Speaking In Code

About Speaking In Code

Speaking in Code is a podcast about building safety, development, and the people behind the work that shapes our communities. Hosted by Nathan Ball, with producers Topher Barnes and John Blomquist, the show features conversations with building officials, industry professionals, thought leaders, notable personalities and public sector leaders on codes, permitting, inspections, construction, leadership, and community impact.

Publisher

SN-ICC

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

12 Jul 2026

Latest episode

3 Nov 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   3 Nov 2026

   19. The Future of ICC: AI, Leadership & Building Safety | Andre Jaen

   Andre Jaen, newly reelected ICC Section C Director, joins Nathan Ball from the 2026 International Code Council Conference + Expo in Nashville for a conversation about leadership, technology and the future of the building safety profession. Andre shares the unconventional path that took him from studying political science at the University of Colorado Boulder to performing temporary building inspections after a hailstorm, earning ICC certifications, managing a permit counter, serving as an interim building official and eventually joining the ICC Board of Directors. The conversation explores proposed changes to ICC’s governance structure, the organization’s strategic direction, and new technology such as ICC’s AI Navigator and other tools designed to help code professionals navigate increasingly complex requirements. Andre and Nathan also discuss the importance of chapters, conferences and events like EduCode in creating the professional relationships and exchange of ideas that cannot be replicated through a screen. And from Nashville, the conversation naturally turns to music as Andre shares his history with violin, cello and guitar — and the friendships that began in a high-school band. Speaking in Code is produced with support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes Senior Producer: John Blomquist Theme song was performed by the band, Outskirtz This episode of Speaking In Code was recorded in Nashville, TN at the Gaylord Opryland Resort during the 2026 ICC Annual Business Meeting.

2. 

   1 Nov 2026

   18. Certification, Careers & the Future of Code Enforcement | Ken Eckman

   Ken Eckman, Code Enforcement Manager with 4LEAF, joins Nathan Ball at the Code Comply Summit for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of code enforcement as a profession. Drawing on a career that includes 40 years with the City of Orange, California, Ken discusses the importance of customer service, professional education and collaboration across building, planning, police and code enforcement. Ken also shares his perspective on ICC’s growing role in standardizing code enforcement credentials and what that could mean for career mobility, professional development and the next generation entering the field. The conversation also looks at a new training concept focused on preparing code enforcement cases for court and understanding what judges expect from enforcement professionals. And no code enforcement career is complete without a memorable field story. Ken delivers one involving a multimillion-dollar home, a lawyer — and approximately 200 Shih Tzus. The episode closes with Ken’s lifelong interest in motocross and Supercross. Speaking in Code is produced with support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

3. 

   13 Oct 2026

   17. Nevada’s Data Center Boom: Water, Power & Infrastructure | Eric Henzl

   Data centers are becoming a major part of Nevada’s infrastructure landscape, bringing new questions about electricity demand, water consumption, cooling technology and grid capacity. Eric Henzl, Research Scientist and Environmental Economist with the Desert Research Institute, joins Nathan Ball to discuss DRI research examining the water and electricity demands associated with Nevada data centers. Eric explains projected energy growth, how data center demand compares with major generation assets such as Hoover Dam, and why the indirect water required to generate electricity can sometimes exceed the water consumed directly for cooling. The conversation also explores the dramatic differences between evaporative cooling and newer direct-to-chip and immersion systems, the impact of AI on data center growth, renewable energy, reclaimed water, battery storage, grid interconnection challenges and the technologies that may make future facilities more efficient. The episode closes with a lighter conversation about hiking, Northern Nevada, Donner Lake and Eric’s bucket-list trek to Machu Picchu. Speaking in Code is produced with support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

4. 

   5 Oct 2026

   16. From Reactive to Proactive Code Enforcement | Andrew Kieve, Tolemi

   Andrew Kieve, Co-Founder and CEO of Tolemi, joins Nathan Ball at the Code Comply Summit to discuss how municipal data can change the way cities approach code enforcement. Tolemi connects information across otherwise separate city systems, from permitting and code enforcement to police, fire, utilities, animal control and property data, and brings that information together so departments can identify patterns, prioritize high-risk properties and move beyond a purely complaint-driven approach. Andrew explains why data integration is much more complicated than simply putting information on a map, how cities can connect existing software without replacing everything they already use, and how Tolemi turns large amounts of municipal information into actionable insights. The conversation also moves beyond technology as Andrew talks about the World Cup, growing up in Washington, D.C., his Red Sox fandom and a memorable family trip to Fenway Park. Speaking in Code is produced with support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes\

5. 

