Distilled Buildings Tech Podcast

About Distilled Buildings Tech Podcast

Distilled Buildings Tech is where deep tech meets fine spirits. Hosted by Akram Khalis and Jason Shearer, this podcast blends insightful conversations on smart buildings, AI, quantum computing, and more with the art of a well-crafted cocktail. Each episode, we’ll sit down with expert guests to explore the cutting edge of technology—unpacking the trends shaping our future, all while sipping on a specially curated drink. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, an innovator, or just someone who enjoys a good Old Fashioned with a side of AI, Distilled Buildings Tech is your perfect mix of knowledge and conversation. Pour yourself a glass and join us.

Publisher

Distilled Buildings Tech

Category

business · news · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

2 Jun 2025

Latest episode

22 Dec 2025

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Dec 2025

   Sip'N'Security Crossover Episode

   In this special crossover episode, Distilled Buildings Tech joins forces with Sip'N'Security for a candid conversation that blends smart buildings, cybersecurity, OT/IT convergence, and exceptional whiskey. What begins as a bottle share quickly evolves into a deep, practical discussion on identity, segmentation, and how emerging technologies are reshaping the built environment. 🥃 What's in the Glass * Sam Houston 15 Year (103 proof) – rich, dark, and bold * Penelope Cigar Series & Old Fashioned – dangerously smooth favorites * International pours from Iceland and Colorado * Award-winning rye and seasonal holiday selections * Bonus: Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream and creative cocktail ideas 👥 Hosts & Guests * Jason Shearer – Distilled Buildings Tech * Akram (AK) Khalis – Distilled Buildings Tech * Justin Fields – Sip'N'Security * Dave Abbott – Sip'N'Security 🧠 Topics Covered 🔐 IT & OT Security Convergence * Why segmentation remains one of the hardest OT challenges * The reality of securing devices with 10–20+ year lifecycles * Why many OT vendors still "just want DHCP and outbound access" 🆔 Identity First * Identity as the foundation of IT and OT security * Limits of standards like MUD and real-world adoption challenges * The importance of visibility and behavioral profiling over theory 🏗️ Cybersecurity in Building Design * Why cybersecurity is buried in Division 27 specifications * The case for cybersecurity as a first-class building requirement * The emerging need for an IT-focused general contractor 🤖 AI in Security * How AI accelerates both attackers and defenders * AI-driven SOCs, anomaly detection, and automation * Risks around AI supply chains, model trust, and prompt injection 🎧 Podcasting & Community * Origin stories behind both shows * Lessons learned on platforms, editing, and branding * A surprise fan encounter proving the audience is growing 🔑 Key Takeaways * There is no silver bullet for OT security * Identity + visibility outperform rigid architectures * Cybersecurity must be addressed early in building design * AI is powerful—but only with proper governance and trust

2. 

   18 Nov 2025

   Fall Catch Up Episode

   Jason and AK wrap up an action-packed year of travel, customer workshops, and real estate events with a relaxed, guest-free conversation—and a couple pours of Penelope whiskey to stay on brand. 🥃 Whiskey to Start The episode opens with AK's Penelope Cigar Series old fashioned (torched orange + maple syrup), and Jason uncorks a Penelope "F-Cancer" collaboration bottle—smooth, complex, and freezer-ready thanks to its higher proof. 🏢 What We've Been Up To After 12 guest interviews this season, the hosts reflect on a heavy conference cadence: Realcomm in Savannah, Partner Summit, Panduit GSIC, and Cisco Live Melbourne. They highlight a growing demand from owners, landlords, and tenants for real occupancy intelligence—a shift from buzzwords to practical, data-driven planning. 📈 Market Trends Shaping 2025 Occupancy as a Priority Organizations want clearer insight into how space is truly used. Wi-Fi telemetry, AI-enabled cameras, and collaboration tools are becoming mainstream inputs for workplace design. Return-to-Office Stabilizes Most enterprises now average 3–5 in-office days, especially in Class A markets. Hybrid remains, but the "magnet vs. mandate" era is fading. Hybrid Work 2.0: Humans + Agents A standout theme: agentic AI. The next wave of buildings must support human teams and digital/robotic agents—requiring higher Wi-Fi density, precision indoor location, and unified data across systems. Energy Pressures & Eco-Mode Buildings With electricity demand spiking due to AI data centers, energy optimization is becoming central. HVAC still drives ~60% of building consumption. Tenants increasingly want dynamic "eco modes" tied to occupancy, even when constrained by base-building systems. 🔌 Ecosystem Growth Fault-Managed Power (Class 4) awareness has exploded—over 80% of integrators at GSIC recognized it—showing how energy-efficient, low-voltage infrastructure is going mainstream. Partner ecosystems are also evolving, with more firms building real estate practices alongside IT. 🤝 Breaking Down Silos One major takeaway from global customer visits: surveillance, workplace tech, access control, and IT teams finally see the value of sharing data. These unified insights drive smarter design decisions and stronger outcomes. 🎧 Closing Thoughts Jason and AK wrap with gratitude for the community, excitement for what's next, and a toast to a strong close to the year. Follow the show for upcoming episodes and deeper dives into future-proof workplace design.

