Better Buildings For Humans

BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and powered by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Education
  • Updated Weekly

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. Most Restaurants Are Designed Backwards — The Hidden Operational Mistakes Hurting Staff, Customers & Profits – Episode 141 with Ryan Mikita

    3d ago

    Most Restaurants Are Designed Backwards — The Hidden Operational Mistakes Hurting Staff, Customers & Profits – Episode 141 with Ryan Mikita

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Ryan Mikita of Ricca Design Studios for a fascinating conversation about the hidden world of foodservice design and the critical role it plays in shaping the restaurants, hotels, schools, arenas, and hospitality spaces we experience every day. Drawing on his unique journey from restaurant operations to leading large-scale foodservice design projects, Ryan shares how thoughtful planning can improve efficiency, employee well-being, sustainability, and the overall guest experience. The discussion explores everything from kitchen ergonomics and ventilation to workflow optimization, allergen-safe design, sustainability initiatives, and the growing shift toward all-electric commercial kitchens. Ryan also dives into the science and art behind restaurant operations, explaining how foodservice designers balance mathematical planning with human-centered design to create spaces that support both staff performance and memorable customer experiences. From university dining halls and hospitality venues to major public assembly projects and international developments, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the systems that power great food experiences. It’s an insightful conversation about how exceptional buildings aren’t just beautiful on the surface—they’re thoughtfully designed from the inside out to serve the people who use them every day. More About Ryan Mikita Ryan is a Pittsburgh-based Partner at Ricca Design Studios, where he leads a design studio focused on commercial kitchen and restaurant design across a wide range of project types. While based in Pittsburgh, his portfolio spans the globe, encompassing diverse and emerging markets, operational models, and project archetypes. His experience includes hospitality, healthcare, higher education, stadiums and arenas, government facilities, and corporate headquarters. Although each project presents its own unique challenges—often large-scale and highly complex—Ryan’s approach remains consistent: designing foodservice environments that are efficient, reliable, and aligned with the broader goals of the project. Ryan works closely with ownership teams, architects, developers, and operators to bring concepts to life in ways that are both practical and well-executed. His perspective is firmly grounded in operations, with a strong emphasis on workflow, staffing, and day-to-day functionality, supported by extensive technical experience in the field. Much of his work involves complex projects requiring coordination across multiple disciplines. From feasibility studies and conceptual design through construction, Ryan helps teams align with financial constraints, navigate challenging existing conditions, and develop clear, realistic paths to execution. He focuses on delivering solutions that are buildable, thoughtful, and positioned for long-term success. At the core of Ryan’s work is a passion for translating ambitious ideas into spaces that perform—balancing form and function in ways that hold up both on paper and in practice. CONTACT: www.ricca.com  www.linkedin.com/in/rmikita  www.instagram.com/mister_mikita  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
  2. Retail Is Broken, Employees Are Miserable & Your Store Design Might Be Driving Customers Away — How Better Buildings Can Fix the Experience Crisis – Episode 140 with Brian Bucher

    Jun 3

    Retail Is Broken, Employees Are Miserable & Your Store Design Might Be Driving Customers Away — How Better Buildings Can Fix the Experience Crisis – Episode 140 with Brian Bucher

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Brian Bucher of WD Partners for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of architecture, branding, operations, and human experience in retail design. Drawing from decades of experience creating immersive spaces for some of the world’s most recognizable brands, Brian shares how thoughtful design can shape customer behavior, improve employee well-being, and strengthen emotional connections between people and places. The discussion explores everything from daylighting and glare control to adaptive retail strategies, operational efficiency, workplace comfort, and the evolving role of physical spaces in an increasingly digital world. Brian also dives into scalable design systems, hospitality-driven retail, sustainable reuse, and why great buildings must serve both the people inside them and the communities around them. It’s an insightful look at how truly exceptional spaces don’t just support business goals — they create memorable, human-centered experiences that people genuinely want to return to. More About Brian Bucher SENIOR DIRECTOR Brian is skilled at leading creative programs, using his keen understanding of marketing and business strategies. He not only values a project’s outcome, but the integrity of the design process and interactions between the client and design teams. He has a high regard for the balance of innovative design and practical real-world solutions that connect with consumers in a meaningful way. As creative director, Brian spends significant time collaborating with client stakeholders, architects and engineers, and marketers to bring solutions to market.  His experience encompasses strategy and innovation, concept development, fixtures and merchandising, materials specifications, process development and execution. In addition, Brian’s work for Laguna Beach Drugstore, Safeway, Citrine, and EchoPark have been honored with industry awards from NASFM, ISP/VM+SD Magazine, Chain Store Age, and CoreNet Global. Brian has worked with many retail, restaurant and consumer brands, including Hard Rock Café, Yum! Brands, Dell, Mazda, John Deere, McKesson and SEI Investments. His clients at WD include Standard Market, Safeway, Rubios, Kraft, Giant Eagle, Wawa, Krispy Kreme, Buca di Beppo, Sonic Automotive, Cooper’s Hawk, Amazon, Target, Stop & Shop and Chartwells. CONTACT: https://www.wdpartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bucher-leed-ap-187b356  https://www.facebook.com/brian.bucher.773  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

