the Building Performance Podcast

#94 SPRAY JONES: Pitfalls and Tips for Spray Foam Insulation Feb 27, 2025

Today Corbett talks about the details of spray foam insulation with Michael Dynna of the Spray Jones YouTube channel. Michael has been a spray foam contractor since 2002, and is enthusiastically educating everyone in the building industry, as well as normal homeowners, about what can go right and wrong with open and closed cell spray polyurethane foam insulation. More at: https://sprayjones.com

#93 LEAD IS STILL ALL OVER US: Eric Ritter on Lead in Homes, Products, and Cheese May 02, 2024

Today Corbett goes down a new rabbit hole in healthy homes, with the many compounds that contain lead, which we are still being sold in shops and groceries at this very moment. Learn how to identify lead-containing consumer products and parts of your home with Eric Ritter's new DIY lighting fast DIY Lead Test Kit (https://DetectLead.com).

For the video version of this interview: https://youtu.be/IRNv0UH2EtY

Join our Patreon team and become part of a year-round conference on applied building science: https://Patreon.com/HomeDiagnosisTV

#92 HVAC Design Softwares with Russ King of KwikModel Mar 21, 2024

Today we talk with HVAC design legend Russ King (https://kwikmodel.com) about how to trim the fat out of heat load calculations in Manual J (and how you sometimes can't), along with fine points on duct design, grille selections, and a brand new movement in software to help homeowners perform their own load calculations (https://DIYloadcalcs.com).

Hosted as always by Corbett Lunsford (https://BuildingPerformanceWorkshop.com). See the first-ever TV series about the Science of Homes at:

https://HomeDiagnosis.tv

#91 DATALOGGERS 101: Tracking Performance by the Second with HOBO's Paul Gannett May 24, 2022

Today Corbett drills down into the details of high-resolution, long-lasting testing trackers called 'dataloggers' with Paul Gannett, an engineer at HOBO by Onset. These days we can track the temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide (CO2), light levels, electrical load, and so much more with these instruments that often cost under $200 (which used to be unheard of).

Learn more about HOBO dataloggers: https://www.onsetcomp.com/

#90 HVAC NO MERCY MYTHBUSTING with Dr. Jeffrey Siegel Sep 20, 2021

Today Corbett dives deep into the science of using HVAC to control indoor air quality (IAQ) with Dr. Jeffrey Siegel, professor of civil engineering at the University of Toronto. Jeff is named in over a hundred scientific studies published in this topic, and over the 45 minutes he blows conventional wisdom out of the water again and again.

#89 THE REAL JOB OF BUILDING: Matt Risinger on the Hardships and Obstacles of Contractors Aug 11, 2021

Today we went deep with Matt Risinger (https://www.youtube.com/user/MattRisinger)on the challenges builders face from their industry, their traditions, and their clients. Part of our upcoming Season Two of 'Home Diagnosis' TV, which you can see at: http://HomeDiagnosis.tv

#88 I AM A PLANET: Microbiology of Homes with Rob Dunn Jun 23, 2021

In one of our all-time favorite (and longest) interviews, Corbett and Grace Lunsford talk with Rob Dunn, a researcher and expert on ecology within homes and author of the amazing book 'Never Home Alone' (http://robdunnlab.com). The conversation ranges from black mold in drywall to biofilm in plumbing to the extreme environments within our 'normal' American homes- and where we're headed. You can help support the making of this podcast for as little as $5 a month at: http://Patreon.com/HomeDiagnosisTV

#87: Home Ventilation Codes and What They're Missing Jun 07, 2021

Today Corbett talks with Joseph Hillenmeyer of Aprilaire about what's regulated about home ventilation and what's not, and where all this fresh air rule making is taking us.

#86: COVID-19 and the Science of Home Quarantine Apr 08, 2020

In this special episode, Corbett teams up with Healthy Indoors Magazine to bring you a panel of experts discussing the science of 100% of people staying at home 100% of the time.

Featuring public health expert Dr. Michelle Sanborn, MD, environmental chemist Delphine Farmer, and indoor environmental consultants Bob Krell of Healthy Indoors and Joe Medosch from Hayward Score.