3. 

   3 Nov 2025

   Harnessing the power of the sun and PoE with David Robinson of Mecho

   🥃 Dealer's Choice Hosts Jason Shearer and AK kick off Distilled Building Tech with their cocktail ritual. Guest David Robinson, Director of Automation at MECHO, goes classic with an Old Fashioned (Maker's Mark or Knob Creek). Jason pours Sweetens Cove bourbon aged in sugar-maple barrels, and AK enjoys a Penelope Four Grain. 💡 Guest Spotlight With over 30 years in lighting and daylight control, David's career spans South Africa, the UK, and the U.S. He now leads automation for MECHO—part of Springs Window Fashions, the largest window covering manufacturer in the U.S.—bridging the gap between artificial and natural light. ☀️ Controlling the Largest Light Source David explains MECHO's move from electric lighting to daylight automation. Their SolarTrac system models each building in 3D, tracking the sun's path and using rooftop radiometers to measure visible, infrared, and UV light. Algorithms compare those readings to ASHRAE standards and dynamically position shades for optimal thermal comfort and daylight balance. 💰 The ROI of Smart Shading Automated shading boosts both comfort and savings: * Reduces HVAC load by blocking solar heat gain before it enters the space. * Dims artificial lighting through daylight harvesting. * Saves time and labor—one Los Angeles project saw full payback in under a year from eliminating manual shade adjustments. ⚙️ Integration & Control MECHO systems connect through BACnet, dry contact, or increasingly API integrations. Their Power over Ethernet (PoE) motors provide low-voltage power and addressable control, with each motor supporting up to eight API addresses for flexible zoning and sequencing—mirroring how advanced lighting systems are orchestrated. 🔌 Why PoE? Moving from line voltage to PoE drastically simplifies cabling, lowers installation cost, and enables software-defined control. Each shade motor runs on Cat6 cabling directly from a PoE switch—no heavy conduit, no localized power panels—making systems faster, scalable, and future-proof. 🧠 IT/OT Convergence As networks merge, MECHO designs with full TLS and 802.1X security, ensuring smart building systems meet enterprise cybersecurity standards. The team stresses resilience over isolation—secure, connected automation beats "air-gapped" legacy setups. 🌐 The PoE Consortium David also serves as President of the PoE Consortium, uniting 30+ companies to set standards, interoperability, and education for PoE. The mission: make low-voltage, network-powered systems mainstream across lighting, shading, and building automation. Learn more at poeconsortium.com [https://poeconsortium.com/] and mechosystems.com/poe [https://mechosystems.com/poe].

4. 

