Better Buildings For Humans

BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and brought to you 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. Why Your Dream Home Might Be a Mistake: The Case for Smaller, Smarter, Soulful Design – Ep 106 with Toby Witte

    6 DAYS AGO

    Why Your Dream Home Might Be a Mistake: The Case for Smaller, Smarter, Soulful Design – Ep 106 with Toby Witte

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes architect Toby Witte of Wittehaus—creator of healthy, high-performance luxury homes in the Carolinas. From his roots in Germany to building dream homes in North Carolina, Toby shares how sustainability and soul can go hand-in-hand. They explore why “less is more” isn’t just a design mantra, how solar panels are becoming a no-brainer, and why the best homes are built like Yeti coolers. You’ll hear how simple choices like south-facing windows and carbon-capture concrete are redefining modern living—and why homes should lift your soul. Plus, discover why Toby believes future buyers won’t touch a house that isn’t energy efficient. If you've ever dreamed of a net-zero home that feels like a daily vacation, this is your episode. More About Toby Witte Toby Witte is an award-winning architect and founder of Wittehaus, known for designing soulful, high-performance homes that blend modern aesthetics with sustainable living. Born in Peru and raised in Germany, Toby brings over 25 years of experience across architecture, building science, and construction in both Europe and the U.S. A graduate of UNC Charlotte, he’s earned national acclaim, with work featured in Forbes, Dwell, Architectural Digest, and The New York Times. His book Supersizing Bliss explores how design impacts happiness, and he frequently shares his insights as a keynote speaker, adjunct professor, and podcast guest. When not designing, Toby enjoys family life with his wife, three daughters, and four cats—and yes, he makes time for cooking, traveling, and a good beer. CONTACT:https://www.witteha.us/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobywitte/ https://www.instagram.com/wittehaus/ https://www.facebook.com/wittehaus https://www.youtube.com/@wittehaus https://www.supersizingbliss.com/podcast https://www.supersizingbliss.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
  2. The Most Sustainable Building Is Already Built: Why Architects Still Chase New – Ep 105 with Tommaso Bitossi

    24 SEPT

    The Most Sustainable Building Is Already Built: Why Architects Still Chase New – Ep 105 with Tommaso Bitossi

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Tommaso Bitossi, partner at Transsolar and a passionate advocate for climate-responsive design. From Florence to New York City, Tommaso shares his unconventional path from civil engineering to climate engineering, blending a love of math, physics, and frugality with a deep respect for culture and place. Together, they dive into why renovation is cooler than you think, how building envelopes shape human comfort, and why “operable windows” might be the most underrated innovation in architecture. You’ll hear about cutting-edge technologies making electrification easier, the power of post-occupancy studies, and why resilience is the new luxury. Plus, Tommaso shares insights from the Transsolar World Academy and their ambitious carbon-neutral journey. If you care about buildings that do more with less, this episode is for you. More About Tommaso Bitossi Tommaso focuses on two aspects of climate responsive design: architecture and climate engineering based on his professional value of ‘sufficiency before efficiency‘.  His unique perspective on the integrated design process together with his understanding of both the architectural and the engineering approaches facilitate the communication of complex strategies to the design team.   Tommaso deeply believes that a decision-making process based on a solid engineered and out-of-the-box thinking leads to resource conscious solutions and high quality built environments.  It is important to him to keep environmental impacts such as CO2 emissions as low as possible in all projects.  He is committed to education with the goal of helping the next generation rethink how to combat climate change and conserve the planet's limited resources. CONTACT:https://www.linkedin.com/in/architettobitossi/  https://transsolar.com/team/tommaso-bitossi www.transsolar.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/9063475/admin/dashboard/ https://www.instagram.com/transsolar_klimaengineering/?hl=en  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

    40 min
  3. Your Building Might Be Making You Sick: Why Nature Is Non-Negotiable – Ep 104 with Helena van Vliet

    17 SEPT

    Your Building Might Be Making You Sick: Why Nature Is Non-Negotiable – Ep 104 with Helena van Vliet

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by biophilic design expert and architect Helena van Vliet for an eye-opening conversation that redefines what it means to design for well-being. Helena shares her deeply personal path from Bauhaus boxes to “buildings as habitat,” and explains how chronic stress, poor air, and flat architecture are failing our health. You’ll learn why edge conditions matter, how buildings impact your immune system, and how evolutionary biology proves we need daily awe to thrive. From her pioneering teaching methods to her new book Towards a Nature Positive Built Environment, Helena makes a compelling case for buildings that bloom—and why public health depends on them. If you think natural light and green walls are just nice-to-haves… think again. More About Helena van Vliet Born and raised in Aachen, Germany, in a family of architects and builders, Helena made her way to the US at the age of 20 and eventually found her home in Pennsylvania. She holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Science (Vordiplom) in Architecture from the RWTH Aachen, Germany. Helena is the mother of two precious young adults and a licensed architect in the U.S. as well as in Germany. CONTACT: https://www.helenavanvliet.com http://www.biophilly.orghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/helenavanvliet/ https://link.springer.com/book/9783031952913 https://www.design.upenn.edu/people/helena-van-vliet www.biophiliccities.org https://www.facebook.com/HelenaVanVlietArchitectLLC/ 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

