Hyperion Podcast: Let’s Talk Elevators

About Hyperion Podcast: Let’s Talk Elevators

Welcome to Let’s Talk Elevators, the podcast that takes you inside the fast-moving world of vertical transportation. Hosted by Morgan Jones from Hyperion Solutions, each episode brings you conversations with the people shaping the elevator industry today. From traction machines to controllers, code compliance to modernization, we break down the real issues that mechanics, engineers, contractors, and building managers face every day. Expect candid conversations with Hyperion’s subject matter experts and industry leaders, exploring innovation, technology, safety, and the future of the trade. Whether we’re live from an industry event, unpacking lessons from a site visit, or talking shop with elevator pros, our goal is simple: deliver stories, insights, and technical know-how. If you’ve ever wondered how global trends impact your local projects, how to navigate modernization choices, or what’s next in elevator technology, this is your front-row seat. Real stories. Real solutions. Real talk about elevators. Subscribe today and join us as we elevate the conversation.

Publisher

Let's Talk Elevators: Podcast

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 Sept 2025

Latest episode

23 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Reviving Legacy Equipment with Carlos Escobar

   When an older elevator machine room develops an oil leak, a persistent rumble, or a mysterious thrust issue, the default recommendation is often to tear out the equipment and modernize. But is replacement always in the building owner’s best technical and financial interest? In this re-recorded episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, host Morgan Jones welcomes back Carlos Escobar, founder of Legacy Elevator Consulting and former president of Titan Machine Corp. Backed by nearly thirty years of specialized manufacturing, machining, and repair experience, Carlos explores the vital distinction between subjective modernization bids and independent, data-backed machine evaluations. Carlos dives into the mechanical realities of working on machines that have been safely operating for 50, 80, or 100+ years: Objective, Unbiased Analysis: Carlos operates without an agenda to sell replacement machines, broker parts, or bid installation work. He shares how independent reporting gives building owners, consultants, and contractors the unvarnished facts needed to weigh capital costs, downtime, and long-term reliability. Non-Invasive Diagnostic Techniques: Machine room owners don't want century-old components dismantled just for an inspection. Carlos details the practical field tricks he uses to reconstruct critical machine data without original manuals or blueprints, such as mounting a digital protractor on a welder’s V-block to drift the brakes, rock the worm shaft, and calculate precise gear backlash tolerances mathematically before checking tooth contact patterns under an inspection port. Long Failure Cycles vs. Abrupt Breakdowns: Modern gearless AC machines rely on compact, often sealed components with forecasted lifespans, but geared equipment has proven reliability spanning over a century. Carlos breaks down how geared machines provide clear, long-term warning signs, temperature shifts, oil particulates, vibration patterns, or audible rumbles, long before reaching catastrophic failure. Troubleshooting Common Symptoms: Oil Leaks: Why a gearbox leaking oil onto the floor or cartop is usually just a worn consumable seal or an over-tightened packing gland rather than an irreparable condition. Wear & Particulates: How chemical oil analysis (such as detecting recurring sulfur compounds in specific machine vintages) uncovers mechanical wear patterns before they damage shafts or gears. Rope and Sheave Wear: How subtle site errors, like unrecorded field regrooving leaving chatter marks, cause rope bounce and accelerate sheave degradation. Turning Tribal Knowledge into Scalable Data: As senior mechanics and machinists retire, decades of hands-on expertise are walking out the door. Carlos explains how he structures field observations into repeatable diagnostic systems, leveraging modern data tools to generate comprehensive 30-page engineering reports or distilled animations that help bridge the gap for incoming apprentices. Advice for Independent Shops: Looking back on his career, Carlos emphasizes the long-term value of rigorous record-keeping and capturing edge-case failures, showing how documented machine history creates lasting diagnostic value for future generations. Sponsored by Hyperion Solutions, focusing on tailored solutions that elevate the customer experience.

2. 