Please support our work at: http://Patreon.com/HomeDiagnosisTV

Get your home's health assessed right now, for free, at: http://HaywardScore.com

Subscribe to Healthy Indoors right now, for free, at: http://HealthyIndoors.com

#85: Q&A on Mildew Causes, Additions, Formaldehyde Poisoning Aug 19, 2019

Today Corbett and Grace address several more questions about building science and home performance from homeowners and pros across the U.S. See the show at: https://HomeDiagnosis.tv

Become a supporting member of their work at: http://Patreon.com/HomeDiagnosis.tv

#84 FIRST Q&A: Home Diagnosis May 21, 2019

ALL NEW FORMAT! Corbett Lunsford is joined by his bride Grace- together they host Home Diagnosis, the first-ever TV series about building science and home performance testing. They answer questions of all kinds about the invisible dynamics of physics and chemistry in homes worldwide, and hope to hear from you for the next episode! To write in with a question or comment, visit:

https://HomeDiagnosis.tv/questions

To join Grace and Corbett in continuing the Home Diagnosis TV series, visit:

http://Patreon.com/HomeDiagnosisTV

#83 AFFORDABLE OUTPERFORMS MARKET RATE: Bill Lazar on How to Win Dec 26, 2017

Today Corbett talks with Bill Lazar of St. Johns Housing Partnership about how his organization built hundreds of affordable homes in St. Augustine, Florida, that are scientifically superior to the million dollar mansions going up across town. Recorded from the #TinyLab on the Proof Is Possible Tour.

#82 THE TRUSTWORTHY CONTRACTOR PROFILE: The future of electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techs with Pete Sanders Nov 01, 2017

Today Corbett talks with Pete Sanders of Sanders Home Services about contractor competition, how to show homeowners the right way vs. the cheap way, and his personal history with carbon monoxide. Check out our video tour of Pete's amazing NJ showroom at https://youtu.be/tiCtNjKPX_k

Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop's Proof Is Possible Tour.

#81 KEEP ASKING QUESTIONS: Hap Haven on How to Know Home Performance Jul 13, 2017

Today Corbett talks with Hap Haven of US Green Home about where home performance contractors come from and where we're going (and how not to crash and burn on the way there). Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop's 6-Week Mastermind Distance Course and Home Performance for Tiny Spaces course.

#80 FUTURE BUILDING: Thomas Marston on Building Performance Policy May 08, 2017

Today Corbett talks with Thomas Marston of Energy Services Group about how the building industry has evolved and will evolve with the release of future International Energy Conservation Codes.

#79 INFRARED PHOTOS OF YOUR FACE: Dr. Gregory Melvin on Medical Uses of Infrared Thermography Nov 30, 2016

Today Corbett talks with Dr. Gregory Melvin of Total Thermal Imaging about how to use an infrared camera to 'do no harm' to patients. The non-destructive nature of infrared thermography in buildings is just as elegant when used to detect problems in the body's circulatory, nervous, and lymphatic system, and to put it bluntly, this guy is totally awesome. Sponsored by the #TinyLab and the videos of its design, construction, testing, and US tour!

#78 HOW TO REALLY OWN A HOME: John Krigger on Home Performance Helpfulness Aug 09, 2016

Today Corbett talks with home performance legend John Krigger, author of several books including Residential Energy, about how home performance professionals are winning and failing at helping clients with their homes. Sponsored by Fall Fast Track, the 6-week mastermind course for home performance professionals.

#77 ROCKING THE INSTALLATION: Matt Risinger on Building New High Performance Homes Jul 26, 2016

Today Corbett talks with Matt Ringer of Risinger Homes (and YouTube fame) about insulation/outsulation, building science facts/fiction, and the classic dilemma of building anything well: it's complicated. Sponsored by Fall Fast Track, the only 6-week distance mastermind course in home performance.

#76 LEAN CONSTRUCTION: Jeff Liker on The Toyota Way for Buildings May 04, 2016

Today we talk with Jeff Liker, author of The Toyota Way, about what Lean is, and what it could mean for building performance. Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop's Fall Fast Track.

#75 REALTORS OF THE FUTURE: Chad Curry on How Technology is Remaking Real Estate Sep 11, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Chad Curry, managing director of the Center for REALTOR Technology, about how performance metrics are changing the real estate industry. From the Internet of Things to measuring air quality in neighborhoods, Chad's group is on the cutting edge of helping the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) incorporate home performance into the selling and buying of homes everywhere! Sponsored by Fall Fast Track- my 6-week mastermind course in home performance ninja techniques.

