Trash Talk

In this episode of Trash Talk, Dan Zimmerman and Eric Stuehrenberg take on a debate that shows up on nearly every project: is "effort, not perfection" permission to move fast and loose, or the mindset that actually keeps things moving forward? The two come at it from different angles — one leaning into the discipline of getting it exactly right, the other making the case that waiting for perfect can stall progress just as much as doing nothing at all. 

The conversation moves from big-picture philosophy into real, on-the-ground practices — how teams plan for risk before a job starts, and how they turn setbacks into better outcomes instead of pointing fingers. They wrap up with a look at the traits that don't require any special skill or experience, but end up shaping how far someone goes in their career. 

Tune in your way: LandfillGroup.BuzzSprout.com/ or https://youtu.be/o7PnA0SZRLU  

In Part 2 of Built for Biogas, we take a deeper dive into the technical and operational factors that impact the performance of biogas and RNG facilities. Steve Allman, Heather Sawyer, and Eric Stuehrenberg discuss integrated PLC controls, system reliability, commissioning and startup support, service responsiveness, and continuous improvement driven by real-world operating experience. From equipment evolution and process optimization to maintaining high uptime and long-term customer partnerships, this episode explores what it takes to deliver dependable biogas processing solutions in today's evolving market. 
 
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NMpP9pFloFU
 
If you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, be sure to check it out for foundational insights into what distinguishes great biogas equipment manufacturers before diving into this next chapter: https://youtu.be/qo6lPjWDVuo

What should developers and owners of biogas facilities look for when selecting a biogas equipment manufacturer? 

In this episode of Trash Talk, Eric Stuehrenberg, Steve Allman, and Heather Sawyer discuss the key engineering and manufacturing considerations involved in evaluating a biogas equipment manufacturer. From system design and material quality to manufacturing standards and customer support, the conversation explores the critical factors that can influence project performance, reliability, and long-term success. 

Stay tuned for Part 2, where the discussion shifts to the elements that drive long-term project success. The team will examine how project management, field support, service, and collaboration contribute to delivering lasting value well beyond equipment installation and commissioning. 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qo6lPjWDVuo

In this episode of Trash Talk, we are joined by Erik Hoving of Evonik for a discussion on biogas membrane technology. From the fundamentals of how membrane systems operate to insights drawn from real-world landfill projects, the conversation provides a practical and accessible look at the role of membranes in renewable natural gas (RNG) production.  

We also explore current industry challenges, the importance of collaboration in driving innovation, and why landfill gas applications serve as a critical proving ground for membrane technologies. Whether you are interested in the future of biogas upgrading or seeking a clearer understanding of the process, this episode offers valuable perspective. 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ALiOWuPijnU

In this episode of Trash Talk, Mike Fenton sits down with Clint Cox of Liberty Utilities (Peach State Natural Gas) to explore the real‑world process of delivering renewable natural gas (RNG) from a landfill into a local distribution system in Columbus, Georgia.  

The conversation examines the complexities of integrating landfill‑sourced RNG into a regulated utility network—from educating regulators on gas quality standards and restructuring tariffs to investing in interconnection infrastructure and overcoming project setbacks. Clint shares how locally sourced RNG offers benefits beyond environmental impact, including enhanced system resilience, downward pressure on rates, and long‑term value for customers and the surrounding community.  

Rich with practical insights and lessons learned, this episode provides a candid look at how collaboration and persistence can transform waste into reliable, cost‑effective energy.  

Watch the video version on youtube! https://youtu.be/iBbZtyT9GPU 

In this episode of Trash Talk, we sit down with Drale Short, Director of Public Works for Columbus Consolidated Government, to examine renewable natural gas (RNG) development from a municipal point of view. 

Drale shares firsthand insight into the complexities of transforming a landfill into a long-term community asset, spanning regulatory processes, public trust, and long-range planning. The discussion highlights how RNG projects can generate economic value, improve environmental performance, enhance landfill safety, and help municipalities move beyond waste disposal toward more sustainable solutions. 

This conversation also explores modern sanitary landfilling, methane gas collection and extraction, community education, and the essential role recycling and environmental stewardship play in the future of waste management. 

Whether you work in public works, renewable energy, or are simply curious about what happens after the trash truck leaves the curb, this episode provides a practical, forward-looking view of RNG through the lens of local government.   

Tune in your way: LandfillGroup.BuzzSprout.com/ or https://youtu.be/Dl4TqbGeFjU 

Feedback isn’t criticism – it’s an opportunity for growth, but only when we’re willing to give it, receive it, and act on it. 

In this episode of Trash Talk, we step away from the technical aspects of biogas to focus on something equally critical: organizational culture. Joined by the Landfill Group’s CFO, Chris Morley, and Media Architect, Blair Finn, we discuss how our company has intentionally built a workplace where feedback is expected, encouraged, and used to drive continuous improvement. 

From peer-to-peer input and quarterly check-ins to celebrating small wins and fostering accountability, this conversation explores what it truly takes to build a culture of trust – and why honest, constructive feedback strengthens teams. 

In this episode of Trash Talk, Mike, Dan, and Eric from the Landfill Group build on our last conversation about cold‑weather wellfield challenges and shift the focus to what matters most in landfill and RNG operations: keeping people safe. They explore how real‑time data reduces risky late‑night troubleshooting, the tools used to protect lone workers, and how gas hazards such as methane and hydrogen sulfide shape daily decision‑making. The team also highlights how safety is woven into the company’s culture—through training, stop‑work authority for every person on site, and a shared belief that everyone deserves to go home safely at the end of the day.  

Through practical stories and open reflections on leadership, culture, and communication, this episode shows why safety goes far beyond checklists—it's a mindset embedded into every part of the organization.  

Tune in your way: LandfillGroup.BuzzSprout.com/ or https://youtu.be/R1Zq1A4rYAc 

In this episode of Trash Talk, Mike and Dan from the Landfill Group sit down with special guest Matt Taylor, Director of Business Development at LoCI Controls to discuss key operational impacts of winter weather on landfill gas systems. From freezing wellfields to barometric pressure swings, the crew explores why cold months create extra challenges—and how real‑time data, automation, and the WellWatcher platform gives better wellfield visibility, keeps systems stable, and improves employee safety. 

They dive into the human side too: how teamwork, communication, and shared culture matter even more when conditions get tough. Packed with practical insights (and a few laughs), this winter-focused conversation highlights how technology and strong partnerships make landfill operations safer and more efficient year‑round.  

Tune in your way: LandfillGroup.BuzzSprout.com/ or https://youtu.be/VtJbYd-HDXI 

To learn more about LoCI Controls visit their site: LociControls.com 

This episode of Trash Talk begins an interesting 3-part series on wellfield management. First, Eric sits down with Dan and Mike to unpack what really happens in a landfill wellfield. They share what it takes to keep gas collection and control systems running smoothly, how weather and site conditions can shift things in an instant, and pull back the curtain on the teamwork required to keep gas flows steady without everything going sideways. 

Learn about the evolution of wellfield operations and management—from hands‑on, daily field adjustments to more modern approaches that help operators respond faster and work more efficiently. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you might even walk away with a new appreciation for the unsung heroes of the wellfield. 

Tune in your way: LandfillGroup.BuzzSprout.com/ or https://youtu.be/qWmOFB9GaAk