The Building People | A Grid Edge original series

About The Building People | A Grid Edge original series

The Building People – a GridEdge.ai original series. Where we spotlight the career journeys and hard-won lessons of the people who help keep Britain’s buildings running. Hosted by Paul McCorquodale, CEO at GridEdge.

Publisher

GridEdge.ai

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Feb 2026

Latest episode

2 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Oct 2026

   EP 18 - Molly Webb (Energy Unlocked)

   Summary Molly Webb shares her journey from tech and policy to energy innovation, exploring how digital technology can drive decarbonisation, system optimisation and energy security. The episode looks at energy as an operating system, demand flexibility, and why collaboration matters in reaching net zero goals. Keywords energy innovation, decarbonisation, digital technology, demand flexibility, energy system, climate policy, startups, energy markets, sustainability, collaboration Key topics The concept of an energy operating system and digital twins Decarbonisation strategies using data and system optimisation Demand flexibility and its role in energy security The evolution of energy markets and the impact of regulation The importance of collaboration and network building in energy innovation The challenges and opportunities in digital energy transformation The significance of local energy markets and social value The influence of policy, governance, and societal narratives Guest name Molly Webb Sound bites "I've always felt like a liaison between worlds." "We're building a new operating system." "It's gotta be like, I see myself in this system in a different way and I wanna be part of that." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Molly Webb and her background 01:43 Molly Webb's journey from Japan to energy policy 04:11 Transition from tech startups to environmental policy 07:41 The evolution of digital energy and hype cycles 12:44 Energy Unlocked and supporting startups for climate impact 18:50 The concept of a digital operating system for energy 26:30 Energy security, sovereignty, and crisis as drivers for change 34:34 The importance of narrative and collaboration in energy transition 40:35 Future outlook and the role of innovation and governance Guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/molly-webb-b1b4161 (https://linkedin.com/in/molly-webb-b1b4161)

2. 

   25 Sept 2026

   EP 17 - Stefan Schmidt (MeterZ)

   Summary Stefan Schmidt is co-founder and CEO of MeterZ, a company that gets energy data out of buildings. He talks through his route from Microsoft into smart buildings via Hoare Lea, HB Reavis and WiredScore, and explains why reliable meter data is still so hard to come by. He covers utility meters nobody can find, submeters buried on BMS networks, and how wireless and IoT hardware are cutting the cost of metering. He also explains why a shortage of skilled installers is the next big problem to solve, and where demand response and grid flexibility could go next. Keywords smart buildings, energy data, metering, submetering, decarbonisation, IoT, wireless metering, tenant recharge, sustainability reporting, demand response Key topics Stefan's path from Microsoft to smart buildings Why energy data is so hard to get out of buildings Utility meters versus in-building submeters Hidden meters and inaccurate utility data How wireless and IoT hardware simplify metering The real cost of manual meter reading Who benefits from metering in a multi-let building The installer skills shortage Future trends in demand response and grid flexibility Sound bites "We really do believe that the lack of good quality energy data from buildings is one of the biggest bottlenecks to decarbonisation of real estate." "The wireless technology's been really positive for ease of deployment and also for maintenance." "Become an electrician. You'll never be out of work." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Stefan Schmidt and his background 01:56 Stefan's career journey from Microsoft to smart buildings 04:48 The genesis of MeterZ and its mission 07:53 Challenges in utility meter deployment and data access 12:07 Complexities of in-building submeters and BMS integration 16:05 The evolution of wireless metering technology 20:00 Common issues with manual meter reading and data accuracy 23:49 Stakeholder challenges in data-driven decision making 27:54 Next steps in solving industry-wide metering problems 33:01 Advice for newcomers in the energy data space 36:03 The importance of skills and simplifying deployment 39:58 Future opportunities in demand response and grid management Guest links Stefan Schmidt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanmaximilianschmidt/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanmaximilianschmidt/) MeterZ: https://www.meterz.co.uk (https://www.meterz.co.uk/)

3. 