   20 Oct 2025

   The Power of PoE in Modern Finance with Adriaan Klaassen

   In this episode, hosts Jason Shearer and AK sit down with Adriaan, CTO of Chardan Capital Markets, to explore how a boutique investment firm reinvented its Manhattan office into a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)–driven smart workspace. From low-voltage lighting to AI-assisted investment strategies, Adriaan shares how converging IT and real estate creates smarter, more efficient environments. 🥃 Episode Highlights From Hockey House to Wall Street CTO: Adriaan's unconventional path from Rutgers and NJIT to Deloitte and ING taught him the fundamentals of networking, teamwork, and translating between technical and business worlds — a skill that defines his leadership today. The Translator Mindset: Why generalists who "know a little about a lot" thrive in IT-OT convergence. Adrian explains how communication and empathy are now core technical skills — especially as AI reshapes every industry. Smart Buildings Meet Wall Street: Adriaan led a full rebuild of Chardan's 22,000 sq ft office near Madison Square Garden — powered entirely by Cisco PoE switches, Molex sensors, and Mecho motorized shades. The system delivers massive efficiency gains: * 40–50% lower labor costs vs. traditional electrical work * VLAN-segmented IoT and production networks * Remote management and OTA updates * Five 24-port switches powering lighting, shading, and sensors for the entire floor Construction Challenges & Wins: Joining late in the build forced Adriaan to rethink sequencing and GC relationships. Lesson learned: Include IT from day one — not just for Division 27 wiring. Low-voltage cabling accelerated deployment and simplified the schedule. Operational Intelligence: From programmable light levels to occupancy-based controls, users can personalize spaces instantly. Boardrooms feature Cisco Webex Navigators with preset lighting and shade scenes for meetings or privacy — all IP-controlled. Data-Driven Real Estate: With occupancy analytics, firms can reduce OpEx by dynamically powering down unused floors or restacking employees based on actual utilization. Financial services and healthcare are leading this charge toward intelligent, responsive workplaces. Future of Workspaces: From PoE-powered sit-stand desks to fully flexible office layouts, Adrian envisions environments that reshape themselves daily based on who's in the office and what work is being done. 💡 Key Takeaways * PoE and low-voltage systems simplify design, cut costs, and speed construction. * Real-time data enables dynamic energy and occupancy management. * Smart offices improve employee experience and financial performance. * AI depends on the quality of building data — and modern infrastructure delivers it. * Early IT involvement is essential for success. 🔗 Mentions Cisco, Molex, Mecho, MHT Lighting, and the AV User Group (AVUG) community. 📍 Recorded At MHT Global Corporate Offices — New York City 🎧 Listen & Connect Find Distilled Building Tech on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Follow, rate, and share — and join the conversation on how IT, real estate, and AI are redefining the future of intelligent buildings.

5. 

   6 Oct 2025

   Grappa, Neural Networks & Smarter Buildings with Giovanni Frezza

   🧊 Overview: In this episode of Distilled Building Tech, Jason and AK welcome Giovanni Frezza, Head of Smart Building at Molex. What starts with a tasting and history of grappa quickly evolves into a compelling discussion on the future of smart buildings, AI-driven optimization, IT/OT convergence, and the changing role of facilities management. From physics labs in Rome to the forefront of digital infrastructure, Giovanni brings a unique, data-informed perspective to how we shape the built environment. 🍇 Grappa & Origins * Giovanni shares his love for grappa, Italy's post-wine distilled spirit. * AK and Jason scramble to find their best substitutes. * Discussion of varietals, aging, and cultural context. 🧪 From Physics to Facilities * Giovanni's early career in theoretical physics and neural networks (studied under Nobel laureate Giorgio Parisi). * Transition to semiconductors and leading Molex's Smart Building division. 🏢 The Smart Building Imperative * Origin of Molex's CoreSync platform and early collaboration with Cisco. * Four core value drivers: Energy efficiency & carbon neutrality Predictive maintenance Occupant wellness & comfort Data-driven optimization 🤖 AI & Automation in the Built World * LLMs help simplify complex building systems for FMs and stakeholders. * Edge ML enables behavior modeling and real-time insights. * Comparison to autonomous vehicles—buildings are becoming adaptive, not just automated. 🧑💼 New Roles, New Realities * The rise of the AI-native facility manager. * Skills shift as experienced FMs retire and systems grow more complex. * AI as a tool—not a replacement—for human decision-making. 🌐 IT/OT Convergence * Why networked power (PoE) is key to infrastructure design. * Successful projects require early collaboration between IT, OT, HR, and real estate. * The future is unified racks, segmented networks—like the evolution from legacy telephony to VoIP. 🔗 Learn More: * Visit molexcs.com [https://molexcs.com/] to explore the CoreSync platform. * Connect with Giovanni Frezza on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/]. 🥃 Final Sip: From aged spirits to adaptive systems, Giovanni reminds us that the smartest buildings are the ones designed for people, powered by data, and driven by purpose.

