance system efficiency, better indoor air quality, and comfort. Promoting solar panels and backup batteries over generators ensures energy availability. Raising houses out of floodplains for sustainability enhances the resilience of homes against climate change impacts. Hoping for net-zero code to pass for broader sustainability goals in the built environment. Focus on custom residential design within a 200-mile radius. Sustainable materials and construction practices that enhance durability and reduce environmental impact. Effective communication of the benefits of sustainability can lead to better decision-making and increased client satisfaction.selling sustainable solutions to clients Right-sized HVAC systems are crucial for maintaining energy efficiency and indoor air quality in modern homes. “What's changing a lot about residential design is that the sophistication of the building systems is just growing exponentially, and that you really have to stay on top of that. Quite often, you might work with a contractor that might say, ‘We've done it this way for 40 years, and it's worked fine’, and it's like, ‘Well, no, we are building super tight houses now, and we have to bring in fresh air, and you have to make sure that everything is working, because it's not just how we've always done it.’” -Jane Frederick Show Resource and Information Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more assurance that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don't forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

, Sustainability is more than a job; it is a way of thinking. Having practiced in a dedicated sustainability role within design, engineering, consulting, and construction firms for the better part of two decades, John has developed a command of both the science and art of sustainable design and construction. Inspired most by the opportunities that emerge when addressing challenges through a lens of sustainability, he promotes positive change in his work through the engagement of people using tools for systems thinking, reflective conversation, and visioning. He is a process champion with the ability to bring together disparate stakeholders around a common vision, goals, and strategies without compromising technical rigor. Having chaired the Illinois Green Alliance Board of Directors from 2021-2023, and currently serving as Ex-Officio Chair through 2024, John is deeply involved in local and regional sustainability efforts around carbon drawdown, green infrastructure, EDI, resilience, and health and wellness to move rapidly beyond the “sustainability status quo.” Show Highlight Aspiring green professionals to adopt a sustainability lens in their careers. Importance of LEED Fellow credential and reviewing applications. White and Company: a. Focus on integrative design and sustainability b. Internal sustainability standard applied to all projects c. Additional value on the client’s behalf d. more integrated way for frameworks, kind of like rating system agnostic. Emphasis on embodied carbon and materials reuse in current projects. John discusses a crucial focus for the industry. Materials assessment before demolition for reuse and recycling. Apply sustainability lens to any field, pursue ‘up all night curiosity.’ Accountability frameworks to help assure all the stakeholders. Show Resource and Information Don’t forget to catch more episodes and resources for all of your green building news at the website. Connect with Charlie Cichetti and GBES: GBES is excited our membership community is growing. Consider joining our membership community as members are given access to some of the guests on the podcasts that you can ask project questions. If you are preparing for an exam, there will be more insurances that you will pass your next exam, you will be given cliff notes if you are a member, and so much more. Go to to learn more about the 4 different levels of access to this one-of-a-kind career-advancing green building community! If you truly enjoyed the show, don’t forget to leave a positive rating and review on . We have prepared more episodes for the upcoming weeks, so come by again next week! Thank you for tuning in to the ! Copyright © 2024 GBES

James Inedu George, One of the most eminent and influential West African architects and designers of recent decades recognized for his innovative approach to solving complex urban challenges, and most famously his brilliance with space and design. He is the founding partner and Design Lead at HTL Africa Ltd, Tao South Africa, and HTL Asia Plus, which works on projects around the world and is widely considered “among the most significant in contemporary architecture.” Born and raised in Zaria, Nigeria, Jame’s passion for architecture blossomed under the influence of his vibrant hometown, known for its historical significance. His early career accolades include winning the Sahara Energy young architect student competition, setting the stage for a career characterized by keen attention to social issues in architecture, housing deficits, and economic disparities. James is recognized for his innovative approach to solving complex urban challenges, and most famously his brilliance with space and design. James’s professional journey is distinguished by his unique ability to address complex urban issues through inventive architectural solutions. His career milestones include designing key pieces for the 2003 Nigerian presidential inauguration and developing a replicable $10,000 sustainable house in Lagos, which demonstrated the feasibility of affordable housing intertwined with economic opportunities for its residents. In 2008, James founded HTL Africa, a research-driven architectural firm dedicated to addressing the specific challenges of West African environments. HTL Africa is today one of the most prolific architectural practices from the continent, with a varied body of work and a myriad of impressive ongoing projects beyond Africa. The practice’s work ranges from master plans to the restoration of historic buildings, urban planning and all aspects of design. Honored internationally, including a nomination for the prestigious Rolex Mentor, Protegé Art Initiative A fervent advocate for adaptive reuse, James has been instrumental in revitalizing structures and infusing them with new purposes, long before it became a mainstream architectural trend. In Ghana for example, it restored an already defunct 200-year-old Presbyterian church into more than just a spiritual centre but a major tourist hub to last for centuries more. Currently underway is the first of its kind Transcorp Hilton Event Factory, a disused valley warehouse transformed into a 5,000 seater state-of-the-art venue, amongst many others. James's contributions have been honored internationally, including a nomination for the prestigious Rolex Mentor, Protegé Art Initiative, a gold mention for the Home Africa Crisis organized by the UN. He actively participates in exhibitions like the Biennale d'architecture d'Orleans in France, Venice Biennale, showcasing his "Miracle Room" installation in 2019. His TEDX talk, "Invention of isi ewu," delves into his studio's work and the concept of Affordacity (affordable city). Show Highlights Integrating traditional African designs with sustainable practices. James' firm work on residential, commercial, and performance buildings. Challenges of recycling materials in Nigeria. Focuses on ‘local sustainability’ - combining contemporary design with traditional practices Exploring building permeability and energy efficiency. Developing an 'energy bill' concept for cities. Tying contemporary high end design with traditional practices. Holistic use of different materials to support sustainable processes, availability, and finance in the region. Energy balance needs to exist from the onset for the architecture to work. “What we've been learning is that sustainability has to be ingrained in it. In that sense, a building must be responsible first and foremost. When I say responsible, like how you and I are responsible, it must act as a citizen, so it must pay tax. So if you look at it from that perspective, our buildings are paying tax because...