Better Buildings For Humans

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes building science legend Dr. Joseph Lstiburek for an unfiltered and unforgettable conversation. From mold to CO₂ myths, Joseph challenges conventional thinking about ventilation, insulation, humidity control, and what really makes a building “healthy.” With decades of hands-on experience, a sharp wit, and a no-nonsense take on industry dogma, he dives deep into where the U.S. is falling short—and how Canada got it right. You'll hear why "drying potential" matters more than you think, the trouble with high-performance HVAC, and why most over-ventilated buildings are actually failing their occupants. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about high-performance buildings, durable design, and real-world building science.

More About Thierry Paret

Thierry Paret is an award-winning architect and seasoned leader with extensive international management experience in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East. As Vice President of the Architecture and Engineering Department at the New York City School Construction Authority (NYCSCA), he oversees the design of renovations, upgrades, and new construction for approximately 1,500 school buildings. Each year, his team designs or manages external consultants responsible for designing 10-12 new schools for the NYC Department of Education, part of a $20.6 billion capital plan for the nation’s largest unified school system, which serves nearly one million students.

Thierry leads a team of 300 architects, engineers, designers, project managers and administrators, ensuring design excellence across all projects. His leadership extends to two studios responsible for managing contracts with external private-sector firms, further supporting the Authority’s ambitious infrastructure goals.

Prior to joining NYCSCA in 2023, Thierry led the New York State practice at IBI Group-Arcadis, overseeing operations in New York City and Binghamton. He has held senior design leadership roles at several international architecture firms, served as a Design Advisor to the government of Qatar, and acted as Campus Architect for the prestigious King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia which happened to be the first LEED Platinum campus in the Middle East.

A registered architect in multiple U.S. states, the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland, Thierry’s portfolio spans university campuses, corporate headquarters, life science facilities, and mixed-use developments, with a focus on sustainability. His commitment to the profession is evident through his service on numerous boards and committees, including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Board, where he was a Director-at-Large, founding President of AIA International and AIA Middle East, and member of NCARB's International Competency Workgroup. Thierry was most recently elected to the AIA National’s Strategic Council as a Counselor for the 2025-2027 term.

Thierry has been a presenter at architectural and industry conferences in the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East during his extensive international career.

In 2014, Thierry was inducted into the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects, an honor held by only 2.5% of AIA members. He is also an AIA Richard Upjohn Fellow.

Contact:

http://linkedin.com/in/thierry-paret-faia-ncarb-riba-arb-mriai-leed-ap-8859849

www.nycsca.org

 www.thierryparet-architect.com

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www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes building science legend Dr. Joseph Lstiburek for an unfiltered and unforgettable conversation. From mold to CO₂ myths, Joseph challenges conventional thinking about ventilation, insulation, humidity control, and what really makes a building “healthy.” With decades of hands-on experience, a sharp wit, and a no-nonsense take on industry dogma, he dives deep into where the U.S. is falling short—and how Canada got it right. You'll hear why "drying potential" matters more than you think, the trouble with high-performance HVAC, and why most over-ventilated buildings are actually failing their occupants. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about high-performance buildings, durable design, and real-world building science.

More About Joseph Lstiburek

Joseph LSTIBUREK, B.A.Sc., M.Eng., Ph.D., P.Eng., is the founding principal of Building Science Corporation and an ASHRAE Fellow.  He is a building scientist who investigates building failures.  Dr. Lstiburek received an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto, a master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Toronto and a doctorate in Building Science Engineering from the University of Toronto.   He has been a licensed Professional Engineer since 1982. 

The Wall Street Journal referred to him as “the dean of North American building science.”  Fast Company magazine called him “the Sherlock Holmes of construction”.  He is internationally recognized and his work has influenced building codes and standards in every climate zone.

He is a recipient of the Carl Cash Award from ASTM, a “Becky” from the Ontario Building Envelope Committee (OBEC) and the EEBA Legacy Award all for lifetime contributions to building science.  He has also been inducted into the Building Performance Industry Hall of Fame and has received the NESEA Professional Leadership Award for "changing the way we think about building science and how we perform our work”.

Dr. Lstiburek is an acclaimed educator who has taught thousands of professionals over the past four decades and has written countless papers.  He has a joy for telling tall tales to his proteges and audiences.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-lstiburek-03290029/ 

https://buildingscience.com/ 

Where To Find Us:

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Cydian Kauffman, founder of Pure Water Northwest, for an essential conversation on one of the most overlooked aspects of healthy buildings: water quality. From shocking realities about what “legal” versus “healthy” water means, to the growing threat of PFAS and microplastics, Cydian unpacks the hidden complexities of our water systems. With a background in property management and mediation, he brings a unique perspective to the intersection of infrastructure, education, and public health. You'll learn why even clean-looking water can be problematic, how different building types—from homes to hospitals—face distinct challenges, and what technologies are actually effective in protecting our water. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about making buildings safer, smarter, and more sustainable from the inside out.