#74 SAFE, HEALTHY, AND TESTED: BPI's Larry Zarker means home performance, not VD Aug 26, 2015

Today Corbett talks at the Habitat X thinktank with BPI CEO Larry Zarker about his passions: helping contractors, building homes that stop sending you to the emergency room, and how to infiltrate the health insurance industry to help make all that happen. Sponsored by the 6-week Fall Fast Track distance mastermind course for home performance black belts.

#73 DRYING STUFF VS. DRYING AIR: Lew Harriman on Mastering Dehumidification Aug 11, 2015

Today Corbett is psyched to again talk with Lew Harriman, the master of dehumidification and author of lots of books on moisture control, about guess what! Lew takes us on a tour of macro-drying philosophy, down to the nitty gritty of ERVs and hairdryers and wet spots on your carpet. Sponsored by Corbett's Fall Fast Track 6-week mastermind course in free market home performance.

#72 STUFF TO BUILD WITH: Ken Levenson on High Performance Building Supplies Jul 09, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Ken Levenson of 475 High Performance Buidling Supply about Passive House gaining a foothold around the world, what it takes to build for performance, and why the materials and components have to be shipped across the ocean to get to us. Sponsored by Fall Fast Track- the 6 week distance mastermind course for profiting from performance in the private market.

#71 SPRAY FOAM FAIL: Richard Beyer, Consumer Affected by Spray Foam Insulation Jun 16, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Richard Beyer, a consumer who lived through a bad spray foam installation and now advocates for spray foam training and licensing. Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop online training portal- get free access now at BuildingPerformanceWorkshop.com

#70 PERFORMANCE EVERYWHERE: Chris Dorsi on the Spread of Measured Improvement Jun 02, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Chris Dorsi, founder of the Habitat X Thinktank, about the state of performance-based building in Europe and what the construction industry needs next. *Listeners get a whopping $675 discount off Habitat X registration until June 15 by using code Corbett375.

#69 WEB PERFORMANCE PRO: Peter Troast on What the Internet Proves May 19, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Peter Troast of Energy Circle, who was just awarded the 2015 BPI Tony Woods Award at ACI National Conference. Peter runs the websites of over 300 home performance contractors, and so may have the best view of how performance-based business in the 21st century is actually working.

#68 TINY HOME BUILDER: Dan Louche on the Microcosm of Green Building May 03, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Dan Louche of Tiny Home Builders about the challenges, specialties, and impacts of having an army of homeowners-to-be designing and building their own tiny homes. Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop Training Portal.

#67 ARCHITECT AS BUILDER: Chris Laumer-Giddens on Abandoning the Way Your Grandpappy Did It Apr 29, 2015

Today Corbett talks with architect Chris Laumer-Giddens, half of LG Squared, about why he decided to tackle the whole pizza, what's wrong with the current models of architect, builder, and contractor, and what certifications like ENERGY STAR or LEED can and can not do for the industry. Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop Online Training Portal.

#66 RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB: Spohn & Bergmann on the Evolution of Test Equipment Apr 16, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Bill Spohn of TruTech Tools and James Bergmann of Stride Tool about where testing tools have been, where they're going, and how contractors are using them to prove they kick the competition's butts. This special episode is from the 2014 Fall Fast Track- learn more at HomePerformance.training

#65 TINY HOUSE HOTEL: Yes, This Is a Real Thing. Yes, It's Awesome. Mar 25, 2015

Today Corbett travels all the way to Portland to talk with Kol Peterson, owner of Caravan Tiny House Hotel, and tiny house builder Ben Kovco. Tiny houses- who wants one, what are the challenges, is it a passing fad or here to stay? Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop training portal!

#64 THE CONTRACTOR AT THE TOP: Rick Chitwood on Being Unbeatable Mar 17, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Rick Chitwood of Chitwood Energy Management, author of the book Measured Home Performance, and the wizard behind the curtain for all home improvement contractors whether they know it or not. Rick discusses how he launched into performance-based home improvements from a conventional HVAC background, and why he had zero warranty claims despite promising concrete and aggressive results. This special episode is from the 2014 Fall Fast Track- learn more at HomePerformance.training

#63 ALL OVER THIS LAND: Taking the Temperature of Homebuilders Around the World Feb 23, 2015

Today Corbett takes you on a tour of performance based building from a sampling of builders around the world, and realizes that the millionaires are going to be very angry when they realize what they're paying for isn't nearly as good as the affordable housing to be had on the other side of the tracks. Hosted by Corbett Lunsford at the International Builders Show (IBS) in Las Vegas and the Michigan Habitat for Humanity HOMES Summit, January 2015.