    39 min
  4. We Built Sick Buildings: How AI and Automation Might Just Save Us – Ep 103 with Renée Jacobs

    10 SEPT

    We Built Sick Buildings: How AI and Automation Might Just Save Us – Ep 103 with Renée Jacobs

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Renée Jacobs, healthcare sustainability powerhouse and leader at DisTech and Atrius, for a revealing conversation on how indoor air quality (IAQ) and building automation systems are shaping the future of human-centered design. From managing hospitals to spearheading cutting-edge AI integration, Renée brings a deep well of knowledge—and a few sharp truths. They explore why proper humidification might be the most overlooked health intervention, how AI and heat mapping could one day save lives in emergency evacuations, and what really changed in building science post-COVID. Plus, Renée challenges architects and engineers to think beyond design—to future-ready buildings that respond to people, not just spreadsheets. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone still thinking IAQ is just about filters. More About Renée Jacobs Renée Jacobs is a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager, Certified Healthcare Constructor and Fellow ASHE with more than 30 years and over $1 billion of experience in construction project management, healthcare facilities management and technical sales and management. Ms. Jacobs is the Business Development Manager – Healthcare for Distech Controls. Formerly as Vice President of Facilities and Construction at Saint Luke’s Health System, Ms. Jacobs had oversight of all areas of design, construction, renovation, master planning, and plant operations and maintenance for 11 Kansas City area hospitals. Jacobs led the New Saint Luke’s $330 million capital construction project, successfully completing a portion of the project as the first integrated project delivery (IPD) project for the health system. Ms. Jacobs is an active member of ASHE, serving as faculty, professional reputation committee chair and several task forces. She is active in the local ASHE chapter, the Kansas City Area Healthcare Engineers (KCAHE) and has served on the board as president, past-president and secretary. Additionally, Ms. Jacobs is a founding board member of LEAN KC, a chapter of the Lean Construction Institute, is a member of the University of Nebraska Construction Industry Advisory Committee and the Overland Park Rotary Club. CONTACT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-r-jacobs/ Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    35 min
  5. Sustainability Is a Broken Word: Why “Green” Buildings Fail the People Inside – Ep 102 with Roberto Vega Peralta

    3 SEPT

    Sustainability Is a Broken Word: Why “Green” Buildings Fail the People Inside – Ep 102 with Roberto Vega Peralta

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by architect and sustainability leader Roberto Vega Peralta, Practice Director and Sustainability Director at Vocon. From his roots in Costa Rica to his globe-spanning design journey—from Seattle to San Francisco to Cleveland—Roberto shares how a deep love for nature and a commitment to community resilience shaped his architectural philosophy. They dive into what it really means to design for people first, how trauma-informed design is changing fire and police stations, and why Midwest cities like Cleveland are becoming the new frontier for performance-driven, human-centered buildings. Roberto also reveals how Vocon is tackling net-zero goals and transforming “sustainability” into a conversation about measurable performance and long-term well-being. This episode is a heart-filled, thought-provoking look at why the best buildings always start with the people inside them. More About Roberto Vega Peralta Practice Director Roberto Vega-Peralta is driven by a profound mission: harnessing the transformative potential of art and design, synergized with science and technology, to ignite change. With a vision grounded in education, economic empowerment, and environmental consciousness, he aspires to create a positive and lasting impact on our world. He specializes in crafting innovative spaces for corporate campus headquarters, hospitality, academic institutions, science and technology centers, healthcare facilities, and urban development projects.  Roberto’s commitment to excellence, paired with his unwavering dedication to using art and design as catalysts for meaningful change, sets him apart as a leader and visionary in his field. His holistic approach, fusing creativity, scientific rigor, and technological innovation, creates spaces that not only serve their practical functions but also resonate with purpose, fostering a harmonious balance between form and function. As he continues to push the boundaries of design and technology, Roberto Vega-Peralta is a driving force in the pursuit of a more enlightened, inclusive and sustainable future. CONTACT: www.linkedin.com/in/rvplab 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
  6. Safety Theatre Is Killing Us: Why Your Building’s Emergency Plan Is a Lie – Ep 101 with Sam Mathews

    27 AUG

    Safety Theatre Is Killing Us: Why Your Building’s Emergency Plan Is a Lie – Ep 101 with Sam Mathews