   31 Aug 2026

   EP 16 - Jason Roberts (Mitie)

   Summary Jason Roberts shares his journey from technical roles in refrigeration and energy to leading sustainability at Mitie. He traces how ESG practices have evolved from compliance reporting into operational change, and makes the case that influencing people matters more than any single technology. Keywords ESG, sustainability, built environment, facilities management, energy management, carbon reduction, leadership, innovation, net zero, climate change, corporate responsibility Key topics Jason's move from technical roles into ESG leadership How sustainability reporting and compliance have evolved Why influencing people is the real lever for change Practical approaches to cutting carbon footprint The role of technology and data in sustainability Challenges and opportunities in the built environment Setting ambitious targets and why they work Supply chain and procurement as sustainability levers EV fleets and green transportation Building a culture of continuous improvement Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Jason's role at Mitie 09:37 Background and route into sustainability 12:20 How hot weather affects refrigeration and energy use 13:06 From technical roles to ESG leadership 15:39 Do reports and compliance actually drive action? 18:25 The changing landscape of air conditioning and refrigerants 21:07 Jason's current scope and sustainability initiatives 24:06 Doing what you sell: leading by example 27:37 Translating strategy into frontline action 28:45 The scope of sustainability in the built environment 33:12 Remote building monitoring and its benefits 34:23 Electric vehicles and green fleets 41:15 Making every job a sustainable job 44:02 The evolution of carbon accounting and reporting 47:13 Embedding sustainability across the business 48:36 Advice for newcomers to sustainability 56:46 Jason's proudest achievements 59:10 Final thoughts on collaboration and leadership in ESG

4. 

   31 Aug 2026

   Ep 15 - Gal Leslie (2-Work)

   Summary Gal Leslie shares her journey from sales in the flexible workspace industry to co-founding 2-Work, and explains why culture, customer focus, and adaptability are what separate a workspace that thrives from one that empties out. Keywords flexible workspace, co-working, property management, customer experience, workspace culture, landlord partnerships, space design, business growth Key topics Gal's career path from sales into co-founding 2-Work Why culture and customer experience drive workspace success Adapting a workspace as client needs change Landlord partnerships and bespoke deal structures Building vibrant, collaborative communities inside buildings Sound bites "I love being proven wrong when I turn a building around." "Trust is the foundation of a good partnership." "Creating a community where people want to come to work." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and background 01:14 Early career and entry into flexible workspace 10:02 The skills and passion behind a career in sales 12:39 Turning around underperforming buildings 17:29 Managing large portfolios and client needs 23:11 How flexible workspace evolved as a product 27:35 Founding 2-Work during lockdown 30:05 Growth and expansion 34:01 Partnership models with landlords 36:19 Unique buildings and community creation 43:30 Creating environment and culture in workspaces 48:04 Handling challenges and client communication 55:03 Advice for newcomers to the industry 1:00:43 Why team and culture drive success 1:03:22 Building a community-focused workspace 1:05:08 Reflections on the industry and what's next

5. 

   26 Aug 2026

   EP 14 - Mark Baker (Sodexo)

   Mark Baker shares his journey from the RAF to leading operations at Sodexo UK, with lessons in leadership, collaboration and sustainability across the built environment. Key topics - Transition from military to industry - Leadership and collaboration in facilities management - Decarbonisation of military estates - Building effective client relationships - Veterans support in facilities management Takeaways - Military discipline and problem solving are highly applicable in FM - Building relationships and collaboration are key to operational success - Decarbonisation efforts can be simple and cost effective if approached thoughtfully - Understanding the environment and culture is crucial for effective service delivery - Veterans bring valuable skills to the facilities management industry Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Baker and his career journey 03:00 Transition from RAF to facilities management 09:06 Leadership lessons from military service 13:53 The importance of relationships and collaboration 19:56 Decarbonisation in military estates 25:53 Cultural change and continuous improvement 34:52 Day-to-day operations at Sodexo UK 45:00 Supporting veterans and leadership development 54:14 Final thoughts and advice for listeners

6. 