   8 Jul 2026

   Transitioning into the Elevator Industry & Leading CECA with Julie Gilby

   The vertical transportation industry is famous for pulling people in and never letting them go, but everyone’s origin story is a little different. For Julie Gilby, President of CKG Elevators in Nova Scotia and the current President of the Canadian Elevator Contractors Association (CECA), the path to elevators didn't start with blueprints or mechanical training, it started in the restaurant industry. After spending 20 years climbing the corporate ladder to become a Senior Director of Business Development for Tim Hortons, Julie found herself traveling constantly and missing out on family time. When the opportunity arose to join forces with her husband, Andrew, at CKG Elevator, she traded the coffee business for vertical transportation. While she quickly realized the elevator industry speaks its own complex language, she also discovered that her executive skills in strategic planning, business development, and team leadership transferred seamlessly. In this inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, host Morgan Jones sits down with Julie to unpack her journey as a prominent woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. Julie opens up about her initial experiences learning the ropes from the ground up, the incredible warmth and support she received from independent contractors, and how she found her unique value proposition despite not having a hands-on technical background. Julie and Morgan dive deep into the vital work CECA is doing to foster the next generation of vertical transportation professionals. Julie highlights the immense success of CECA's 19-39 Club, which provides a dedicated networking and learning space for young adults entering the trade, as well as the ElevateHer group, which creates safe spaces for women to build confidence, share experiences, and step into leadership positions. Listeners will also hear Julie share her ultimate piece of leadership advice,a mantra given to her by a mentor when she was just 18 years old: "Fly the plane." Whether navigating the logistical chaos of planning a massive industry convention, steering an independent business, or adapting to the looming, fast-paced world of Artificial Intelligence in field diagnostics, Julie explains how keeping a laser focus on strategic results and filtering out the background noise is the key to moving forward. Tune in to discover how local community engagement ("share of heart"), intentional mentorship, and increasing trades visibility for high school graduates can help shape a stronger, more diverse future for vertical transportation. This episode of Let’s Talk Elevators is proudly sponsored by Hyperion Solutions, dedicated to providing tailored solutions that elevate the customer experience.

3. 

   9 Jun 2026

   Let's Talk Elevators Live at ECNY: Traction Systems & Rope Life

   Welcome to Episode 8 of Let’s Talk Elevators, recorded live at the ECNY Supplier Showcase. In this exclusive panel discussion, host Morgan Jones sits down with four industry leaders to debate a problem every contractor and building owner faces: traction systems that do not perform as expected. When an elevator system underperforms, who owns the responsibility? Is it the manufacturer, the installer, the maintenance provider, or the environment? Our panelists bring decades of experience from every corner of the trade to answer that question. Featuring Carlos Escobar (Hyperion Solutions), Nicola Imbimbo (Prysmian), Greg Decola (VDA), and Kevin McInerney (Metro Elevator), this conversation cuts through the finger-pointing and addresses the real-world pressure of tight schedules, shifting codes, and shrinking machine rooms. Key takeaways from this episode: The Rope Life Myth: Why rope life must be measured in the number of bends and trips, not years, and how improper installation (like uncoiling kinks and unequal tension) kills ropes early. Modernization Constraints: The physical realities of replacing massive legacy machines with smaller, modern equipment, and the hidden costs of reusing older sheaves. The Training Gap: Why short-sighted economics and a lack of field education lead to premature equipment failure and costly callbacks. Maintenance Pricing Realities: A candid look at the "race to the bottom" in maintenance contracts and how it impacts system longevity. Coated Suspension Means: The European perspective on belts versus traditional ropes, including the strict environmental and cleaning requirements needed for them to function properly. This industry is built on physics, and you cannot cheat the hoistway. Whether you are a consultant writing specs, a mechanic tensioning ropes, or an independent contractor trying to hold the line on maintenance pricing, this episode delivers the technical insight you need. Subscribe today and join us as we elevate the conversation.

4. 

   6 Apr 2026

   Problem Solving, Grit, and the Reality of the Trade with Travis Hall

   Welcome back to Let’s Talk Elevators. In Episode 7, host Morgan Jones sits down with Travis Hall from Alliance Elevator Solutions. Travis brings nearly two decades of manufacturing and industry experience to the table, sharing a candid look at what it takes to build a successful career and company in vertical transportation. This episode cuts through the noise. Travis shares his origin story, from value engineering parts to launching Alliance with a bold pitch to his CEO. The conversation shifts quickly into the realities of the trade today. They discuss why a four-year degree doesn't guarantee success, and why a relentless drive to solve problems beats academic credentials every time. Topics covered in this episode: The School of Hard Knocks: Why field experience, work ethic, and a problem-solving mindset trump traditional education in the elevator industry. Strategic Technology Adoption: How AI is shifting the business side of the trade. AI won't replace people, but professionals who know how to use it will replace those who don't. Training Realities: The balance between new 3D/software learning concepts and the irreplaceable value of hands-on training. (As Travis puts it, "There's nothing like sailing a damn boat.") The Supplier's Role: Why suppliers and manufacturers must act as technical educators for independent contractors, rather than just taking orders. Recruiting from the Trades: Practical advice on pulling talent from other blue-collar sectors by showing them the earning potential, flexibility, and stability of the elevator trade. Understanding True Passion: Why passion requires sacrifice, and why you shouldn't claim to have it unless you are willing to put in the work. Whether you are a field mechanic turning a wrench, a project manager fighting tight schedules, or an independent contractor trying to scale, Travis delivers grounded, practical advice on how to navigate the current landscape of the industry. Subscribe today and join us as we elevate the conversation.