More About Cydian Kauffman

Cydian Kauffman is the founder of Pure Water Northwest, where he helps homeowners, families, and communities take control of their water quality using science-backed, practical solutions. With years of hands-on experience in water treatment and a passion for public education, Cydian has guided clients across the Pacific Northwest through challenges like industrial runoff, high iron levels, bacterial contamination, arsenic, iron bacteria, and even mysterious health issues tied to hidden toxins in household water.

What sets Cydian apart is his commitment to demystifying water. He believes people shouldn’t be forced to blindly trust experts or marketing claims-they should understand what’s in their water and what really works to make it safe. That’s why he’s unafraid to tackle complex and often controversial topics like fluoride, PFAS (“forever chemicals”), structured water, and hydrogenated water, cutting through the myths and misinformation to deliver clear, actionable insights.

Cydian is a passionate educator and problem-solver who believes water clarity should mean more than just how it looks-it should mean transparency about its true contents and impacts. Whether helping families protect their drinking water or working with communities to improve group systems, his mission is to empower people with knowledge so they can make confident, informed decisions for their health and well-being.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cydian-kauffman/ 

Where To Find Us:

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www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Yiselle Santos Rivera—architect, educator, and the incoming president of the AIA—to explore how buildings can become tools for healing, justice, and joy. Yiselle shares her journey from genetics labs in Puerto Rico to the forefront of neuroarchitecture and design leadership. She unpacks how architecture intersects with public health, economic mobility, and climate resilience, and why design excellence is inherently about people. From tropical modernism to the power of culturally responsive spaces, Yiselle reveals why the future of architecture must be collaborative, community-rooted, and deeply human. Whether you're an architect, planner, or policy-maker, this episode will reignite your passion for the built environment as a force for good.

More About Yiselle Santos Rivera

Yiselle Santos Rivera, AIA, NOMA, NCARB, SHRM-SCP, is a healthcare architect, medical planner, educator, and organizational leadership strategist whose work sits at the intersection of architecture, neuroscience, culture, and human well-being. She serves as the 2026 President-Elect of the American Institute of Architects, where she is shaping a national agenda focused on community health, professional joy, and a future-ready architectural workforce.

Yiselle is the Founder and CEO of YSR, LLC, a consultancy that blends healthcare design, neuroarchitecture, leadership psychology, and intercultural experience design. Her work centers on creating environments that elevate dignity, belonging, and wellness for diverse communities. She also teaches at Howard University, where she encourages emerging designers to lead with empathy, cultural awareness, and an understanding of how the built environment shapes human potential.

Her leadership journey includes service on the AIA Strategic Council, the AIA Board of Directors, and multiple national task forces advancing public health, resilience, and equity. She is the creator of WIELD, a storytelling platform for women in design, and co-founder of LA.IDEA, the first Latinx-focused committee at AIA DC.

Yiselle is a published author, national speaker, and advocate for redefining design excellence through the lens of people, purpose, and impact.

.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yisellesantosrivera/ 

https://www.yisellesantosrivera.com/ 

www.ysrconsultancy.com  

Where To Find Us:

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www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski explores the fascinating science of light and health with Jan Denneman, founder of the Good Light Group and a 45-year veteran of the lighting industry. Jan unpacks the critical—yet often overlooked—role of light in regulating our circadian rhythms, boosting sleep quality, enhancing mood, and even reducing national healthcare costs. From the newly discovered “spheres” in our eyes to the magic of 500 lux, Jan explains how most indoor environments fall into what he calls a “twilight zone,” biologically speaking. He also dives into why natural light trumps artificial, and how healthier buildings could be our biggest untapped wellness tool. If you care about human-centered design, lighting innovation, and boosting occupant performance, this episode is a must-listen.