   15 Jul 2026

   EP13 - Frankie Spencer (Leeds Trinity University)

   content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode, Frankie shares her unconventional journey into estates and facilities management, highlighting the importance of adaptability, people skills, and future-proofing in the evolving landscape of university infrastructure. Discover practical insights on managing complex projects, engaging stakeholders, and preparing for environmental challenges. keywords estates management, facilities, project management, future-proofing, university infrastructure, environmental challenges, people skills, adaptability key topics Frankie’s non-traditional career path and international experience The importance of people skills and stakeholder engagement Future-proofing buildings against climate change and environmental risks The value of involving end-users in design and decision-making Managing complex projects with a holistic view of estate operations guest name Frankie Spencer sound bites "Let’s learn to adapt, not just survive" "Designing for functionality and future needs" "Involving end-users saves time and money" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Frankie’s background 00:00 Starting the conversation and weather adaptation 00:00 Frankie’s career journey and unconventional path 01:07 Transition from project management to estates and facilities 03:36 The importance of involving end-users in design 06:03 Learning from building and operational experiences 11:49 Design decisions and future-proofing buildings 14:27 Involving academics and stakeholders in design 20:24 Adapting to environmental changes and climate challenges 26:47 Managing heat and weather impacts on campus 31:13 Advice for early-career professionals in estates 34:23 The importance of people skills and stakeholder communication 36:56 Closing remarks and Frankie’s parting thoughts resources Building People Podcast - https://buildingpeople.com Frankie Spencer on LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/frankiespencer Sustainable Building Design Principles - https://sustainablebuildings.com/principles guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/frankiespencer Twitter - https://twitter.com/frankiespencer

7. 

   15 Jul 2026

   EP12 - Stuart Dunlop (MCC)

   content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode, Stuart Dunlop shares his journey from environmental science to managing sustainability at Lord's Cricket Ground, highlighting innovative strategies and the importance of data in creating sustainable sports venues. keywords sustainability, sports venues, data analytics, environmental management, Lord's Cricket Ground, climate action, stakeholder engagement key topics Sustainable stadium management Data analytics in environmental strategies Stakeholder engagement and communication Net zero targets and energy management Impact of climate change on sports venues takeaways Data-driven decision making is crucial for sustainable stadium management. Effective stakeholder engagement is key to implementing environmental policies. Innovative technologies like AI can track and reduce carbon footprints. Old buildings can be retrofitted to meet modern sustainability standards. Clear communication helps gain support for environmental initiatives. Titles How Data Drives Sustainability at Lord's Cricket Ground From Environmental Science to Sports Sustainability sound bites "Data plays such an integral role in sustainability." "Old buildings can be retrofitted for modern standards." "Stakeholder engagement makes all the difference." Chapters 00:00 Cricket Season Buzz 00:00 Stuart's Career Journey 00:51 Stuart's Journey: From Environmental Science to Sustainability Management 05:34 Navigating Urban Environmental Challenges 08:56 Air Quality Monitoring and Policy Implementation 13:52 Sustainability Initiatives at Lord's Cricket Ground 20:18 Data-Driven Sustainability in Sports Venues 23:07 Mentorship and Role Models in Sustainability resources UN Sports for Climate Action Framework - https://un.org/sport/

8. 

   9 Jun 2026

   EP11 - Andrew Spencer (Equans)