    How do we really prepare building occupants for emergencies? This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski explores that question for the very first time—diving headfirst into the world of occupant safety with tech entrepreneur and safety design innovator Sam Mathews, founder of Loci. Sam's journey from DJ and VR creator to building safety expert is nothing short of mind-blowing. She shares how neuroscience, localization, and web-based tools like QR code-driven scavenger hunts are helping people actually learn their emergency routes and safety features—by physically walking them. The episode explores why digital twins aren’t always scalable, what architects can do to make buildings more intuitive in emergencies, and how safety should be seen as an essential element of human-centered design, not an afterthought. It’s a powerful and perspective-shifting conversation you won’t want to miss. More About Samantha Matthews Samantha Mathews is a serial entrepreneur, instructional designer, immersive media producer, and musician. She’s the founder of LOCI, a platform that generates real-world learning paths—from emergency drills to gallery tours and equipment walkthroughs. Originally developed to replace ineffective safety training with site-specific QR code drills, LOCI has grown into a broader path-making tool used to embed context directly into physical space. Sam’s driving passion is helping people feel more connected to their surroundings and better equipped to make decisions—especially when it counts. Before LOCI, she founded an immersive 3D arts and technology studio, toured internationally as a DJ, and created experiential tools for clients like Chanel, Red Bull, and the Olympics. CONTACT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-mathews-loci learnbyloci.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/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylight https://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/ https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltd https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    40 min
  7. SPECIAL 100TH EPISODE OF BETTER BUILDINGS FOR HUMANS!

    20 AUG

    SPECIAL 100TH EPISODE OF BETTER BUILDINGS FOR HUMANS!

    We’ve hit triple digits — and we’re celebrating in style. For our 100th episode, host Joe Menchefski takes you on a one-of-a-kind journey through the best moments, most surprising insights, and unforgettable voices from our past episodes. But this isn’t just a replay — Joe’s stepping in between each segment with fresh commentary, behind-the-scenes stories, and a few unexpected twists you won’t see coming. Think of it as a time capsule, a highlight reel, and a backstage pass all rolled into one. You might think you know what’s coming… but trust us — you don’t. Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    51 min
  8. Is Concrete is Killing Us? Rethinking Architecture from the Ground Up – Ep 99 with Alexandra Nikolova and Jonas Aversøg

    13 AUG

    Is Concrete is Killing Us? Rethinking Architecture from the Ground Up – Ep 99 with Alexandra Nikolova and Jonas Aversøg

    In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Alexandra Nikolova and Jonas Aversøg, founders of NA Architects in Copenhagen, for a bold conversation on the future of construction. Specializing exclusively in bio-based and recyclable materials, NA Architects is reimagining how buildings are made—from structural systems to interior finishes. Alexandra and Jonas share how their global journey, from China to London to Denmark, inspired them to challenge the conventions of concrete and steel. They dive into the potential of materials like hemp, straw, clay, cork, and even fish scales, exploring performance, cost, fire safety, and biophilic benefits. From stunning aesthetics to holistic building science, this episode is a masterclass in designing for humans and the planet—where every surface tells a story, and buildings evolve with time. More About Alexandra Nikolova and Jonas Aversøg Alexandra Nikolova and Jonas Aaraø are the co-founder of n/a, an architecture and design studio based in Copenhagen, Denmark, with a strong international focus. Rooted in Scandinavian culture, the studio approaches design at all scales from a humanistic and pragmatic perspective, working exclusively with bio-based and recyclable building materials. Both hold a Master of Science in Architecture from Aalborg University, Denmark, Alexandra and Jonas bring extensive experience from some of the world’s most renowned architecture and design offices in Beijing, London, and Copenhagen. Their approach to architecture integrates technical, artistic, and humanistic elements, shaping designs that are both functional and sustainable. At n/a, sustainability is at the core of every project. The studio houses a curated collection of over 200 bio-based materials, categorized for all aspects of construction—from foundations to interiors. By investigating the past and understanding the present, the studio strives to create innovative, user-oriented solutions that contribute to a circular economy. Recently they founded a bio-based material company, Materials We Like, in order to support their architecture and design projects directly with supplying bio-based and low carbon materials from around the world directly to construction sites. With “Materials We Like” their commitment to not only thinking about a different type of architecture, but ensuring that they are executed and realised, is underlined. Through their leadership in these two companies working in tandem, they provide at full scope service for any client spanning all architecture and engineering disciplines and delivering the physical materials needed for the construction. The studio’s guiding principle, "never boring / always biobased," reflects their commitment to redefining architecture through sustainable, forward-thinking design. CONTACT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-nikolova/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonas-aarsoe/https://www.aboutna.com/ Where To Find Us: https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

    42 min
See All (106)

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 brought to you by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    106
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and brought to you by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.
  • Show Website
    Better Buildings For Humans

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