Thanks to Robert & Deb Berger, Hiroshi Kuratsu, Rick Eversold, William Wright, Dustin Johnston, Scott Spencer, Bob Passkey Sr., Joey Cuzano, and Bruce Rumsberg for voicing their opinions about performance testing!

#62 PERFECTION IS PURCHASABLE: Gavin Healy Can and Does Deliver Performance (and so can you) Feb 11, 2015

Today Corbett talks with Gavin Healy of Balance Point Home Performance about walking the walk- modifying off-the-shelf HVAC and retrofit products to deliver proof that his clients got what they paid for. Tons of people talking big about this, but you will find only a handful competent enough to actually do it in real life. Evidence of Balance Point's delivery: their zero-dollar marketing budget. This special episode is from the 2014 Fall Fast Track- learn more at HomePerformance.training

#61 BREAK FREE OF REBATES: Nate Adams on Private Market Home Performance Contracting Jan 06, 2015

Today we talk with Nate Adams of Energy Smart Home Performance about the techniques necessary to skirt the red tape of rebates and incentives, and earn more with stellar customer service and huge performance improvements. This special episode is from the 2014 Fall Fast Track- learn more at HomePerformance.training

#60 THE BOTTOM LINE: Russell King on HVAC Design & Energy Codes in Real Life Oct 28, 2014

Today Corbett talks with Russell King of Sierra Building Science about the labratory of California, where they've been trying to whip and incentivize efficiency like nobody's business. Are Manual J, Manual D, Manual S, window placements and sizes, and a menu of prescriptive energy code requirements actually leading us toward perfection?

#59 SPRAY FOAM SPECIALTY: Robert Lepage on Where, How, and Why Sep 11, 2014

Today we talk with Robert Lepage of Ex-El Shell Systems, Maintenance & Consulting LLC on the chemistry, the hype, the conspiracy theories, the right way, and the wrong ways to use spray foam insulation. Sponsored by the Building Performance Workshop Training Portal.

#58 HOW TO WALK ON WATER: the U.S. EPA's New Free Guide for Moisture Control Jul 07, 2014

Today we talk with Lew Harriman of Mason-Grant Consulting and Terry Brennan of Camroden Associates about water drainage, condensation, building tightness, and the free new EPA publication "Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction, and Maintenance". Hosted by John Bergman of Green Dream Group in Chicago.

~DOWNLOAD THE FREE EPA PUBLICATION HERE~

#57 PEOPLE ARE IDIOTS: Entertain What's Wrong in Green Building with the Green Curmudgeon Jun 20, 2014

Today Corbett talks with Carl Seville, aka The Green Curmudgeon, about the unsolved problems of green product lobbies, utility energy efficiency programs, value engineering, and people's screwed up notions about what's important in buildings. Hosted by Corbett Lunsford of Green Dream Group, and sponsored by the bible for testing homes.

#56 UNDERWATER BUILDINGS: Italian Building Scientists on Venezia's Age-Old Challenges Jun 12, 2014

Today we talk with Piercarlo Romagnoni and Francesca Cappelletti of the Architectural Institute of Venice (IUAV) about seawater vs. brick, mold vs. air quality, and beauty vs. function in a city that's been dealing with it elegantly for 500 years. Hosted by Corbett Lunsford and sponsored by the bible for home performance testing.

#55 AIR LEAKAGE LOVE AFFAIR: Colin Genge on All Things Blower Door and Duct Testing May 26, 2014

Today we talk with Colin Genge, founder and CEO of Retrotec, about the history of air leakage testing, how the tests really work (and what they doesn't actually test), and using home performance diagnostics for playing competitive poker. Hosted by Corbett Lunsford of Green Dream Group in Chicago.

#54 HOW BUILDERS THINK: Chase Ming on the Secret Sauce for Buildings and Clients May 07, 2014

Today we talk with Chase Ming of All Development in Alabama about how to use overcommunication to make more money doing better work for happier clients. A real builder doing real business with real clients, in a state that's just starting the journey into performance codes.

