The Green Building Matters Podcast with Charlie Cichetti

🌍 The Green Impact Report Quick take: This episode matters to green building professionals because it shines a spotlight on how grid-interactive buildings and HVAC optimization can eliminate energy waste, generate new revenue, and play a crucial role in decarbonization — right now. 👷 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Brad Pilgrim is the founder and CEO of Parity, a Series B company pioneering HVAC optimization and grid interactivity across North America. From his early days as a commercial carpenter to building a 100-million-square-foot energy optimization platform, Brad's entrepreneurial journey is driven by purpose, efficiency, and a deep love of the outdoors. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Brad Pilgrim revolutionizes traditional construction approaches: 🧠 Key Insight #1: Turning HVAC inefficiency into an intelligent grid asset The Challenge: Traditional HVAC systems run on outdated controls, often wasting energy with start-stop inefficiency. The Solution: Parity installs off-the-shelf hardware and proprietary software to align HVAC operations with real-time demand. ROI: Buildings slash energy waste, improve comfort, and unlock new revenue via demand response and grid participation. 🧠 Key Insight #2: Building the cleanest energy — by not using it at all The Challenge: The green energy conversation often ignores the carbon debt of manufacturing renewables. The Solution: Focus on energy efficiency first — reducing consumption before adding generation. ROI: Immediate carbon impact with zero added infrastructure. Efficiency is net-zero from day one. 🧠 Key Insight #3: Reimagining the smart grid with peer-to-peer energy flows The Challenge: The electrical grid is destabilized by EVs, data centers, and intermittent renewables. The Solution: Smart buildings that store, shift, and trade energy to balance grid load in real time. ROI: Reduced grid stress, avoided blackouts, and a resilient, decentralized energy ecosystem. 🎧 Sustainable Soundbite "The cleanest energy is the energy you don't use." – Brad Pilgrim ✅ Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Audit HVAC operations — look for inefficiencies and explore retrofit potential. This Quarter: Assess your building's grid readiness and investigate demand response programs. This Year: Implement a scalable HVAC optimization strategy that supports both decarbonization and revenue. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: Green Building Matters Podcast 🗒 Read the transcript here 🔗 Connect with Brad Pilgrim: Website: https://www.paritygo.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bradpilgrim 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe 💡 Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. Subscribe to our FREE newsletter here: 👉 https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🎯 The Green Impact Report Quick take: How can we protect people as our buildings face hotter climates and evolving chemical risks? Dr. Christa Wright from UL's Chemical Insights Research Institute shares how predictive science, empathy in research, and bio-based solutions are shaping the future of healthier indoor environments. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Dr. Christa Wright is the Senior Research Director at the Chemical Insights Research Institute, part of UL Research Institutes. A trained environmental toxicologist and strategist, she leads the Center for Toxicology and Human Health, where her team studies how chemicals in products and materials affect people — and how data and partnerships can create safer, healthier spaces. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Dr. Wright transforms how we think about healthy spaces — connecting human health, materials, and predictive modeling for a new era of safety science. 🧠 Key Insight #1: Heat Changes Chemistry Indoors The Challenge: Building materials were never designed for today's rising temperatures. The Solution: Research from Chemical Insights shows even a 2°F temperature rise can release higher levels of formaldehyde from paints, flooring, and drywall — prompting a call for new standards and smarter material choices. ROI: Healthier air, longer material lifespan, and proactive protection from climate-related indoor pollution. 🧠 Key Insight #2: Nature Still Works The Challenge: Pandemic-era health strategies leaned too heavily on chemicals and filtration alone. The Solution: Wright's team is testing hydroponic classroom systems in New York, exploring how plants can filter toxins and improve indoor air quality naturally. ROI: Better student focus, cleaner air, and green innovation that reconnects sustainability and wellness. 🧠 Key Insight #3: Forecasting the Next Risk The Challenge: Most safety research is reactive — waiting for harm before changing standards. The Solution: Wright's team uses predictive modeling, AI, and machine learning to forecast future chemical and environmental risks. ROI: A proactive path for architects, product developers, and policymakers to prevent the next crisis before it happens. 💬 Sustainable Soundbite "Our behaviors drive our exposures — and understanding them is key to building healthier environments." — Dr. Christa Wright 🏋️ Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Audit how your materials perform under rising temperatures. Identify potential sources of indoor pollutants. This Quarter: Incorporate biophilic or plant-based filtration strategies into your next renovation or classroom design. This Year: Build partnerships that integrate predictive data and AI modeling into sustainability planning and certification. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources here 🗒 Read the transcript here 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe 🔗 Connect with Dr. Christa Wright: Chemical Insights Research Institute (CIRI) Website LinkedIn 💌 Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips twice a week. 👉 Subscribe to our FREE newsletter: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🌍 The Green Impact Report Quick take: In this episode, Federico Steinvorth, a newly inducted LEED Fellow from Costa Rica, shares how he's championing sustainable building practices across Central America through early project integration, renewable energy, and a strong focus on community engagement. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Federico Steinvorth is an engineer, marathon runner, and co-founder of a regional sustainability consulting firm based in Costa Rica. With a background in mechanical and electrical engineering and a master's in construction management from Michigan State University, Federico has been leading sustainability initiatives across Latin America for over 15 years. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Federico revolutionizes traditional construction approaches: 🎯 Key Insight #1: Early integration of sustainability consultants leads to better design outcomes The Challenge: Consultants often brought in late in the design process. The Solution: Engaging early to guide KPIs and sustainable design strategies. ROI: Avoided costly redesigns, better project alignment with corporate sustainability goals. 🎯 Key Insight #2: Leveraging Costa Rica's 99% renewable energy grid for electrification The Challenge: High energy consumption in industrial and manufacturing projects. The Solution: Aligning electrification and decarbonization efforts with a clean national grid. ROI: Reduced carbon footprint, cost-effective clean energy adoption. 🎯 Key Insight #3: Partnering with communities to define sustainable success The Challenge: Sustainability frameworks don't always capture local community needs. The Solution: Engaging community teams to integrate social priorities into projects. ROI: Higher impact, long-term community alignment, enhanced project acceptance. 🎧 Sustainable Soundbite "Being named a LEED Fellow isn't just an honor—it's a responsibility to push our limits, lead by example, and elevate the sustainability movement across our region." — Federico Steinvorth ✅ Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Reach out to community stakeholders to understand project impact beyond the site. This Quarter: Evaluate your region's energy grid for decarbonization opportunities. This Year: Commit to early-phase sustainability integration on every project. 📲 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources here 🗒 Read the transcript here 🔗 Connect with Federico Steinvorth: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/federico-steinvorth Website: http://www.spherasostenible.com/ 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe 💌 Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. 👉 Subscribe to our FREE newsletter here: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🌍 The Green Impact Report Quick take: From authentic storytelling to biophilic design and grassroots sustainability, Giuli Ann Schacht shows how creative thinking and a deep respect for nature can transform communities like High Point, NC — and how you can do the same. 👋 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Giuli Ann Schacht is a passionate creator, businesswoman, and advocate for biophilic design. With a background in brand storytelling, fresh food entrepreneurship, and green real estate development, she's now bringing it all together to inspire greener communities through film, design, and sustainable living. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Giuli shares how she's reimagining how we live, build, and connect — with a strong foundation in biophilia and community-driven sustainability. 📌 Key Insight #1: Redefining Real Estate in High Point The Challenge: Vacant buildings and underutilized space in a small North Carolina city. The Solution: Biophilic design + creative placemaking = vibrant living and production spaces. ROI: A thriving neighborhood hub where architecture, nature, and people connect, plus local job creation and property value growth. 📌 Key Insight #2: Biophilic Design Is a Lifestyle, Not a Trend The Challenge: Urban living often strips away our connection to nature. The Solution: Water features, cedar wood, filtered water systems, and intentional landscaping — even on a tiny lot. ROI: Better health outcomes, increased joy, and higher productivity — backed by neuroaesthetic science. 📌 Key Insight #3: Storytelling as a Green Industry Tool The Challenge: Green building messages don't always resonate with everyday people. The Solution: Use storytelling and media to inspire change and elevate local makers. ROI: Increased visibility, community pride, and new pathways for sustainable industry. 💬 Sustainable Soundbite "You don't have to redo everything to start changing your life. Just start small. Do it really." – Giuli Ann Schacht 🛠 Your Green Building Action Plan 1. This Week: Add a biophilic element to your home — start with a plant, water feature, or filtered drinking water. 2. This Quarter: Look for ways to reuse and repurpose materials in your next project. 3. This Year: Invest in community-based sustainability — whether it's real estate, education, or mentorship. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources here 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe 🗒 Read the transcript here 🔗 Connect with Giuli Ann Schacht: LinkedIn, Website Museum piece- vimeo Daytona 500 Flash Mob- youtube https://www.gonaturalliving.com/ https://www.gonatural.live/pov Alexandra Dummit- https://thesageplant.com/ 📬 Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. 👉 Subscribe to our FREE newsletter: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🎯 The Green Impact Report Quick take: This episode uncovers how acoustics, materials, and design intersect to create healthier, more sustainable buildings. Dana Pucillo shares how listening — in design, leadership, and innovation — is transforming interior environments for human wellness. 👋 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Dana Pucillo is the Vice President of the Acoustics Division at Carnegie, a leader in sustainable interiors. With a career spanning 30+ years in interior design, commercial manufacturing, and sustainability, Dana champions healthy materials, innovative product development, and people-first leadership — all with a strong New York edge and an artist's heart. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Dana Pucillo revolutionizes traditional construction approaches: 💡 Key Insight #1: Replacing Fiberglass with Recycled PET in Acoustic Panels The Challenge: Fiberglass acoustic panels are industry standard — but come with VOC and chemical binder concerns. The Solution: Dana's team transitioned their fabric-wrapped acoustic panels to an American-made, recycled PET core. ROI: Maintains acoustic performance while eliminating harmful materials — a big win for sustainability and indoor wellness. 💡 Key Insight #2: Making Acoustics a Wellness Conversation The Challenge: Acoustics are often overlooked in building performance and wellness. The Solution: Carnegie positions acoustics as a central factor in how people feel in environments like classrooms and healthcare facilities. ROI: Improved user experience and health outcomes — acoustics become a strategic part of wellness design. 💡 Key Insight #3: Equipping Specifiers and Facility Managers to Make Healthier Choices The Challenge: Budget and lead time constraints push decision-makers toward status quo materials. The Solution: Dana's team is building tools and visibility into acoustic solutions that meet budget and sustainability goals. ROI: Democratizes green choices for specifiers and facility managers alike — without trade-offs. 🎙 Sustainable Soundbite "Just because something might look good doesn't mean it's necessarily solving the problem in the best way… we are solutions for our clients." – Dana Pucillo 🧩 Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Reevaluate material choices for acoustic performance and health impact. This Quarter: Explore vendors and manufacturers using RPET or other low-VOC, recycled materials. This Year: Develop educational tools or internal guides to help specifiers choose sustainable acoustic solutions. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🗒 Read the transcript here 🔗 Connect with Dana Pucillo: Website, LinkedIn 🌿 Access full episode resources: Green Building Matters Podcast 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. 📩 Subscribe to our FREE newsletter: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