    35 min
  3. Designing Hospitals That Actually Heal: What Architects Get Wrong About Healthcare - Episode 139 with Emily McGee

    May 27

    Designing Hospitals That Actually Heal: What Architects Get Wrong About Healthcare - Episode 139 with Emily McGee

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Emily McGee of Meadows & Ohly for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of healthcare design, public health, and the future of healing environments. With a unique background spanning architecture, global health, and healthcare real estate strategy, Emily shares how thoughtful design decisions can directly influence patient outcomes, staff well-being, and long-term community health. From infection control and daylighting to healthcare workforce burnout, food systems, and health equity, the discussion explores the enormous complexity behind designing modern medical facilities that truly serve people. Emily also dives into the promise of mass timber, modular construction, digital twin technology, and how healthcare campuses can evolve into healthier, more resilient community anchors. It’s an inspiring look at how great buildings don’t just treat illness — they actively support dignity, wellness, and human connection. More About Emily McGee Emily McGee is Senior Director of Planning at Meadows & Ohly, where she helps health systems make evidence-based decisions around healthcare facility planning, growth, and real estate strategy. With 13+ years of international experience in healthcare architecture and planning, Emily combines architecture, public health, and data-driven strategy to improve healthcare access and equity. She is currently a Bloomberg American Health Initiative Fellow at Johns Hopkins University. Previously, she worked as a medical planner at HOK, contributing to major healthcare projects including the UPMC Vision and Rehabilitation Mercy Pavilion and Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center. Emily has been recognized as a Healthcare Design Rising Star, an AIA Associate Award recipient, and a BD+C 40 Under 40 honoree. She is also an advocate for health equity, universal design, and climate-conscious healthcare design. CONTACT: https://www.instagram.com/_emily_azar_ https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyelizabethmcgee/ https://www.facebook.com/EmilyElizabethMcGee https://www.meadowsandohly.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/meadows-&-ohly-llc/ https://www.instagram.com/meadowsandohly/ https://americanhealth.jhu.edu/people/emily-mcgee https://www.linkedin.com/company/bloomberg-american-health-initiative/ https://www.instagram.com/bloombergamericanhealth/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/company/wihdc/ https://www.instagram.com/womeninhealthcaredc/ 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
  4. Dark Hallways, Toxic Materials & Dead Offices — Why Most Buildings Still Ignore Human Health (and How Designers Can Fix It) – Episode 138 with Molly Polehna

    May 20

    Dark Hallways, Toxic Materials & Dead Offices — Why Most Buildings Still Ignore Human Health (and How Designers Can Fix It) – Episode 138 with Molly Polehna

