ControlTalk Now : Sales, Marketing, Products and Technical Tips for HVAC and Smart Building Controls Professionals

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair #452

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair jinns me on this week's ControlTalk Now.

What a Systems Integrator Needs to Know About Lighting Control #351

Lighting savant and host of the Get a Grip on Lighting Podcast, Michael Colligan is my guest this week. Michael shares his unique perspective on lighting and lighting control. We discuss the rapidly changing landscape of lighting, and how technology is transforming what was once a purely artistic endeavor. Topics include: How to Avoid LED rip-offs and avoid health hazards of LED lighting. How to do LED lighting the proper way. This is a must for those interested in getting the straight s...

Transforming Remote Device Management with ControlBright #430

In today's digital age, remote access and management have become essential components of various industries, including building automation control systems. In a recent interview on Controltalk Now, the Smart Buildings Podcast, Chad Behling, the founder and CEO of ControlBright, shed light on how his company is transforming the landscape of remote device access. In this blog post, we'll delve into the innovative solutions offered by ControlBright, making it easier for technicians to manage a...

2023's Game-Changing Building Automation Tech | Passive Logic CEO Interview #429

Unlocking the Future of Building Automation: An Exclusive Interview with Troy Harvey, CEO of Passive Logic In an era where technology is reshaping the way we live and work, it's no surprise that our buildings are becoming smarter than ever before. Building automation and control systems are at the forefront of this transformation, and one company is leading the charge - Passive Logic. We had the privilege of sitting down with Troy Harvey, the visionary founder and CEO of Passive Logic, t...

Smart Buildings 2.0: AI, Data, and Control Systems with Donny Walker #428

Join us for an enlightening interview with Donny Walker, a leading partner at Newcomb and Boyd, as we delve into the cutting-edge world of HVAC and Smart Buildings. In this captivating discussion, Donny shares his expertise and insights on the pivotal role of technology in revolutionizing asset management and control systems. 🤖 Key Takeaways from the Interview: 🔄 Proactive Maintenance: Learn how integrating machine learning can identify equipment anomalies and potential failures, revolut...

AI, Cybersecurity, and the Role of the BAS System Integrator in Smart Building Controls #427

Dive into an engaging conversation on the latest trends and innovations shaping the building controls and construction industry. I am excited to welcome Mark Petock, a leading voice in the industry. In this episode: Discover how ICT Solutions is aiding system integrators with a hands-on team for diverse engineering tasks. From job execution to troubleshooting, they've got you covered! 🏢 Uncover ABB’s game-changing products, focusing on AI and variable frequency drives. 🤖  Discuss the...

Unlocking the Future of Building Automation with Joe Chandler from Brody Precision #426

In this must-listen episode of ControlTalk Now, we sit down with Joe Chandler, an industry expert from Brody Precision, to dive deep into the cutting-edge world of building automation control systems powered by ABB. Whether you're a building owner, contractor, or someone intrigued by smart buildings, this episode offers a wealth of insights.  🔹 Key Topics Covered: ABB's Revolution in Building Automation: Joe Chandler unpacks the high-performance capabilities and unique features of ABB's ...

Game-Changing HVAC Marketing Tactics for Business Growth #425

Are you looking for the latest insights on marketing in HVAC and Smart Building Controls? In this podcast episode, I welcome Brian Collins for a fascinating discussion on tenant override systems (7Nox) and how they save money. We delve into the new marketing realities of the industry, covering topics such as customer input vs visionary design, marketers as professional consumers, the importance of product perception, how companies like Apple succeed through advertising, and more! Tune in...

What's next in Smart Building Controls: An Interview with Bill Schwebel From Johnson Controls #424

Episode 424 of ControlTalk Now is one you do not want to miss! My guest this week has spent his career in transformative technologies. He specializes in cloud-based data and technology services that address challenges in automation, logistics, supply chain management, commerce, mobility, staffing, retail, automotive, transportation, advertising, and city services for consumers, commercial enterprises, or governments. Transforming technologies such as Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), Machi...