#53 A/C CAN BE SEXY: Kristof Irwin on the Magic of Variable Refrigerant Capacity Apr 23, 2014

Today we talk with Kristof "Handsome" Irwin, founder of Positive Energy in Austin Texas, about why your air conditioner is probably an idiot (bless its heart) and HVAC heaven that you might not have heard about.

#52 NOT YOUR GRAMMA'S BUILDING SCIENTIST: Iain Walker on air tightness, testing, and the origin of stinkiness Apr 02, 2014

Today we talk with Dr. Iain Walker of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory about the frontier of air tightness, fresh air ventilation, and why we're arguing about it in the first place.

#51 WHAT GREEN'S REALLY WORTH: Appraisal Expert Sandra Adomatis on The Bottom Line Mar 07, 2014

Today we talk with Sandra Adomatis, Appraisal Institute's green valuation expert and author of Residential Green Valuation Tools, about greening the MLS, swimming pool ROI, and the future of appraiser apprenticeship (which, yikes).

#50 WEST SIDE, BABY! A Bunch of Californian Rockstars Show Us What's Behind the Curtain Dec 31, 2013

IT'S A PARTY! Today we talk about the universe of home performance in California with:

Dan Perunko & Gavin Healy of Balance Point Home Performance
Mike MacFarland & Brian Tyrrell of Energy Docs
Natalie Freidberg & Scott Nyborg of Home-ology
Caroline Veerman of Loisos Design
and Judy Rachel of Green Achers Sustainable Solutions (that spells GASS, but she doesn't care- she's Judy Rachel!)

#49 THIS HOUSE SUCKS, BUT NOT VERY HARD: Brett Singer, scientist, shows us where depressurization testing has led us astray Dec 18, 2013

Today we talk with Brett Singer, air quality scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, about the red herring of worst-case depressurization on combustion testing, and the actual hidden enemy in every home.

#48 PRODUCTS WILL SAVE US: Keith Aldridge on Future Solutions in Stuff Nov 23, 2013

Today we talk with Keith Aldridge, VP of Business Development for Advanced Energy, on what the programs get wrong, why human QA will disappear, and what your clients really want. Recorded at the ACI Regional Home Performance Conference in San Diego, CA.

#47 BIG SEXY MORTGAGES: Kerry Langley on How to Borrow More, Lend More, and Keep More with Energy Efficient Mortgages Nov 07, 2013

Today we talk with Kerry Langley of Synovus Mortgage about how his company collaborated with Southeastern builders, HERS raters, and homebuyers to make an absolute killing for everyone involved. Corbett: "Why hassn't everyone been lending money this way?" Kerry: "I have absolutely no idea." YOU NEED TO HEAR THIS.

#46 PASSIVE HOUSE IS SEXY: Dan Whitmore and Adam Cohen, Builders Who Want You To Do It Oct 23, 2013

Today we talk with Dan Whitmore of Hammer and Hand and Adam Cohen of Structures Design Build about why and how to build like a badass. You got this.

#45 SUPERMODEL OF ENERGY: Brian Christensen of REM/Rate on What Matters in Modeled Life Oct 11, 2013

Today we talk with Brian Christensen, senior engineer for REM at Architectural Energy Corporation, about how energy models work, why they work, and how not to drive yourself insane.

#44 HOW TO WIN THEM OVER: interview with Gord Cooke of Construction Instruction about recognizing opportunities with clients Sep 17, 2013

Today we talk with Gord Cooke of Construction Instruction about his beginnings as a home performance expert, and ways to win homeowners and contractors to your side.

#43 DEANS OF HOME PERFORMANCE: Roundtable of top-flight U.S. home performance trainers on what rocks and what sucks Sep 05, 2013

Today we talk with our first panel of experts, all top trainers in the U.S. home performance industry. Scott Suddreth of Building Performance Engineering, Anthony Cox of the New River Center for Energy Research and Training, Brett Dillon of IBS Advisors, and Allison Bailes of Energy Vanguard all pitch into a spirited discussion on classrooms, mentorship, props, and real life.

R&D IN REAL LIFE: interview with Joe Nagan, the Voice of Reality in the Home Performance Industry Aug 19, 2013

Today we talk with Joe Nagan of Home Building Technology Services, the unofficial Research and Development department of the home performance industry. Joe is one of my personal heroes, and is a true Building Scientist, not just a practitioner, and he has special insight into practical applications.