📌 The Green Impact Report Quick take: Architect-turned-tech CEO Benjamin Glunz is reshaping the AEC industry by tackling inefficiency, waste, and legacy workflows. In this episode, he shares how platforms like BIMsmith® and Swatchbox® are making sustainability the standard — not the exception. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Benjamin Glunz is the Founder and CEO of Anguleris, the company behind BIMsmith® and Swatchbox®. An architect by training, Ben is driven by a mission to simplify specification, reduce material waste, and empower the next generation of AEC pros with smarter tools. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building 🧠 Key Insight #1: Circular Sampling with Second Life The Challenge: Architectural material samples often end up in landfills after projects end. The Solution: Swatchbox's Second Life initiative collects, recirculates, and redistributes unused samples. ROI: 50,000+ samples diverted from landfills, reducing demand for net new sample production. 🧠 Key Insight #2: Turbocharging Sustainability Through Product Selection The Challenge: Architects waste critical hours shuffling paperwork instead of making high-impact material decisions. The Solution: BIMsmith® streamlines product research and specification with architect-built tools. ROI: Faster, more informed decisions that increase sustainability and reduce project waste. 🧠 Key Insight #3: Moving from Time-Based to Value-Based Architecture The Challenge: AEC firms are locked into a billable-hours model that disincentivizes innovation. The Solution: Ben advocates for shifting to value-based pricing and tech-integrated workflows. ROI: Increased profitability, better design quality, and accelerated project timelines. 💬 Sustainable Soundbite "Helping architects make better product decisions is the fastest way to scale sustainability across projects." – Benjamin Glunz 📈 Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Audit how your firm manages material samples — can any be returned, reused, or recirculated? This Quarter: Test BIMsmith® or similar tools to reduce friction in product specification. This Year: Champion circular practices internally and pitch one initiative to your leadership team. 🔗 Connect & Learn Mo 🌿 Access full episode resources: Green Building Matters Podcast 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe 📄 Read the transcript here 🔗 Connect with Benjamin Glunz: LinkedIn Website 💌 Want More Green Building Insights? Get exclusive tips, expert interviews, and green design tools — delivered twice a week. 📬 Subscribe FREE → https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🎯 The Green Impact Report Quick take: Maureen Waters is redefining what ESG looks like in commercial real estate. From legacy giants like Cushman & Wakefield to her current role as President at Measurabl, Maureen shares the hard-won insights that are helping decarbonize global portfolios — using data at a scale never seen before. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Maureen Waters is President of Measurabl, the most widely adopted sustainability data platform in real estate. With 25+ years across tech, VC, and real estate giants, she leads with a rare blend of strategic rigor and operational clarity — helping $3 trillion in assets get ESG right. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building 🧠 Key Innovation #1: Democratizing ESG Data with a Freemium Model: The Challenge:The Solution:ROI: 🧠 Key Innovation #2: Automating Utility Data with AI: The Challenge:The Solution:ROI: 🧠 Key Innovation #3: Shifting from SaaS to Sustainability Ecosystem: The Challenge:The Solution:ROI: 💬 Sustainable Soundbite "If you're always looking in the rearview mirror, you can't move forward. The future is in how we leverage data to make sustainability scalable." – Maureen Waters ♻️ Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week:This Quarter:This Year: 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: Green Building Matters Podcast 📄 Read the transcript here 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: Link 🔗 Connect with Maureen Waters: LinkedInWebsite 💌 Want More Green Building Insights? Get exclusive tips, expert interviews, and green design tools — delivered twice a week. 📬 Subscribe FREE → https://www.greenbuilding.news/subscribe Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

📌 The Green Impact Report Quick take: Donald Jacobs takes us back to the early days of Sea Ranch and shows how designing with the land — not over it — can spark a half-century of sustainable building practices. From passive solar to international design work, his career proves sustainability is both timeless and scalable. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Donald Jacobs is an architect whose career spans 58 years. From designing 100+ custom homes and the Sea Ranch Chapel to co-founding JZMK Partners, he has shaped communities in the U.S. and abroad. Today, he continues to restore past projects and support HomeAid, a nonprofit building shelters for the transitionally homeless. 🔨 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Donald Jacobs revolutionizes traditional construction approaches: 🎯 Key Insight #1: Disappearing Architecture The Challenge: Conventional homes often clash with natural landscapes. The Solution: At Sea Ranch, Jacobs embraced a philosophy of blending structures into the land, using native materials and natural tones to minimize visual impact. ROI: A community where homes feel part of the ecosystem, preserving views and reducing environmental disruption. 🎯 Key Insight #2: Passive Solar Before It Was Popular The Challenge: Rising energy costs and inefficient heating/cooling in the 1970s. The Solution: Jacobs collaborated with pioneers like David Wright to integrate passive solar design, shielding from northwest winds while capturing southern sun. ROI: Homes that were more comfortable, energy-efficient, and decades ahead of green codes. 