Episode 423: Smart Buildings and Cybersecurity: An In-Depth Talk with Osman Saleem

Join us for Episode 423 of Controltalk Now, where we dive into the world of smart buildings with our special guest, Osman Saleem. An expert in OT & IoT Cybersecurity, Smart Building Technology, and Smart Cities, Osman shares his insights on the cutting-edge intersection of building automation controls and cybersecurity. In this exciting episode, we explore IoT and OT cybersecurity, delving into the current landscape and challenges in the industry. Osman sheds light on building automation c...

Episode 422: ICT Provides a Solid Solution for the Building Automation labor Shortage

Are you struggling with the labor shortage in the smart building and controls industry? Get ready for a game-changing conversation with the team from Innovative Control Tech Solutions (ICT Solutions)! In this eye-opening episode of "Controltalk Now," the brilliant minds behind ICT Solutions dive deep into the pressing challenges of building automation control. With years of experience and innovative thinking, they have crafted tailor-made solutions to combat the industry-wide labor shortag...

Episode 421: Catching Up with Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair

Episode 420:How a War Refugee is Revolutionizing Smart Building Controls: Etrit Demaj's Story

Join me in Episode 420 of ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Control Videocast and Podcast where I have an engaging conversation with Etrit Demaj, the co-founder of Kode Labs, one of the leading providers of smart building control systems. In this episode, Etrit shares his inspiring journey from leaving his war-torn country to establishing a successful business in the United States. Together with his brother Eddie, they saw a gap in the market for deploying smart building control s...

Episode 419: Data-Driven Sustainability: How AI Transforms Smart Building Controls

Join us for an insightful conversation with Julie Petrone, Director of Marketing & Strategy at ABB Electrification, Americas, as we delve into the world of smart building controls. Julie takes us on her journey, from her early days as a copywriter and magazine publisher to her current role in driving marketing and strategy in the home and automation segment. In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of Smart Building Controls and discuss the innovative products offered by ABB, inc...

Episode 418: Powering the Future of Building Automation with Stacks + Joules

Welcome to the 418th episode of Controltalk Now, your premier destination for everything HVAC and Smart Building Controls. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mike Conway, the force behind the innovative Stacks + Joules program, and Tyler Ing, a proud graduate who's put his learning into action. The HVAC and Smart Building Controls industry faces a major challenge with a growing talent gap as seasoned professionals retire. Stacks + Joules, an extraordinary nonprofit, ste...

Episode 417: Navigating the Future of Smart Buildings: A Deep Dive with Digital Twins Specialist, Nicolas Waern

In this episode of the ControlTalk Now Podcast, we sit down with Nicolas Waern, a leading expert on digital twins and the CEO of Winniio. Nicolas discusses his journey into the smart building controls industry, his thoughts on AI, data analytics, blockchain, crypto, and most importantly, the role of digital twins in changing how we build and retrofit buildings for affordability and sustainability. Nicolas talks about his experiences with Go-IoT, BACnet, and IoT and his time as a managemen...

Episode 416: The Future of Building Automation: A Conversation with Tim Vogel from KMC Controls

Join us in this insightful conversation with Tim Vogel from KMC Controls as we discuss the future of building automation and how KMC is leading the charge with their American-made, innovative solutions. In this episode, we explore the ethos and value system that drives KMC, a family-owned company known for creating jobs and supporting American communities. Discover how they are fostering a unique environment of a generational community within the company. We dive into their flagship pro...

Episode 415: Building Automation Controls: Exploring IP Controls, Cybersecurity, and Best Practices with Greg Fitzpatrick from Cochrane Supply and Engineering"

Greg Fitzpatrick from Cochrane Supply and Engineering was a guest on Episode 415 of Controltalk Now. In the episode, we discussed various topics related to building automation controls and control networks. Here are some key points mentioned during the conversation: Greg's role: Greg mentioned that he works with consulting engineers to help them understand and write specifications based on new technologies and network requirements in building automation controls. New website for consultin...

