Episodes
In this monumental 100th episode of the Environmental Transformation Podcast, host Sean Grady dives into the critical issue of combustible dust with two leading experts: Dr. Kevin Aikman, a plant biologist and certified industrial hygienist with over 30 years of consulting experience, and Dr. Ashok Dastidar, Vice President at Fauske & Associates, specializing in chemical process hazard analysis. The episode covers the science behind combustible dust, its potential risks, the role of...
Published 11/12/24
Sean Grady interviews Sean Easton, co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Wastelinq, a cutting-edge waste-tracking software platform. Easton discusses his journey in the waste industry, from his career beginnings to co-founding Wastelinq, which has innovative features such as AI-assisted waste profiling, dynamic routing for treatment methods, and inventory management. Additionally, they touch on sustainability goals, compliance, and the importance of data privacy. Easton shares insights on...
Published 10/08/24
Jason Kunz, a safety leader with over a decade at 3M, shares insights on building top-tier safety programs, preventing serious injuries, and how technology is reshaping safety. He also touches on worker engagement and a life-saving CPR experience. Tune in for practical tips to elevate your safety approach. Learn more about Jason at at ⁠⁠www.kunzCompany.com⁠⁠. Thanks to our sponsors: E-Tank, TerraTherm, Enthalpy Analytical, and Zappa Stewart
Published 09/24/24
Sean Grady interviews Robert Wilkinson, an expert with over 25 years of experience in environmental investigation, assessment, and management. Robert, who is the CCR Technical Manager at Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation (TDEC's) Bureau of Environment, discusses his extensive background and how he became involved in managing issues related to coal combustion residuals (CCR) at TVA coal-fired power plants in Tennessee. The conversation dives into the history and regulatory...
Published 09/09/24
Join host Sean Grady as he interviews JP Verheul, Senior Chemist, and Mike Allen, VP of Trace Lab Services, from Enthalpy Analytical. Discover the critical work Enthalpy Analytical is doing in analyzing environmental samples for PFAS and other contaminants. Learn about the challenges and complexities in the testing and regulatory landscape, especially concerning drinking water, wastewater treatment, and industrial impacts. The episode also features detailed discussions on analytical methods,...
Published 07/09/24
In this final episode of our 8 part series, Sean Grady welcomes back Skip Elliott, a veteran business manager with over 40 years of experience in high-risk industries. Skip discusses his extensive career, including his tenure as the Administrator of the U.S. Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and as the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The conversation centers around the inaugural Rail Hazmat Thought Leader Summit held in Dallas, Texas. Sean...
Published 06/04/24
Join host Sean Grady in conversations with industry experts at the Rail Hazmat Summit, featuring insights from Brian Kokkila, Assistant Chief of Operations for the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire. Explore the challenges and collaborations in emergency response activities, focusing on rail incidents and stakeholder engagement. Learn some of the take aways Brian plans to focus on when he returns to his post as a result of this Rail Thought Leaders Summit. Thanks to our sponsors: Enthalpy...
Published 05/27/24
In this episode, join host Sean Grady as he delves into the world of 911 emergency response operations with April Heinze, the Chief of 911 Operations at the National Emergency Number Association (NENA). Get ready to explore the crucial role of 911 operators, the setting of standards, training procedures, and the challenges faced by the emergency response community. Tune in for valuable insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives from a key player in the realm of emergency response. Thanks to...
Published 05/21/24
In this episode, host Sean Grady interviews John Walsh, the director of hazmat programs for the Short Line Safety Institute, discussing the crucial role of hazmat training for first responders in the rail industry. Walsh shares insights on the challenges and importance of safety training for short line and regional railroads, emphasizing the need for collaboration and leveraging digital technologies for effective training delivery. The interview highlights key takeaways from the Rail Hazmat...
Published 05/14/24
Welcome to the environmental transformation podcast. Today's guest is Nikos Avlonas, CEO of the Center of Sustainability and Excellence, discussing sustainability practices and the impact of new climate disclosure rules on organizations. From sustainability training to navigating the complexities of sustainability reporting, join us as we explore the evolving landscape of sustainable business practices. Thanks to our sponsors: Enthalpy Analytical, Zappa-Stewart, E-Tank, Cascade...
Published 05/07/24
Welcome to the Environmental Transformation Podcast with host Sean Grady. In this episode, Sean interviews Anthony Mangeri, a renowned expert in Emergency and Disaster Management. Anthony shares insights into his role as a professor at Rowan University and the American Military University, as well as his experience as the regional president of the International Association of Emergency Managers. Discover how Anthony helps communities navigate natural and technological hazards, mitigate risks,...
Published 04/25/24
Welcome to the Environmental Transformation Podcast, where industry leaders discuss pivotal topics shaping the future. In this episode, host Sean Grady engages in an enlightening conversation with Kari Gonzales, the President and CEO of MXV Rail. Discover how MXV Rail, the world's premier rail research advisory, is revolutionizing the industry through cutting-edge research and training programs. From enhancing safety to promoting resilience, MXV Rail is at the forefront of innovation. Explore...
