Better Buildings For Humans

BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and powered by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.

Welcome to the BBFH podcast. More often than not, when we think about health and wellness, our thoughts turn to diet and exercise. However, most of us spend two-thirds or more of our day inside buildings. The quality of the environment in those buildings has been proven to have a dramatic impact on our well being and our productivity, both at work and at home. There is little discussion about this in the mainstream media. It’s time to start a public dialogue about how we are affected by the buildings where we live, work and play. Thanks for listening! https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

  1. Designing With All The Senses: Rethinking Science, Sustainability & Soul – Ep 123 with Scott Gustafson

    4 HRS AGO

    Designing With All The Senses: Rethinking Science, Sustainability & Soul – Ep 123 with Scott Gustafson

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with award-winning architect Scott Gustafson of Harley Ellis Devereaux for a fascinating look at the intersection of science, sustainability, and beautiful design. As a leader in the Science and Advanced Manufacturing sector, Scott shares how labs and factories—often overlooked in architectural discourse—can become inspiring, human-centered spaces. From incorporating skylights into precision manufacturing plants to leveraging mass timber for rapid construction and biophilic impact, Scott reveals how even the most technical buildings can promote wellness, retention, and resilience. He also opens up about his love for Scandinavian modernism, his teaching role at Lawrence Technological University, and why architecture should be built to last, not follow trends. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes that great design belongs everywhere—even on the factory floor. More About Scott Gustafson Scott Gustafson is an architect living and working in the Detroit metro area. He works for HED, an integrated architecture and engineering firm founded in Detroit in the early 1900s. Originally from outside Chicago, Scott studied architecture at Kansas State University from 1994 to 1999. It was his uncle—also an architect and a KSU alumnus—who inspired him to pursue the same path. After earning his degree, Scott gained diverse professional experience by working in Arizona, Colorado, and California. His time with small and medium-sized firms in those states exposed him to a wide range of project types and professional practice styles. Since relocating to Michigan in 2017, Scott has contributed significantly to the architectural community. He has served on the Michigan Board of Architects, taught part-time at Lawrence Technological University, and held leadership roles—including vice-president, president, and past president—in the Huron Valley chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He also served on his local planning commission. Each of these roles has allowed him to apply his architectural skills in meaningful ways that benefit the community. Scott’s passion lies in creating buildings and spaces that engage all of the human senses. He believes that since people spend so much of their lives in designed environments, both indoors and out, those spaces should uplift rather than diminish the human experience. Poor lighting, jarring sounds, uncomfortable furniture, unattractive signage, and cheap materials can all erode a person’s sense of well-being and dignity. Scott strives to design environments that make people feel comfortable, welcomed, cared for, and loved—spaces where they can do their best work, build meaningful relationships, and feel at peace. He is a registered architect in the states of Arizona, California, and Michigan, as well as in the countries of Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden. Contact: https://hed.co/ https://www.instagram.com/hedadvances/ https://www.instagram.com/scottmbgustafson/ https://www.threads.com/@scottmbgustafson https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottmbgustafson/ Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    38 min
  2. Insisting on Beauty in a Code-Obsessed World – Ep 122 with Internationally Acclaimed Architect, Alison Brooks

    FEB 4

    Insisting on Beauty in a Code-Obsessed World – Ep 122 with Internationally Acclaimed Architect, Alison Brooks

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes a true visionary—renowned architect Alison Brooks—for another unforgettable conversation. From her early inspirations in Ontario to leading one of the UK’s most acclaimed practices, Alison continues to redefine contemporary architecture with generosity, light, and deep-rooted humanism. In this episode, she expands on her award-winning housing innovations, the cultural power of home, and why beauty and craftsmanship still matter in a world obsessed with energy codes. Alison unpacks how deeper windows, thoughtful proportions, and sculptural forms can reconnect us to light, sky, and one another. Whether she’s revitalizing historic social housing or shaping Oxford’s iconic Cohen Quad, Alison insists that every space tells a story—and that great architecture should always elevate the human experience. This visit is rich with insight you won’t want to miss. More About Alison Brooks Alison Brooks is one of the UK’s most highly awarded and internationally acclaimed architects. Since founding her practice in 1996 she has emerged as one of the UK's most inventive architects with works encompassing urban design and housing, higher education buildings, private houses and public buildings for the arts. She is the only UK architect to have received all the RIBA’s most prestigious architectural awards: the Stirling Prize, the Manser Medal (twice) and the Stephen Lawrence Prize. Alison Brooks has contributed to architectural education for over fifteen years as External Examiner for University of Central London, University of Bath, University of Lincoln and the Architectural Association. In 2018 Alison was appointed as the John T. Dunlop Design Critic in Architecture at Harvard GSD. Alison is currently the Gensler Visiting Critic at Cornell’s AAP School and was awarded the Bethune Award by the University at Buffalo. Contact: https://www.instagram.com/alisonbrooksarchitects/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/alison-brooks-architects-ltd/  https://x.com/alisonbrooksarc https://www.facebook.com/AlisonBrooksArc  Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    37 min
  3. Modern Design is Ruining the Tropics: Reclaiming the Soul of Caribbean Architecture – Ep 121 with Peter Sandiford