Episode 414: Revolutionize Your Marketing Game: Exclusive Insights with HVAC and Smart Buildings Marketing Star Lauren Scott

Are you feeling lost in the rapidly changing world of marketing? Struggling to make an impact with your strategies? We have just what you need. Join us in an exciting journey as we unravel the secrets of successful marketing with Lauren Scott, the VP of Marketing and Sustainability for the Intelligence Spaces Group.  In an age where digital revolution is the norm, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. From creating engaging content to making meaningful connections with your audience, the challeng...

Episode 413: Building Security Unplugged: Exploring the Dark Side of Social Media

In this podcast episode, Fred Gordy from Michael Baker International discusses the importance of operational resilience in building systems and the need for an incident response plan.  He also touches on the potential dangers of social media platforms and the role of AI in cybersecurity. Michael Baker International offers consultation services to help building owners and integrators assess their risk profiles and prioritize their cybersecurity efforts.  Gordy recommends that building own...

Episode 412 : Lessons from a Legend: Stephen Johnson on Truett Cathy and Building Automation Controls

In the realm of building automation and controls, there are few who embody the wisdom and tenacity of the great Truett Cathy, founder of Chick-fil-A. One such man is Stephen Johnson, the Vice President of Automation and Controls at McKenneys. From humble beginnings as a janitor at Chick-fil-A Corporation, Stephen scaled the ranks and, for a time, served as the bodyguard and driver for Truett Cathy himself.  Now, with lessons from the legend echoing in his heart, Stephen applies this wi...

Episode 411: The Future of Smart Building Controls: How AI Is Revolutionizing the Industry - An Interview with Jeff Kimmel, CEO and Co-Founder of Elipsa

My guest this week is Jeff Kimmel. Jeff is the Co-founder and CEO of Elipsa.ai If you are looking for ways to reduce the costs it takes to run your building or factory, and if you are looking to cut energy and maintenance costs, then this episode is for you! Elipsa is an automated AI platform.They put the AI capabilities in your hands, enabling you to be proactive in your approach saving time and money addressing problems before they occur. Epipsa works with the Niagara data service. is ...

Episode 410: How to Lead Alphas

Sarah Monteleone, the President of Controls Group North America is my guest this week on Controltalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Video Cast. Starting her career in controls with Functional Devices, Sarah has worked her way up to becoming the president of Controls Group North America. Controls Group North America is a group of elite HVAC and Smart Buildings control distributors and progressive HVAC manufacturers. Sarah shares the skills needed to lead this group of accomplished i...

Episode 409: 75F: A New Solution for Energy Saving and Air Quality in Smart Buildings

My guest on ControlTalk Now this week is Tom Joslin. Tom is one of the control pros with a newer smart building control vendor, 75F. 75F is a leading provider of building automation solutions that are designed to optimize energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and enhance occupant comfort in commercial buildings. Using a vertically integrated and IoT-based wireless system, 75F's technology can analyze and control existing HVAC equipment and systems to achieve greater efficiency an...

Episode 408: How to Grow Your Business from 8 Million to 100 Million Dollars

My guest this week is an industry legend, Dennis Floro. Before becoming a consultant, Dennis took well know distributor Wilson Mohr from 8 million dollars a year in sales to over 100 million dollars. In addition to teaching us about business strategy, Dennis shares 5 ttraits that great laeders have in common:   1) Great Leaders are Great Listeners The best leaders understand the value of humble listening. They recognize the need to consider different perspectives before making decisi...

Episode 407: Using Data Analytics and AI to Save the Planet

In Episode 407 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Buildings Podcast talk about using data analytics and AI as a way to make buildings smarter and more energy efficient which ultimately will help save the planet. How data analytics and AI are revolutionizing smart buildings in 2023 In the world of smart buildings, data analytics, and AI are changing the game. With advanced systems and sensors that collect and analyze data, buildings are becoming smarter, more efficient, and more sustain...