🎯 Key Insight #3: Scaling Sustainability Globally The Challenge: Mainstream developer housing often resisted sustainable innovation. The Solution: Through JZMK, Jacobs pushed design excellence and brought sustainable principles into master-planned communities across six countries. ROI: International recognition, larger project scales, and ripple effects for future sustainable developments. 🧠 Sustainable Soundbite “The best building that could be designed would be one that nobody sees.” – Donald Jacobs 📣 Episode Overview From Sea Ranch’s pioneering design philosophy to leading an international firm, Donald Jacobs has spent nearly six decades proving that buildings can — and should — work in harmony with nature. In this conversation, he shares lessons from iconic projects, mentors who shaped him, and his nonprofit work that extends sustainability into the social realm 📈 Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Walk your project site and identify one way to work with the land, not against it. This Quarter: Explore passive design strategies — like wind protection or solar orientation — that can be integrated without added cost. This Year: Build partnerships with community organizations or nonprofits to ensure your work has both environmental and social impact. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: 🗒 Read the transcript ♻️ Join the Green Building Movement: 🔗 Connect with Donald Jacobs: Email: ♻️ Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. Subscribe to our FREE newsletter here: Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🎯 The Green Impact Report Quick take: This episode is a must-listen for architects, contractors, and LEED Pros looking to level up athletic spaces. Karl Borree shares how flooring can dramatically impact health, sustainability, and even climate goals — if you design it right. 🎓 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Karl Borree is a veteran of the performance flooring industry and a passionate advocate for sustainable product innovation. As a key voice at Action Floors, Karl works at the intersection of health, athletics, and material science — driving forward the only carbon-negative maple flooring solution on the market today. With a background in coaching, economics, and rhetorical theory, he brings a unique human-centered lens to sustainable product strategy. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building 💡 Key Insight #1: Flooring Isn’t Just About Bounce — It’s About Emissions, Safety, and Lifecycle The Challenge: Traditional gym floors often use PVC-based pads that off-gas and lose performance over time. The Solution: Action Floors uses natural rubber pads that don’t off-gas, last longer, and offer superior restitution for athletes. ROI: Improved air quality, safer impact absorption, extended lifespan — with verified carbon-negative. 💡 Key Insight #2: One Size Doesn’t Fit All — Design for the Athlete, Not Just the Space The Challenge: Many school districts default to “standard” flooring systems without considering age, activity, or use-case. The Solution: Action Floors offers 14+ custom subfloor systems tuned to the specific athlete profile — from preschoolers to pros. ROI: Reduced injuries, enhanced performance, and floors that align with building lifecycle and functional demands. 💡 Key Insight #3: Carbon-Negative Sports Flooring Exists — If You Know Where to Look The Challenge: Most stakeholders assume performance floors are carbon-intensive due to manufacturing and global shipping. The Solution: Action Floors sources maple from the UP of Michigan, leveraging cold climate slow-growth trees, and runs a verified carbon-negative operation. ROI: Global shipments with a smaller footprint than local competitors — backed by SGS-certified EPDs. 🎧 Sustainable Soundbite “Follow your passion, not your pension — that’ll bring you everything you really want.” – Karl Borree 🌍 Episode Overview Think sports flooring is just about looks or bounce? Think again. In this episode, Karl Borree of Action Floors pulls back the curtain on a massively underappreciated part of green building: what’s under your feet. From carbon-negative maple to all-natural rubber pads engineered to reduce concussions, Karl shares how performance flooring is being reimagined with sustainability — and athletes — at the center. ✅ Your Green Building Action Plan This Week: Ask your flooring vendor if they have an EPD — and what’s under the surface. This Quarter: If you’re designing a space for athletes (of any age), evaluate whether your flooring supports performance and long-term health. This Year: Shift from lowest-bid procurement to lifecycle-focused design — especially in public education and athletic facility projects. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: 📄 Read the transcript: 🔗 Connect with Karl Borree: [] 🏗️ Explore 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: ✉️ Want More Green Building Insights? Get exclusive tips, expert interviews, and green design tools — delivered twice a week. 📬 Subscribe FREE →

📣 The Green Impact Report Quick take: In this milestone 400th episode, host Charlie Cichetti reflects on over eight years of interviewing green building pioneers. He shares timeless lessons, celebrates the community, and previews what’s next in the world of sustainability storytelling. 👋 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Charlie Cichetti is one of the most credentialed experts in the green building world and a LEED Fellow. He’s the founder and host of Green Building Matters, a passionate educator, and a leader in sustainability-driven entrepreneurship. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this special solo episode, Charlie flips the script to reflect on how Green Building Matters became the most downloaded podcast in its space — and why that matters now more than ever. 🧠 Key Insight #1: Storytelling Inspires Action The Challenge: Technical content can alienate early-career sustainability pros. The Solution: Focus on personal stories, authentic journeys, and real-world projects. ROI: Listeners report earning credentials, launching new roles, and pushing for green certifications. 🧠 Key Insight #2: There’s No One Path to Green Building Leadership The Challenge: The industry often emphasizes rigid roles or career tracks. The Solution: Showcase diverse voices — from LEED Fellows to students, sales pros to engineers. ROI: Encouragement and validation for professionals forging unique green careers. 🧠 Key Insight #3: Consistency Builds Community The Challenge: Maintaining weekly momentum for 8+ years is rare. The Solution: Leverage virtual teams, strong systems, and personal commitment. ROI: 400+ episodes, a global audience, and top 3% status in the podcasting world. 