Workplace Innovator Podcast | Enhancing Your Employee Experience

Kayla Gottschalk, SFP, FMG is Launch Lead at Switchyards, the world’s first neighborhood work club, where she is a passionate advocator within the built environment who believes the physical space truly enhances the experience. Mike Petrusky asks Kayla about her FM and workplace career journey as a young professional who entered the field on a mission to lead space transformations, improve business operations, and create globally inspiring spaces. They discuss the power of community connections through IFMA and the opportunity for industry leaders to think creatively and deliver the workplace experiences people desire today. Join the conversation as Mike and Kayla explore the many ways we can all be improving our work and places as they drive around Atlanta together and help inspire you to be a Workplace Innovator! Connect with Kayla on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-gottschalk-sfp-fmg-51a80624/ Learn more about Switchyards: https://switchyards.com/ Watch the full video of this episode: https://y

Lena Thompson, IFMA Fellow, FMP, SFP serves on the IFMA Global Board of Directors, Kay Sargent, FASID, FIIDA, CID, LEED® AP, MCR/w, WELL AP is Senior Principal & Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors at HOK, Mayra Portalatin, SFP, LEED AP is Vice President of Facilities Services at NVE, Inc., and Geoff Snavely, LEED AP is Vice President & General Manager at milliCare by EBC Carpet Services. Mike Petrusky hosts a roundtable discussion with these industry-leaders as they prepare to present a session called “Radical Change in FM: Lean In or Be Left Behind” at IFMA’s World Workplace 2024 in San Antonio, TX on October 11 at 10:30am CDT. Change has always been the one constant, but now we’re in a period of radical change for FM, real estate, and the workplace. This panel will look at the new frontier of the built environment from many perspectives – FM practitioners, workplace consultants, and industry partners — and why we must all be leaders who are not afraid to upskill, leverage tech, and “be comfor

Swapna Sathyan is Board Chair at CannonDesign, Principal and Director at Blue Cottage of CannonDesign where she is passionate about helping clients envision the future and transform their organizations to achieve that vision. Mike Petrusky ask Swapna about her perspectives on the work of work today and how embracing change and viewing the workplace as an evolving work system is essential for leaders. They explore the role of technology in shaping the future of work as caring for the people in our organizations will involve more complexity due to evolving science, health, education, and organizational objectives. Swapna believes that real estate is no longer just about providing a physical space, but also about engagement, sustainability, and employee wellness. She offers practical advice and insights to help you design for inclusivity and deliver personalized experiences as you seek to become a Workplace Innovator! Connect with Swapna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swapnasathyan/ Learn more about Ca

Esme Banks Marr is Strategy Director at BVN Architecture in London where she is passionate about interpreting and translating data into shareable and actionable insights, internal and external communications to support change and applied research. Mike Petrusky asks Esme about her career journey in the world of FM and the built environment, and they explore how communication is essential in the future of work and the workplace. Esme believes that the pandemic has elevated the importance of the role of the workplace and leaders must approach design strategies in new and innovative ways. Communication is crucial for driving workplace change and improvements and using pulse surveys and sentiment analysis tools may offer the insights needed for future decision-making. Mike and Esme also discuss generative AI as a potential tool to support the workplace, and they offer the inspiration you will need to continue upskilling as you seek to be a Workplace Innovator! Connect with Esme on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.c

Lauren Puff, CPCC is a Global Workplace Experience Leader who is passionate about driving growth, operational excellence, and employee engagement. Mike Petrusky asks Lauren about her career journey in the world of facility management, operations, and workplace for several well-known tech companies and they discuss the importance of leadership in organizations today. Fostering a culture where connections and collaboration can flourish in the workplace is possible, and Lauren shares her views on the role of physical space and technology. Mike and Lauren agree that leaders have a crucial role in building trust, delivering effective communication, and understanding human behavior so they can build productive teams, and they emphasize that change management is a critical skill for today's workplace leaders. Tune in to hear practical advice and get the encouragement you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenpuff/ Learn more about WE

Nick Lynn, PhD is Senior Director of Employee Experience and Engagement at WTW, a global professional services firm, where he is passionate about using EX insights to solve business problems, such as simplifying the way people work and encouraging collaboration and innovation. Mike Petrusky asks Nick about the current world of the workplace and how leaders can build a culture of trust and higher engagement. They explore the importance of employee well-being and fostering a sense of community in a holistic way that includes physical, mental, financial, and social aspects. The most effective leaders are those who continue to learn and adapt and facility management professionals have a key role to play in the change process. Nick believes that successful transformations involve creating an environment where new habits can form and trust is the glue that holds everything together. Listen to hear some practical tips and find the inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Ni

Dr. Elizabeth C. Nelson is Co-Founder and Head of Innovation & Content at Smart Building Collective and author of “The Healthy Office Revolution” with a PhD in biomedical engineering that focuses on our complex relationship with technology and a better way of living and working. Mike Petrusky asks Elizabeth about her research into how leaders can create better workspaces that support both the mental health and productivity of the workforce. They explore the role of technology in the built environment with a focus on optimizing space usage and how to improve workplaces with the help of worktech tools. Elizabeth believes that designing spaces for the most sensitive among us, such as introverts and neurodivergent individuals, can create a healthier and more beneficial environment for everyone. The Smart Building Collective provides certification and consultancy for buildings and technical solutions, helping to improve and optimize workspaces, and Elizabeth applies her daring yet applicable research to help y