5. 

   23 Feb 2026

   Life on Service: Safety, Trust, and Problem-Solving in the Field

   In this episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, Morgan Jones sits down with Tom Schmidt of MEI to talk about what life really looks like in elevator service. From early mornings and emergency calls to routine maintenance and customer conversations, Tom shares an honest, field-level view of the work that keeps elevators running safely every day. Tom’s path into the elevator industry started in the electrical trade, where he spent more than two decades as a union electrician before joining the elevator trade later in his career. That background shaped his approach to service, safety, and customer relationships. Throughout the conversation, Tom explains what a typical day looks like in service, why no two calls are ever the same, and how weather, building conditions, and daily use all impact elevator reliability. The discussion digs into common challenges service mechanics face, especially door issues caused by debris, seasonal conditions, and pressure changes in buildings. Tom explains why simple things like keeping door sills clean can make a major difference in performance and uptime. He also shares why communication with building owners, maintenance staff, and residents is critical when diagnosing issues, especially when service visits are spaced weeks or months apart. Safety is a constant theme in the episode. Tom talks about why speed should never come at the expense of procedure, how repetition and process protect mechanics, and why skipping steps often leads to injuries. He explains how troubleshooting relies on using all your senses, listening for abnormal sounds, noticing smells, observing patterns, and combining that information with diagnostic tools and fault codes to build a clear picture of what went wrong. The episode also explores training, mentorship, and the responsibility experienced mechanics have to teach newer people the right way to work. Tom shares how he mentors apprentices by explaining not just what he’s doing, but why he’s doing it, and how tools like job hazard analysis help teams plan work safely before turning a wrench. Morgan and Tom also discuss on-call life, after-hours emergencies, and the mental demands of service work. From being prepared with food and rest to having a supportive spouse who understands the job, Tom offers a candid look at what it takes to show up when elevators fail at the worst possible times. The conversation closes with a message for building owners and the riding public. Tom explains why elevator repairs cost what they do, how safety drives every decision, and why awareness and attention from riders can help prevent incidents before they happen. This episode is a grounded, practical look at elevator service, told by someone who lives it every day.

6. 

   29 Jan 2026

   When to Modernize an Elevator, Costs, Codes, and Real-World Tradeoffs Explained

   Modernization is one of the biggest decisions a building owner will make about an elevator system. It affects safety, reliability, tenant experience, downtime, and long-term cost. In this episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, host Morgan Jones sits down with Ed Rivera, Senior Vice President at VDA Consultants, to break down how modernization decisions are really made and why timing matters more than most people realize. Ed brings more than 17 years of experience across engineering, contracting, and consulting. He shares his path from intern to licensed professional engineer and now senior leadership at one of the largest consulting firms in the country. That perspective shapes the entire conversation. This episode is about practical decision-making, not sales pitches or blanket recommendations. The discussion starts with the current modernization market and why activity has increased across North America. Aging equipment, stricter codes, obsolescence, and changes in building use are all driving owners to take a closer look at systems that may still be running, but no longer performing reliably. Ed explains how consultants evaluate equipment condition, code requirements, sustainability goals, and long-term serviceability before recommending any path forward. A major focus of the episode is obsolescence. As electronic components, drives, controllers, and door systems become harder to source, owners face longer shutdowns and higher risk when failures occur. Ed explains how consultants identify which components are at risk and how proactive planning can prevent sudden, extended outages that leave buildings without service for weeks or months. Morgan and Ed also explore common questions owners ask, including whether upgrades can be phased, which components can realistically be reused, and when piecemealing work creates more risk than value. The conversation covers machines versus controllers, ride quality improvements, door systems, motor drives, positioning systems, and how each piece affects the others. Another key theme is cost versus downtime. Ed explains how owners often weigh capital spend against out-of-service duration, and why the least expensive option upfront is not always the most economical long-term. The episode also addresses situations where owners lack capital and how targeted repairs, audits, and maintenance strategies can extend equipment life responsibly. Finally, the episode clarifies the role of an elevator consultant. From design and bidding to code interpretation and construction oversight, Ed explains how consultants act as unbiased advocates for building owners, helping them navigate complex technical decisions with confidence. This episode is essential listening for building owners, property managers, consultants, and anyone involved in long-term elevator planning.

7. 