    JAN 28

    Modern Design is Ruining the Tropics: Reclaiming the Soul of Caribbean Architecture – Ep 121 with Peter Sandiford

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski heads to the tropics for a vibrant conversation with architect Peter Sandiford of Habitat Designs in Barbados. From a young age, Peter knew he was destined to design spaces—and today, he's doing just that, blending tropical vernacular traditions with modern functionality. In this episode, Peter shares how Caribbean architecture prioritizes airflow, light, and outdoor living, while also contending with climate change and hurricane resilience. He dives into the tensions between modernist trends and the rich, textured legacy of Barbadian design, why so many homes are “missing the mark,” and how better building choices can make all the difference for comfort and health. You’ll also hear about Peter’s award-winning work revitalizing historic structures and his philosophy of architecture as energy in motion. If you're passionate about design with soul, you won’t want to miss this one. More About Peter Sandiford Peter Sandiford was born in Barbados and was educated at the Christ Church Foundation School and the Barbados Community College where he received his Associate Degree in Science. He continued his studies at St. Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, where he received his Diploma in Engineering. He further went on to the Technical University of Nova Scotia (now known as Dalhousie University) where he gained his Bachelor of Environmental Designs Studies degree and his Master of Architecture degree. He joined the practice of architect Ian Morrison in 1997 prior to forming his own architectural practice, Habitats Architectural Designs, which was incorporated in the year 2000. Mr. Sandiford is a registered Architect in Barbados and a full member of the Barbados Institute of Architects (BIA) who has worked on numerous projects on the island and in the region including high-end residential homes, luxury villas, commercial buildings and hotels. His personal approach to design blends the principals of the eastern philosophy of Feng Shui, the architectural vernacular of the Caribbean and a high level of attention to detail. In 2012 Mr. Sandiford won the Barbados National Trust award for the “Historical Restoration to a pre WWII Residence”. This is where his affection for historic restoration was conceived. As a result of this new drive for heritage preservation, Mr. Sandiford gladly took on another mid 19th Century restoration project, this time along the famous Hastings Main Road, which was completed in 2014. This building won the 5 Star Award at the International Property Awards, in 2015, for best “Commercial Renovation/Redevelopment” in the Americas. When asked about the key to his success after 15 years Mr. Sandiford responds by saying “I hope to be able to continue providing my clients a professional service with a personal touch which results in project that is of a high quality.” Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-sandiford-m-arch-b-e-d-s-bia-arb-47197619/?originalSubdomain=bb https://www.habitatsdesigns.com/  Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    34 min
  4. Rethinking Homebuilding: Why Competitive Bidding is Killing Your Dream Home – Ep 120 with Monika Zasada

    JAN 21

    Rethinking Homebuilding: Why Competitive Bidding is Killing Your Dream Home – Ep 120 with Monika Zasada

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes construction curator Monika Zasada for a fresh and empowering take on how we build homes—and how we should. With decades of experience as a general contractor turned “curator,” Monika breaks down why the traditional construction process is broken, how competitive bidding fails homeowners, and what it really takes to create a joyful, healthy, and lasting home. From the pitfalls of unrealistic design expectations to the emotional intensity of building projects, she shares her collaborative, client-first method that turns renovation horror stories into well-orchestrated action films. You’ll hear why she says “no” to ego-driven architects, how lighting impacts mental health, and what makes a project truly sustainable. If you’ve ever planned—or dreamed—of building your own home, this episode is essential listening. More About Monika Zasada As the world’s only home construction curator, utilizing my 25-year experience, Monika helps homeowners make their renovation and building projects a success (instead of the usual horror story of evaporating money, nervous breakdowns as well as questionable quality and never-ending construction).  Contact: https://www.instagram.com/de_mazing_/ www.linkedin.com/in/monikazconstructionexpert Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    41 min
  5. How Does One of the Largest School Systems in the World Design for Success? - Ep 119 with Thierry Paret

    JAN 14

    How Does One of the Largest School Systems in the World Design for Success? - Ep 119 with Thierry Paret