🎧 Sustainable Soundbite “This podcast is a megaphone for the green building movement — and you’re the reason it matters.” — Charlie Cichetti 📘 Episode Overview What started as a passion project has grown into a global platform for green building professionals. In this special solo episode, Charlie Cichetti marks Green Building Matters’ 400th episode with a heartfelt reflection on the podcast’s journey — from humble beginnings to becoming a top 3% podcast worldwide. He shares behind-the-scenes stories, key lessons learned, gratitude for the people who’ve helped shape the show, and a powerful vision for what comes next — including deeper dives into AI, regenerative design, and community engagement. Whether you’re a longtime listener or just tuning in, this is an inspiring reset on why this platform — and this mission — matters. ✅ Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Reflect on your own sustainability journey. Share an episode with a colleague who needs encouragement. This Quarter: Revisit favorite episodes and reach out to past guests for insight or mentorship. This Year: Join the growing Green Building Matters community through LinkedIn, events, or by becoming a guest yourself. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: 🗒 Read the transcript: 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: 💌 Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. 👉 Subscribe to our FREE newsletter here: Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🌍 The Green Impact Report Quick take: Live from the Blueprint Vegas 2025 conference, Charlie Cicchetti unpacks how AI, automation, and sustainability startups are shaping the built world. Whether you're a green building professional, an entrepreneur, or curious about the latest tech in construction and real estate, this recap offers major takeaways from one of the industry's most influential events. 👤 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Charlie Cicchetti Charlie is the founder of Green Building Education Services (GBES) and Schema. A LEED Fellow and one of the most credentialed green building experts globally, he’s dedicated to scaling sustainability through tech, training, and thought leadership. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this special episode, Charlie breaks down innovations and insights straight from the Blueprint Vegas 2025 conference — where the future of the built world is being written. 🧠 Key Insight #1: AI is not just a cost-saver — it's a growth engine The Challenge: Traditionally, AI in real estate has been used primarily to reduce operating costs. The Solution: Charlie emphasizes AI’s broader potential — automating repetitive tasks to let professionals focus on creativity and customer experience. ROI: Boosted efficiency and employee satisfaction, while increasing the quality of customer engagement and problem-solving. 🧠 Key Insight #2: Robotics are entering construction — literally The Challenge: Labor shortages and inefficiencies continue to plague the construction industry. The Solution: Real-world applications of robotics were showcased on the expo floor, from automation in logistics to on-site tasks. ROI: Potential for reduced delays, lower costs, and improved safety in construction projects. 🧠 Key Insight #3: Startups like Mill and Switch are redefining climate tech The Challenge: Finding scalable, tech-driven solutions that actually move the needle on sustainability. The Solution: Mill is revolutionizing food recycling (not just composting), while Switch Automation is pushing AI and ML in building controls. ROI: Measurable impacts on waste reduction and energy efficiency across building portfolios. 💬 Sustainable Soundbite "Don’t look at AI just to save money. Ask — how can you use AI to really grow your business?" – Charlie Cicchetti 📈 Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Connect with sustainability-focused startups like Mill and Switch. Explore their offerings and how they can integrate into your current workflow. This Quarter: Attend an industry conference like Blueprint Vegas, Net Zero, or Greenbuild to network, discover new tools, and gain cross-sector insight. This Year: Start an intrapreneurial initiative within your company. Identify one area where tech and sustainability intersect and champion a pilot project. 📌 Episode Overview In this special episode of the Green Building Matters Podcast, we’re coming to you from Blueprint Vegas 2025 at The Venetian, Las Vegas — the premier event on the future of the built world. With over 3,000+ attendees, 250+ speakers, and 50+ countries represented, Blueprint brings together the brightest minds in real estate, construction, technology, and sustainability. ♻️ Why Blueprint Matters for Green Building Blueprint isn’t just another real estate tech event — it’s where the future of sustainable construction and operations takes shape. From decarbonization strategies to AI-driven building management, this year’s conversations spotlight how the built world is adapting to climate goals and net-zero commitments. 🔗 Connect & Learn More Resources & Links 🌐 🎧 More episodes of the 📩 Contact us to share your green building story: [] 📖 Read the transcript: 💚 Join the Green Building Movement: ✉️ Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. Subscribe to our FREE newsletter here: Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

🎯 The Green Impact Report Quick take: This week’s episode goes beyond bricks and beams. Brian Sheng, co-founder and CEO of Aquaria, is tackling one of the planet’s most overlooked sustainability challenges: water. His team is building clean water infrastructure by literally harvesting water from air — a breakthrough that could redefine how communities access one of life’s most critical resources. 🤝 Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Brian Sheng is the co-founder and CEO of Aquaria, a company pioneering atmospheric water generation at scale. A first-generation American who grew up in New York, Brian studied at Princeton before building a career as both an entrepreneur and investor in future-focused technologies. After leading Fresh, an early-stage venture firm that backed AI, climate, and government tech, Brian shifted to operating in climate innovation. At Aquaria, he’s on a mission to make reliable, abundant, and sustainable water accessible to communities everywhere. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Brian Sheng revolutionizes traditional thinking about water and infrastructure 🧠 Key Insight #1: Water is the overlooked frontier of sustainability. The Challenge: Infrastructure projects are stalled by insufficient access to clean water. The Solution: Aquaria generates water directly from air, creating a new and abundant supply chain. ROI: Reliable, decentralized access to clean water for homes and communities, reducing strain on existing systems. 