Published 04/23/24
In this episode, Sean interviews Pat Brady, General Director of Hazardous Materials Safety at BNSF Railroad. Learn about Pat's role at BNSF and his vast experience as an emergency responder, we also cover topics such as response readiness in the hazmat community, challenges in hazmat training, credential standards, and how technology such as virtual reality is changing the way Class I railroads are targeting the Gen Zs entering the workforce. Finally we dive into all the elements of...
Published 04/17/24
Welcome to the Environmental Transformation Podcast. In this episode, host Sean Grady interviews Bill Schoonover, the Associate Administrator of Hazardous Materials Safety for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. Bill shares insights on organizing the inaugural RAIL Thought Leaders Summit in Addison, Texas, and discusses the outcomes and future objectives of bringing thought leaders together to enhance hazmat safety and preparedness. Join us for a deep dive into the...
Published 04/16/24
In this insightful episode of the Environmental Transformation Podcast, host Sean Grady engages in a compelling dialogue with Emily Donovan, co-founder of Clean Cape Fear, about their ongoing battle against PFAS pollution in the Cape Fear River watershed. Exploring the intricate journey from petitioning the United Nations to address human rights violations to the complex responses from major corporations like DuPont, Chemours, and Corteva, this episode sheds light on the critical...
Published 04/09/24
Using Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) to solidify liquid wastes with Whit Rawls. In this compelling installment of the Environmental Transformation Podcast, Sean sits down with Whit Rawls, the expert sales engineer from Chase Corp's Zappa Stewart, to explore the fascinating technology behind SAPs. We deep dive into the use and impact of SAPs across various sectors, including waste management, sediment dredging, drilling operations, municipal wastewater treatment, and environmental...
Published 03/12/24
How to achieve a Zero Carbon Industry by 2060! In this episode we sit down with Jeffrey Rissman, senior director of Industry at Energy Innovation and author of Zero-Carbon Industry, the definitive guide to the breakthrough technologies transforming the manufacturing sector and the policies that can accelerate the global transition to clean industry. Rissman discusses various aspects of his book, outlining ways industry and society can achieve zero carbon emissions. He touches on...
Published 02/27/24
Venture Investment Strategies with Ginger Rothrock of HG Ventures.  In this compelling episode, our host dives into an enriching conversation with Dr. Ginger Rothrock, the Senior Investment Director at HG Ventures. They explore the exhilarating realm of venture capital, the essential role of startups in fostering innovation, and the intriguing blend of science, business, and technology. With insights from Ginger's wealth of experience as an entrepreneur, investor, and scientist, listeners are...
Published 02/19/24
Dive into an insightful conversation with Mikel Bowman, the CEO of Bowman Legacies, about his transformative book 'Lead from the Middle.' Mikel shares his life experiences and unique approach to leadership and professional development, explaining how the principles of good leadership transcend time and industries. Discussing everything from his early career to integral leadership elements and how to handle difficult situations with grace, patience, and humility. Listen to how Mikel helps...
Published 01/16/24
Being the Visible Leader or Executive with Trends.ceo Dan DiFederico.  In this episode we discuss how to build a world-class presence on the one platform that matters by creating a Linked In strategy and a visible and effective profile. Learn what goes into developing a unique industry Leader Narrative that stands out in the crowd with stories that pull customers in.  Understand the power of content creation used to connect with your audience or customers and why it’s so important to become...
Published 01/09/24
Hazardous Material Management challenges with former PHMSA Administrator, Skip Elliott. In this episode Skip Elliott shares with us his journey to becoming the Administrator of PHMSA and the interim Acting Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Transportation.  We had an in-depth discussion about the challenges and gaps of Hazmat Training for Emergency Response professionals supporting the Railroad industry.  Class I Railroads have a huge responsibility to train their staff and response...
Published 12/05/23
Sustainable Eco-Tourism with Leave No Trace TV host Richard Crawford. In this episode we explore how Richard started his Leave No Trace TV show and why he decided to focus on Eco-Tourism, sustainability, and social responsibility.  We discuss how companies are attracting new travelers to their exotic locations and what they are doing to reduce their carbon footprint.  Learn about some of the main challenges we face as a society when it comes to choosing an eco-friendly location.  We also...
Published 11/14/23
This podcast episode features an interview with James Viray, the Global Head of Corporate Sustainability for GHD. We discuss GHD's commitment to sustainability, integration of ESG principles into their business, and how they are creating a sustainability culture. Learn how GHD is addressing social inclusion, generational value creation, and the future of sustainability as part of their "Sustainability Way" of doing business. You will also discover how GHD's initiatives around the Future of...
Published 11/07/23
SimpleLab, from Startup to Laboratory Logistics Service Leader. Join us for an engaging conversation with Johnny Pujol, the visionary founder of SimpleLab. In this insightful interview, Johnny shares his journey from a passionate science fiction writer to the innovative mind behind a game-changing digital platform. Discover how SimpleLab is revolutionizing the environmental testing industry, making water quality assessment accessible to consumers, small businesses, and large corporations...
Published 09/19/23