Connected FM

IFMA
  • 5.0 (4)
  • How To
  • Updated Semiweekly

A podcast connecting you to the latest insights, tools and resources to help you succeed in facility management. Join IFMA, as we explore new ideas and topics in facility management to help you make sense of the changes and challenges facing the profession while equipping you with the knowledge needed to grow your career. 15 to 30-minute episodes, delivered semi-weekly.

  1. From FM to PropTech: Lessons From the Field with Billy Holder

    3d ago

    From FM to PropTech: Lessons From the Field with Billy Holder

    What happens when a longtime facility manager steps beyond the built environment to help reshape it through technology? In this episode of Connected FM, host Brent Ward welcomes Billy Holder, Founder & CEO at Project Aidra, for a conversation about digital transformation, AI and the evolving role of facility management in a technology-driven world. Drawing from nearly 30 years of experience in facility management, Billy shares how recurring operational frustrations led him from the FM field into the PropTech space. He discusses why documentation overload, disconnected systems and inefficient workflows pushed him to search for smarter solutions powered by AI and automation. The conversation explores how facility managers can use technology to augment the workforce instead of replacing it, why human connection still matters in smart buildings, and what organizations should consider when evaluating PropTech platforms and AI-enabled tools. Whether you are a facility manager navigating digital transformation or simply curious about where the built environment is headed next, this episode offers practical insights into the future of FM and the people shaping it. This episode is sponsored by SiteMap®, powered by GPRS. Learn more at sitemap.com/ifma Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 03:37 Documentation Pain Points 05:31 Winning Tech Buy In 07:15 AI As Workforce Boost 08:57 Human Metrics Matter 12:19 PropTech Stack Essentials 16:14 Training Next Gen FMs 18:55 ESG Reality Check 23:29 The Beautiful Mess Story 27:08 Hidden Wins Of Adoption 29:41 FM In Five Years 30:50 Start Small Advice 32:04 Closing Remarks Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    33 min
  2. How CMMS Adds Real Value in Facility Management

    Jun 9

    How CMMS Adds Real Value in Facility Management

    In this episode of Connected FM, host Dean Stanberry sits down with Melissa Kaan, Founder & CEO of NOVA IFM, to explore how facility teams can use CMMS platforms to drive smarter operational and capital decisions. They discuss the importance of quality data, why CMMS systems should function as decision engines rather than digital filing cabinets and how proactive maintenance strategies can improve response times, compliance and long-term asset performance. Melissa also shares practical insights on asset management, technician engagement, data governance and translating operational trends into meaningful capital planning conversations. The conversation highlights how facility leaders can improve CMMS adoption, strengthen reporting practices and use data more effectively to support both daily operations and long-term portfolio planning. This episode is sponsored by SiteMap®, powered by GPRS. Learn more at sitemap.com/ifma Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:29 Minimum Viable CMMS Data 04:52 Must Have Data Fields 06:16 From Records to Decisions 09:16 First 90 Days Wins 11:00 Data to Capital Plans 13:27 Leadership Review Rhythm 14:59 One Step This Week 16:53 Data Quality Wrap Up   Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    18 min
  3. How to Build Resilient Teams through Psychological Safety and Mentorship

    Jun 2

    How to Build Resilient Teams through Psychological Safety and Mentorship

    What does strong leadership really look like in facility management? In this episode of Connected FM, host Wayne Whitzell welcomes Kathryn Lopez for a candid conversation on leadership, resilience and the human side of facility management. Drawing from decades of experience in global FM leadership, Kathryn shares lessons on staying calm under pressure, creating psychological safety for teams and developing people through mentorship and trust. She explains why great leaders “take the bullets and give the credit,” how mistakes can become growth opportunities and why empathy is essential in today’s workplace. The conversation also explores how AI is beginning to transform facility management workflows, from streamlining communication to delivering faster operational insights. Wayne and Kathryn discuss the growing role of data, digital tools and “smart buildings” in attracting the next generation of facility management professionals into the industry. Whether you lead a global portfolio, manage an in-house FM team or are growing into leadership for the first time, this episode offers practical insights on building trust, navigating challenges and leading with humanity. This episode is sponsored by SiteMap®, powered by GPRS. Learn more at sitemap.com/ifma Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:17 Global FM Reality Check 03:20 IFMA Roots and Impact 04:30 Staying Calm Under Fire 07:30 Smoke Jumper Problem Solver 10:02 Psychological Safety in Leadership 15:17 Mentorship Mistakes Growth 18:31 Ad Break 18:59 Empathy Versus Dictatorship 20:39 AI That Actually Helps 22:39 Attracting the Next Gen 26:14 Kindness and Empathy 29:06 Closing Thanks and Outro Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    30 min
  4. How PCM Ceilings Boost Thermal Comfort and Cut Energy Use

    May 26

    How PCM Ceilings Boost Thermal Comfort and Cut Energy Use

    Host Bryant Hughes sits down with Mick Dunn, Technical Support Specialist at Armstrong Ceilings and Ian Gumbert, Facility Manager at Armstrong’s Lancaster headquarters, to explore how PCM (phase change material) ceilings are changing the way buildings manage thermal comfort. They break down the science behind phase change materials, explain how PCM ceilings can mimic the thermal mass of concrete at a lower weight and cost, and share real-world examples of how the technology has reduced temperature-related occupant complaints while lowering energy use and limiting manual HVAC adjustments. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:58 Thermal Mass and PCM Basics 08:07 Comfort Wins and Complaints 10:15 Where PCM Works Best 12:05 HVAC Scheduling and Controls 14:03 Sponsor Break 14:56 Testing and Demand Savings 17:34 Energy Modeling Tools 18:59 Retrofit and Installation 22:14 Tax Credits and Payback 23:41 Misconceptions 25:25 Conclusion Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    26 min
  5. How to Start and Thrive in Your Facility Management Career