   content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Andrew Spencer, Energy and Carbon Services Director at Equans UK, shares his journey from engineering to leading decarbonisation projects across the UK. Discover how technology, human behaviour, and innovative strategies are transforming the built environment for a sustainable future. keywords Decarbonisation, Built Environment, Energy Transition, Virtual Power Plants, Place-Based Decarbonisation, Sustainability, UK Buildings, Energy Management, Climate Resilience key topics Andrew Spencer's career journey from engineering to decarbonisation The role of technology and human behaviour in sustainable buildings Place-based decarbonisation projects and their impact Virtual power plants and energy flexibility Climate resilience and adaptation in the built environment Titles From Engineering to Net Zero: Andrew Spencer's Decarbonisation Journey How Technology and Human Behaviour Shape Sustainable Buildings sound bites "Virtual power plants match demand and generation digitally" "Climate change impacts are already costing the UK millions" "Find what interests you and have passion in your career" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Energy and Decarbonisation 01:26 Andrew's Journey into Energy and Engineering 06:08 The Role of Community in Energy Projects 09:27 Success Metrics in Energy Projects 13:37 Understanding Building Management and Human Interaction 15:34 Technology and Human Element in Energy Solutions 18:20 Explaining Virtual Power Plants and Flexibility 21:26 Decarbonisation and Energy Security 23:01 Resilience in the Built Environment 24:49 Climate Adaptation and Cost of Inaction 29:29 Future Innovations in Energy Management 32:47 Navigating the Energy Industry: Lessons Learned resources Equans UK - https://www.equans.co.uk/ PAS 2035 and 335 - https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/

9. 

   8 Jun 2026

   EP10 - Andre Bothma (Bellrock)

   Transforming Building Operations with Andre Bothma: Insights on Tech, Leadership, and Industry InnovationIn this episode, Andre Bothma shares his extensive journey through proptech, energy management, and venture capital, highlighting how technology is reshaping the future of building operations. Discover key lessons on scaling solutions, fostering innovation, and understanding customer needs in a complex industry.Main Topics Covered: Andre’s career evolution from engineering to proptech and VC The importance of understanding customer priorities for technological adoption How Bell Rock’s Symphony platform empowers engineers and improves building management Navigating the challenges of scale-up in property technology The role of leadership and board support in driving industry change Strategies for startups to build credibility and scale within real estate The significance of people and culture alongside technology Upcoming industry trends and unresolved challenges in asset management Bell Rock Group (https://bellrockgroup.com/) Symfony Platform (https://bellrockgroup.com/symphony) Andre Bothma on LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/andre-bothma) Microsoft Fabric (https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/enterprise/fabric) Power BI (https://powerbi.microsoft.com/) JLL Integral (https://jll.com/) LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/andre-bothma) Twitter (https://twitter.com/andre_bothma) Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Andre’s background in engineering and proptech 01:21 - Transition from operational management to tech solutions 03:12 - Founding of Bell Rock and new platform Symphony 04:50 - Insights on investing, acquisitions, and start-up ecosystem 07:41 - Scaling technology in large real estate organizations 11:01 - Venture capital experience and industry insights 13:29 - Building trust with property owners and asset managers 15:16 - Leadership’s role in fostering innovation at Bell Rock 19:41 - Key factors for startups' success in the real estate tech space 22:57 - The importance of continuous value delivery and scaling issues 26:04 - Data insights and the importance of people in tech adoption 30:00 - How Symphony improves preventative maintenance and team autonomy 37:48 - Challenges in waste management, digital twins, and infrastructure disruptions 46:27 - Market gaps, industry needs, and Andre’s advice for new entrants 51:28 - The remaining hurdles in asset, energy, and sustainability management 55:48 - The potential of technology in managing complex, multi-asset environments 60:56 - Leadership influence and Andre’s mentors 61:47 - Tips for newcomers in the industry: network and relationship-building advice 65:28 - Opportunities for collaboration and innovation with Bell Rock 68:02 - The importance of integrated data and holistic approaches 72:23 - Customer-centric solutions and the future of building management 75:00 - The role of asset verification, waste, and digital twin solutions 76:38 - Lessons learned from healthcare and education sectors 77:05 - Final thoughts and next steps for listeners interested in proptech innovationResources & Links:Connect with Andre Bothma:Note: This episode reflects the convergence of technology, leadership, and strategic growth in the built environment industry. Andre’s insights underscore the critical role of customer-centric innovation, people, and data integration for future-proofing assets and operations.

10. 

