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Every day, over 1,000 staff members who are part of UW Facilities work hard to keep campus running. Facilitating Change is a podcast where Facilities staff shares their stories and what drives them in their dedication to serving the University. Brought to you by the Facilities Action for Inclusion and Respect (FAIR) Coalition, the podcast allows you to meet the change makers driving excellence behind the scenes, whether it's maintaining campus operations, keeping spaces clean, managing massive capital projects or leading sustainable initiatives.
New episodes will be available starting March 10 and continuing the second Tuesday of each month.
Episodes
July 14 – Staying in the Paint: Emily Adams’ Bold Stand for Sustainable Impact at UW
In this episode of 'Facilitate and Change,' host Dr. Adrian Carter engages with Emily Adams, a Sustainability Project and Engagement Specialist at the University of Washington. Emily shares her journey of acquiring a Master's in Sustainability Leadership, hosting the 'Urban Tumbleweed' podcast, and her passionate involvement in sustainability projects. Emily discusses the intersectionality of sustainability with equity and justice, her diverse childhood experiences between New York and North Carolina, and her active involvement in the Seattle community through various volunteer roles. Additionally, she touches on her family's influence, particularly her mother's, and reflects on her leadership experiences. The episode wraps up with a fun rapid-fire round digging into Emily’s personal preferences.
Find the July 14 episode on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and Pocket Casts.
Ian Wyborsky discusses his role as a groundskeeper, his experiences working with the mow crew and his background, including his academic journey and diverse travel experiences. Ian shares insights on his environmental studies, the mindfulness derived from his job, and his travel adventures such as 'woofing' in the UK. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about personal growth, sustainability and the value of being present in everyday tasks.
Find the June 9 episode on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and Pocket Casts.
In this episode of the Facilitating Change podcast, Vina Lorenzo shares her 24-year journey at the University of Washington. Vina, a budget analyst for capital funding, discusses her role, including her responsibilities across multiple UW campuses and the innovative database she created. The conversation delves into her background, from her move from the Philippines to Guam and eventually to Seattle. Vina's passion for her work, her commitment to collaborating with her team, and her love for helping others are highlighted, making this episode a testament to dedication and perseverance.
Find the May 12 episode on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and Pocket Casts.
Jonathan Pruiett, a data analyst at UW Facilities, shares his diverse career path, from Mars Rover mapping to working at Google Maps, and discusses his love for data. The conversation highlights his background in the National Guard his approach to effective work, and his unique sense of humor. Jonathan also talks about his views on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, and offers advice on mental health and career patience.
Find the April 14 episode on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and Pocket Casts
Thomas Bain, a custodian with the Building Services Department, shares his journey from being an elementary assistant teacher for 17 years to his current role at UW Facilities. He discusses the perks and challenges of his new job, his involvement in the Stepping Stones program for personal growth and his love for travel and music. Thomas also reflects on how his extensive teaching background influences his current work, the importance of building and maintaining relationships, and his life philosophy that "you get out of life what you put into it." Listeners also get a glimpse into his childhood memories, family dynamics and favorite experiences while traveling.
Find the March 10 episode on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and Pocket Casts.
Upcoming episodes
- August 11 – Faith, Leadership and 30 Years of Service: Roman Ariri's Journey at UW Facilities
- September 8 – Big Brain Energy: Ryan Balkcom on Botany, Beats and Bold Adventures
- October 13 – The Power of Showing Up: 30 Years of Dedication and Doing the Work with Jodi Irwin