LIPSTICK ON A PIG: the Legendary Neil Moyer takes issue with the state of the industry Jul 16, 2013

Today we talk with Neil Moyer, researcher and trainer for the Florida Solar Energy Center, about what the Performance Path REALLY means, and what building performance was like over thirty years ago.

BREATHING FREELY: interview with Paul Raymer, author of the Residential Ventilation Handbook and Master Moustache-Wearer Jun 22, 2013

Today we talk with Paul Raymer, chief investigator for Heyoka Solutions and Ventilation Guru, about his book, his facial hair, and the reasons for all the fuss over fresh air in homes.

PERFORMANCE EMPIRE: interview with C.R. Herro, Meritage Homes's Secret Weapon for High Performance Domination May 24, 2013

Today Corbett bounces off the walls with C.R. Herro of Meritage Homes as they discuss homebuyers, how to woo them, and why Meritage rocking the boat in homebuilding markets across the U.S.

SHOW ME THE MONEY: interview with Teresa Lopez, CEO of Green Energy Money and green valuation expert Apr 25, 2013

Today we talk with Teresa Lopez of Green Energy Money about the future revolution of high performance home mortgages and the current problems that plague the financial system.

HANK ON HVAC! Interview with Hank Rutkowski, author of ACCA Manuals J, D, S, T, etc, etc, and very colorful guy. Apr 08, 2013

Today we talk with the larger-than-life Hank Rutkowski of technical HVAC fame, about the right and wrong way to condition our homes and the who, how, and why of the ACCA Manuals.

CHALLENGE HOME: Sam Rashkin invites you to Build Better with the Dept. of Energy's Challenge Home Certification. Mar 15, 2013

Today we talk with Sam Rashkin, Chief Architect for the Department of Energy's Building Technologies Office, about the government's top certification for high performance new homes.

Ventilation 2013: interview with Don Stevens of Panasonic and ASHRAE about 62.2 ventilation spec upcoming in summer of 2013. Mar 01, 2013

Today we talk again with Don Stevens, National Research & Development Manager at Panasonic Eco-Solutions, about the history of ASHRAE 62.2 residential ventilation standard, and the upcoming changes in 62.2-2013.

Mini-Split Heat Pump MAGIC! Interview with Mark Kuntz of Mitsubishi Heating & Cooling Nov 06, 2012

Today we talk with Mark Kuntz of Mitsubishi Heating & Cooling about the latest and greatest in heat pump technology (that you can use in Montana) and the many applications of ductless mini-split HVAC systems.

HOW TO STAY DRY: interview with Lew Harriman, moisture control maven Oct 03, 2012

Today we talk with Lew Harriman, director of research at Mason-Grant (www.masongrant.com) and author of such books as The Dehumidification Handbook, Measured Home Performance, and ASHRAE Humidity Control Design Guide, about the impending doom of buildings around the world, and how to stop it.

Appraising the Value of Home Performance: interview with Michael Hobbs, Appraiser and Early Adopter Jul 31, 2012

Today we talk with Michael Hobbs (SRA/LEED GA), president of Pahroo Appraisals and Consultancy and member of the Appraisal Institute, about the root of the problem of appraising home performance, energy efficiency, and 'green' features in a home.

HERS Rater Overlord 2: interview with Brett Dillon, godfather and gadfly of the system Jul 13, 2012

Today we talk with Brett Dillon of IBS Advisors and the RESNET Chair of both Standards Development and Technical Committees, about new developments for HERS Raters. Brett has a problem with authority, which makes him very likable, and he actually is the authority, which makes him intimidating (and us confused).

Performance Genius 2: interview with Gord Cooke, superstar of selling high performance homes Jun 29, 2012

Today we talk with guru Gord Cooke of Building Knowledge and EEBA about how to get super-duper rich doing a fantastic job at building, retrofitting, and selling home performance. "When I grow up, I want to be Gord Cooke." -Corbett Lunsford, Host

Science is Magic: interview with David B. Goldstein, brilliant building technology researcher and author of 'Invisible Energy' May 22, 2012

Today we talk with David B. Goldstein, author of the book Invisible Energy, energy program co-director at the National Resource Defense Council, award-winning physicist, and all around nice guy. His insight into the mortgage crisis, homeowner propaganda, and analyzing the housing market as a system are fascinating.

