Amanda Goyette

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Curtis Moulton II, a Facility Engineering Manager at Pratt Whitney. They discuss the importance of effective communication in achieving team objectives and managing a large facility. Curtis emphasizes the crucial role of listening to team members and fostering a collaborative environment. He shares insights about bridging communication gaps between different shifts and departments, the significance of standard work in compliance, and empowering team members to make data-driven decisions. Additionally, Curtis talks about managing long-term projects, and his strategies for personal growth. He also introduces his company Nokomis Nuts, which focuses on making healthy eating accessible to everyone! Takeaways:Prioritize Effective Communication: Ensure that you can clearly articulate what you’re looking to achieve, the team's roles, and the objectives. Clear communication is the foundation upon which success is built.Listen to Your Team: Actively listen to your team's ideas and feedback. Often, the best ideas come from those who are directly involved in the tasks. This not only fosters innovation but also makes the team feel valued.Empower Your Team: Allow and encourage your team to make data-based decisions. This empowerment not only fosters growth and development but also instills a sense of ownership and accountability.Maintain Consistency Across Shifts: Establish consistent communication and procedures across different shifts. Ensure there is overlap for in-person handovers and use standardized notes and logs to maintain continuity.Implement Standard Procedures: Develop and utilize checklists or standard operating procedures that cater to the needs of different groups within your organization. This can streamline processes and ensure consistency.Have a Long-Term Vision: Think ahead and plan for the long term. Whether it’s infrastructure improvements or team development, having a 5 to 10-year vision helps ensure sustained success and preparedness for future challenges.Build Strong Relationships and Networks: Foster relationships both within and outside your organization. These networks are essential resources that you can rely on for support, advice, and collaboration during challenging times.Quote of the Show: “How we grow and develop is by making decisions and trying ourselves, learning, failing, getting back up and trying it again.”Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-moulton-ii-01a1b169/ Company Website: https://www.prattwhitney.com/ Nokomis Nuts: https://www.nokomisnuts.com/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: [insert link to YouTube video]Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Jeff Kaminski, an EH&S expert with 25 years of experience. Jeff shares insights from his career, including roles at Biogen and Sanofi, and his current position as Associate Director and Head of EH&S at EyePoint Pharmaceuticals. He discusses key lessons learned, such as the value of diverse perspectives, effective communication, and collaboration in facility management. Jeff highlights the critical role of EH&S in problem-solving and maintaining safety compliance and offers best practices for regulatory visits and cross-functional team engagement. He also addresses the importance of organizational culture, servant leadership, and adaptive safety programs. Takeaways: Understand Everyone's Unique Skill Set: Leaders should recognize that each team member brings a unique skill set to the table. Facilitating a culture where knowledge sharing is encouraged will help bridge any gaps in understanding and enhance overall team performance.Invest Time on the Frontlines: Spend time on the ground to understand the challenges that your team members face daily. This will provide you invaluable insights into potential improvements and help to build rapport and trust.Run Realistic Stress Tests: Prepare for regulatory visits or emergencies by conducting dry runs. Simulate these scenarios with third-party experts to stress test your preparedness. Review the results to make necessary adjustments.Cultivate Cross-Functional Relationships: Encourage participation in cross-functional groups and professional organizations outside your immediate field. This broadens perspectives, expands networks, and fosters innovative solutions to common challenges.Emphasize Empathy in Leadership: Adopt servant leadership principles, where leaders actively engage with their team to understand their pain points and concerns. Implement changes based on their input to show that their voices are heard and valued.Prepare for Failures and Emergency Response: Accept that failures can happen despite best efforts. Plan for these scenarios by creating a culture that welcomes discussing failures openly, encouraging learning and improvement from every incident.Integrate EHS into Organizational Culture: Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) should not be a bolt-on approach but integrated into the overall organizational culture. Clearly define and communicate your company’s culture to ensure that safety is an inherent part of your operations.Quote of the Show:“As I've progressed in my career, it's become less about the destination and more about the journey along the way.”Links:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrkaminski/ Website: https://eyepointpharma.com/ Shoutouts: American Industrial Hygiene Association: https://www.aiha.org/ Board of