B&W Insights

In this episode of B&W Insights, host Mark Siefert sits down with Arlington Heights Assistant Director of Public Works and Engineering Rob Horn and Baxter & Woodman Executive Vice President Sean O’Dell to discuss their leadership journeys. From managing projects to leading people, they share lessons learned about emotional intelligence, mentorship, delegation, and developing the next gener...

Recorded live at the APWA Wisconsin Spring Conference, this episode of B&W Insights explores how public works professionals are navigating increasingly unpredictable weather—from heavy rain events to major snowstorms—and what it takes to keep communities running every day. Through conversations with leaders across utilities, municipalities, and public works departments, we dive into how teams...

What brings someone into the water industry—and what makes them stay? In this special live from ISAWWA’s WATERCON episode of B&W Insights, host Mark Siefert sits down with water professionals from across the industry to explore their water stories. From operators and utility superintendents to regulators, association leaders, vendors, and young professionals, each guest shares the moments, men...

Host Mark Siefert sits down with transportation engineer Ryan Wallace to explore where communities stand on ADA and PROWAG compliance. From sidewalk and curb ramp design to transition planning, enforcement risks, and emerging technology, they unpack why accessibility in the public right-of-way remains both a challenge—and an urgency. For more information visit baxterwoodman.com Produced by Baxter...

Host Mark Siefert and returning guest Kaitlin Wright explore where communities stand in the nationwide push to replace lead service lines. From new regulations to funding challenges and lessons learned in the field, they highlight why there’s still time—and still urgency—to get the lead out.  Don't forget to check every 1st Tuesday of the month for a new episode! For more information visit ba...

Kicking off Season 2 of B&W Insights, host Mark Siefert sits down with Village of Western Springs Deputy Village Manager Casey Biernacki and the Baxter & Woodman project team to explore how severe storms and resident concerns led to a voter‑approved, long‑term infrastructure plan. Learn how data, community engagement, and clear communication shaped a roadmap for the next 30–40 years.  New...

In this season finale episode of B&W Insights, host Mark Siefert sits down with Michael Fontanez to talk about the podcast’s journey—why it started, what’s been covered so far, and what’s coming next. They revisit highlights from previous episodes, listen to some memorable clips, and share what listeners can expect in Season 2. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the conversations that keep our i...

In this episode of B&W Insights, we sit down with Alex Han, the inspiring high school student and host of the H2O and Beyond podcast. Alex shares how a ninth-grade chemistry class sparked his passion for water and sustainability, leading him to create a platform that bridges science, technology, and public awareness. From tackling microplastics and PFAS to exploring global water challenges and...

🎙️ Live from the Wisconsin Section AWWA’s 104th Annual Conference! This special episode features five dynamic voices from Wisconsin’s water industry, recorded live at the 104th annual conference. We dive into the challenges, innovations, and opportunities shaping the future of water—from utility operations and policy to technology and workforce development. Whether you're a utility leader, en...

In this episode of B&W Insights, Melissa Olenick and Carolyn Grieves share highlights from their trip to Germany, where they toured cutting-edge water and wastewater facilities as part of a transatlantic delegation. Supported by ISAWWA and the German American Chamber of Commerce, the experience showcased Germany’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability, technology, and collaboration—offer...

In this episode, we sit down with Jason, a transportation expert from Baxter & Woodman, to uncover the truth about roundabouts. Jason debunks common myths and explains why roundabouts are a proven safer alternative to traditional intersections, reducing fatalities and injuries by up to 90%. Tune in to learn how these traffic circles contribute to the "Vision Zero" movement and a futu...

In this episode, we dive into the realities of sea level rise, stormwater management, and the evolving challenges facing coastal communities—especially in Florida. From the science behind king tides and groundwater shifts to innovative engineering solutions and funding strategies, our guest expert Jeff Hiscock shares how cities are adapting to a changing climate. Whether you're a weather enth...