    25 May 2026

    EP 12 - Seumas Kerr (Defence Impact)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary Seamus Kerr shares insights from his 35-year military career, leadership principles, and his work bridging the gap between the armed forces and the business community through Defence Impact. Discover how military leadership skills translate to the commercial world and the importance of purpose, decision-making, and social value in defense contracting. keywords Leadership, Military to Civilian Transition, Defence Impact, Business and Armed Forces, Leadership Principles, Strategic Decision-Making, Social Value, Military Networks, Veteran Employment, Cross-Sector Partnerships key topics Military leadership principles and their application in business The importance of purpose and decision-making in leadership Bridging the gap between the armed forces and the business community guest name Seamus Kerr Titles From Major General to Business Leader: Seamus Kerr's Leadership Journey Bridging the Gap: Military Skills in the Business World sound bites "Be bold and make decisions for the greater good" "Leadership is about serving and trusting your team" "Define your main effort and give clear objectives" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Seamus Kerr's Journey 02:47 The Path to Military Leadership 06:11 Military Training and Leadership Development 12:18 Transitioning to the Commercial World 15:51 Leadership Challenges in Business 19:42 Decision-Making and Leadership Philosophy 23:08 Bridging Business and Armed Forces 23:19 Creating Social Value in Defense Contracts 28:14 Skanska's Role in Supporting Military Talent 31:06 The Importance of Facility Management in Defense 36:20 Leadership Lessons from Military Experience 39:25 Mentorship and Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 42:48 Engaging with the Armed Forces Community resources Defence Impact - https://defenceimpact.org.uk/ Armed Forces Covenant - https://www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk/ BuildForce - https://buildforce.org.uk/ Skanska - https://www.skanska.co.uk/ Royal College of Defence Studies - https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/royal-college-of-defence-studies guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/seamus-kerr/

11. 

    22 Apr 2026

    EP9 - Chris Reid (BMSI)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this in-depth interview, Chris Reid, Managing Director at BMSI, shares his 30-year journey in the building management systems industry. From early beginnings in controls to leading a successful business, he discusses leadership, culture, technology, and talent development, offering valuable insights for aspiring professionals and industry veterans alike. keywords Building Management Systems, Leadership, Talent Development, Industry Insights, Technology in Buildings, BMSI, Career Journey, Industry Challenges, Innovation, Building Automation key topics Career journey in BMSI and controls industry Leadership and culture development Technology's role in smart buildings and energy optimization guest name Chris Reid key frameworks Leadership and Culture Development Talent Mapping and Apprenticeships Smart Building Technologies Energy Optimization Strategies Titles From Controls to Leadership: Chris Reid's 30-Year Industry Journey Building the Future: Insights from BMSI's MD Chris Reid sound bites "All right, see you." "It's about people, isn't it?" "Take as much jargon out of life." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chris Reid's Journey 00:53 Early Career and Family Influence 03:13 Career Progression and Key Experiences 06:01 Leadership Challenges and COVID-19 Impact 08:28 Cultural Development and Team Engagement 11:04 Communication and Transparency in Leadership 13:26 Lessons Learned from Mistakes 15:54 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations 23:29 Understanding Audience Dynamics 24:45 The Importance of Communication in Leadership 26:15 Learning from Failure and Adaptability 27:56 The Challenges of Public Speaking 29:45 The Reality of Leadership Responsibilities 31:36 The Future of Smart Buildings 34:51 Addressing the Skills Gap in the Industry 37:58 Investing in Future Talent 43:05 Advice for Newcomers in the Industry resources BMSI Careers Page - https://bmsi.co.uk/careers BCIA Apprenticeship Program - https://www.bcia.co.uk/education/apprenticeships Horizon Group Horizon Trailblazer Program - https://horizongroup.co.uk/ guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/chrisreid Company Website - https://bmsi.co.uk

12. 

