Shows
Discursive PodcastEvolution of Databases Part II: Understanding Vector Databases - AI Turns Everything Into NumbersFollowing up on Part 1's journey from Oracle-dominated shops to today's polyglot persistence landscape, this episode dives into what might be the strangest twist yet in database evolution: vector databases. These aren't just another specialized NoSQL variant—they represent a fundamental shift in how we think about storing and retrieving information in the age of AI.
Tim explains how embedding models like OpenAI's text-embedding-ada-002 transform paragraphs of text into 1,536-dimensional vectors, creating mathematical fingerprints that capture semantic meaning. When similar concepts end up as nearby points in this high-dimensional space, traditional database operations like "find exact matches" gi...
2025-11-1932 minDiscursive PodcastEvolution of Databases Part I: 20 Years - How Databases Changed While DBAs VanishedIn 1999, every production system had its Albert—a database administrator who typed with two fingers, knew every table and index by heart, and could prevent disasters with a well-timed "no." Today, developers juggle PostgreSQL, Redis, Elasticsearch, and DynamoDB in a single application, often without a database specialist in sight. The numbers tell the story: we've gone from 6 developers per DBA in 2000 to 12:1 (or worse) in 2023, while the number of database systems has exploded from a handful to 426.
This shift reflects fundamental changes in how we build software. The NoSQL revolution, sparked by Google's Bigtable and Amazon's Dynamo pa...
2025-11-1734 minDiscursive PodcastGit's Discontents: Examining the Cracks in Version Control's CrownGit fundamentally transformed software development, enabling the open-source explosion we've witnessed over the past two decades. But as we approach Git's 20th birthday, it's worth examining where this beloved tool shows its age. Today's main segment digs into three key areas of discontent: Git's well-documented struggles with massive monorepos (forcing Facebook to switch to Mercurial and Microsoft to develop GVFS), the paradox of a decentralized tool creating unprecedented centralization around GitHub, and the current state of alternatives like Subversion and Mercurial.
The monorepo challenge is particularly revealing—when Facebook's engineers approached Git maintainers about scaling issues in 2012, th...
2025-11-0657 minDiscursive PodcastThe Reality of Utilization Reports: Why FinOps Is More Complicated Than ThatIn the main segment, Tim unpacks the deceptive nature of utilization reports that FinOps teams rely on to identify "waste" in infrastructure. While industry statistics show servers running at shockingly low utilization rates—often 12-50%—Tim argues that acting on these numbers without context is like "performing surgery with a chainsaw." He explores how CPU utilization percentages are fundamentally misleading with modern processors, why databases legitimately need low utilization for disaster recovery and peak loads, and how operational realities like global teams, inherited systems, and technical debt create legitimate reasons for apparent over-provisioning.
The news segment covers sign...
2025-10-3024 minDiscursive PodcastThe Fork-It-and-Forget DecadeIn this episode, Tim O’Brien looks back at three decades of open source — from Unix labs in the 1990s to the chaotic Cambrian explosion of GitHub — and argues that we’re entering a new “Fork-It-and-Forget” era.
Article this Episode Summarizes: https://medium.com/@tobrien/the-fork-it-and-forget-decade-dbb41008f961
Generative AI isn’t just coding; it’s starting to fork, patch, and remix open source projects at machine speed. Tim connects the dots between Linux’s 2.4 kernel, the rise of Apache, the Git revolution, and the next wave of AI-driven code evolution — and what it all means for developers, FinO...
2025-10-2726 min
Serious PrivacyA week in privacy politics (with Ralph O'Brien and Marie Penot)Send us a textOn this week of Serious Privacy, Paul Breitbarth of Catawiki and Dr. K Royal cover a week in privacy, including election outcomes in the UK with Ralph O’Brien and France with Marie Penot. We also discuss the overturning of Chevron in the US with the recent US Supreme Court decision in Loper and the global privacy enforcement network has come out with the results of their 2024 sweep. We also mention a little about Texas, Oregon, and the faltering US federal privacy law. Tune in for some #livinglearninglaughing. If you have co...