Built Like a Tank: interview with Texas Homebuilding Superstars Travis Pate and John Harmon Apr 24, 2012

Today we talk with Travis Pate of Texas Classic Homes and John Harmon, a HERS Rater with Thermo Dynamic Insulation about how to build an awesome home, and why they're more successful at it than run-of-the-mill builders.

Upgrades Everywhere: interview with Sam Rashkin of the Dept. of Energy Mar 21, 2012

Today we talk with Sam Rashkin again, this time as the Chief Architect for the DOE's Building Technologies Program and the author of the new book Retooling the U.S. Housing Industry: How It Got Here, Why It's Broken, How To Fix It.

HVAC with MORE Science! Interview with Dennis Stroer of Calcs-Plus Mar 02, 2012

Today we talk with the uncomprable Dennis Stroer again about the finer points of HVAC design, dewpoint, warm climate subtleties, and the future of the industry. Dennis is the founder and President of Calcs-Plus in Venice, FL (www.calcs-plus.com).

The Contractor is King: interview with Rick Helwig of DNR Construction Jan 27, 2012

Today we talk with Rick Helwig, founder of one of the biggest weatherization contracting firms in the Midwest. His crew of 75 full time employees is an awesome mix of family business with large-scale organization, and of high performance science with Chicago-style practicality.

Evolution of HVAC Testing: interview with researcher and trainer Bob Davis of Ecotope Nov 11, 2011

Today we talk with Bob Davis, one of the industry's most influential figures in the development of home performance HVAC testing (duct blaster, Delta Q, and more), about where the tests came from, and where they might be taking us.

The Business as a System: the Science behind Running Your Home Performance Company from Mike Gorman Oct 25, 2011

Today we talk with Mike Gorman, the mind behind the business training and consulting firm TechKnowledge, on the disconnect between building science and business practice in today's rapidly evolving high performance contracting industry.

The Law of the Land: interview with Pam Cole of PNNL on Fast-Evolving Energy Codes Oct 11, 2011

Today we talk with Pam Cole, Building Energy Scientist and technical support guru with the Department of Energy's Building Energy Codes Program at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Energy Codes (the new International Energy Conservation Code 2012 being the most famous) are gaining ground across the country, and Pam's organization assists in their research, development, and implementation.

Why People Will Pay You For It: interview with Gord Cooke of Building Knowledge, Mastermind of making our industry profitable Jun 13, 2011

Today we talk with Gord Cooke of Building Knowledge and EEBA, an international HVAC and Builder Trainer. Gord has some simple and brilliant approaches to selling high performance building to builders, contractors, and homebuyers.

BPI and the Future of Home Performance Certification: interview with Vikki Murphy, Director of Affiliate Development May 23, 2011

Today we talk with Vikki Murphy, my personal favorite at BPI (the Building Performance Institute) and a delightful person, in addition to being the Director of Affiliate (training) Development and a past director of the New York Weatherization Directors Association.

The Tools We Crave: interview with Bill Spohn, career tool designer and co-owner of TruTech Tools May 10, 2011

Today we talk with Bill Spohn, a mechanical engineer who has designed and marketed tools with Bacharach, Testo, Fisher Scientific, and more, about the state of tools in the world. You know you love them. Listen to the man.

ENERGY STAR Homes: interview with Sam Rashkin on the Future of Home Building Mar 21, 2011

Today we talk with Sam Rashkin, National Director of ENERGY STAR for Homes at the EPA, about details of ESv3, selling high performance homes, and how to be awesome in general.

How To Ventilate! Interview with Don Stevens of ASHRAE, HVI, and Panasonic fame Jan 19, 2011

Today we talk with Don Stevens, National Research and Development Manager for Panasonic and Technical leader for HVI and ASHRAE, about the difference between ventilation standards, how to ventilate properly, and why so many professionals get it wrong.

High Performance Home Architecture: interview with Tom Bassett-Dilley, architect Nov 14, 2010

Today we talk with Tom Bassett-Dilley, architect in Chicago, about choosing air sealing instead of geothermal systems, how to lead clients into the light, and how to build a high performance building team. Audio quality issues are still being ironed out, thanks for your patience!

Carbon Monoxide Safety: interview with George Kerr, founding father of CO safety on several continents. Sep 22, 2010

Today we talk with George Kerr, founding father of CO safety and president of CO Experts, about the science and history of carbon monoxide safety throughout industrialized countries.