    21 Apr 2026

    EP8 - Alex Green (Ashden)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Alex Green shares her journey from sustainability in various sectors to leading the Let's Go Zero campaign for UK schools. Discover how her work is transforming education estates into active climate infrastructures, the importance of human behavior, and practical strategies for achieving net zero in schools. keywords sustainability, education, net zero, climate action, schools, infrastructure, behavior change, UK, Let's Go Zero key topics The journey from sustainability to education leadership The impact of student activism on climate policy Strategies for decarbonizing school estates The importance of human behavior in sustainability Innovative solutions for overheating and flood resilience in schools guest name Alex Green Titles How UK Schools Are Going Zero Carbon: The Inside Story The Future of Sustainable Education with Alex Green sound bites "Most school buildings are already too warm for comfort" "Passive cooling and ventilation are key to climate resilience" "Access to private finance is the biggest challenge we face" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Education 11:12 Alex Green's Journey in Sustainability 13:11 The Impact of Student Strikes on Climate Action 15:45 Global Perspectives on Sustainability 17:38 Identifying Gaps in School Sustainability 20:08 Understanding Sustainability for Schools 24:20 The Ripple Effect of School Closures 27:21 Changing Approaches to Sustainability Advocacy 32:29 Adapting Schools for Climate Resilience 34:15 Cognitive Impact of Extreme Heat on Students 36:47 Leadership and Progress in Schools 38:39 Understanding Building Management and Usage 41:35 Making Environmental Management Easy 44:13 Challenges in Accessing Private Finance 46:52 Influences in Environmental Leadership 51:16 The Importance of Collaboration 53:40 Getting Involved with Let's Go Zero resources Let's Go Zero Website - https://www.letsgozero.org/ UK Department for Education Sustainability Strategy - https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/sustainable-schools Green Finance Institute - https://www.greenfinanceinstitute.co.uk/ UCL Research on Heat and Cognitive Function - https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2023/mar/heat-cognitive-performance-schools Oasis Community Organisations - https://www.oasisuk.org/ Education Estates Conference June 2023 - https://www.educationestates.com/ guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexgreen/ Website - https://www.letsgozero.org/

13. 

    17 Apr 2026

    EP 6 - Alice Hands (JLL)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Alice Hands, a sustainability expert with a rich background in ethical procurement and building operations, shares her journey, key lessons, and strategies for advancing sustainability in the built environment. From navigating supply chain challenges to leveraging technology and fostering stakeholder engagement, this conversation offers practical advice for professionals committed to making a difference. keywords sustainability, ethical procurement, built environment, supply chain, technology, stakeholder engagement, building operations, net zero, sustainability strategy key topics Ethical procurement and supply chain transparency The role of technology in sustainable building management Stakeholder engagement and communication in sustainability initiatives guest name Alice Hands key frameworks Stakeholder-Centric Approach Continuous Improvement Model action items Engage stakeholders early in the design process Leverage technology for real-time data analysis Build a culture of continuous optimization and learning Titles From Construction to Building Operations: Alice Hands' Sustainability Journey Mastering Ethical Procurement in the Built Environment sound bites "Better something on the screen." "Small daily tweaks can lead to big impacts." "Trust your gut and listen to your instincts." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:16 Alice's Journey in Sustainability 08:20 Ethical Procurement and Modern Slavery Act 12:56 Challenges in Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement 18:42 Innovation vs. Following in Sustainability 20:36 The Impact of Ethical Procurement 21:38 Harnessing Technology for Data-Driven Decisions 23:21 Communication and Stakeholder Engagement 25:09 Navigating Difficult Conversations 26:52 Balancing Aspirations and Realities 27:39 The Power of Small Changes 30:55 The Role of Mentorship in Career Growth 37:35 Advice for Newcomers in Sustainability 40:03 Engaging with the Sustainability Community resources JLL - https://www.jll.com/ Royal Geographic Society - https://www.rgs.org/ Modern Slavery Act 2015 - https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/30/contents/enacted Grid Edge - https://gridedge.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/ guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicehands/

14. 