   27 Sept 2026

   15. Building WICED California: Education, Mentorship & Women in Code Enforcement | Annie Swaim

   Annie Swaim, Code Enforcement Supervisor for the City of Stockton and a board member of WICED California, joins Nathan Ball at the Code Comply Summit to discuss the growing California chapter of Women in Code Enforcement and Development. Annie talks about why California needed its own WICED network, connecting professionals from Northern and Southern California, and providing affordable education and mentorship across code enforcement, permitting, planning, building inspections and fire. She also shares her own path into code enforcement and one of the most memorable hoarding cases of her career — a reminder of the complicated human situations code professionals encounter behind the properties they inspect. Plus, Annie and Nathan close things out with country music, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw and the next generation of country fans. Speaking in Code is produced with support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

6. 

   20 Sept 2026

   14. Anaheim Code Enforcement: Fireworks, Growth & the Olympics | Marc Archibald

   Marc Archibald, Community Preservation and Licensing Manager for the City of Anaheim, joins Nathan Ball at the Code Comply Summit for a look inside code enforcement in one of Southern California’s largest and most recognizable cities. Marc discusses Anaheim’s expanded illegal fireworks enforcement efforts, including the use of drones, helicopters, ground teams and the city’s social host ordinance. The conversation also looks ahead to the 2028 Olympic Games, when indoor volleyball comes to the Honda Center, as well as the continued development of OC Vibe and other major projects reshaping Anaheim. Marc also shares his path from the U.S. Marine Corps and police administration into municipal leadership and explains why Anaheim places such a strong emphasis on education and professional development for its code enforcement team. Speaking in Code is produced with support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

7. 

   13 Sept 2026

   13. Staying Mission Ready: Burnout, Conflict & Mental Health | Ian Hill

   What happens when the conflict load becomes greater than our capacity to carry it? Ian Hill, founder of Empowering Minds, joins Nathan Ball at the Code Comply Summit for a candid conversation about burnout, mental health and the cumulative effects of working in professions where conflict is part of the job. Ian challenges the traditional “cowboy up” approach by reframing wellness as mission readiness. Departments maintain their vehicles and equipment so they're ready when needed. Why wouldn't we create preventative maintenance systems for the most important asset we have — our people? Ian discusses practical ways professionals can recharge, establish boundaries, recognize changes in coworkers and create workplaces where people feel seen and heard. Although the conversation begins with code enforcement, its message applies to inspectors, permit professionals, managers, first responders and anyone carrying the cumulative weight of a demanding career and life outside of work. Sometimes supporting someone doesn't require solving their problem. Sometimes it starts with simply asking: “You good?” Speaking in Code is brought to you through support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

8. 

   9 Sept 2026

   12. Technology Spotlight: City Detect | Gavin Baum-Blake

   Gavin Baum-Blake, Co-Founder and CEO of City Detect, joins Speaking in Code to explain how AI-powered computer vision is helping cities identify graffiti, litter, illegal dumping, vacant properties, and other community issues using cameras mounted on vehicles already traveling the streets. Gavin also discusses privacy, implementation, and his journey from Army intelligence and law school to building a civic technology company.

9. 

   6 Sept 2026

   11.The Real Officer Behind “Officer Richard Teaches Code” | Richard Torres

   Meet the real code enforcement officer behind the cartoon. Richard Torres is a Code Enforcement Officer with 4LEAF and the face behind “Officer Richard Teaches Code,” an animated series designed to introduce children and younger audiences to code enforcement in a fun and approachable way. Recorded at the Code Comply Summit, Richard joins Nathan Ball to talk about becoming an animated character, getting recognized at an ICC conference as “the cartoon,” and working as a floating code enforcement officer across multiple California jurisdictions. Richard also discusses his philosophy toward enforcement and why he sees education and helping people achieve compliance as some of the most important parts of the job. From explaining code enforcement as “telling people to cut their grass in a very nice way” to encouraging a new generation to discover the profession, meet the real Officer Richard. Speaking in Code is brought to you through support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

10. 