   18 Dec 2025

   Ropes, Sheaves, and the Science Between Them: Engineering Performance That Lasts

   In this episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, host Morgan Jones is joined by two globally respected industry experts, Torsten Fuka of FUKA and Nicola Imbimbo of Prysmian, for a deep technical conversation on one of the most critical and misunderstood relationships in elevator systems, the interaction between suspension means and traction sheaves. Torsten and Nicola bring decades of hands-on experience spanning manufacturing, maintenance, application engineering, and global code development. Together, they explore how ropes, belts, and sheaves must be engineered and applied as a complete system, not as isolated components. From known failure points in the field to overlooked installation practices, this episode breaks down why performance issues often stem from configuration, alignment, tensioning, and maintenance habits rather than product defects. The discussion covers how modern demands for smaller sheaves, higher performance, and longer service life create real engineering tradeoffs. Nicola explains why lifetime should be measured in trips rather than years, how reverse bending accelerates wear, and why configuration data is essential when evaluating performance expectations. Torsten shares insights from decades of endurance testing and explains how groove design, surface hardness, and manufacturing processes directly affect long-term reliability. The episode also dives into coated suspension means and belts, highlighting why these systems require a completely different mindset than traditional wire ropes. Topics include surface roughness, cleanliness requirements, contamination risks, and why interchangeability is not guaranteed across manufacturers. Both guests emphasize the importance of tested combinations, proper training, and field discipline to avoid premature failures. Listeners will also gain insight into common field issues such as improper rope uncoiling, unequal tensioning, misaligned sheaves, and lubrication mistakes. Nicola outlines how correct lubrication practices can extend life when done properly, while incorrect products can cause immediate problems. Torsten reinforces the role suppliers play in education, testing, and collaborative troubleshooting. The conversation closes with forward-looking perspectives on lightweight systems, IoT monitoring, vibration analysis, and how data-driven maintenance will shape the future of elevator performance. This episode is essential listening for technicians, engineers, consultants, manufacturers, and anyone responsible for designing, installing, or maintaining elevator systems who wants to reduce failures, extend component life, and improve ride quality through better engineering decisions.

8. 

   26 Nov 2025

   Elevator Cab Design & Rider Experience: Innovation, Comfort, and Luxury

   Cab design shapes rider experience more than most people realize. This episode breaks down what today’s buildings need, how consultants guide decisions, and what features make rides smoother, safer, and more comfortable. Topics covered include: • How population studies determine cab count and speed • The impact of dispatching systems on daily traffic flow • Simple design choices that reduce anxiety and claustrophobia • Luxury builds using glass, veneers, etched ceilings, and custom metals • Vandal-resistant construction for high-traffic environments • Hidden ventilation, 5WL surfaces, and full-shell cab walls • How 3D modeling and new materials shape the next decade The discussion features real examples from the field and practical insights from teams designing and building cabs every day.

9. 

   30 Oct 2025

   Riding to the Top: The State of the Elevator Industry

   In this episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, host Morgan Jones sits down with Ryan Kraven, Chief Operating Officer at Metro Elevator, to take a big-picture look at the elevator industry, where it’s been, where it’s headed, and what’s driving the next wave of innovation. From modernization and sustainability to supply chain resilience and the global rise of megacities, this conversation explores the forces shaping how people move through buildings around the world. Ryan shares his insights on market growth, technological disruption, and how economic cycles continue to influence new construction and modernization trends. Whether you’re an installer, manufacturer, consultant, or just passionate about vertical transportation, this episode offers valuable perspective on how the industry is evolving, and what opportunities lie ahead.

10. 

    24 Sept 2025

    Global Insights, Local Impact: What Hyperion Learned in China

    In the premiere episode of Let’s Talk Elevators, host Morgan Jones is joined by Hyperion Solutions CEO David Hewitt, Engineering Director Nick O’Donnell, and Carlos Escobar to reflect on their recent trip to TorinDrive in China. Together, they share what they witnessed on the factory floor, in engineering labs, and in strategy discussions that revealed just how quickly innovation is shaping the global elevator industry. Listeners will hear about the scale and speed of China’s elevator manufacturing, the engineering focus driving new traction machine designs, and how collaboration between Hyperion and TorinDrive China is helping deliver solutions that directly benefit U.S. contractors and building owners. David provides a leadership lens on where the industry is headed, Nick highlights key engineering takeaways, and Carlos offers operational insights from the production floor. Whether you’re a mechanic, contractor, or consultant, this episode connects global innovation with practical lessons for the North American market, showing how international partnerships are shaping the elevators of tomorrow.

Reach and audience

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

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

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