    1 Apr 2026

    EP5 - Prash Kidiyoor (Zerogram)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Prash Kidiyoor shares his journey from renewable energy student to founder of ZeroGram, emphasizing practical steps for decarbonization, energy management, and navigating the evolving funding landscape. Discover how small, manageable actions can drive significant impact in the quest for Net Zero. keywords Net Zero, Energy Management, Decarbonization, Sustainability, Building Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Funding, Energy Audits, Corporate Sustainability, ZeroGram key topics Prash Kidiyoor's career journey from energy systems to ZeroGram Myth that decarbonization requires massive investments Importance of energy management and quick wins Impact of funding landscape on decarbonization projects Role of technology and data in energy efficiency Building resilience and cost certainty in energy strategies guest name Prash Kidiyoor key frameworks Step-by-step decarbonization Energy management as a foundation Funding and governance alignment Titles From Renewable Energy to Net Zero: Prash Kidiyoor's Journey Small Steps to Big Impact in Decarbonization sound bites "Simple wins in energy management make a huge impact" "Building efficiency is the fundamental step" "Nighttime audits reveal hidden energy waste" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Prash Kidiyoor and ZeroGram 01:45 Prash's Journey from India to Energy Consultancy 05:24 The Birth of ZeroGram and Its Mission 05:48 Debunking Myths in Decarbonization 09:00 The Impact of Energy Management on Cost Savings 10:03 Transitioning from Corporate to Startup 13:48 Navigating Funding Landscapes 18:04 Cost Certainty and Compliance 22:22 The Role of Technology in Energy Management 26:30 Learning from Experience and Mentorship 30:49 Engaging with Clients for Energy Solutions resources ZeroGram Website - https://zero-gram.com LinkedIn Profile of Prash Kidiyoor - https://linkedin.com/in/prashkidiyoor guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/prashkidiyoor

15. 

    23 Mar 2026

    EP4 - Freddie Pritchard-Smith (Trustek Group)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Freddie Pritchard-Smith shares his journey from property surveying to founding Trustek, an independent PropTech verification marketplace. Discover how his honest approach and focus on understanding real estate challenges are shaping the future of smart buildings and PropTech adoption. keywords PropTech, smart buildings, independent verification, real estate technology, building data, innovation, industry challenges key topics PropTech verification marketplace Challenges in smart building implementation The importance of honest industry insights guest name Freddie Pritchard-Smith Titles The Future of PropTech: Independent Verification and Building Data How Trustek Is Changing Real Estate Tech Decisions sound bites "Someone assumes someone else is doing something, but probably not." "I always give feedback I wish I had received." "A smart building should be when no one's there you turn it off." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Issues 00:00 Rules of the Game: Podcast Setup 00:00 Freddie's Journey into PropTech 01:59 Transitioning from Surveyor to Tech CEO 04:15 Building Relationships with Landlords 05:46 Barriers to Technology Adoption 07:18 Understanding the Real Problem in PropTech 09:23 The Need for Insight Over Data 10:41 Evolving from Builder to Consultant 11:10 Navigating Challenges in PropTech 14:58 Understanding the Innovation Journey 17:37 The Pursuit of Small Wins 20:01 Embedding Innovation in Culture 24:34 Vision for the Future of Building Audits 28:54 Adopting an Agile Mindset in Real Estate 31:54 Defining Smart Buildings 34:14 Engaging with the Verified Marketplace resources Freddie Pritchard-Smith on LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/freddiepritchardsmith guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/freddiepritchardsmith

16. 

    23 Mar 2026

    EP3 - Attiya Khan (Macro)