Certified Safety Professionals:https://www.bcsp.org/ ISPE: https://ispe.org/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/2nQrjuHFgEIFacility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Justin Frazier, a Senior Facilities Engineer at BAE Systems with a background as an Operations Manager in the U.S. Army. Justin shares his extensive experience in construction and facility management, emphasizing the importance of proactive communication, maintaining safety standards, and effective project management. He stresses that lessons learned from military service, such as 'cover your butt' and organization, are invaluable in facilities management. Adaptation to virtual meetings post-COVID and stringent safety protocols are also discussed. Justin's journey from a property maintenance job to a significant role at BAE Systems highlights his dedication and career growth, illustrating key strategies for success in the field. Takeaways:CYA (Cover Your Assets): Ensure all aspects of your projects and decisions are well-documented. This not only protects you but also maintains clarity and alignment among team members. Regularly document meetings, decisions, and tasks so that you can prevent misunderstandings and maintain accountability.Email Organization: Maintain a well-organized email system. This ensures that if someone needs to take over your responsibilities unexpectedly, they can easily access all necessary documents and correspondences. Effective email organization contributes to seamless transitions and minimizes project disruption.Safety First: Cultivate a safety-first culture. Always discuss potential risks before starting any task and ensure everyone has the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable raising safety concerns without fear of repercussions.Clear Communication: Ensure that all communication is clear and well-documented. Follow up verbal agreements with written summaries to avoid misunderstandings. Prioritize transparency and completeness in all communications to enhance team cohesion and project accuracy.Set and Follow Procedures: Implement standardized procedures for common tasks and ensure everyone follows them. Proper procedures help maintain quality and consistency across projects. Regularly review and update these procedures to adapt to new standards and practices.Prioritize and Manage Time Effectively: Distinguish between prioritization and time management. Just because a task is prioritized doesn’t mean it adds more time. Develop strategies to manage your time efficiently and don't be afraid to delegate or say no when necessary to focus on high-impact tasks.KISS Principle (Keep It Simple, Stupid): Simplify processes and documentation to ensure that everyone can understand and follow them easily. This principle helps in avoiding complexity and ensuring that tasks are completed correctly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of errors.Quote of the Show:“The way you explain, articulate, and communicate with others is crucial for achieving larger goals, strategies, and benefits.”Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-frazier-50b505138/ Website: https://jobs.baesystems.com/global/en Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/LLZ0DySOuFs Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Bill Cherry, a project manager at Lawton Welding. Bill, with his extensive experience in the iron and steelworks industry, discusses the significance of open communication, meticulous planning, and early project involvement. Bill highlighted the importance of minimizing facility downtime through precise task coordination, ensuring safety compliance, and building strong client relationships via proactive communication and advocacy. His journey from solo subcontractor to project manager underscores the importance of hands-on experience and adaptability for professional growth. His insights offer valuable lessons for leaders across all industries on forward-thinking, strategic planning, and understanding client needs for successful project execution. Takeaways: Open to Learning: Embrace a mindset that values continuous learning and feedback. Be receptive to new ideas and constructive criticism. Engaging actively with others, asking questions, and being willing to adapt based on new information fosters professional growth and skill enhancement.Hands-On Learning: Engage directly with your work to gain practical experience. This approach helps in deeply understanding the nuances of your profession or trade, as theoretical knowledge is often complemented by real-world application. Experiencing tasks firsthand can clarify complex concepts and improve competency.Early Involvement: Actively participate in projects from the outset to gain a comprehensive understanding of their scope and impact. Early engagement allows you to grasp ongoing processes, align with stakeholders, and address potential issues proactively, ensuring smoother execution and fewer surprises.Thorough Planning: Develop detailed plans and coordinate effectively with your team to ensure all project milestones are achieved. Comprehensive planning involves setting clear goals, defining roles and responsibilities, and anticipating potential challenges to avoid disrupting daily operations and ensure project success.Safety First: Prioritize safety by ensuring that all necessary equipment is available, providing proper training, and adhering to regulatory standards. Cultivating a strong safety culture not only protects personnel but also helps in maintaining compliance and preventing accidents.Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt and make adjustments as needed when unforeseen changes occur, particularly in dynamic fields like pharmaceuticals. Flexibility allows you to respond effectively to evolving circumstances and maintain project momentum despite challenges.Client Understanding: Develop a deep understanding of your clients and their projects by engaging with them closely. Anticipate their needs and requirements to avoid last-minute issues and ensure that their expectations are met. This proactive approach helps in building strong relationships and delivering tailored solutions.Quote of the Show:“Don’t be hard-headed, be open to learning lessons every day.” Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-cherry-0ab4aa134/ Website: https://www.lawtonwelding.com/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/gPSj0KRPOqY Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of 'Facility Rockstars,' host Jay Culbert interviews Cory Pouliot, Senior Facilities Manager at Boston Medical Center (BMC). Corey emphasizes the critical role of team collaboration in overcoming daily challenges in facility management across industries like healthcare and higher education. He shares insights on his strategies for fostering open communication and empowering team members. Corey also highlights BMC's sustainability initiatives, including a rooftop garden producing 15,000 pounds of produce annually and a clean power prescription program aiding patients financially with energy credits. Additionally, Corey discusses his experience teaching facility management at Wentworth Institute of Technology, underscoring the importance of educating and attracting new talent to the field. Takeaways: Value Your People: Emphasize the importance of your team. Great people make challenging times bearable and drive the success of your operations. Work towards their growth and development as individuals.Understand Individual Backgrounds: Get to know your team members, and understand their backgrounds and challenges. This creates a supportive work environment and helps address any outside stresses they might bring to work.Encourage Idea Sharing: Cultivate an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas. Regular meetings and open discussions can lead to innovative solutions and improve overall team performance.Measure and Manage: Implement sub-metering and AI tools to track and manage utility consumption effectively. This highlights inefficiencies and guides timely interventions, saving costs and enhancing overall efficiency.Invest in Sustainability: Seek sustainable initiatives that offer long-term savings and benefits. Reinvest any savings from utilities into improving patient care or other critical areas within your organization.Foster Relationships with Vendors: Build strong relationships with vendors. These partnerships are crucial in emergencies and provide flexibility and support when needed.Communicate Financial Needs Clearly: Explain financial requirements in a way stakeholders understand their direct impact on operations and patient care. Relating capital investments to operational uptime can help justify necessary expenses.Quote of the Show:"It may sound simple, but treating people like people is crucial to gaining trust from your team and having a better work environment”Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-pouliot-fache-60b9221/ Company Website: https://www.bmc.org/ Shoutouts: Tufts Medical Center: https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/Bob Biggio: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbiggio/Veolia North America: https://www.veolianorthamerica.com/ Wentworth Insitute of Technology: https://wit.edu/ Facility Management Program: https://wit.edu/academics/management/degrees/masters/facility-management Massachusetts Maritime Academy: https://www.maritime.edu/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/CPaQP7C_zNg Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Tim Romer, a manufacturing engineering manager with over 13 years of experience. Tim reveals his key takeaway from his career: the vital role of continuous improvement and lifelong learning. He stresses the importance of tackling weaknesses, leveraging strengths, and seeking guidance from mentors. Tim also talks about the benefits of avoiding organizational silos and building trust across departments. Drawing on his extensive background in research and teaching, Tim underscores the value of problem-solving, effective onboarding, and using lean tools like Six Sigma and Kaizen events to boost workplace productivity and quality. Takeaways: Embrace Continuous Improvement: Ensure that you and your team are constantly learning and improving. Encourage a culture of asking questions, seeking answers, and never leaving any rock unturned. This approach not only addresses weaknesses but also builds individual and team strengths.Build Strong Relationships: Invest time in building trust and strong relationships within your team and across departments. Breaking down silos and fostering collaboration can enhance productivity and job satisfaction. Trust and communication are key.Find and Be a Mentor: Seek out mentors who can challenge and inspire you. Equally, be willing to mentor others to cultivate new leaders. Mentorship should naturally develop from strong working relationships rather than be