More About Jan Denneman

Jan Denneman is the founder and chairman of the Good Light Group and ambassador of the Global Lighting Association. The Good Light Group is a non-profit organization promoting good indoor lighting — either natural daylight or electric light with comparable positive effects on health and well-being. Good light helps synchronize the biological clock, improves sleep quality, increases daytime energy, and supports a better mood and long-term health. With more than 45 years of experience in lighting, 

Jan has developed deep expertise in how light affects human health. He served as Vice President at Philips Lighting (now Signify) and held leadership roles in innovation, product development, marketing, and sustainability. Jan co-founded several leading international consortia, including: Global Lighting Association (Chairman 2007–2017), Zhaga Consortium, The Connected Lighting Alliance, LightingEurope (Chairman 2013–2017), Good Light Group (Chairman since 2019) Jan shares his expertise on healthy lighting and sleep through short videos on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook

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Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-denneman-a60bb57/?originalSubdomain=nl 

https://www.jandenneman.com/ 

https://www.goodlightgroup.org/ 

https://globallightingassociation.org/ 

Where To Find Us:

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www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski dives into a real-world case study with David Leinbach of Kaiser Martin Group and Terry MacGillivary from Advanced Glazings. The spotlight? A high-profile U.S. government project where cutting-edge daylighting met energy efficiency demands head-on. David and Terry unpack how SoleraWall—a revolutionary glass-based translucent wall system—replaced traditional materials to solve tough design challenges, including heat loss, glare, and longevity. Together, they reveal how thoughtful engineering and collaboration turned a spec rejection into a design triumph, delivering R5 insulation performance (U-Value 0.2) and lasting visual impact. From the installation process to the "quiet wow" of natural light done right, this episode shines a light on how buildings can be both beautiful and brilliantly functional. If you care about smart daylighting, occupant comfort, and better buildings—don’t miss this one.

More About David K. Leinbach and Terry MacGillivary

David K. Leinbach is President and founder of Kaiser Construction. He then acquired Martin Construction Company of Denver, Pa., a commercial contractor in 2010. In 2017 the companies merged into Kaiser-Martin Group thereby creating a General Contracting company suited for future growth.  David also has majority ownership of Kaiser Investment, which is a Property Management firm.   With over 39 years of experience in the construction industry, David has hands-on expertise in all areas of operating a construction firm.  A BS in Business Management and Course work for a Master of Management has helped to enhance the skills needs to meet today’s marketplace.  David has the practical experience in the governmental sector; having served 18 years as an Elected Township Supervisor and as the Chairman for ABC SEPA, BIE and the TCACC Legislative Committees.  His community service extends from working with his church, holding a national soccer coaching and referee license, serving on boards for ABC Insurance Trust, PAID, and Tri-County Chamber of Commerce, Steel River Performing Arts Center and other local organizations. Additionally, he serves as Vice-President of MBCEA and served on Nucor Building Group’s “Business Advisory Team”. 

Terry MacGillivary joined Advanced Glazings Ltd (AGL) in 2017 to oversee and manage the development, marketing and deployment of the SoleraWall System - the world's only translucent wall assembly system made of long-lasting glass.   Mr. MacGillivary's wide array of work and life experiences - applied sciences, technical sales, construction management, research and development - have been key in forging a path for the SoleraWall System in new building markets - like the metal building industry.  Mr. MacGillivary is also directly involved in new business development with AGL. This includes program-based corporate projects, special projects as well as international/overseas projects and programs.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-leinbach-b3050049/ 

https://kaisermartingroup.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-macgillivary-2aa68045/?originalSubdomain=ca 

Where To Find Us:

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www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski connects with Georg Molzer, Austrian tech visionary and creator of Shadowmap—a groundbreaking platform that’s redefining our relationship with sunlight. From early engineering dreams to burnout recovery and a brilliant balcony epiphany, Georg shares how a dark Viennese winter inspired him to illuminate how we understand solar exposure in cities, homes, and beyond. In this episode, Georg and Joe explore how Shadowmap’s intuitive 4D visualization tool is empowering architects, real estate developers, and everyday users to design healthier, more sun-filled environments. They dig into the rising global awareness of sunlight’s impact on health and productivity, and how data-rich simulations can prevent costly design mistakes. Whether you’re an architect, planner, or sunlight enthusiast, this conversation will make you think differently about how—and where—we build.

More About Georg Molzer

At the age of 16, while still attending high school, Georg Molzer had his first job as a programmer and designer for a Viennese health startup. Four years later, while studying visual computing at TU Wien, he founded his first consulting company. In 2015, he became co-founder and CTO of kiweno, an Austrian health tech startup, where he gained important entrepreneurial experience and went through the typical (and perhaps also less typical) founder’s journey.