Episode 406 How to be Effective as a New Leader

In Episode 406 of ControlTalk Now we break down the skills a new leader needs in order to lead a team or a company. My guest this week is Rob Allen. Rob is running the day-to-day operations at my Company, Stromquist & Company. Rob shares the challenges of leading a group of co-workers that have been in the industry longer than he has, and been working at Stromquist Longer than he has. Rob’s story is inspiring and provides new leaders with great tips and reminders on the importance of b...

#405 Attention Contractors: Use AI and VR to Cut Costs and Save Money!

On Episode 405 of ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Podcast we dive deep into AI and Virtual Reality and how savvy contractors and building maintenance departments are using these new tools to cut costs and save money. My guests this week are Scott Cochrane and Mike Mitchell from Cochrane Supply. Mike does a live demo, which you can see in this video, and shows us exactly how useful VR can be when installing or troubleshooting a system in a building. Scott and Mike also give us a ...

Episode 404: Simple Ways to be Better at Technical Sales

No matter what industry you're in, selling can be a tough gig. But when you're selling complex technical products, it can be even tougher. That's where Joe Chandler comes in. Joe is the Vice President of Sales at Broudy Precision, a leading provider of HVAC and Smart Building Controls solutions. In his more than 20 years in the business, Joe has closed some of the biggest deals in the industry—and he's here to share his secrets. Find Your Niche  The first step to becoming a successful tec...

Episode 403: How to Jump Start Your Career in Smart Building Controls

My guest this week is Intelligent Buildings, Kyle Peters. Kyle, who came from outside the Smart Buildings Controls industry shares how and why he switched to the Smart Building Controls Industry. He gives a step-by-step method that allowed him to progress at a rapid pace, and what he did to go from being a systems integrator to becoming one of the most respected cyber security experts in the field of smart building controls.

Episode 402 : New HVAC and Smart Building Control Products From New Zealand

On this week's episode of ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Building Controls Show I introduce Elwin Mckay Smith and Brian Collins from Op Systems Solutions. OPSys is based in New Zealand but ships its products all over the globe. I think you will enjoy what they have to say. In addition to my interview, I give you the Control News you need for the week ending Feb.19, 2023

Episode 401: The New ControlTalk Now and Breaking Down AHR Eduction Sessions

After steeping away for two years Eric Stromquist. from ControlTrends is back with the next episode of ControlTalk Now The Smart Buildings Podcast. Eric's first guest is Automated Buildings Controls Founder Ken Sinclair, who joins Eric to discuss the educational breakout sessions at this year’s AHR Show. Tune in to find out what Eric and Ken have to say about the future of smart building technology! Eric shares some of the new and exciting things viewers can expect on the new Controltren...

#400 ControlTalk With Distech Controls Martin Villeneuve

Join in as we celebrate episode 400 with one of the top executives in the industry, Martin Villeneuve, who spearheaded Distech’s triple-digit growth. Distech continues to lead the way with powerful innovations for its Systems Integrators and End-Users, and its commitment to develop the Community with education and recruitment initiatives. ControlTrends thanks all the great people, organizations, companies, and vendors that have allowed us to reach our 400 episodes milestone and 3 million-p...

#399 Bueno Systems Leon Wurfel

Bueno Systems CEO, Leon Wurfel joins us this week on Episode 399 of Controltalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Video Cast. Leon helps us understand how having the right front-end Smart Building Controls interface can make buildings more efficient and profitable. Are you having a hard time finding qualified people to run and manage tour facilities? Leon will explain how having the right interface and the proper use of data can eliminate the need for more costly personal.

#398 Ken Sinclair Automated Buildings

Ken Sinclair helps me break down the Smart Building and HVAC control news of the week.