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this insightful interview, Atiya Khan shares her journey from environmental science to becoming a global sustainability leader in FM. She discusses the evolution of sustainability practices, the importance of data, and how education and industry collaboration drive change. keywords Sustainability, FM, Data, Decarbonization, Circular Economy, Net Zero, Environmental Management, Industry Collaboration key topics Evolution of sustainability practices in FM The role of data and technology in decarbonization Bridging industry and education for sustainable development guest name Attiya Khan Titles From Environmental Science to Global FM Sustainability Leader: Atiya Khan's Journey Decoding Sustainability: Data, Challenges, and Opportunities in FM sound bites "It's all about making buildings actually perform" "I challenge you to not complain for 30 days" "Trust in data is crucial for decarbonization" Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Pre-Conversation Nerves 00:00 Atiya's Journey in Sustainability 08:16 The Role of Education in Sustainability 11:44 Myths and Realities of Building Sustainability 17:17 Challenges in Implementing Sustainability 21:10 Essential Data for Sustainability Initiatives 29:21 Evolving Focus in Sustainability 30:07 The Impact of Public Disclosure 31:29 Biodiversity and Corporate Reporting 32:51 Shifts in Sustainability Standards 34:10 Circular Economy: Past and Present 36:41 Universal Sustainability Strategies 38:06 Cost Reduction as a Driver 40:21 The Challenge of Data Access 41:56 Influences and Mentorship in Sustainability 45:19 Advice for Newcomers in Sustainability 48:20 Opportunities for Engagement and Mentorship resources GHG Protocol - https://ghgprotocol.org/ ISO 14001 Environmental Management - https://www.iso.org/iso-14001-environmental-management.html BS 8001 Circular Economy Standard - https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/standards/ guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/atiyakhan

17. 

    9 Mar 2026

    EP 2 - Jessica Marshall (Oasis Community Learning)

    keywords sustainability, environmental management, education, building management, climate change, energy efficiency, community engagement, eco-friendly practices, carbon footprint, green careers summary In this conversation, Jessica Marshall, National Environment Sustainability Manager at Oasis Community Learning, shares her journey into sustainability, emphasizing the importance of connecting environmental strategies with the operational needs of educational institutions. She discusses the psychological aspects of sustainability, the significance of building relationships, and the need for effective communication to drive change. Jessica also highlights the role of data in managing buildings sustainably and the importance of engaging the next generation in environmental initiatives. takeaways Sustainability requires both data and human psychology. Building relationships is key to driving change. Engaging students in eco-initiatives fosters responsibility. Data helps identify inefficiencies in building management. Sustainability should be integrated into corporate strategy. The environment and education outcomes are interconnected. Authenticity in messaging is crucial for change. Conversations about sustainability should be accessible. New career paths in sustainability are emerging. Understanding different perspectives enhances environmental strategies. Titles Navigating the Path to Sustainability The Human Side of Environmental Management sound bites "It's about connecting the two." "The planet will adapt and change." "You have to build relationships." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup 00:00 Jessica's Journey in Sustainability 09:22 The Role of Psychology in Sustainability 14:38 Connecting Education and Environmental Sustainability 17:02 Influences and Mentorship in Sustainability 20:15 Advice for Newcomers in Sustainability 23:04 Engaging Students in Environmental Action 26:56 The Future of Sustainability Careers 28:46 Navigating Challenges in Sustainability Implementation

18. 

    23 Feb 2026

    EP 1 - Jonathan Shires (Munroe K)

    Keywords property management, career journey, sustainability, commercial real estate, workplace transformation, mentorship, personal development, building community, energy efficiency, professional growth Summary In this conversation, Jonathan Shires shares his extensive journey in the property management sector, detailing his early interests, career transitions, and the lessons learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of people in property management, the need for sustainability, and the value of mentorship. Jonathan also offers advice for the next generation entering the industry, highlighting the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and the necessity of continuous learning. Takeaways I've always been interested in property. I always say yes to everything. If you don't make a mistake, you don't learn. Get the people bit right first and everything else follows. Surround yourself with really good people. It's a privilege to mentor the next generation. You need to learn every day. Try and get a life balance right. Buildings are about people. It's about creating places worth commuting to. Titles Navigating the Property Landscape: Jonathan Shires' Journey From Average Student to Property Expert: A Career Story sound bites "I always say yes to everything." "You need to learn every day." "Buildings are about people." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:00 Jonathan's Journey into Property 05:01 Transitioning to Monroe Kay and Current Role 10:43 Lessons Learned in Property Management 15:59 The Importance of People in Property 21:40 Advice for the Next Generation 23:28 Closing Thoughts and Future Engagement

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