🧠 Key Insight #2: Startups can shift how infrastructure is built. The Challenge: Water infrastructure is costly, slow, and dependent on outdated systems. The Solution: Aquaria approaches water like solar — distributed, scalable, and technology-driven. ROI: Faster deployment, more resilient communities, and the potential to scale from individual homes to entire cities. 🧠 Key Insight #3: Mission-driven innovation requires intentional culture. The Challenge: Founders often struggle to balance speed with sustainable talent growth. The Solution: Brian builds teams with intentional mentorship, complementary co-founders, and a mix of in-person and distributed collaboration. ROI: A resilient, mission-aligned company culture that scales alongside the tech. 🌏 Sustainable Soundbite "We are like solar, but for water — energy from the sun, water from the air." – Brian Sheng 📌 Your Green Building Action Plan: Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Evaluate where water access could bottleneck your building or community projects. This Quarter: Explore distributed water solutions like atmospheric generation to reduce risk. This Year: Build partnerships with innovators that scale sustainable infrastructure, not just energy, but also water. 🔗 Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources 🗒 Read the transcript 🔗 Connect with Brian Sheng: Website: Brian on: Brian on: Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. 👉 Subscribe to our FREE newsletter here: Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

The Green Impact Report Quick take: What if your master plan was smart enough to beat policy to the punch? Kristen DiStefano shares bold strategies from Atelier Ten that are shaping the future of zero-carbon communities — before the ink is dry on today’s code. Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Kristen DiStefano is a Director at Atelier Ten and a leading voice in environmental design. Trained in both civil engineering and architecture, she brings technical fluency and people-centered creativity to some of the West Coast’s most ambitious sustainable projects. From net-zero campuses to district-scale reuse systems, her work bridges policy, performance, and people. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Kristen DiStefano revolutionizes traditional construction approaches: Key Insight #1: Building a blackwater-powered future in Mission Rock The Challenge: Water reuse wasn’t even legal when the project began. The Solution: Design a district-wide blackwater treatment and reuse system anyway. ROI: Now required by code, the system will save an estimated 16 million gallons annually. Key Insight #2: Rethinking energy at California College of the Arts The Challenge: Maker spaces with kilns, glass furnaces, and labs have huge loads. The Solution: Dual strategy — reduce architectural demand and work directly with studio leaders to tackle equipment use. ROI: Smart controls + future microgrid + PV = a scalable model for low-carbon academic buildings. Key Insight #3: Expanding what "zero carbon" really means The Challenge: Too many sustainability frameworks stop at operations. The Solution: Kristen argues for a broader carbon scope: refrigerants, site work, EV infrastructure, and even transportation emissions. ROI: A regenerative, resilient framework that keeps pace with reality—and policy shifts. 🌎 Sustainable Soundbite "Eventually the goal would be to never emit carbon to begin with. But we’re not quite there yet. So let’s chart the path." — Kristen DiStefano 📌 Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Revisit your project’s early-stage energy and water assumptions — are you future-proofing or checking boxes? This Quarter: Map your carbon strategy across all five pillars: operations, embodied materials, refrigerants, transportation, and site impacts. This Year: Pilot one regenerative or district-scale solution — even if it’s ahead of current code. Be the reason it's normalized later. Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: [] 🗒 .** 🔗 Connect with Kristen DiStefano: [] | [] Want More Green Building Insights? Get sustainability tips 2x a week. Subscribe to our FREE newsletter here: Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

The Green Impact Report Quick take: Most commercial buildings are controlled by 200 global logos—and the way they’re financed makes decarbonization almost impossible. Christopher and his team at Audette are flipping that script, proving sustainability and ROI can—and must—go hand in hand. Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Christopher Naismith grew up on Vancouver Island surrounded by forests and ocean. After starting as a civil engineer, a career pivot led him into construction, building science, and eventually founding Audette, a fintech company redefining how real estate owners invest in decarbonization. Today, his platform models over 30,000 commercial buildings, helping some of the world’s largest portfolios cut emissions and boost asset value. 🌱 Breaking Ground on Better Building Key Insight #1: Real estate finance is the real barrier to decarbonization. The Challenge: Property owners avoid upgrades because they eat into short-term profits. The Solution: Audette models both physical systems and financial ownership structures to reveal where decarbonization adds long-term value. ROI: Turns sustainability from a cost center into a proven value-driver. Key Insight #2: AI makes the “my building is special” excuse obsolete. The Challenge: Operators claim buildings are too unique to standardize solutions. The Solution: Audette uses AI and machine learning to pre-model millions of buildings, identify retrofit patterns, and predict energy use. ROI: Portfolio owners get audit-level insights instantly, accelerating retrofit adoption at scale. Key Insight #3: Stability sells. The Challenge: ESG has become politicized, and many owners fear added costs. The Solution: Reframe sustainability as modernization and risk management—keeping operating costs predictable and assets resilient. ROI: Attracts tenants, protects asset value, and opens new revenue streams from grid participation and resilience. Sustainable Soundbite "At some point, all of these outdated systems will be as obsolete as a coal furnace in your basement." — Christopher Naismith, Audette Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Start framing decarbonization not as “ESG” but as asset stability in conversations with stakeholders. This Quarter: Audit your portfolio for low-hanging fruit like rooftop units—swap gas-fired for heat pumps. This Year: Explore fintech-style tools to connect building upgrades with long-term value creation. Connect & Learn More 🌿 Explore resources from this episode: 🗒 . Want More Green Building Insights? Newsletter coming soon! Stay tuned. Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