6. 

   22 Sept 2025

   Data Driven Decarbonization with Olivier Corradi

   🔥 Episode Summary In this energy-rich episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis welcome Olivier Corradi [https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliviercorradi/], the founder and CEO of Electricity Maps [https://app.electricitymaps.com/map/72h/hourly], to explore how real-time data, open APIs, and machine learning are transforming the energy grid. From wind forecasting in Denmark to predictive emissions data for global grids, Olivier walks us through his journey from math and ML at IBM and Google to launching a startup that's now powering decisions for the world's largest companies. He shares how Electricity Maps became the "Google Maps of Electricity"—a real-time, open platform helping buildings, cities, and individuals decarbonize through smarter timing and usage. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Olivier's career journey from applied math to founding Tomorrow → Electricity Maps * Why he wanted to build the "Google of Sustainability" * The evolution of Electricity Maps from a data viz to a global API platform * Enabling smart scheduling for devices (EVs, dishwashers, data centers) * Carbon intensity, electricity prices, grid alerts, and predictive signals * Validating massive open data sources and building trust at global scale * How community contributions built the platform, one GitHub pull request at a time * How Europe's regulatory environment accelerated open grid data * The future of smart cities, grid-scale forecasting, and ultra-granular electricity maps * Why timing is everything when it comes to clean energy use * Olivier's dream: Every flexible device helping the grid decarbonize 💡 Favorite Quotes * "The last 30% of decarbonizing the grid is the hardest—and that's where smart flexibility matters." * "We want to be the Switzerland of electricity data—open, trusted, and neutral." * "You don't need to spend big CapEx to make buildings smarter. You just need to connect them." 🥃 This Episode's Drink * Olivier: A classic whiskey sour [https://www.acouplecooks.com/whiskey-sour-with-egg-white/] (egg white, foam, and all) * Jason & AK: Matching sours—plus a pro tip on dry shaking for the perfect foam 📅 Release Schedule New episodes drop every other Monday, mixing high-proof spirits with high-impact technology. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Energy and grid professionals * Sustainability and ESG leaders * Smart building innovators * Open data and API developers * Home automation geeks (shoutout to Home Assistant!) * Climate-conscious manufacturers and ISVs 📣 Connect & Follow * Website: electricitymaps.com [https://www.electricitymaps.com/] * Follow on Twitter/X: @electricitymaps [https://twitter.com/electricitymaps] * Free tools: Public-facing maps [https://app.electricitymaps.com/map/72h/hourly] and downloadable datasets [https://portal.electricitymaps.com/datasets] * API Access: Subscription-based [https://www.electricitymaps.com/pricing] for enterprise use * Open source contributor? Head to the Electricity Maps GitHub Repo [https://github.com/electricitymaps/electricitymaps-contrib]

7. 