formally assigned.Promote Open Communication: Create opportunities for open dialogue, such as inviting members from other departments to your meetings and participating in theirs. This transparency helps in understanding cross-functional challenges and building trust.Apply Structured Problem Solving: Utilize industry tools like Six Sigma, DMAIC, A3s, and Kaizen events to solve problems efficiently. These methodologies can be applied to both technical issues and people management, ensuring data-driven decision-making.Invest in Training: Take advantage of training grants and funds to upskill your employees. Regularly poll your team to understand their training needs and invest in areas that benefit both individual growth and organizational success.Onboard with Mentorship: Pair new hires with experienced employees for a smooth transition. Include interactions with all relevant departments to fast-track integration and provide a clear, documented structure of their responsibilities to guide their progress.Quote of the Show:“Focus on self-improvement, both personally and professionally. You can achieve this by reading books, listening to podcasts, and building relationships that push you to become a better person. Surround yourself with people who uplift and challenge you to improve every day.”Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothyjohnroemer/ Website: https://resonetics.com/ Shoutouts: Six Sigma: https://www.sixsigmaonline.org/ DMAIC Process: https://asq.org/quality-resources/dmaic A3 Report: https://www.lean.org/lexicon-terms/a3-report/ Kaizen Events: https://kaizen.com/training/kaizen-event/ The Standard Work: https://www.gembaacademy.comWays to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/W5vR6ef5GXYFacility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Anthony Burke, a seasoned operating engineer who specializes in HVAC systems, maintenance management, and energy conservation at JLL Bristol Myers Squibb. The discussion explores the importance of gratitude, humility, and customer satisfaction, as well as the significance of thorough follow-ups and checks. Anthony highlights the need for ongoing education and training, addresses the challenges of evolving technology, and discusses workforce development. He draws on his Navy experience to provide insights into managing facility projects and shutdowns. Additionally, Anthony introduces his new business venture, DHT Consulting. Takeaways: Always Be Grateful and Humble: Successful leadership involves maintaining gratitude and humility. Recognize your achievements but stay grounded, appreciating the opportunities and the people around you.Spend Extra Time for Quality: Ensure your team dedicates the necessary time to deliver quality work. Spending an extra five minutes to ensure customer satisfaction can significantly impact your reputation and success.Reputation is Everything: A good reputation opens doors and creates opportunities. Encourage your team to always put their best foot forward and prioritize building a positive professional image.Stay Ahead of Technology: Keep up with technological advancements in your field. Continuous learning and sharing this knowledge with your team can give your organization a competitive edge.Consult with Those on the Ground: Incorporate feedback from the people who will be using or maintaining new systems or processes. Practical insights from the field can often highlight potential issues overlooked in theoretical designs.Project Shutdown Planning: Effective shutdown planning requires thorough coordination with all stakeholders. Proper scheduling and communication can prevent disruptions and ensure smooth project execution.Focus on Training and Education: Invest in ongoing training and education for your team. Hands-on learning and regular refreshers can build confidence and expertise, contributing to overall organizational success.Quote of the Show:“Nothing's going to happen overnight. You have to work at it and you have to get to those doors and open those doors for yourself.” Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-burkeJLL Website: https://www.us.jll.com/ Shoutouts: DHT Consulting Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Bill Cooper, the Facilities Director for the Milford New Hampshire School District. Bill shares his philosophy on learning from mistakes and the importance of never making the same mistake twice. The conversation delves into Bill’s extensive experience in facilities management and education, his best practices for handling emergencies, and the collaborative approach he takes with his team. Bill emphasizes the importance of reviewing and refining processes to avoid repeated errors and details an incident involving a flooded high school and his team's commendable response. Additionally, Bill speaks on managing multiple projects, coordinating with contractors, balancing work with personal life, and fostering a supportive, respectful team environment.  Takeaways:Learn from Mistakes: Emphasize the importance of learning from mistakes to avoid repeating them. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement and shows that making errors is part of the learning process.Review, Triage, and After Action: Implement a structured process for handling incidents, which includes reviewing what happened, addressing immediate concerns (triage), and conducting an after-action review to identify what can be improved for future situations. This ensures that lessons learned are applied.Foster Collaboration: Cultivate a collaborative environment where staff feel comfortable discussing what went wrong and proposing solutions. This helps build a strong team dynamic and encourages innovation.Employee Empowerment: Encourage employees to share their perspectives and suggestions. By listening to them and incorporating their feedback, you show that their input is valued, which can lead to higher engagement and better outcomes.Prioritize Effectively: When managing multiple projects, prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact. Communicate clearly about the priorities and ensure everyone understands the reasons behind these decisions.Empathy and Understanding: Take the time to understand your team's personalities and needs. Adapt your management style to fit different individuals, showing empathy and personal interest in their lives. This builds trust and loyalty.Work-Life Balance: Advocate for a healthy work-life balance. Remind your team (and yourself) that while work is important, it’s not the only thing in life. Encourage taking time off to recharge and spending time with loved ones.Quote of the Show:“Everyone does make mistakes and that's to be expected. We're not perfect.”  Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wscooper/ Website: https://www.milfordk12.org/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/nnbunBQ53E4Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In the latest episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Barton Nielsen, a seasoned leader with 19 years of experience in EH&S and a strong educational background, including an MBA from the University of California and a Master's in Biotech from Harvard. Barton shares his personal journey from being an individual contributor to becoming a leader and influencer in various roles. He emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, understanding team dynamics, and effective communication. Using examples from his career, including a challenging stint at a manufacturing facility and his current role at Regeneron, Barton explains the critical lessons he learned about delegation, setting expectations, and coaching. He also touches on his unique upbringing in a military community, which shaped his global perspective and service-oriented mindset. Barton provides actionable advice for those transitioning into leadership roles, stressing the importance of getting to know your team and communicating openly. Takeaways: Know Your Team Members Personally - You can't figure out how to motivate somebody if you don't know who they are. Take the time to understand your team members' personal and professional lives to better connect and motivate them.Build Relationships and Understand Your Environment - Relationship build and sit back and try to understand what you've just inherited so that you can put together your plan of attack. This ensures you leverage existing strengths and address any gaps effectively.Communicate Early and Often - Open lines of communication from the start. Regular updates and check-ins can prevent miscommunications, align expectations, and build trust within the team.Familiarize Yourself with People, Programs, and Culture - Get to know the people, the programs, and the culture. This comprehensive understanding allows for more nuanced decision-making and effective leadership.Embrace Continuous Learning and Self-Improvement - Reflect on past experiences and identify areas for improvement. Accept that there are always things you could do better and use those insights to evolve your leadership approach.Maintain Honesty and Transparency - Being honest and truthful is key to establishing credibility and trust. Even when delivering bad news, transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page and can plan accordingly.Avoid Lying by Omission - Not sharing critical information is as harmful as outright lying. Ensure that you communicate all necessary details to your team to avoid misunderstandings and foster a culture of open communication.Quote of the Show:“Most people want to feel utilized, they want to learn, and be successful.” Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartnielsen/ Website: https://www.regeneron.com/ Shoutouts: The First 90 Days: https://www.amazon.com/First-90-Days-Strategies-ExpandedWays to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/xYOGYUQDOCI Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

Host Jay Culbert interviews Josh Russell, a Senior EH&S Manager at the Janelia Research Campus and co-host of the Illusion of Safety podcast. Josh shares insights on blending safety and facility management. He emphasizes shifting from 'safety cops' to facilitators or concierges to foster innovation and efficiency.Josh discusses the importance of building and maintaining trust and communication through relationship-building, empathy, and active engagement. He has also developed training curriculums focusing on leadership and collaboration. Josh stresses that a supportive network and caring about others' experiences are crucial for success. He encourages safety professionals to be resources, engage in empathetic communication, and involve others in safety decisions. Takeaways:Building Relationships: Prioritize building strong relationships with your team. Establishing trust and rapport results in better cooperation and a more harmonious work environment. Practicing empathy and engaging in casual conversations can go a long