His subsequent burnout and his love of the sun led him to follow his heart and work on an idea he had had six years earlier during a dark Viennese winter: an app that reconnects people with the sun: Shadowmap. Georg is convinced that the sensible use of solar energy – and the power of the sun in general – would solve many global problems in no time: better architecture, more livable living space, healthier and happier lives, higher, sustainable energy yields. Putting humanity first. His passion for the topic has turned Shadowmap into a globally leading product within a few years, which is used by hundreds of thousand people worldwide every month and is now also integrated into large real estate portals, reaching more humans than ever before.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molzer 

https://www.x.com/georgmolzer 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/shadowmap/

https://www.instagram.com/shadowmap_org 

https://www.x.com/shadowmap_org 

Where To Find Us:

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www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski explores the evolving world of K-12 design with Cory Boudreau, architect at SLAM Collaborative. From a Lego-loving kid to a leader in educational design, Cory shares how his winding career path—from healthcare megaprojects to transformative school campuses—shaped his belief in architecture’s power to influence learning and well-being. In this episode, Cory dives into how modern school design embraces daylighting, outdoor learning, flexible spaces, and even VR labs to create environments where students thrive. He also unpacks how sustainability goals, trauma-informed design, and community needs are reshaping the way we think about the places where our kids learn and grow. Whether you're a designer, educator, or parent, this episode will make you see schools—and architecture—in a whole new light.

More About Cory Boudreau

Cory Boudreau is a Project Architect and Associate at the SLAM Collaborative in Providence, RI. He has over 12 years of experience designing educational, civic, and community-focused spaces. He is licensed in RI, MA, NC, and SC.  Cory began his design career in Rhode Island, earning his undergraduate degree from the New England Institute of Technology. He then earned his Master of Architecture at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, where he was part of an interdisciplinary  art community that broadened his creative perspective.

After working at a few firms in Rhode Island, Cory sought larger, more complex projects and relocated to Charlotte, NC. There, he joined McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture, where he was involved in projects of significant scale and complexity across various practice areas. K-12 design became a particular passion of his, and he later became a thought leader and lead designer for the K-12 Team in Charlotte.

Cory is also committed to advancing the architectural profession. He contributes through mentorship, technical leadership, and active involvement in organizations such as A4LE, AIA, NCARB, and the ACE Mentor Program. After nearly six years in the Carolinas, he returned to Rhode Island to be closer to his family. Now part of SLAM’s Providence team, continuing to work on K-12 schools throughout New England.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/coryboudreau/ 

https://slamcoll.com/ 

Where To Find Us:

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www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski heads to the heart of New York City’s public school system with Caleb Crawford, Director of Sustainable Design and Resiliency at the NYC School Construction Authority. With decades of experience as an architect, educator, and environmental advocate, Caleb dives into how one of the world’s largest school systems is confronting climate change head-on. From electrification and green infrastructure to passive survivability and equity-driven design, Caleb shares the innovative—and often surprising—ways NYC is making schools safer, healthier, and more resilient. He discusses the critical role of local laws, the balancing act of building in a dense city, and how even a brick wall can teach us something about thermal comfort. Whether you're designing new schools or retrofitting old ones, this episode is a masterclass in building for the future, today.

More About Caleb Crawford

Caleb Crawford is the Director of Sustainable Design and Resiliency at the New York City School  Construction Authority. Crawford comes to the SCA from private practice, where he was a partner in the award-winning firm, Coggan + Crawford Architecture + Design. He has taught design and sustainability at many institutions, including Pratt Institute and City College. 

Crawford is a registered architect in New York State, a Certified Passive House Designer, and a LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction. Crawford studied fine arts at the University of Michigan and film at Hunter College before completing a Bachelor of Architecture degree at Pratt Institute. He went on to complete a Masters of Architecture degree at the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc).

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-crawford-4295a415/ 

https://www.instagram.com/greenguynyc/ 

Where To Find Us:

https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

www.advancedglazings.com

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski plugs into the future with Jim Baldwin, founder of Domatic—a company rethinking the very wiring of our buildings. With a background in tech giants like Apple and Microsoft, Jim brings a fresh, user-first mindset to building automation. In this episode, he breaks down how Domatic is creating the "USB for buildings"—a smart, low-voltage system that unifies power and data to make buildings healthier, smarter, and more energy-efficient. From predictive energy modeling using neural nets to real-time air quality monitoring, Jim explains how simplifying tech in buildings can unlock massive sustainability gains without sacrificing occupant comfort. Whether you're retrofitting an office or designing a next-gen apartment block, Jim’s insights will change how you think about what's behind your walls.

More About Jim Baldwin

Jim Baldwin is the co-founder and CEO of Domatic, a company revolutionizing how smarter, healthier buildings are created. With more than 30 years of experience in software and hardware design and development, he has led and contributed to innovative projects at Apple, Microsoft, Intel, and several startups.

His passion lies in applying hardware and software technologies to develop solutions that enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and safety in the built environment. He believes that by combining cutting-edge research, engineering, and entrepreneurship, we can transform the way buildings are wired and improve the quality of life for millions of people.

Contact:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimbaldwin/

Where To Find Us:

https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

www.advancedglazings.com

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