Every day, over 1,000 staff members who are part of UW Facilities work hard to keep campus running. Facilitating Change is a podcast where Facilities staff shares their stories and what drives them in their dedication to serving the University. Brought to you by the Facilities Action for Inclusion and Respect (FAIR) Coalition, the podcast allows you to meet the change makers driving excellence behind the scenes, whether it’s maintaining campus operations, keeping spaces clean, managing massive capital projects or leading sustainable initiatives.
uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)
The Power of Showing Up: 30 Years of Dedication and Doing the Work with Jodi van Matri
In this concluding episode of Facilitating Change, hosted by Dr. Adrian Carter, we spotlight Jodi Van Matri from the University of Washington's Facilities Management. Jodi shares insights from her 30-year journey at UW, her various roles, and her commitment to supporting leadership within facilities. From her humble beginnings to her current pivotal administrative role, Jodi attributes her success to her supportive environment and the inspirational resilience of her single mother. The conversation also delves into the importance of self-care, personal anecdotes, and the value of teamwork. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the people driving excellence behind the scenes at UW.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
8 Sept 2026
Big Brain Energy: Ryan Balkcom on Botany, Beats, and Bold Adventures
In this episode of Facilitating Change, host Dr. Adrian Carter interviews Ryan Belcomb, a multifaceted staff member at the University of Washington Facilities Organization. Ryan shares his journey as a botany-educated gardener, musician, and rock climber. He discusses his passion for maintaining UW's campus beauty, his artistic approach to gardening, and his involvement in safety initiatives within the facilities group. The conversation also delves into Ryan's background, his diverse interests, and the importance of kindness and mutual respect in his work and life.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
11 Aug 2026
Faith, Leadership, and 30 Years of Service: Roman Ariri's Journey at UW Facilities
In this episode of 'Facilitating Change,' Dr. Adrian Carter interviews Roman Ariri from the University of Washington Facilities Department. Roman shares his unique journey from growing up in Nigeria and moving to the U.S. at 16, to working for UW for over 30 years. He discusses his dual role as a facilities supervisor and a preacher, detailing his spiritual enlightenment and its impact on his management style. Roman also emphasizes the changes in diversity, equity, and inclusion at UW and shares insights about his upbringing, leadership from a young age, and his father's influence. The episode ends with a discussion on Roman's spiritual messages and advice for new employees.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
14 Jul 2026
Staying in the Paint: Emily Adams’ Bold Stand for Sustainable Impact at UW
In this episode of 'Facilitate and Change,' host Dr. Adrian Carter engages with Emily Adams, a Sustainability Project and Engagement Specialist at the University of Washington. Emily shares her journey of acquiring a Master's in Sustainability Leadership, hosting the 'Urban Tumbleweed' podcast, and her passionate involvement in sustainability projects. Emily discusses the intersectionality of sustainability with equity and justice, her diverse childhood experiences between New York and North Carolina, and her active involvement in the Seattle community through various volunteer roles. Additionally, she touches on her family's influence, particularly her mother's, and reflects on her leadership experiences. The episode wraps up with a fun rapid-fire round digging into Emily’s personal preferences.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
9 Jun 2026
Rooted in Reality: Ian Wyborsky on Labor, Learning, and Living with Intention
In this episode of Facilitating Change, host Dr. Adrian Carter interviews Ian Wyborsky from the University of Washington Facilities Department. They discuss Ian's role as a groundskeeper, his experiences working with the mow crew, and his background including his academic journey and diverse travel experiences. Ian shares insights on his environmental studies, the mindfulness derived from his job, and his travel adventures such as 'woofing' in the UK. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about personal growth, sustainability, and the value of being present in everyday tasks.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
12 May 2026
24 Years of Legacy: From Guam to UW
In this episode of the 'Facilitating Change' podcast, hosted by Dr. Adrian Carter, Vina Lorenzo shares her 24-year journey at the University of Washington facilities. Vina, a budget analyst for capital funding, discusses her role, including her responsibilities across multiple UW campuses and the innovative database she created. The conversation delves into her background, from her move from the Philippines to Guam and eventually to Seattle. Vina's passion for her work, her commitment to collaborating with her team, and her love for helping others are highlighted, making this episode a testament to dedication and perseverance.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
14 Apr 2026
Mapping Mars to Mastering Data
In this episode of 'Facilitating Change,' host Dr. Adrian Carter interviews Jonathan Pruitt, a data analyst at the University of Washington Facilities Organization. Jonathan shares his diverse career path, from Mars rover mapping to working at Google Maps, and discusses his love for data. The conversation highlights his background in the National Guard, his approach to effective work, and his unique sense of humor. Jonathan also talks about his views on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, and offers advice on mental health and career patience.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
9 Mar 2026
From Classrooms to Clean Spaces: Thomas Bain on Service, Simplicity, and Self-Discovery
In this episode of the Facilitating Change podcast, Thomas Bain, a custodian with the building services department, shares his journey from being an elementary assistant teacher for 17 years to his current role at UW facilities. He discusses the perks and challenges of his new job, his involvement in the Stepping Stones program for personal growth, and his love for travel and music. Thomas also reflects on how his extensive teaching background influences his current work, the importance of building and maintaining relationships, and his life philosophy that 'you get out of life what you put into it.' Listeners also get a glimpse into his childhood memories, family dynamics, and his favorite experiences while traveling.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit uwffaircoalition.substack.com (https://uwffaircoalition.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Contact UW's Facilitating Change
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of UW's Facilitating Change?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