Retrofit Research: interview with Marge Anderson, Whose Finger is on the Pulse of Building Performance May 29, 2010

Today we talk with Marge Anderson, Associate Director of Energy Center of Wisconsin, about research on green jobs, retrofits, utility programs, and certifications.

HVAC with SCIENCE! interview with Dennis Stoer, HVAC right sizer and calculations guru May 15, 2010

Today we talk with Dennis Stroer, owner of Calcs Plus, once just a guy who installed air conditioners, and now a brilliant heating/cooling load calculations specialist, helping HVAC contractors across the Southeast get it dead right in residential and commercial buildings.

Contractor Training: interview with Keith Williams, legend in Air Sealing and Retrofit Training May 01, 2010

Today we talk with Keith Williams, owner of Building Services & Consultant LLC and trainer of thousands of air sealing, insulation, and diagnostics professionals across the Midwest.

Combustion Safety: Interview with Scott Suddreth of Building Performance Engineering on Training and Quality Control Apr 19, 2010

Today we talk with Scott Suddreth, technical director of Building Performance Engineering (www.buildingperformanceengineering.com) about the importance of combustion testing, BPI training, and quality control.

Building Science Software: Interview with Rob Salcido, senior engineer behind REM/Rate Residential Energy Modeling Software Apr 08, 2010

Today we talk with Rob Salcido, senior product engineer for REM/Rate, the energy modeling software used across the country by RESNET-certified HERS Raters, about the origins and future of this powerful program.

Hardcore Performance: interview with Brett Dillon, technical and training superstar. Mar 29, 2010

Today we talk with Brett Dillon, managing director of IBS Advisors, author of several widespread technical standards and manuals, Texas HERO developer, head of the RESNET Technical Committee, professional wrestler, and performer.

The Business of Selling Building Performance: Interview with Javier Ruiz, President of Senercon and 5 time Energy Star MVP Mar 11, 2010

Today we talk with Javier Ruiz, president of Senercon, 5 time ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year, and expert in selling energy efficiency to builders in El Paso, where there is no help from rebates, incentives, or energy utility involvement.

Commercial/Industrial Energy Consulting: Interview with Kelly Shelton, energy management consultant and energy auditor. Nov 13, 2009

Today we talk with Kelly Shelton (Certified Energy Manager, Chartered Industrial Gas Consultant), whose background in industrial engineering, engineering management, and problem solving drive Shelton Solutions, Inc.'s comprehensive services for commercial and industrial energy audits.

Home Inspection: an Interview with Jeff Beck, inspector, software designer, estimator, and marketer. Oct 21, 2009

Today we talk with Jeff Beck of Foresight Home Inspection LLC about crazy home remedies, the state of building inspection, and the pros and cons of software solutions.

HVAC: an Interview with Bronson Shavitz, HVAC diagnostician, designer and contractor Oct 11, 2009

Today we talk about new and existing HVAC with Bronson Shavitz of Shavitz Heating and Cooling. Equipment sizing, efficiencies, diagnostics, and client relationships are discussed. Sponsored by Green Dream Group in Chicago.

Green Financing: an Interview with Joel Freehling, finance expert and green mortgage innovator Sep 17, 2009

Today we interview Joel Freehling, a sustainable home finance expert and manager of Triple Bottom Line Innovations at ShoreBank. We discuss the changing state of financing for energy efficient homes and renovations, alternatives to the traditional 'bank loan' vehicle, and wild African mammals. Sponsored by Green Dream Group, LLC in Chicago.

Commercial Green Building Standards: an Interview with Jenny Carney, LEED O&M expert and reference guide author Sep 02, 2009

Today we interview Jenny Carney, a director at YRG Sustainability in Chicago, an expert in building operations and retrofits, and a primary author of the LEED O&M Reference Guide. We discuss the important role of the USGBC and LEED in accelerating building performance, the development of the LEED standard, ecology, and creative solutions. Sponsored by Green Dream Group, LLC in Chicago.

#1 WEATHERIZATION: interview with Kevin Dick, Weatherization Program Director Aug 19, 2009

Welcome to the first Building Performance Podcast! Today we interview Kevin Dick, the director of Delta Institute's weatherization assistance program. We discuss the roles and challenges of energy auditors, contractors, and low-income weatherization programs in general. Sponsored by Green Dream Group, LLC in Chicago.

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