The Green Impact Report Quick take: 16-year heat pump water heater evangelist Gregg Holladay reveals how homeowners can slash energy costs by $400+ annually, why May 2029 changes everything for 50% of American homes, and his "proactive replacement" strategy that turns water heater failures into profitable opportunities. Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Gregg Holladay is Business Development Manager for Specialty Markets at Bradford White, where he champions heat pump water heater technology across residential and commercial markets. The industry's only 16-year veteran of heat pump water heaters, Gregg introduced America's first Energy Star-rated unit while at GE in 2009. A sustainability pioneer who built his first energy-efficient home 33 years ago on a Kentucky farm, he's known for translating complex technology into compelling financial stories—like how homeowners can save $400+ annually while achieving 420% efficiency. Gregg teaches contractors nationwide that water heaters are evolving from "failure replacement" to proactive upgrades that actually pay for themselves. 🌱Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Gregg revolutionizes traditional water heating approaches: Key Insight #1: The Stone Age to Space Age Efficiency Leap The Challenge: Traditional electric water heaters operate at 90-93% efficiency, forcing homeowners into incremental upgrades The Solution: Heat pump water heaters achieve 420% efficiency in one revolutionary step using proven refrigerator technology ROI: $400+ annual savings with 2-3 year payback when combined with utility rebates and 30% federal tax credits up to $2,000 Key Insight #2: Proactive Replacement Beats Emergency Failures The Challenge: Water heaters are only replaced when they fail at 10 PM on Saturday nights, creating expensive emergency situations The Solution: Educate homeowners during routine service calls about Energy Star upgrades that pay for themselves ROI: Contractors transform reactive service calls into profitable planned installations while customers save thousands over 10-year warranty periods Key Insight #3: Focus on Electric-to-Electric First, Not Gas Conversion The Challenge: Industry obsesses over difficult gas-to-electric conversions that require expensive electrical upgrades The Solution: Target the 50% of American homes with existing electric water heaters for simple 30-amp swaps ROI: Fastest path to decarbonization with same electrical service, immediate 3,000 kilowatt hour reduction per home, and grid-wide impact Sustainable Soundbite "There's never been a product that I'm aware of in the home that has had this kind of payback story. This opens the door to proactive replacement through education—not waiting until 10 o'clock on a Saturday night when a water heater fails." – Gregg Holladay Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Calculate potential savings for electric water heater replacements using local utility rates and available rebates—Tennessee offers $1,300 rebates that dramatically improve payback This Quarter: Train your team on the "refrigerator reliability" story to help clients understand heat pump technology through familiar analogies This Year: Prepare for the May 2029 mandate requiring all residential electric water heaters above 35 gallons to be heat pump units—get ahead of the curve Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: 🗒️ Read the transcript: 🔗 Connect with Gregg Holladay: Want More Green Building Insights? Newsletter coming soon! Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

The Green Impact Report Quick take: Michael Wagner reveals how nano-ceramic coating technology can extend roof lifespans by decades while eliminating millions of shingles from landfills—plus the franchise strategy that's scaling this green innovation nationwide. Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Michael Wagner is a seasoned franchise executive and the newly appointed brand president of Roof Scientist. With nearly two decades at Coastal Training Technologies (later acquired by DuPont), Wagner built international operations across Brazil, Mexico, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, India, and the Philippines. He's successfully launched multiple franchise brands including Pool Scouts (97 locations) and appeared on Shark Tank with his balance bike company Kazam, securing investment from Mark Cuban. Wagner operates under Homefront Brands, overseeing franchise development for innovative home service solutions. 🌱Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Michael revolutionizes traditional roofing approaches: Key Insight #1: Nano-Ceramic Coating Eliminates Roof Replacement Waste The Challenge: Asphalt shingles are petroleum-based products that take decades to decompose in landfills, with quality declining while prices skyrocket The Solution: Cerakade nano-ceramic coating creates a 6-millimeter protective barrier that extends roof life without tear-off and replacement ROI: Dramatically reduces landfill waste while providing homeowners a more cost-effective alternative to full roof replacement Key Insight #2: Resin Technology Stops Granule Pollution at the Source The Challenge: Traditional asphalt shingles shed ceramic granules that flow into gutters and water systems, creating environmental contamination The Solution: The nano-ceramic resin system adheres to shingles and prevents granule loss while providing wind, hail, and fire protection ROI: Protects water systems from granule pollution while offering homeowners enhanced durability and potential energy savings through heat dissipation Key Insight #3: Target Housing Market Trends for Maximum Sustainability Impact The Challenge: Rising housing costs force homeowners to maintain existing assets longer rather than relocate, but traditional roof replacement is expensive and wasteful The Solution: Focus on repair and restore over replace—extending roof life fits perfectly with homeowners' need to invest in their current properties ROI: Recession-resistant business model that serves growing market demand while reducing construction waste on a massive scale Sustainable Soundbite “We can extend the life of a roof without tearing off the shingles and dumping them into landfills—shingles take a long time to degrade and decompose and the energy savings payback is also there.” – Michael Wagner Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Assess your building portfolio for roofs nearing replacement—identify candidates for coating restoration instead This Quarter: Research nano-ceramic coating options and calculate waste reduction potential versus traditional replacement This Year: Implement roof restoration protocols that prioritize repair and restore over replace, potentially exploring franchise opportunities in the growing restoration market Connect & Learn More 🌿 Learn about Roof Scientist: 🔗 Connect with Michael Wagner: 📚 Recommended reading: 🗒️ Read the transcript [here] Want More Green Building Insights? Newsletter coming soon! Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