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with interior designer Molly Polehna of Little Diversified Architectural Consulting for a wide-ranging conversation about the powerful role interior design plays in human health, sustainability, and authentic building experiences. From her unexpected path into design through themed entertainment and storytelling, Molly shares how thoughtful interiors can shape the way we feel, behave, and connect within spaces. The discussion explores everything from daylighting and acoustics to material selection, biophilic design, and the hidden science behind occupant well-being. Molly also dives into regenerative hospitality, mass timber, adaptive reuse, and how collaboration between designers, architects, and engineers leads to healthier, more resilient buildings. It’s an inspiring look at how truly great spaces don’t just look beautiful — they serve people honestly, intuitively, and authentically. More About Molly Polehna Molly Polehna is a commercial interior designer at Little Diversified Architectural Consulting in Orlando, Florida, focused on regenerative design and the creation of immersive environments. With a diverse portfolio that spans education, hospitality, and workplace projects, Molly has contributed to the design of two mass timber buildings in Florida—exploring how sustainable materials can transform spaces and elevate the human experience. At the core of Molly's work is a belief that interiors have the power to shape how people feel, work, and connect. With a strong focus on sustainability and place-making, she designs environments that foster well-being, creativity, and community. Whether designing collaborative workspaces or restorative educational environments, Molly approaches each project with a commitment to creating spaces that not only meet functional needs but also inspire and uplift the people who use them. Molly is passionate about pushing the boundaries of interior design through innovative, regenerative practices. She is dedicated to creating spaces that balance aesthetic beauty with environmental responsibility, helping to shape a built environment that supports both human and ecological health. CONTACT: https://www.littleonline.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-diversified-architectural-consulting/  https://x.com/littleonline https://www.instagram.com/littleonline_/  https://www.littleonline.com/insights/  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
  5. Big Box, Bigger Problems – Why Retail Design Is Failing Humans (and the Radical Rethink Canadian Tire Is Betting On) – Episode 137 with Sarah Heppinstall

    May 13

    Big Box, Bigger Problems – Why Retail Design Is Failing Humans (and the Radical Rethink Canadian Tire Is Betting On) – Episode 137 with Sarah Heppinstall

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Sarah Heppinstall, Vice President of Design, Construction, and Maintenance at Canadian Tire, to explore what it really takes to deliver human-centered retail at scale. From her journey across the UK and Canada to leading national building strategies, Sarah shares how customer experience, employee well-being, and operational efficiency intersect in every design decision. The conversation dives into flexible “kit of parts” store design, the role of daylight in staff spaces, and how massive retail environments can still feel intuitive and welcoming. Sarah also unpacks the realities of decarbonization, resilience planning for extreme weather, and the challenge of balancing sustainability with cost and speed. It’s a practical, insightful look at retail spaces that don’t just serve customers—they evolve with them. More About Sarah Heppinstall Sarah Heppinstall is a construction and real estate leader with over 20 years of experience delivering complex retail and commercial projects across Canada. Throughout her career, she’s seen how sustainability goals succeed, or fail, based on how well they’re embedded into project delivery, governance, and day‑to‑day decision-making. In her senior leadership roles at Canadian Tire Corporation, First Capital REIT, and Colliers Project Leaders, Sarah led large-scale portfolios with a strong focus on responsible design, construction, and operations. At Canadian Tire, she played a key leadership role in advancing retail sustainability efforts, integrating environmental priorities into store development, capital planning, and execution at scale. Today, Sarah is the Founder and Principal of HEPPINSTALL PMO, where she helps retailers and landlords bring clarity, predictability, and calm to complex project portfolios, while ensuring sustainability objectives are practical, measurable, and achievable. Her work focuses on building practical project delivery methods that leaders actually use, grounded in clear execution, strong governance, and people-first leadership. CONTACT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-heppinstall-0329b16/   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

    30 min
  6. Building Without Walls – Why Architecture’s Obsession with Control Is Killing Creativity (and How Nature Holds the Answer) - Episode 136 with Anne Romme

    May 6

    Building Without Walls – Why Architecture’s Obsession with Control Is Killing Creativity (and How Nature Holds the Answer) - Episode 136 with Anne Romme

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with architect and researcher Anne Rinne to explore the powerful intersection of art, engineering, and human-centered design. From her unconventional path into architecture to her work at the Royal Danish Academy, Anne shares how creativity, curiosity, and experimentation shape the spaces we inhabit. The conversation dives into her pioneering “space plate” structures—lightweight, ultra-efficient systems inspired by nature’s own geometry—and how these designs could redefine sustainability, resilience, and even how we build our own homes. Anne also explores biomimicry, the role of daylight as a fundamental building material, and why empowering people to participate in creating their own spaces may be key to a better future. It’s a fascinating look at architecture that doesn’t just shelter us—it challenges, inspires, and evolves with us. More About Anne Romme Anne Romme, Architect, PhD. Associate Professor at the Institute of Architecture and Culture at the Royal Danish Academy. Founder of the bachelor program Finder Sted, Head of Program 2014-24. Member of the board of the Danish Institute in Athens, and of the Danish Acadmy. Recipient of the Cooper Union President's Citation 2023. Anne holds degrees from the Royal Danish Academy (Ph.D.), Princeton University School of Architecture (M.Arch), and Cooper Union School of Architecture (B.Arch.) She has taught, lectured and exhibited in Denmark and abroad. CONTACT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anneromme/?locale=da_DK  https://www.instagram.com/anne_romme/  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
  7. Designing in the Dark – Why Modern Buildings Are Failing Our Biology (and What Norway Gets Right) - Episode 135 with Knut Knut Hjeltnes