Trevor Langdon is CEO at Green Standards, a global workplace decommissioning firm that measures and maximizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) value. Mike Petrusky asks Trevor about the importance of understanding the circular economy in workplaces and the significant role facility managers play in reaching sustainability goals. They discuss that power of technology as a part of the solution, but agree that the human aspect is crucial and is not going away. Trevor says that there is a direct correlation between the planning window for a project and its successful outcome, so FM professionals should be proactive when extending asset lifecycles, prioritizing reuse, and turning end-of-life materials into inputs for the next generation of products. Mike and Trevor share inspirational stories and music that will encourage you to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-langdon/ Download the “State of the Circular Workplace Report”

Kursty Groves Knight is an Author, Speaker and Workplace Innovation Consultant at Shape Work Life where she is passionate about inspiring people to make inspiring spaces for inspiring work. Recorded in London, Mike Petrusky asks Kursty about her new book, co-authored by past guest Neil Usher, called “Workspace Made Easy – A Clear and Practical Guide on How to Create a Fantastic Work Environment”. They explore the importance of flexibility in workplace strategies and the need for a balance between top-down leadership and individual responsibility in creating a successful work culture. Mike and Kursty agree that work is essential for human beings as it gives us meaning and purpose while providing an opportunity for social connections and trust-building. The workplace industry is currently dealing with a lot of black and white thinking, with people seeking simple solutions to complex problems, so Kursty shares some “true stories” that will inspire you to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect wit

Oren Gershon is Managing Director at O M G Consultancy where he is passionate about simplifying the world of property and procurement. Mike Petrusky asks Oren about his journey in facility management and they explore the challenges of stepping outside of your comfort zone to find your grit and push for professional growth. Oren cautions us to be skeptical about workplace trends, but instead encourages us to focus on productivity as human beings in the context of life as a whole. Facility management professionals will play a crucial role in shaping the built environment, so Mike and Oren believe that we must be proactive in creating healthy and productive workplaces. Tune in as they offer you the encouragement and inspiration you will need to be a Workplace Innovator! Connect with Oren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oren-gershon-a7401659/ Learn more about IWFM: https://www.iwfm.org.uk/ Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://www.workplaceinnovator.com/ Learn more about Ep

Maud Santamaria is Global Workplace and Corporate Real Estate Director at GWI where she leads a team that is passionate about caring for people and providing a great employee experience. Recorded in London, Mike Petrusky asks Maud about her time at The Unworking Conference by WORKTECH and some lessons learned there on how we can deliver amazing workplace experiences. They agree that the modern workplace requires facility managers to be masters of all trades, including wellbeing, sustainability, real estate, and culture while leveraging data is essential for managing our workspaces. Mike and Maud explore how culture is significantly influenced by executives, but also recognize that our individual energy and attitude can set the tone for our teams. Curiosity is a key trait for navigating the future of work, so tune in to discover the trends, technologies, and strategies you will need to be a Workplace Innovator! Connect with Maud on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maudlaurency/ Learn more about GWI: https

Lohan Presencer is Executive Chairman of the Ministry of Sound Group in London which operates its eponymous nightclub, a live events business and The Ministry, Borough, a new paradigm in flexible working. Recorded at “The Unworking Conference” by WORKTECH, Mike Petrusky asks Lohan about his career journey in the music industry and the creation of The Ministry workspace, where he is passionate about investing in creating experiences and fostering a sense of community. Lohan believes that workspaces should be places where employees can network, make friends, meet partners, make business contacts, and do business. So, he shares his vision for offering these experiences for corporate occupiers who understand the needs and preferences of their employees. Mike and Lohan discuss how employees value environments that are vibrant, offer a mix of amenities, and provide opportunities for social interaction while they offer the inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator! WORKTECH Events bring together senior profes

Leslie Bamburg is a Workplace Transformation, Employee Experience and Program Management leader with a passion for elevating a diversity of voices in the workplace. Mike Petrusky asks Leslie to share some of her experiences managing hybrid workplace strategies at Cisco and why she believes that diversity and inclusion are crucial for the future of work. They explore how creating a better working environment can not only help retain talent, but provide improved productivity and business outcomes. Leslie believes that the purpose of the office is being redefined in the wake of the pandemic, moving away from the traditional model to a more flexible and intentional approach. The lines between workplace experience, employee experience, and customer experience are blurring, requiring an integrated approach, so tune in for the encouragement and inspiration you need to be a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Connect with Leslie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliebamburg/ Watch the video of milestone E