way in forming solid connections.Effective Communication: Ensure that your communication is clear, consistent, and direct. Miscommunication can lead to errors and misunderstandings, so it's important to articulate your message effectively. Use face-to-face interactions whenever possible, as it conveys sincerity and builds stronger connections.Lead by Example: Show your team that you are committed to the same standards you expect from them. Being visible and engaged in their processes demonstrates your dedication and fosters respect and motivation within the team.Empathy in Leadership: Demonstrate genuine care and empathy towards your team's challenges and experiences. Understand their perspectives and recognize them as experts in their fields. This boosts morale and encourages a collaborative environment.Innovative Problem-Solving: Encourage your team to think outside the box and develop creative solutions to challenges. Partner with them to co-create solutions that are effective and innovative, rather than imposing top-down directives.Providing Support: Make yourself available as a resource. Be proactive in assisting your team with their needs, whether it's through providing tools, facilitating training, or simply being a listening ear. This reciprocity strengthens relationships and encourages a supportive organizational culture.Follow-Through: Consistently fulfill your promises and commitments. When you follow through on your word, your team learns to trust and rely on you. This reliability is fundamental to building a strong leadership reputation and fostering a dependable team.Quote of the Show:“I wanted to instill that muscle memory and mindset of thoughtful consideration. It's crucial to observe people thinking through their work comprehensively and from the perspective of others.” Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-russell-csp/ Website: https://www.janelia.org/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/FmOGbuthDK0 Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this 4th of July edition of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Pat Furze, the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at FMC Ice Sports. Pat discusses the importance of adhering to policies in business operations and the challenges of managing ice facilities, especially during the off season and in the case of a power outage. Pat explains how holidays can either boost or hinder their business and how they creatively utilize their facilities for non-ice events during off-seasons. Pat also highlights the significance of effective communication, the 'three Ps' (policies, politics, and personalities), and maintaining compliance with state regulations. Additionally, Pat shares insights from his earlier work experience with the Boston Celtics and emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact in the community.  Takeaways:Prioritize Clear Communication: It all goes back to communication. Ensure that open and transparent communication channels are in place. This prevents misunderstandings and builds trust within your team. Encourage regular updates and feedback loops to keep everyone aligned.Adhere to Established Policies: Stick to the policies that are outlined. Consistency is key to maintaining order and fairness in your organization. Deviating from established policies can lead to confusion and might compromise the integrity of the management.Provide Clarity and Justifications for Decisions: Explaining the 'why' behind decisions is crucial. When people understand the reasoning, they are more likely to accept and support the outcomes, even if they don't agree with them. This approach helps in building a culture of transparency and inclusiveness.Embrace and Address Challenges Head-On: You can't hide from the hard stuff. Addressing difficult issues directly, rather than avoiding them, helps prevent bigger problems down the line. This approach develops resilience and problem-solving skills within the team.Focus on Policy Adherence for Long-Term Stability: Continuously sticking to policies, even when it's challenging, ensures long-term stability and predictability in operations. It prevents a 'slippery slope' effect where exceptions become the rule and operational consistency deteriorates.Accept that Not Everyone Will Be Satisfied: It's important to recognize that you will never make 100% of the people happy. Focus on making decisions that are in the best interest of the organization and the majority of stakeholders. Accepting this fact can help in making fair and balanced decisions.Manage Expectations Through Effective Communication: Continually communicate to manage expectations. This involves not just the initial communication but follow-ups and updates as situations evolve. It ensures all parties are aware of what is happening and why, which reduces frustration and uncertainty.Quote of the Show:"You can't avoid the hard stuff; if you do, it'll come back harder next time."Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickfurze/ Website: https://fmcicesports.com/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/UoWrePztBNA Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Kevin Blacker, the Director of Operations at Alta Material Handling. Kevin shares his expert insights on the critical aspects of forklift management, emphasizing the importance of safety, maintenance, and uptime. Kevin explains that proper operator training is crucial for safety and suggests that facilities implement regular maintenance schedules. Kevin also discusses modern advancements in forklift technology, including LiDAR systems and automated guided vehicles. Additionally, he touches on the importance of maintaining clean and debris-free facilities to ensure operational efficiency.  