   8 Sept 2025

   Hunting as a Pack with Scott Panzer

   🔥 Episode Summary In this dynamic episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis sit down with Scott Panzer, founder of Digital Building Solutions (DBS) and Vice Chairman at JLL, to explore how low voltage, power over Ethernet (PoE), and smart systems are revolutionizing real estate. With a bold background in M&A, real estate, and decades of industry leadership, Scott offers an unfiltered perspective on breaking silos, dismantling outdated practices, and using technology to create connected, efficient, and future-proof spaces. From major law firm deployments to global scale-outs, he shares the DBS playbook for integrating intelligent infrastructure in both new and legacy buildings. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Scott's unconventional career path: from marine biology to real estate tech leadership * The origin and mission of DBS (Digital Building Solutions) [https://dbs-poe.com/] * Why LED + PoE + Integrated Controls are disrupting traditional building systems * Resistance from trades and how DBS navigates union partnerships and MEP pushback * Real-world examples from clients like Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, Sherman & Sterling, and Goldman Sachs * Using occupancy analytics, desk sensors, and environmental data to power smart buildings * How DBS enables smart retrofits in legacy buildings like Cisco Paris [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgzBzz3imSQ] * Global scale through strategic partnerships (e.g. SigmaByte [https://sigma-byte.com/] in India) * Why low voltage trades are the future—and how AI will reshape skilled labor needs * Lessons from managing 4.5+ million square feet of PoE-enabled real estate 💡 Favorite Quotes * "The unions are deathly afraid of low voltage—because it's safe." * "AI is going to make a lot of humanity superfluous. But people with hand-eye coordination? They'll thrive." * "Your office can be the engine of your business—if you wire it right." 🥃 This Episode's Drink * Scott: Bulleit Bourbon, one big rock (as any self-respecting martini drinker would pivot to on a cold Connecticut day) * Jason & AK: Classic bourbon pour to match the energy 📅 Release Schedule New episodes drop every other Monday, blending strong spirits, smarter buildings, and strong opinions. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Real estate developers and building owners * MEP engineers and electrical contractors * IT/OT integration specialists * Smart building consultants * Anyone interested in scalable, intelligent infrastructure 📣 Connect & Follow * Website: dbs-poe.com [https://www.dbs-poe.com/] * Follow Scott Panzer on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-panzer-85915b17/] — for insight, bold takes, and the occasional spicy post * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube * Like, rate, and share the show to support smart building innovation

8. 

   25 Aug 2025

   How Technology Converts Space into Profit with Erin McDannald

   🔥 Episode Summary In this episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis talk with Erin McDannald, multi-time CEO and founder of Elevated, about the intersection of human health, smart building design, and measurable environmental wellness. Erin shares her personal journey from interior design to lighting to smart building technology—and how her experience as a mother navigating her daughter's neuroinflammatory health challenges inspired a radical approach to workplace design. She walks us through her company's "living lab," using CO₂ levels, light temperature, and even sound decibels as real-time indicators of wellness, productivity, and cognitive performance in the workplace. This conversation is a masterclass in building smarter, healthier, and more human-centric environments. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Erin's path from lighting to founding a digital building company * How her daughter's health shaped her mission for wellness in built environments * What happens to health metrics when people return to work in a poorly ventilated space * Why CO₂, color temperature, and sound are the new pillars of workplace productivity * How real-time environmental data led to a 40% drop in insurance claims and $140K decrease in premiums * Tuning lighting for calm and critical thinking instead of productivity pressure * The business case for de-densification and rethinking compressed office footprints * Using data and automation to shape better collaboration, movement, and wellness * Building a "healing building" and the vision of a workplace that improves human health * The role of neuroinflammation and indoor environments in chronic conditions * Insights on writing her upcoming book and connecting genetic science to smart infrastructure 💡 Favorite Insights * "We were losing cognitive function at 800 ppm of CO₂. That's lower than most classrooms." * "Decibel levels on a Tuesday tell me if we're having a good sales week." * "We've been trying to prove that if you dial in the people and the tech, there's ROI—and it's lucrative." 🥃 This Episode's Drink * Erin: Vodka Lemonade (the only thing in the fridge!) * Jason & AK: Vodka Soda with Lime – perfect for a humid southern summer day 📅 Release Schedule New episodes drop every other Monday, blending spirits, building science, and bold ideas. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * CEOs, CIOs, and workplace strategists * Smart building and wellness consultants * Real estate developers and property managers * HR leaders focused on employee experience * Indoor air quality and sensor technology innovators 📣 Connect & Follow * Elevated Website: poweredbyelevated.com [https://poweredbyelevated.com/] * Erin's Email: erin@lightingenvironments.com * Find Erin on LinkedIn – she's actively sharing ideas and engaging with the community * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube

9. 