How do cities plan for growth and sustainability? In this episode of B&W Insights, we explore the essentials of municipal planning. Our expert Cristin Emshoff discusses how comprehensive plans integrate transportation, utilities, infrastructure, and land use. Learn about the importance of community engagement and collaboration among departments to create effective strategies for a city's...

Join us for a special live episode of the podcast recorded at ISAWWA WATERCON 2025, featuring an exclusive conversation with the AWWA President-Elect Heather Collins. In this candid and timely discussion, we dive into her unique perspective on the future of the water industry, the evolving challenges facing utilities, drought and water reuse, as well as the importance of leadership in times of cha...

This special episode was recorded live at WATERCON 2025, the Illinois Section American Water Works Association annual conference.  We talked with seven guests from the Illinois water industry, discussing their perspective on challenges and opportunities they see in the water sector.  A new episode drops every 1st Tuesday of the month! Don't forget to follow us and leave a review . For more in...

How do communities set fair and sustainable utility rates? In this episode of B&W Insights , we discuss the need for rate studies to support infrastructure funding, public services, and long-term financial planning. Join our expert Mark Siefert as we explore how data-driven decisions help municipalities balance costs, ensure reliable service, and invest in the future.  Episode Guest:  Mark Sie...

Stormwater regulations can be complex, but MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) compliance is essential for protecting our natural resources. Our conversation with Dan Bounds breaks down what municipalities need to know—covering coordination, compliance, and clean water strategies. Whether it’s wet or dry weather, effective stormwater management takes teamwork. Tune in as we explore MS4 reg...

In this episode of B&W Insights, we dive into the importance of natural resources stewardship for municipalities. From sustainable stormwater management to habitat restoration, we’ll explore strategies that help communities improve environmental health and resilience. Tune in for expert insights, practical approaches, and actionable steps to enhance your municipality’s natural resources for a...

In this episode, discover how wastewater treatment facilities are addressing PFAS, the "forever chemicals" impacting the environment. Join us as we talk with Nichie Schaeffer and discuss removal technologies, regulatory updates, and strategies to manage these persistent pollutants effectively. For more information visit baxterwoodman.com Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

In this episode, explore the impacts of PFAS in drinking water and innovative solutions to tackle this pressing issue. Join our discussion with Megan Fox for insights on regulations, treatment technologies, and safeguarding public health. For more information visit baxterwoodman.com Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2026

Join our 5 minute conversation with Mark Siefert and Jason Ruffatti as we explore how design and construction teams collaborate to bring projects to life faster and more efficiently. Design Build is an integrated project delivery approach that turn visions into reality, shorten project timelines, and enhance project value. Guest Bio: Jason is the Assistant Wastewater Department Manager at Baxter &...

Join our conversation with Mark Siefert and Jason Ruffatti as we explore how design and construction teams collaborate to bring projects to life faster and more efficiently. Design Build is an integrated project delivery approach that turn visions into reality, shorten project timelines, and enhance project value.  Guest Bio: Jason is the Assistant Wastewater Department Manager at Baxter & Woo...

Five questions in under five minutes answering questions about GIS and spatial technology tools that can benefit a municipality and their data management. For the full version of this topic, check out the B&W Insights episode! Guest Bio: Andrew E. Zaletel, GISP , is a seasoned expert in geospatial technology with over 25 years of experience. As the Geospatial Operations lead at Baxter & Wo...

A conversation with Andy Zaletel where he provide an overview of  GIS and spatial technology tools that can benefit a municipality  and their data management. For the quick 5-minute version of this topic, check out the B&W Bites episode! Guest Bio: Andrew E. Zaletel, GISP , is a seasoned expert in geospatial technology with over 25 years of experience. As the Geospatial Operations lead at Baxt...

Cybersecurity – Protecting Your Infrastructure, we dive deep into the vital world of protecting critical digital municipal infrastructure. Join Mark and Doug as they discuss five questions in five minutes focusing on the practical solutions to keep your infrastructure secure and resilient in an ever-changing digital landscape.  For more information visit baxterwoodman.com Produced by Baxter &...