The Green Impact Report Quick take: Former Wall Street trader Scott Donachie reveals why relationship-building trumps technology pushing in decarbonization deals, shares the HVAC foam that saved Mandalay Bay $15M, and explains his "calm the fears of the unknown" approach to navigating Local Law 97 compliance. Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Scott Donachie is the Chief Executive Officer at Companies for Net Zero, connecting decision-makers across real estate, finance, and technology to drive sustainable impact. Based in New York, he leads an ecosystem of 300+ organizations transforming the built environment and infrastructure. A former Wall Street trader turned decarbonization evangelist, Scott discovered sustainability eight years ago after learning about 400 dormant landfills in New Jersey. He hosts invite-only Decarb Summits that bring together building owners, investors, and technology providers to share real-world lessons from the trenches. 🌱Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Scott revolutionizes traditional building decarbonization approaches: Key Insight #1: Finance Background Creates Sustainability Superpower The Challenge: Most sustainability professionals struggle to navigate complex deal structures and financing decisions The Solution: Combine deep finance experience with sustainability expertise to become "dangerous" in both arenas ROI: Ability to champion deals through complicated decision-making units and secure financing for projects others can't close Key Insight #2: Pragmatic Solutions Beat Flashy New Construction The Challenge: Industry focuses on $40M new green buildings while ignoring immediate retrofit opportunities The Solution: Prioritize proven technologies with strong case studies—like the patented HVAC foam that saved Mandalay Bay $15M annually ROI: Faster implementation, lower risk, and demonstrated returns that build credibility for larger future projects Key Insight #3: Relationship-First Approach Wins Over Product Pushing The Challenge: Technology vendors lead with features instead of understanding the full decision-making ecosystem The Solution: Build deep personal relationships, learn clients' kids' names, and address the needs of CFOs, facilities managers, and building owners simultaneously ROI: Long-term partnerships that create referral networks and repeat business in an industry built on trust Sustainable Soundbite "Calming the fears of the unknown. How do you do that? Just collaboration with very intelligent people that are in the room...everyone can be calm and positive because they are sharing their ideas and are not working in silos.” Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Identify the three key stakeholders in your next decarbonization project (CFO, facilities, building owner) and map their individual concerns and success metrics This Quarter: Research local and state incentives beyond federal programs—Scott emphasizes hyper-local public-private partnerships are expanding as federal support shifts This Year: Build your "lessons from the trenches" database by connecting with building owners who've completed similar retrofits and can share real operational data Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: 🔗 Connect with Scott Donachie: 📚 Recommended reading: Want More Green Building Insights? Newsletter coming soon! Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.

The Green Impact Report Quick take: Iryna Sukhodub reveals how Ukraine's massive reconstruction effort is driving green building innovation—from IFI-funded sustainable housing for 4.5 million displaced people to the strategic shift from energy-only thinking to comprehensive sustainability that could reshape your project priorities. Meet Your Fellow Sustainability Champion Iryna Sukhodub is a Building Modeling and Simulation Specialist at iC consulenten Ukraine and Associate Professor at the National Technical University of Ukraine "Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute." Honored as Scientist of the Year by President Zelenskyy in 2020, she bridges academia and industry through energy efficiency research, green building certification expertise, and mentoring the next generation of women engineers in sustainability. 🌱Breaking Ground on Better Building In this episode, Iryna revolutionizes traditional reconstruction approaches: Key Insight #1: IFI Financing Creates Green Building Momentum The Challenge: Green certification isn't mandatory in Ukraine, limiting sustainable development incentives The Solution: International Financial Institutions require sustainability standards for reconstruction loans and grants—driving market demand through financing requirements ROI: Access to favorable loan rates and grant funding, plus tenant lease requirements from international companies demanding certified buildings Key Insight #2: Resilience + Renewables = Reconstruction Strategy The Challenge: Ukraine's damaged infrastructure needs rebuilding while serving 4.5 million internally displaced people The Solution: Integrate PV systems with energy storage for dual benefits—cost reduction and power resilience during electricity shortages ROI: Lower operational costs plus business continuity during grid disruptions, creating "future-proof" infrastructure investments Key Insight #3: Shift From Energy-Only to Comprehensive Sustainability The Challenge: Ukrainian projects historically focus solely on energy efficiency and renewables, missing broader impact opportunities The Solution: Expand to embodied carbon, life cycle assessment, accessibility, climate adaptation, and indoor environmental quality ROI: Enhanced building performance, health outcomes, and alignment with international certification standards like LEED v5 and WELL Sustainable Soundbite "We still have to implement projects and we have to implement them in a sustainable manner, especially for the people that need housing at the moment." – Iryna Sukhodub Your Green Building Action Plan Transform your next project with these steps: This Week: Evaluate how financing requirements could drive sustainability in your projects—research available green financing programs and certification incentives in your region This Quarter: Expand beyond energy efficiency—conduct a gap analysis of your projects against comprehensive sustainability frameworks like LEED v5 or BREEAM This Year: Build resilience into your renewable energy strategy—explore PV + storage combinations that deliver both cost savings and operational continuity during grid disruptions Connect & Learn More 🌿 Access full episode resources: [Link] 🗒️ Read the transcript [Link] 🔗 Connect with Iryna Sukhodub: 📖 Recommended reading: Want More Green Building Insights? Newsletter coming soon! Green Building Matters, Inc © 2025 | Good Green Fun.