Episode Title: Can Buildings Help Us Live Better? DesigningEnvironments That Shape Health, Habits & Human Potential
Guest: Ken Fong – Director, Human-Centred Design, E-Lab

Can buildings help us feel better, think better even livelonger? Meet Ken Fong

In This Episode:
Meet Ken Fong, a purpose-driven architectblending health science, human psychology, and design innovation through E-Lab Consulting.

In this episode, Ken shares how the built environment canactively enhance wellbeing not just house our lives but improve them.

We dive into:

· Ken’s journey from mainstream architecture to wellness-focused design

· How buildings can influence mental health, productivity, and longevity

· The link between neuroscience, air quality, and space planning

· Designing spaces that promote connection, rest, and joy

· Real-life examples of buildings improving lives

· Why should architects ask: "How do people feel in this space?"

Connect and Follow Ken Fong
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-fong-75b00a65/
Website: https://www.e-lab.com.au/

Takeaways:

• Wellness design is not luxury, it’s foundational

• Light, air, sound, and space can drastically impact human behaviour

• Architects have a responsibility to design beyond aesthetics

• The future of buildings is human-centric, not just code-compliant

• Small design choices can lead to big health outcomes

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Elab and Human Centered Design

03:29 Understanding Human Centered Design

06:32 Ken Fong's Engineering Journey

09:28 The Intersection of Engineering and Wellbeing

12:36 Personal Coaching and Habit Formation

18:27 Functional Medicine and Holistic Health

27:13 Understanding Stress and Burnout

30:40 Mindset and Health

33:27 The Built Environment's Impact on Well-Being

41:20 Personalized Health and Future Trends

50:50 Exploring Wellbeing and Habits

50:51 Insights into Well Buildings and Their Impact

Sound Bites / Quotes:

"You are what you repeatedly do."

"We spend 90% of our time indoors."

"Small habits lead to big changes."“Architecture has the power to shape how we feel, not just how things look.”“The building itself is a partner in how people live or struggle.” “There’s a science behind why you feel good in some spaces, and not others.”

Referenced in This Episode:

· The Healthy Buildings Movement https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiehailstone/2022/12/12/why-the-healthy-buildings-movement-is-good-news-for-everyone/

· Biophilic Design: The Architecture of Life https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/330/article/897090/pdf

· Neuroscience for Architects (Ken referencesemerging research)

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Episode Title: Building Pride + Psych Safety Insights

Guest: Chris Schiavello – Building Pride

Curious about fostering inclusivity and innovation in the workplace? Meet Chris Schiavello.

In this Episode 04 of BE Connected, I’m speaking with Chris Schiavello and Director at Building Pride.

We dive into a fascinating conversation with Chris Schiavello from the Schiavello Group. Chris shares insights into his family's business journey, the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, and the impactful work of Building Pride in supporting the LGBTI community within the construction industry.

Discover how psychological safety and inclusive environments can drive innovation and success.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion on leadership, diversity, and creating change.

We dive into:

• Fostering an Entrepreneurial Culture

• Building Pride and Inclusivity

• Psychological Safety and Well-being

Connect and Follow Chris Schiavello:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherschiavello/

Website: https://www.buildingpride.com.au/

Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurial Spirit and Family Legacy: Chris highlights the importance of fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration within a business. The Schiavello Group's success is attributed to its ability to adapt, innovate, and empower employees to bring new ideas to the table.

• Building Pride Initiative: The initiative aims to support the LGBTI community in the construction industry by promoting visibility, mentorship, and inclusive policies. Chris emphasizes the need for creating environments where everyone can thrive and feel accepted.

• Psychological Safety in the Workplace: Chris discusses the significance of psychological safety, linking it to talent retention, productivity, and overall employee well-being. He stresses that a supportive and inclusive work culture is essential for innovation and success.

• Personal Journey and Identity: Chris shares his personal experiences of coming out and finding his place in the industry. He reflects on the challenges and support he received, highlighting the importance of visibility and representation for future generations.

• Leadership and Mentorship: The episode underscores the value of effective leadership and mentorship in fostering a supportive work environment. Chris advocates for leaders to be proactive in creating inclusive spaces and supporting diverse talent.

Sound Bites / Quotes:

"Anything is possible when you foster a culture of creativity and collaboration."

"Building Pride is about making it easier for the next generation to be visible and successful in their careers."

"Psychological safety is crucial for talent retention and creating a thriving workplace."

Referenced in This Episode:• Schiavello Group - https://www.schiavello.com/• Alan Joyce: As a prominent business figure - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanjjoyce • Julia Gillard: Former Prime Minister of Australia - https://www.britannica.com/biography/Julia-Gillard https://x.com/juliagillard • Club Med - https://www.clubmed.asia/• John Holland - https://johnholland.com.au/ • Elliot Page's Book "Pageboy" - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60473073-pageboy

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