    30 Aug 2026

    10. The One-Man Code Enforcement Department | Mike Bellamy

    What does code enforcement look like when you're the entire department? Mike Bellamy is the sole Code Enforcement Officer for Lamar, Colorado, serving a community of roughly 8,000 people. But his path to the profession was anything but typical. Recorded at the Code Comply Summit, Mike joins Nathan Ball to talk about his journey from the U.S. Marine Corps to working as a mechanic, owning a trucking company, serving on City Council, and eventually finding a new calling in code enforcement. Mike shares how those experiences changed the way he approaches compliance, including why listening, compassion, and understanding someone's circumstances can sometimes accomplish more than simply issuing a citation. He also tells the powerful story of an elderly fellow Marine he encountered during a code enforcement case, a moment that reminded him that behind every property and every violation is a person. After more than four decades spent in other careers, Mike says he may have finally found the profession he was meant to be in. Speaking in Code is brought to you through support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

11. 

    24 Aug 2026

    09.The “Cannabis Queen” of Code Enforcement | Yvette Portugal, City of Santa Ana

    What happens when code enforcement goes from shutting down illegal cannabis shops to helping build a legal, regulated industry? Nathan Ball sits down with Yvette Portugal, Code Enforcement Manager for the City of Santa Ana..also known by some as the “Cannabis Queen.” Yvette shares how Santa Ana confronted an estimated 150–200 illegal cannabis facilities, transitioned to a regulated market, and developed an approach that balances enforcement with helping legitimate businesses succeed. Yvette explains why she believes Santa Ana's cannabis program has worked... and why other jurisdictions have looked to the city as a model.

12. 

    24 Aug 2026

    08. What Most People Get Wrong About Human Trafficking with Dan Nash

    Dan Nash spent 27 years as a state trooper before dedicating his work to fighting human trafficking. In this compelling conversation, he explains what most people misunderstand about trafficking, the encounter that changed the direction of his career, and why code enforcement professionals may be uniquely positioned to recognize victims others miss.

13. 

    9 Aug 2026

    07. Inside ICC Credentialing: How Certification Exams Are Built | Autumn Saylor

    Autumn Saylor, Vice President of Credentialing for the International Code Council, joins Speaking in Code from the CodeComply Summit to take us behind the scenes of ICC certification exams. She explains how exams are developed, why industry subject matter experts are essential, and what’s ahead for ICC’s growing code enforcement credentialing program. Autumn also shares her 18-year journey at ICC, from administrative support to vice president.

14. 

    3 Aug 2026

    06. Earthquakes to Tornadoes: Karyn Beebe on Structural Design, Codes, and ICC

    Karyn Beebe joins Speaking in Code to discuss her journey from structural engineering to government relations with ICC. She shares how building design changes across regions, why local chapters and code development matter, what she is teaching at EduCode, and one unforgettable tornado story from the field.

15. 

    31 Jul 2026

    05. Technology Spotlight - Farouk Savji with Clariti

    In this episode, we connect with Farouk Savji from Clariti live at EduCode to talk about why this conference continues to be one of the best gatherings in the country for code education and professional development.Farouk shares what makes EduCode special - from the quality of instruction to the opportunity for meaningful conversations among building officials, permit techs, inspectors, and community development professionals.We also dive into Clariti’s Community Development software platform and how it supports:• Permitting• Plan review• Inspections• Code enforcement• End-to-end community development workflowsFarouk explains how modern, purpose-built solutions can help jurisdictions streamline operations, improve transparency, and better serve their communities — all while supporting the critical work of code professionals.If you're interested in education, innovation in local government, or the future of community development technology, this is a great listen.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations from leaders in building safety and community development.🎧 Listen, learn, and keep Speaking In Code.#SpeakingInCode #EduCode #CommunityDevelopment #Permitting #BuildingSafety #CodeEnforcement

16. 