Takeaways: Safety, Maintenance, and Uptime: These are critical components for every facility professional operating forklifts. Ensuring these three aspects can significantly reduce downtime and increase overall operational efficiency.The Importance of Having a Trained Operator: Proper training and certification of forklift operators are paramount. A trained operator is more likely to handle the equipment safely and according to regulations, reducing the risk of accidents.Maintenance Schedule: Adhering to a strict maintenance schedule, including daily checklists and periodic inspections, is essential. Consistent maintenance helps in identifying potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring the equipment remains operational.Facility Maintenance: Maintaining the facility itself, such as keeping aisles clear and floors free of debris, directly impacts the performance and longevity of forklifts. A clean environment minimizes the risk of damage to the equipment and enhances safety.Dusty Environments: For facilities that are particularly dusty, extra care must be taken with electric forklifts. Keeping vents and other components clean is crucial to prevent malfunctions and ensure proper functioning.Equipment Safety: Perimeter and zone lights are additions that enhance safety by projecting lights to create safety zones around forklifts. This visual deterrent can help prevent accidents, especially in noisy environments where auditory signals might be missed.Adaptability to Facility Needs: The type of equipment best suited for a facility depends on various factors, including aisle size, load types, and specific operational needs. Facilities must choose forklifts that are adaptable to their unique environments to optimize performance.Quote of the Show:"If I had entered this industry earlier and experienced the growth I've seen over the last 10 years, I would have started sooner. It might sound crazy, but while I don't live and die for forklifts, I truly enjoy what I do.”Links:Website: https://materialhandling.altg.comResources: https://materialhandling.altg.com/parts-and-services/training/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://youtu.be/MBAX4hYeCks Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, we delve into the insights of John Menard, a seasoned entrepreneur renowned for his prowess in scaling companies. Currently spearheading Trailblaze Bio, John shares invaluable advice on leveraging networking opportunities for career advancement. Emphasizing the importance of every conversation, he reveals practical strategies such as flagged emails and consistent follow-ups to nurture professional relationships. John elucidates on managing operations within small biotech firms, stressing the need for agility and lean management amid financial constraints and rapid expansion. His expertise extends to cultivating reliable vendor partnerships and making strategic real estate decisions pivotal for early-stage ventures. Moreover, John underscores the equilibrium between work and personal life, advocating for outsourcing non-core functions to ensure sustainable growth. Join us as we explore John Menard's blueprint for navigating the dynamic landscape of biotech startups.Takeaways:Never Turn Down a Conversation: Emphasize the importance of engaging with people who reach out to you, as these connections can prove valuable in both your career and personal life. Every interaction, no matter how small, can potentially lead to new opportunities, collaborations, or insights that may not be immediately apparent.Structured Networking Routine: Discuss a disciplined approach to networking, which involves flagging non-urgent messages and setting aside dedicated time each week to follow up on networking opportunities. Stress the significance of maintaining a consistent and structured networking routine to nurture relationships and stay connected within the professional community.Agility and Lean Operations in Startups: Highlight the necessity of being agile and maintaining lean operations in small biotech companies. Emphasize the importance of efficiently managing resources, optimizing processes, and adapting quickly to changes in order to scale up the business rapidly while minimizing unnecessary expenditures.Building Trusted Vendor Relationships: Emphasize the critical nature of cultivating long-term, reliable relationships with vendors. This involves not only ensuring timely payments but also creating a supportive environment where vendors feel valued and motivated to deliver high-quality services consistently. Building trust with vendors can significantly enhance operational efficiency and overall business performance.Managing Work-Life Balance: Share insights into achieving a healthy work-life balance. Stress the importance of unplugging from work, dedicating time to hobbies and family, and prioritizing personal well-being. By maintaining a balanced lifestyle, individuals can recharge mentally and physically, leading to improved productivity and creativity in their professional endeavors.Pitfalls in Real Estate Obligations: Advise startups to approach real estate decisions cautiously, particularly in the early stages of