   11 Aug 2025

   Jeff Beavers on Trades, Tech, and the Future of Power with NECA

   🔥 Episode Summary In this episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis sit down with Jeff Beavers, Executive Director of Network Integration at NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association), to discuss the evolving landscape of smart buildings, skilled trades, and the electrification of everything. From climbing poles in the Air Force to defining future-ready standards for fault-managed power and limited energy systems, Jeff shares a career-spanning perspective that blends traditional electrical wisdom with cutting-edge tech. Together, the hosts and guest explore the convergence of AC/DC power, workforce shortages, the future of skilled trades, and why e-sports gamers might be tomorrow's electricians. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Jeff's early telecom roots in the Air Force and journey into infrastructure * The history and evolving mission of NECA in shaping power standards * Limited energy systems and why the term matters for the future of design * The parallel between AC adoption in 1900 and DC/FMP adoption today * Global standards: Will RJ45 and USB-C power the world? * The labor shortage and how to reach the next generation of tradespeople * Micro-lessons and podcasting as tools for workforce education * Industry partnerships with Google, Cisco, and IBEW to train the future * Recruiting gamers, influencers, and digital natives into the trades 🥃 This Episode's Drink * Jeff: The "Old Fashioned" … water! (With a splash of ginger beer to spice things up) 📅 Release Schedule New episodes drop every other Monday, blending smart buildings, big ideas, and a splash of your favorite drink. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Electrical and low-voltage contractors * Code and standards professionals * Data center and MEP engineers * Workforce development leaders * Policy makers and educators * Young professionals and students exploring skilled trades 📣 How to Support the Show * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@DistilledBuildingsTech] * Leave a review and share with your network * Explore NECA's Podcast: Connectivity, Powered by NECA [https://www.necanet.org/] * Follow Jason [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonshearer/], AK [https://www.linkedin.com/in/akram-khalis-ak/], and Jeff [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-beavers-rcdd-osp-b614496/] on LinkedIn

10. 

    28 Jul 2025

    Bourbon Deep Dive with Jonathan Lumley-Sapanski of Lum's Cellars

    🔥 Episode Summary In this flavorful episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis sit down with Jonathan Lumley-Sapanski, owner of Lum's Cellars, to explore the intersection of whiskey, entrepreneurship, storytelling, and community. Jonathan walks us through his journey from the high-paced restaurant grind to launching his own bottle shop in Maplewood, New Jersey. With an eye for craft, a respect for heritage, and a passion for educating consumers, Jonathan shares how his store curates private barrels, honors lesser-known distilleries, and builds customer trust one pour at a time. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Jonathan's hospitality and sales background—and what led him to open Lum's Cellars * Renovating a 100-year-old store and honoring the legacy of its previous owner * How storytelling, heirloom grains, and transparency shape the new whiskey landscape * The rise of MGP-sourced spirits and the cult appeal of brands like Found North and Penelope * Balancing allocated bottles and consumer expectations in a specialty shop * The role of education, trust, and flavor exploration in retail liquor sales * How climate, glassware, and personal taste shape how we enjoy whiskey * Building a retail brand rooted in transparency, community events, and deep knowledge 🥃 Featured Whiskeys & Spirits * Penelope Rio — https://shop.penelopebourbon.com/products/rio * Koval Four Grain — https://www.koval-distillery.com/newsite/whiskey/four-grain 📦 Retail & Brand Insights * The reality of whiskey allocations and distributor relationships * Why some $30 bottles outperform $80 ones in blind tastings * The power of private barrel selections to differentiate a store * How brands blend marketing, storytelling, and substance * The "WebMD effect" of informed (and misinformed) whiskey shoppers 🍹 Cocktail Talk * Jonathan's go-to drink: The Boulevardier * Why rye makes a cocktail sing—and how spice complements bitter 📅 Release Schedule Episodes drop every other Monday, blending smart buildings, big spirits, and a little storytelling. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Whiskey lovers and curious newcomers * Retail entrepreneurs in the food & beverage space * Distillers, marketers, and small producers * Anyone interested in the craft and culture behind the bottle 📣 Connect & Follow * Lum Cellars on Instagram: @lumscellars [https://www.instagram.com/lumscellars] * Visit the shop: 1718 Springfield Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07960 * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube * Follow Jason, AK, and Jonathan for more insider conversations

11. 