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes building science legend Dr. Joseph Lstiburek for an unfiltered and unforgettable conversation. From mold to CO₂ myths, Joseph challenges conventional thinking about ventilation, insulation, humidity control, and what really makes a building “healthy.” With decades of hands-on experience, a sharp wit, and a no-nonsense take on industry dogma, he dives deep into where the U.S. is falling short—and how Canada got it right. You'll hear why "drying potential" matters more than you think, the trouble with high-performance HVAC, and why most over-ventilated buildings are actually failing their occupants. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about high-performance buildings, durable design, and real-world building science. More About Thierry Paret Thierry Paret is an award-winning architect and seasoned leader with extensive international management experience in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East. As Vice President of the Architecture and Engineering Department at the New York City School Construction Authority (NYCSCA), he oversees the design of renovations, upgrades, and new construction for approximately 1,500 school buildings. Each year, his team designs or manages external consultants responsible for designing 10-12 new schools for the NYC Department of Education, part of a $20.6 billion capital plan for the nation’s largest unified school system, which serves nearly one million students. Thierry leads a team of 300 architects, engineers, designers, project managers and administrators, ensuring design excellence across all projects. His leadership extends to two studios responsible for managing contracts with external private-sector firms, further supporting the Authority’s ambitious infrastructure goals. Prior to joining NYCSCA in 2023, Thierry led the New York State practice at IBI Group-Arcadis, overseeing operations in New York City and Binghamton. He has held senior design leadership roles at several international architecture firms, served as a Design Advisor to the government of Qatar, and acted as Campus Architect for the prestigious King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia which happened to be the first LEED Platinum campus in the Middle East. A registered architect in multiple U.S. states, the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland, Thierry’s portfolio spans university campuses, corporate headquarters, life science facilities, and mixed-use developments, with a focus on sustainability. His commitment to the profession is evident through his service on numerous boards and committees, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Board, where he was a Director-at-Large, founding President of AIA International and AIA Middle East, and member of NCARB's International Competency Workgroup. Thierry was most recently elected to the AIA National’s Strategic Council as a Counselor for the 2025-2027 term. Thierry has been a presenter at architectural and industry conferences in the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East during his extensive international career. In 2014, Thierry was inducted into the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects, an honor held by only 2.5% of AIA members. He is also an AIA Richard Upjohn Fellow. Contact: http://linkedin.com/in/thierry-paret-faia-ncarb-riba-arb-mriai-leed-ap-8859849 www.nycsca.org  www.thierryparet-architect.com Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    46 min
  6. Is Your Building Too “Healthy”: How Ventilation May Be Making Us Sick – Ep 118 with Joseph Lstiburek

    JAN 7

    Is Your Building Too “Healthy”: How Ventilation May Be Making Us Sick – Ep 118 with Joseph Lstiburek

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes building science legend Dr. Joseph Lstiburek for an unfiltered and unforgettable conversation. From mold to CO₂ myths, Joseph challenges conventional thinking about ventilation, insulation, humidity control, and what really makes a building “healthy.” With decades of hands-on experience, a sharp wit, and a no-nonsense take on industry dogma, he dives deep into where the U.S. is falling short—and how Canada got it right. You'll hear why "drying potential" matters more than you think, the trouble with high-performance HVAC, and why most over-ventilated buildings are actually failing their occupants. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about high-performance buildings, durable design, and real-world building science. More About Joseph Lstiburek Joseph LSTIBUREK, B.A.Sc., M.Eng., Ph.D., P.Eng., is the founding principal of Building Science Corporation and an ASHRAE Fellow.  He is a building scientist who investigates building failures.  Dr. Lstiburek received an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto, a master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Toronto and a doctorate in Building Science Engineering from the University of Toronto.   He has been a licensed Professional Engineer since 1982.  The Wall Street Journal referred to him as “the dean of North American building science.”  Fast Company magazine called him “the Sherlock Holmes of construction”.  He is internationally recognized and his work has influenced building codes and standards in every climate zone. He is a recipient of the Carl Cash Award from ASTM, a “Becky” from the Ontario Building Envelope Committee (OBEC) and the EEBA Legacy Award all for lifetime contributions to building science.  He has also been inducted into the Building Performance Industry Hall of Fame and has received the NESEA Professional Leadership Award for "changing the way we think about building science and how we perform our work”.   Dr. Lstiburek is an acclaimed educator who has taught thousands of professionals over the past four decades and has written countless papers.  He has a joy for telling tall tales to his proteges and audiences. Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-lstiburek-03290029/  https://buildingscience.com/  Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    43 min
  7. Your Water Is Lying to You: The Hidden Crisis in ‘Safe’ Drinking Water – Ep 117 with Cydian Kauffman