Erik Zink is Vice President of Strategy and Sarah Kilmartin is Director of Customer Insight at Eptura where they have a passion for helping customers maximize the value of worktech investments and transformation initiatives. Mike Petrusky asks Erik and Sarah about the marketplace today and how industry leaders are approaching their digital and workplace transformation journey, which is a dynamic and ongoing process for most organizations. Employee collaboration is a key aspect of this transformation and leveraging the right technology and data is a crucial part of success, so they explore they need to view these strategies holistically. Erik and Sarah discuss both short and long-term ROI for technology initiatives and share how organizations are using their workspaces and employee experiences to create a competitive advantage, focusing on retention, productivity, and brand image. They announce the launch of Eptura’s new workplace consulting services to help customers navigate transformational challenges, opti

Ross Abbate is the CEO of Macro, a leading facilities management and workplace services company, where he is passionate about creating a culture of collaboration, empowerment, and excellence. Mike Petrusky asks Ross about the importance of creating environments that bring people together, helping them to connect while enhancing their productivity. They explore how FM leaders can understand the unique needs of clients, create a strategy and design a solution that delivers on expectations. Mike and Ross agree that technology is essential for enhancing service delivery, but is must be deployed with a focus on meeting specific business outcomes. “Every day is a school day” and we should never stop learning, so listen as Mike and Ross as they offer the inspiration you need to grow your career and be a Workplace Innovator! Connect with Ross LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rossabbate/ Learn more about Macro: https://www.macro-group.com/ Watch the video of milestone Ep. 300 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TTK92bzC

Lena Müller is Head of Workplace Strategy at Unispace in Auckland, New Zealand where she is passionate about people, innovation and diversity. Mike Petrusky asks Lena to share her research regarding what makes a resilient workplace and the five drivers for creating a space that can withstand disruption, adapt to change, and provide flexibility. They discuss how adaptability, well-being, enablement, connection and authenticity can help workplace leaders support the workforce while also delivering the business outcomes organizations require today. Lena believes companies that are resilient have a systems mindset that emphasizes agility, psychological safety, adaptable leadership, and a cohesive culture with a strong emphasis on people. Listen as Mike and Lena offer the inspiration and practical advice need to help you be a Workplace Innovator by creating a resilient workplace! Register for The Unworking Conference in London: https://worktechevents.com/events/the-unworking-conference24/ Connect with Lena LinkedI

Lynn Baez, IFMA Fellow is First Vice Chair of the IFMA Global Board of Directors and Enterprise Vice President of Facilities and Workplace at McKesson where she is passionate about advancing FM and cultivating excellent relationships with stakeholders at all levels of dynamic and evolving corporations. Mike Petrusky asks Lynn about the world of work and the workplace today and how digital transformation is essential in facilities management. They explore the tools and strategies available as our industry seeks to pursue operational excellence by embracing technology. Facility management professionals have an important role in driving change and influencing the employee experience in the workplace and IFMA provides valuable resources to help the community, including research papers and benchmarking tools. Lynn and Mike agree it is important for professionals to step out of their comfort zone and try new things to grow and develop in their careers. Listen as they share the insights and inspiration you need to b

Lorri Rowlandson is Senior Vice President of Strategy and Innovation at BGIS where she is passionate about sustainability and applying innovation towards solutions while “nerding out” on how AI is transforming the workplace. Mike Petrusky asks Lorri to share her latest insights on the future of work and how FM leaders should focus on essential skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and change management. They explore the concept of existential theory and agree that we must leverage tools such as AI to enhance our human creativity by framing the data and asking the right questions. Continuous learning and innovation are crucial in keeping up with the rapid advancements in technology and Lorri believes that incremental innovation can lead to significant progress. Tune in for the encouragement you need to be a Workplace Innovator and an inspirational leader in your organization! Register for The Unworking Conference in London: https://worktechevents.com/events/the-unworking-conference24/ Connect with Lorr

Arnold Levin is Director of Strategy at Gensler where he is combining experience in design strategy and organizational design to help clients solve the right problem. Mike Petrusky asks Arnold his current views on the world of work and why he believes that workplace problems and solutions are organizational issues, not physical ones. They explore how the physical workplace is just one of many tools that organizations have and while the pandemic has led to a shift in workplace strategies for some organizations, many are returning to pre-pandemic practices. Arnold says that successfully adopting hybrid work models should be based on the specific needs and functions of the organization, rather than following trends and challenges that our workplace profession has failed to take a leadership role in guiding organizations through these changes. Listen to hear the inspiration that you need to break out of your comfort zone and become a Workplace Innovator in your organization! Register for The Unworking Conference

Leigh Stringer is Global Director of Advisory Services at Perkins&Will, Jomal McNeal is VP of Customer Solutions and Stephen Smith is VP of People Analytics at REWORC where they are passionate about aligning people, place and process for the ultimate workplace experience. Mike Petrusky hosts a conversation about how understanding human behavior and social sciences can inform space management strategies and how psychological safety can foster a culture of inclusion. The panel explores how data should inform, not drive, business decisions and how FM and CRE touch every part of a business. We must focus on collaboration and community building in the workplace and data is a critical tool for understanding and improving workplace behavior. The industry needs better metrics that speak to people analytics and business intelligence if we hope to move beyond efficiency to become a business driver. Listen to these highlights and then watch the full hour broadcast to gain further insight and get the inspiration you