growth. Suggest avoiding committing substantial resources to long-term real estate obligations and instead exploring flexible alternatives like incubator spaces. This approach allows startups to remain financially nimble and adapt their physical workspace according to evolving business needs.Outsourcing Non-Core Functions: Introduce the concept of outsourcing non-core business functions to specialized service providers. Explain how leveraging on-demand services for tasks such as IT, HR, and finance can reduce overhead costs, access specialized expertise, and scale operations more efficiently. This strategic outsourcing enables startups to focus their internal resources on core business activities critical to achieving their mission and growth objectives.Quote of the Show:“Never turn down a conversation. Making those connections with people, that's always the most important thing.Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-menard/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com 

In this episode of Facility Rockstars, host Jay Culbert interviews Rich Regitano, Vice President of Engineering at AvalonBay Communities. With over two decades of experience in real estate, Rich shares his insights on the challenges of obtaining quality feedback and the importance of effective communication. He discusses the nuances of conducting surveys, creating training programs tailored to the needs of the team, and his innovative approach to 'just-in-time' training. Rich emphasizes the significance of building rapport and asking the right questions to get genuine feedback. He also sheds light on managing a vast portfolio of properties and ensuring seamless operations across different locations. Rich's approach to leadership is collaborative, always aiming for continuous improvement and prioritizing safety. He closes with reflections on past decisions and personal advice for upcoming leaders, underlining the importance of taking calculated risks and trusting one's instincts. Takeaways:Invest in Getting Quality Feedback: Ensure you’re diligent in collecting feedback from multiple sources rather than relying on surface-level responses. Quality feedback requires thoughtful questions that elicit meaningful insights. Remember, understanding what people need to hear, not just what they want to hear, makes all the difference.Build a Rapport with People to Get Honest Feedback: Before diving into questioning, spend time building a rapport with your team or stakeholders. People are more likely to provide genuine and honest feedback when they feel comfortable and understood. This trust-building process ultimately results in more accurate insights and productive discussions.Use Varied Methods of Training: Not everyone learns the same way, so offer different modes of training to accommodate diverse learning styles. Whether it's in-person sessions, mobile-first videos, or quick reference guides, ensuring accessibility to resources enhances learning efficiency. Always think about your team’s success when designing training programs.Flip the Script on Training: Implement 'just-in-time' training that provides quick, concise tutorials available on-demand, especially when tasks aren't performed regularly. Supplement comprehensive training sessions with short, focused videos to refresh memory in real-time. This approach caters to the need for timely information, helping your team perform tasks accurately when needed.Importance of Safety Protocols: Prioritize safety by establishing recurring safety meetings, protocols, and practical demonstrations. Ensuring everyone on your team understands and follows safety guidelines guarantees they can work efficiently and return home safely. A strong safety culture not only protects your team but also enhances overall productivity.Jeff Bezos's One-Way vs Two-Way Door Decisions: Distinguish between one-way (irreversible) and two-way (reversible) decisions to move faster in a competitive environment. Encourage your team to make and learn from two-way decisions, where they can pivot easily if necessary. This approach empowers innovation and efficiency while reducing the paralysis from overanalysis.New Communication Techniques: Streamline communication by consolidating key information into predictable, periodic updates such as weekly emails or monthly newsletters. This ensures your team stays informed without becoming overwhelmed by constant messages. Effective communication requires a balance between frequency and clarity to maintain engagement and productivity.Quote of the Show:"Safety is paramount for us; it's the most important thing. Ensuring that every individual who comes to work today can return safely home to their family is our top priority."Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rregitano/ Website: https://www.avaloncommunities.com/about-us/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0M2XB78b09i5vkWy1eHsxb Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/facility-rockstars/id1729458441 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/60bbc4f3-a123-47ca-9a83-eade102c5859/facility-rockstars Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/facility-rockstars-5616662 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmLbhPqlPpRGZR4gRsSN7WZnZVnpH36x_ Facility Rockstars Newsletter: https://subscribe.kaloutas.com Facility Rockstars is sponsored by Kaloutas, operating the way you operate in order to make your life easier. Learn more at: https://www.kaloutas.com