#397 Smart Building Cybersecurity Now

In Episode 397 of Controltalk Now the Smart Building Controls Videocast we dive deep into cybersecurity and today's smart buildings Cybersecurity pros Marc Peatock, Fred Gordy, and Derek Harp share the things the smart building control pro needs to know to make smart connected buildings safe from cyber attacks..

#396 What Ted Turner Can Teach us About Smart Buildings

In Episode 396 of ControlTalk Now The Smart Buildings V. Cast we explore proven marketing concepts that can help the Smart Building Controls Community gain a strategic advantage. Our guest this week is Ken Christensen. Ken is the marketing professional's go-to resource. Ken is a disciple of Ted Turner and for over thirty years has helped clients like the Ritz-Carlton and Wells Real Estate Funds maximize opportunities through better marketing. This episode is a must for those who are looking ...

#395 Smart Buildings Adapt or Die

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us on this week's episode to discuss the April issue of Automated Buildings and how we must adapt to the changes in smart buildings and smart building controls. With over 50 years of success in the business, Ken Sinclair tells us that "agility with the ability to go around unmovable objects quickly proved to be a good life skill, and 'Adaptation' is our survival superpower."

#394 Smart Buildings, Block Chain and Crypto

Gina Elliott and Rachel Kennedy show how the Switch Automation platform can lower your building's carbon footprint, create benchmarking that works, and improve your brand. Crypto and blockchain coming to smart buildings? When? How? why?

#393 The Smart Women of Smart Building Controls

On Episode 393 of Controltalk Now The Smart Building Controls Podcast we celebrate and discuss the great women in HVAC and Smart Building Controls.

#392 Haystack Take Over

ControlTalk NOW TAKE OVER — Marc Petock, John Petze, and Brian Frank take over Episode 392! Over the last 10 Years, community-driven Project Haystack has evolved, adding richer, more advanced data modeling that continues to merge the worlds of data scientists, deep domain experts, systems integrators, and contractors into a growing global ontology. The rewards are brilliant.  

#391 Smart Monitoring for Smart Buildings

In the age of the COvid Panic, the only way to get people back into buildings is to make them safe and prove they are safe.  The proof is in the monitoring of key variables including temperature, humidity, airflow, occupancy, and in-door air quality.  Micael Hadt from RLE Technologies joins us on this week's show to talk about using wifi and wireless as the most cost-effective way to monitor these critical data points.

#390 Smart Building Controls NOW

Ken and I break down the HVAC and Smart Building Control news of the week and trends we are tracking.

#389 Smart Building Control Trends in 2021

Ken Sinclair form Automated Buildings joins is to discuss 2021 smart Building Control Trends.

#387 Ken Sinclair Automated Buildings

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us this week on Controltalk Now as we discuss the Smart building Controls News of the Week. 

#386 Today's Smart Buildings with Marc Petock

Lynxspring's Marc Petock joins us this week to discuss the trends in Smart Buildings

#385 Automated Buildings 2020

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us this week to help break down all the Smart Building and HVAC Control News of the week.

#384 How to Make Buildings More Intelligent

Intelligent Buildings' Fred Gordy, Director of Cyber Security, and Osman Saleen, Senior Consultant, share some of their secret sauce on how their team delivers the ultimate Smart and Cyber Secure Building. "Start with postulating the end state and reason backwards."        

# 383 Automated Buildings Today

Navigating Never, Never: “Our Transformation is deep inside where we said we would never, never, go; we all need more information and discussion to successfully navigate our new never. ‘You are Never coming back once you transform.'” Ken Sinclair, editor, Automated Buildings

#382 What is New at Distech Controls

Great interview with Distech's Joël Désiré and Laura-Jane Miginiac. Lots of good reasons why ECLYPSE Building Intelligence keeps getting better (Hint: AI Inside). Plus, more about my Personify Workplace, Healthy Dashboards, Infection Control, and Distech's enhanced Developer's Portal.