    2025-12-17

    Your Water Is Lying to You: The Hidden Crisis in ‘Safe’ Drinking Water – Ep 117 with Cydian Kauffman

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Cydian Kauffman, founder of Pure Water Northwest, for an essential conversation on one of the most overlooked aspects of healthy buildings: water quality. From shocking realities about what “legal” versus “healthy” water means, to the growing threat of PFAS and microplastics, Cydian unpacks the hidden complexities of our water systems. With a background in property management and mediation, he brings a unique perspective to the intersection of infrastructure, education, and public health. You'll learn why even clean-looking water can be problematic, how different building types—from homes to hospitals—face distinct challenges, and what technologies are actually effective in protecting our water. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about making buildings safer, smarter, and more sustainable from the inside out. More About Cydian Kauffman Cydian Kauffman is the founder of Pure Water Northwest, where he helps homeowners, families, and communities take control of their water quality using science-backed, practical solutions. With years of hands-on experience in water treatment and a passion for public education, Cydian has guided clients across the Pacific Northwest through challenges like industrial runoff, high iron levels, bacterial contamination, arsenic, iron bacteria, and even mysterious health issues tied to hidden toxins in household water. What sets Cydian apart is his commitment to demystifying water. He believes people shouldn’t be forced to blindly trust experts or marketing claims-they should understand what’s in their water and what really works to make it safe. That’s why he’s unafraid to tackle complex and often controversial topics like fluoride, PFAS (“forever chemicals”), structured water, and hydrogenated water, cutting through the myths and misinformation to deliver clear, actionable insights. Cydian is a passionate educator and problem-solver who believes water clarity should mean more than just how it looks-it should mean transparency about its true contents and impacts. Whether helping families protect their drinking water or working with communities to improve group systems, his mission is to empower people with knowledge so they can make confident, informed decisions for their health and well-being. Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cydian-kauffman/  Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    38 min
  8. Architecture Is Failing Us: Can Design Become Public Health? – Ep 116 with Yiselle Santos Rivera

    2025-12-10

    Architecture Is Failing Us: Can Design Become Public Health? – Ep 116 with Yiselle Santos Rivera

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Yiselle Santos Rivera—architect, educator, and the incoming president of the AIA—to explore how buildings can become tools for healing, justice, and joy. Yiselle shares her journey from genetics labs in Puerto Rico to the forefront of neuroarchitecture and design leadership. She unpacks how architecture intersects with public health, economic mobility, and climate resilience, and why design excellence is inherently about people. From tropical modernism to the power of culturally responsive spaces, Yiselle reveals why the future of architecture must be collaborative, community-rooted, and deeply human. Whether you're an architect, planner, or policy-maker, this episode will reignite your passion for the built environment as a force for good. More About Yiselle Santos Rivera Yiselle Santos Rivera, AIA, NOMA, NCARB, SHRM-SCP, is a healthcare architect, medical planner, educator, and organizational leadership strategist whose work sits at the intersection of architecture, neuroscience, culture, and human well-being. She serves as the 2026 President-Elect of the American Institute of Architects, where she is shaping a national agenda focused on community health, professional joy, and a future-ready architectural workforce. Yiselle is the Founder and CEO of YSR, LLC, a consultancy that blends healthcare design, neuroarchitecture, leadership psychology, and intercultural experience design. Her work centers on creating environments that elevate dignity, belonging, and wellness for diverse communities. She also teaches at Howard University, where she encourages emerging designers to lead with empathy, cultural awareness, and an understanding of how the built environment shapes human potential. Her leadership journey includes service on the AIA Strategic Council, the AIA Board of Directors, and multiple national task forces advancing public health, resilience, and equity. She is the creator of WIELD, a storytelling platform for women in design, and co-founder of LA.IDEA, the first Latinx-focused committee at AIA DC. Yiselle is a published author, national speaker, and advocate for redefining design excellence through the lens of people, purpose, and impact. . Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yisellesantosrivera/  https://www.yisellesantosrivera.com/  www.ysrconsultancy.com   Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/ www.advancedglazings.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625 https://twitter.com/bbfhpod https://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

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About

Welcome to the BBFH podcast. More often than not, when we think about health and wellness, our thoughts turn to diet and exercise. However, most of us spend two-thirds or more of our day inside buildings. The quality of the environment in those buildings has been proven to have a dramatic impact on our well being and our productivity, both at work and at home. There is little discussion about this in the mainstream media. It’s time to start a public dialogue about how we are affected by the buildings where we live, work and play. Thanks for listening! https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

Information

  • Creator
    BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and powered by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    123
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and powered by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.
  • Show Website
    Better Buildings For Humans