    Apr 29

    Designing in the Dark – Why Modern Buildings Are Failing Our Biology (and What Norway Gets Right) - Episode 135 with Knut Knut Hjeltnes

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Norwegian architect Knut Hjeltnes to explore how climate, culture, and material choices shape truly human-centered design. From Norway’s deep relationship with daylight to its tradition of building with wood, Knut shares how architecture can balance warmth, protection, and a meaningful connection to nature—even in some of the harshest environments on earth. The conversation dives into the psychology of light, the impact of seasonal extremes on well-being, and why thoughtful design matters more than ever. Knut also discusses his innovative use of Solera® aerogel glazing (R-10 / U-0.10), creating ultra-thin, highly insulated walls that transform how buildings capture and diffuse light. It’s an inspiring look at how great design doesn’t just respond to place—it elevates how we live within it. More About Knut Hjeltnes Knut Hjeltnes is a Norwegian architect whose work reflects a deep sensitivity to landscape, climate, and human experience. With decades of practice and nearly 30 years teaching at the Oslo School of Architecture, he has developed a design philosophy rooted in simplicity, material honesty, and environmental awareness. From an early age, Hjeltnes felt drawn to architecture, combining his interests in science and drawing into a career that emphasizes thoughtful, context-driven design. His projects often respond directly to Norway’s unique conditions—balancing light, warmth, and protection in a challenging northern climate. Today, Hjeltnes runs his own architectural practice, focusing on projects that enhance well-being while respecting nature and resource efficiency. His work ranges from intimate residential designs to innovative infrastructure, such as visually striking avalanche galleries that integrate seamlessly into the landscape. Known for his use of natural materials and advanced building technologies, he continuously explores how architecture can improve daily life. His approach prioritizes both beauty and function, aiming to create spaces that not only serve practical needs but also shape how people feel, live, and connect with their environment. CONTACT: https://www.hjeltnes.as/  https://www.instagram.com/hjeltnes.architects/  Email: post@hjeltnes.as 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
  8. Building Hope from Garbage – Why the Future of Sustainable Design Might Look Nothing Like You Expect - Episode 134 with Matthew Panaitz

    Apr 22

    Building Hope from Garbage – Why the Future of Sustainable Design Might Look Nothing Like You Expect - Episode 134 with Matthew Panaitz

    This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Matt Panaitz, founder of Long Way Home, to explore a remarkable journey where sustainable design meets social impact. What began as a Peace Corps experience evolved into a bold mission: building schools and infrastructure in Guatemala using recycled materials like tires, plastic bottles, and earth. Matt shares how his team transformed waste into opportunity—constructing resilient, comfortable buildings that stay naturally temperate, maximize daylight, and foster a deeper connection between people and place. From hands-on community collaboration to integrating sustainable construction into education, this episode highlights how design can directly combat poverty while empowering future generations. It’s an inspiring conversation about rethinking materials, redefining comfort, and proving that great buildings can change lives far beyond their walls. More About Matthew Panaitz Matthew Paneitz first visited San Juan Comalapa, Guatemala, as a Peace Corps volunteer in 2002. To address the extreme poverty in the region, Matt founded the non-profit organization Long Way Home (LWH) in 2004. From 2008 to 2025, the LWH team transformed 550 tons of trash (including 35,000 used tires) into the Hero School green-built campus. Matthew documented the process at lwhomegreen.org. By spending his evenings earning a Bachelor's degree in Sustainability and a Master’s in Education, Matt was also able to ensure that not only was the landscape transformed, but also the school's approach to primary, middle, and high school education. Matt is currently a doctoral student in Education at Antioch University. CONTACT: https://lwhome.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/long-way-home/ https://www.instagram.com/lwhome_org/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/lwhomeorg https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGp4wuyTpyGytkXWSwYX1SA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsVjfPpdzoY 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

    33 min
See All (142)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

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
    142
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and powered by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.
  • Show Website
    Better Buildings For Humans

You Might Also Like