    14 Jul 2025

    Mahmoud Ibrahim on Fault Managed Power and the Future of Smart Building Electrification

    🔥 Episode Summary In this episode, Jason and AK sit down with Mahmoud Ibrahim, Senior Product Director at Panduit, to explore how Fault Managed Power (FMP) is transforming power delivery in smart buildings. With a background in mechanical engineering and a passion for business, Mahmoud shares his journey from R&D to leading FMP at Panduit—making "dumb power smart" by enabling higher voltage delivery over thinner cables while continuously monitoring for faults like shock, arc, or fire risk. The discussion covers how FMP works alongside PoE, real-world use cases, evolving standards, workforce implications, and why this technology is the next evolution in safe, efficient building electrification. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Mahmoud's transition from engineering to product leadership * What FMP is and how it enables long-distance, high-voltage power with built-in safety * Comparison to GFCI: FMP detects multiple fault types, not just ground faults * UL 1400 standards and cable requirements (450V-rated, multi-pair construction) * How FMP complements PoE—"Trunk vs. Branch" analogy * Real-world deployments in security, lighting, Wi-Fi, and DAS * Education, healthcare, and campus retrofits as ideal FMP use cases * 2026 NEC code updates introducing "Limited Energy" categories for PoE and FMP * The FMP Alliance—uniting Cisco, Panduit, Belden, VoltServer, and others to drive adoption * Vision for scaling FMP into EV charging, data centers, and industrial sectors * ArcSafe benefits for mining, hazardous environments, and reducing fire risks 💡 Key Takeaways * FMP makes electricity safer by turning off circuits instantly when faults are detected * Runs power and data over shared pathways without traditional conduit * PoE remains critical for data and device power, FMP brings scalable building-wide electrification * Class 4 circuits remove power limits, focusing on energy safety, not wattage caps * Industry-wide collaboration (FMP Alliance) is key for interoperability and global adoption 🥃 This Episode's Drinks * AK: Michter's Rye, on the rocks * Jason: Fast Old Fashioned with Rabbit Hole Rye, cocoa bitters, dehydrated orange garnish 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Smart building technologists and consultants * Contractors and low-voltage installers * Real estate owners modernizing infrastructure * Manufacturers exploring next-gen electrification * Anyone interested in safer, scalable building power 📣 Connect & Follow * Learn more about FMP: fmpalliance.org [https://fmpalliance.org/] * Panduit solutions: panduit.com [https://panduit.com/] * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube * Follow Jason, AK, and Mahmoud on LinkedIn

12. 

    30 Jun 2025

    Ronna Davis on the Future of Digital Electricity and Fault Managed Power

    🔥 Episode Summary In this episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis sit down with Ronna Davis, Chief Revenue Officer at VoltServer, to explore how Fault Managed Power (FMP) is revolutionizing the way we design, build, and power modern spaces. Ronna shares her career journey from voice systems and network infrastructure to becoming a leader in digital electricity, and explains why she believes FMP is a once-in-a-century shift — bigger even than the move from TDM to VoIP. From smarter, safer energy delivery to transforming how we build data centers, warehouses, and even homes, this episode dives deep into why safe power changes everything. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Ronna's journey from PBX systems to leading at VoltServer * What Fault Managed Power (FMP) is and why it matters * Why the shift to FMP feels bigger than previous tech transitions * The impact of FMP on real estate, data centers, manufacturing, and education * How FMP enables faster deployment, modularity, and safer spaces * The role of AI, VR/AR, and compute at the edge in driving power needs * How FMP complements (not replaces) PoE networks * The future of FMP in residential homes and building codes * Training initiatives with NECA, BICSI, and the FMP Alliance * Ronna's "North Star" vision: Kilowatts over a small, RJ45-like connector! 🥃 This Episode's Cocktail * Ronna: Vodka Soda (with fresh lemons from her own tree!) * Jason and AK: Cheers with a refreshing summer drink in spirit 🍋 📅 Release Schedule New episodes drop every other Monday, bringing together cocktails, technology, and smart building innovation. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Building owners and real estate developers * Data center architects and MEP engineers * Electrical and low-voltage contractors * Smart building technologists and consultants * Manufacturers of network and power solutions * Anyone interested in the future of safe, scalable electricity 📣 How to Support the Show * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or YouTube * Leave a review and share your favorite insight * Connect with Jason, AK, and Ronna on LinkedIn * Join the conversation with the Fault Managed Power Alliance (FMPAlliance.org) * Check out Voltserver at https://voltserver.com/

13. 