    May 19

    How to Start and Thrive in Your Facility Management Career

    How do you transition from being an "unintentional" facility manager to a world-class professional? In this episode of the Connected FM Podcast, Bobby LaRon, member of IFMA's Global Board of Directors, and Brent Ward member of the IFMA Foundation Board of Trustees, share their personal pathways into the industry. They dive deep into the essential "just-in-time" knowledge required for the field and why no FM can succeed as an island. You'll hear about: The Power of the Local Chapter: Why active participation is the key to unlocking the full value of your membership. The Value of Credentials: How the CFM, FMP and SFP provide a common global vocabulary and meet the increasing demands of employers. The Human Connection: Moving beyond capital assets to focus on the people who occupy the buildings we manage. Investing in the Next Generation: How scholarship programs and student cohorts are shaping the future of the FM profession. Whether you are a student, a mid-career professional, or a seasoned veteran, this conversation offers a roadmap for "sharpening your saw" and finding fulfillment through service and mentorship within the global FM community. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 01:47 – How Brent Ward Got Started in FM 02:40 – The Accidental FM 03:30 – The Value of Community 04:45 – Getting Started 06:00 – Camaraderie Over Competition 07:30 – Finding Your Path 09:40 – The Service Mindset 11:15 – Resources for Growth 12:35 – IFMA Engage & Credentials 14:40 – Nurturing the Next Generation 16:30 – The Global Model 17:15 – Conclusion Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    18 min
  6. The Surprising Power of People in Facilities Management

    May 12

    The Surprising Power of People in Facilities Management

    In this episode of Connected FM, we dive into the "power of people" with Kati Barklund, Global Chair of IFMA’s Workplace Evolutionaries. Kati shares her insights on why the "one size fits all" approach to workplace design is failing and how facility managers can create high-performing environments by balancing physical, digital, and psychosocial needs. From navigating C-suite perceptions to the importance of being your authentic self in leadership, this conversation redefines what it means to lead in the modern built environment. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction 2:30 – Defining the "Power of People" in the workplace 4:15 – Why "One Size Fits All" doesn't work for modern employees 6:30 – Creating a holistic human experience: Work vs. Life 11:15 – Changing the C-suite perception of FM from cost to value 14:30 – Learning to speak "C-Suite Language" 19:15 – The role of digital tools in maintaining physical connections 22:45 – The importance of authentic leadership and self-worth 30:30 – Overcoming isolation through the IFMA community 33:30 – How to get involved with Workplace Evolutionaries 39:30 – Quick-fire questions: Leadership habits and inspirations Resources & Links: IFMA Workplace Evolutionaries Kati Barklund on LinkedIn Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    45 min
  7. How Young Professionals Define Workplace Wellness

    May 5

    How Young Professionals Define Workplace Wellness

    In this episode of Connected FM, Dr. Matt Tucker, IFMA’s Director of Research, moderates a student-led discussion on the critical role of well-being in facility management. Featuring three young professionals entering the FM industry, the conversation shifts the focus from simple maintenance to creating spaces where people can mentally, socially and physically thrive. The panel shares personal insights on: The direct impact of CO2 levels, natural lighting and ergonomic furniture on concentration and health. Why language support and inclusive communication are essential for multicultural FM teams. How FM is evolving from a technical "building-first" sector to a "people-first" service management sector. Balancing the efficiency of automated tools with the irreplaceable "human touch" required in facility management This episode is sponsored by TMA Systems! Discover more at https://www.tmasystems.com/ifmapodcast Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Defining Wellbeing 03:53 Why It Matters Now 05:01 Environment And Ergonomics 06:51 Language And Inclusion 08:22 FM Services For Wellbeing 10:09 Listening And Education Shift 13:34 Tech Sensors And Human Touch 14:19 AI Impact And Skills 16:59 Conclusion Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    20 min
  8. The AI Edge: Boosting Your Impact as a Facility Manager

    Apr 28

    The AI Edge: Boosting Your Impact as a Facility Manager

    In this episode, host Edward Wagoner sits down with global influencer Brian Haines to demystify artificial intelligence for the facility management community. Together they discuss: Practical steps for FMs to get started with AI. A look at autonomous agents that can monitor building control systems and solve problems. Why it is critical to always verify AI-generated work. What to expect as AI evolves This episode is sponsored by TMA Systems! Discover more at https://www.tmasystems.com/ifmapodcast Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:28 What Is AI in FM 03:53 AI "Aha" Moment Story 06:22 Why FMs Need AI Now 09:22 Sponsor Message 10:16 AI Basics and Safe Use 11:00 Four Steps to Start 14:33 What’s Next in AI 16:11 Agentic AI in Buildings 17:43 Conclusion Connect with Us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org

    18 min
See All (119)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

A podcast connecting you to the latest insights, tools and resources to help you succeed in facility management. Join IFMA, as we explore new ideas and topics in facility management to help you make sense of the changes and challenges facing the profession while equipping you with the knowledge needed to grow your career. 15 to 30-minute episodes, delivered semi-weekly.

Information

  • Creator
    IFMA
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    119
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Connected FM

You Might Also Like