    25 Jul 2026

    04. Bob Heinrich: From ICC’s First CEO to Building Star Wars Land

    40 Years of Building Code & Consulting Expertise with Bob Heinrich Live from EduCode 2026 at The Orleans in Las Vegas, Nathan Ball sits down with Bob Heinrich, President and Principal of VCA, to talk about the company’s nearly 40-year history and its evolution in the building safety and code consulting industry. Bob shares the story behind VCA, how the firm has grown and adapted over the decades, and the role experienced code professionals and consultants play in helping jurisdictions, design professionals, and the development community navigate an increasingly complex built environment. It’s a conversation about experience, relationships, industry change, and what it takes to build a company that lasts. Speaking in Code is brought to you through support from the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. All rights reserved. Host: Nathan Ball Executive Producer: Topher Barnes

17. 

    13 Jul 2026

    03. ICC CEO John Belcik on AI, Global Impact & Leadership

    In this episode of Speaking In Code, we sit down with John Belcik, CEO of the International Code Council, for an engaging and insightful conversation about leadership, innovation, and the future of building safety.John shares the story of his professional journey and what ultimately led him to serve as CEO of one of the most influential organizations in the built environment. The discussion explores the truly international reach of the International Code Council and how its work supports safer buildings and stronger communities around the world.In this episode we discuss:• John’s path to becoming CEO of the ICC• The global impact and international partnerships of the organization• Emerging AI initiatives connected to digital codes and smarter search tools• How AI can be thoughtfully applied to improve accessibility and usability for code professionals• The continued importance of education and collaboration at events like EduCodeFrom technology and leadership to the global mission of building safety, this conversation provides a fascinating look at where the industry is headed.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the built environment.🎧 Listen, learn, and keep Speaking In Code.#SpeakingInCode (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/speakingincode) #ICC (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/icc) #BuildingSafety (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/buildingsafety) #EduCode (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/educode) #ArtificialIntelligence (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/artificialintelligence) #CodeOfficials (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/codeofficials)

18. 

    12 Jul 2026

    01. How Tribal Sovereignty and Building Safety Work Together | Jack Applegate

    In this episode, we sit down with Jack Applegate, National Board Director for the International Code Council (ICC), for an insightful conversation about leadership, service, and the real-world impact of building codes.Jack shares his work with Native American Code Officials (NACO) and discusses the thoughtful process of adopting tribal building codes while maintaining tribal sovereignty. It’s a powerful look at how safety, self-governance, and code adoption can work hand in hand.We also explore:• The nationwide and global impact of building codes on public safety• How model codes influence communities beyond borders• The importance of relationships and education in advancing code adoption• What inspired Jack’s journey into code leadershipWhether you’re a building official, permit technician, plans examiner, architect, or simply passionate about public safety, this episode highlights why codes matter - and how they quietly protect lives every single day.This is a meaningful and inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with code officials and industry leaders.🎧 Listen, learn, and keep Speaking In Code.#SpeakingInCode (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/speakingincode) #BuildingSafety (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/buildingsafety) #ICC (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/icc) #CodeOfficials (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/codeofficials) #TribalSovereignty (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/tribalsovereignty) #PublicSafety (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/publicsafety)

19. 

    12 Jul 2026

    02. How Code Enforcement is Changing Pete Roque, Director of Code Enforcement 4LEAF, Inc

    At EduCode 2026, Pete Roque, National Director of Code Enforcement for 4Leaf Inc., sits down with Nathan Ball for the Speaking In Code podcast presented by the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council.Pete brings his trademark energy to a lively and insightful conversation about his passion for code enforcement, the importance of professional development, and the exciting future ahead for the profession.In this episode we talk about:• Pete’s journey in code enforcement and leadership in the industry• Why EduCode continues to be one of the premier events for code education• The evolving role of code enforcement in protecting communities• Opportunities ahead through innovation, collaboration, and the International Code CouncilPete’s enthusiasm for the profession is contagious, making this a fun and informative discussion filled with great insights—and plenty of laughs along the way.🎧 Listen, learn, and keep Speaking In Code.#EduCode2026 (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/educode2026) #CodeEnforcement (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/codeenforcement) #PeteRoque (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/peteroque) #4Leaf (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/4leaf) #SNICC (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/snicc)Speaking In Code is brought to you through support by the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council. All rights reserved.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

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