    16 Jun 2025

    Andrew Lu on PoE, Fault Managed Power, and the Future of Electrified Buildings

    🔥 Episode Summary In this electrifying episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis sit down with Andrew Lu, a Cisco Systems leader and innovator, to dive into the convergence of Power over Ethernet (PoE) and Fault Managed Power (FMP) — and how these technologies are reshaping the modern smart building landscape. From his license plate to his Cybertruck, Andrew lives and breathes this revolution. He unpacks the technical, economic, and political drivers behind FMP's rise, and outlines the "DC donut of viability" — a concept that helps frame where DC power, PoE, and FMP fit best in a building's infrastructure. Whether you're designing networks, optimizing energy, or just trying to future-proof your facilities, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the next power paradigm. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Andrew's career journey through three tours at Cisco * The origin of his "FMP+PoE" Cybertruck license plate * Why FMP (Class 4) and PoE (Class 2) are the safest, most scalable ways to electrify buildings * The "DC Donut of Viability" — where power delivery makes sense in smart buildings * FMP's potential to bring single-pair Ethernet (T1L) into the mainstream * Global code adoption and the regulatory landscape (U.S., Canada, EU) * The FMP Alliance and the role of interoperability, education, and scale * PoE lessons shaping the FMP rollout (CapEx neutrality, automation value, and labor trade-offs) * The role of DC technologies in long-distance, grid-level energy resiliency * Insights from DC World Paris and the international perspective on DC innovation ⚡ Featured Technologies * PoE (Power over Ethernet) * FMP (Fault Managed Power) * ArcSafe DC, T1L & SPE * Structured Cabling and Ethernet-based power delivery 🥃 This Episode's Drink * Old Soul Bourbon — a 2022 cask-strength private barrel selection from Fondren Cellars in Jackson, Mississippi (120 proof!) 📅 Release Schedule Episodes drop every other Monday, bringing together spirits, smart infrastructure, and surprising insights. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Electrical and network engineers * Building owners and energy strategists * Smart building consultants and integrators * Policy makers and standards contributors * Technologists shaping the future of low-voltage power 📣 Connect & Follow * Follow the FMP Alliance: FMPAlliance.org [https://fmpalliance.org/] * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube * Connect with Andrew, Jason, and AK on LinkedIn * Comment and share what you'd like to hear in future episodes

14. 

    2 Jun 2025

    Welcome to the Distilled Buildings Tech Podcast: Shaken, Stirred, and Data-Driven

    🔥 Episode Summary In this inaugural episode, hosts Jason Shearer and Akram "AK" Khalis introduce themselves, share their journeys into smart building technology, and lay out the vision for the Distilled Buildings Tech Podcast. From humble beginnings in engineering, real estate, and IT, to pioneering innovations in Power over Ethernet (PoE) lighting and infrastructure, Jason and AK discuss how their diverse backgrounds converge to make buildings smarter, more efficient, and truly connected. They also reveal the podcast's origin story (hint: bourbon-fueled conversations at Cisco Live Amsterdam 🍸), the structure for future episodes, and their mission to demystify smart buildings with insights from industry experts — and a good drink in hand. 🛠️ Topics Covered * Jason and AK's career paths into smart buildings and digital infrastructure * How early experiences in real estate and engineering shaped their perspectives * The evolution from incandescent lighting to LEDs and PoE systems * How LED efficiency unlocked the future of building electrification * The real meaning behind "smart buildings" vs. "smart systems" * Why converging building systems onto a single network backbone matters * The founding story of the Distilled Buildings Tech Podcast * What listeners can expect each episode: Bourbon, Building Tech, and Big Ideas 🥃 This Episode's Drinks * AK: Basil Hayden Bourbon * Jason: Leiper's Fork Bourbon (Bottled in Bond) — dangerously smooth at 110 proof! 📅 Release Schedule New episodes drop every other Monday — perfect for kicking off your week with a dose of bourbon and building innovation. 🎧 Who Should Listen? * Building owners and developers * Facility managers and real estate professionals * Technologists and infrastructure teams * Product manufacturers * Bourbon enthusiasts with a passion for smarter spaces 📣 How to Support the Show * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or YouTube * Leave a review and share your thoughts * Connect with Jason and AK on LinkedIn * DM us questions or guest suggestions — we're building this community together!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Contact Distilled Buildings Tech Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.