2024-07-1836 min
Shaping OpinionIs Cancel Culture Killing Comedy?Author and crisis manager Evan Nierman joins Tim O’Brien to talk about cancel culture and its attacks on comedians and comedy in general. Will it kill comedy as we know it? And how can you defend yourself if the “cancel vultures” attack? Evan is the author of "The Cancel Culture Curse: From Rage to Redemption in a World Gone Mad."#cancelculture #comedy #entertainment #crisiscommunications #crisismanagement This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.shapingopinion.com
2024-06-1245 min
Shaping OpinionParents of School Shooter ConvictedAttorney Mark Chutkow joins Tim O’Brien to talk about a rare case where the parents of a mass shooter are prosecuted, convicted and sentenced to prison. Is this a one-off or a sign of things to come? That’s just one of the questions we discuss.#massshooter #schoolshooter #thelaw #crime This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.shapingopinion.com
2024-06-1234 min
Shaping OpinionIs Cancel Culture Killing Comedy?, with Evan NiermanAuthor and crisis manager Evan Nierman joins Tim O’Brien to talk about cancel culture and its attacks on comedians and comedy in general. Will it kill comedy as we know it? And how can you defend yourself if the “cancel vultures” attack?https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/shapingopinion/Cancel_Culture_Raw_Audio.mp3Check out this FULL EPISODE at YouTube: Is Cancel Culture Killing Comedy?, with Evan Nierman (youtube.com)Check out this FULL EPISODE at Rumble: https://rumble.com/v4sxg5i-is-cancel-culture-killing-comedy-with-evan-nierman.htmlLIKE & SUBSCRIBE for new vi...
2024-05-1345 min
Shaping OpinionUnprecedented: Parents of Mass Shooter Convicted, with Attorney Mark ChutkowAttorney Mark Chutkow joins Tim O’Brien to talk about an unprecedented case where the parents of a mass shooter are prosecuted, convicted and sentenced to prison. Is this a one-off or a sign of things to come? That’s just one of the questions we discuss.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Parents_of_School_Shooter_Convicted_auphonic.mp3Check out this FULL EPISODE at YouTube: https://youtu.be/LIgv_NK9PL4Check out this FULL EPISODE at Rumble: https://rumble.com/v4s33lo-unprecedented-parents-of-mass-shooter-convicted-with-attorney-mark-chutkow.htmlLIKE & SUBSCRIB...
2024-05-0634 min
Shaping OpinionPreview: Shaping Opinion 2.0If you follow us on social media or have subscribed to our new Substack page you may already know we’ve been on hiatus in recent months. Most of the episodes you have heard since the start of the New Year have been encore episodes.Today, we have some good news. Starting next week, you will be seeing and hearing Shaping Opinion 2.0!https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Preview_-_Shaping_Opinion_2.0.mp3We’ve used the last few months to revisit every aspect of the podcast and make improvements....
2024-04-2905 min
Shaping OpinionEncore: 7 Random People on Their View of The American DreamIn this episode we hear from seven people who talked with Tim to answer the question, “What is the American Dream?” Tim set out to get the answer to the question on the streets of his hometown, Pittsburgh. You’ll hear from Vidya, Dwayne, Chuck, Leah, Jack, Tamara and Charlie. Each person was selected randomly in “man on the street” interviews, and we had no idea what they would say, but all of their answers were moving, thought-provoking and inspiring. This episode was first released July 4, 2022.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/247_-_7_Voices_-_The_American_Dream_auphonic.mp3...
2024-02-2647 min
Shaping OpinionA Children’s EpisodeThis is our special Children’s Episode. It was written and produced for young listeners and was inspired by a movie that Tim recently saw. It is not designed to entertain, though it may. It is not designed to educate, though it will. It is designed to make the listener think, to question and to want to know more. As you listen, please know I can’t know what you like or don’t like, or more importantly, what your kids like or don’t like, unless you tell me. Please use the contact form on this site. That will help me...
2023-11-2722 min
Behind The Line14: Fire Captain Tim O'Brien Reflects on Fatal Shooting of Martin Ganz, Pt 3 of 3Tim O’Brien is a firefighter/paramedic and currently serves as a captain with the Manhattan Beach Fire Department in Southern California.
On December 27, 1993, just after 11:00 p.m., Captain O'Brien responded to a rescue at the Manhattan Village Mall. When he and fellow firefighters arrived, they quickly realized the victim was Officer Martin Ganz of the Manhattan Beach Police Department and that he had been shot multiple times.
In this episode, Captain O'Brien opens up and talks about what he and fellow firefighters witnessed when they first arrived on scene and their efforts to save the life of Officer Ga...
2023-08-2924 min
Shaping OpinionHelio Fred Garcia: Ethics & Crisis CommunicationAuthor, professor and crisis communicator Helio Fred Garcia joins Tim to talk about ethics and crisis communications. Fred has had a long career at the highest levels advising organizations of all sizes on crisis communications and crisis management matters. In this conversation, we Fred tells his story, and he talks candidly about the kinds of ethical issues and dilemmas those of us in the crisis communications field face every day.https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/shapingopinion/Helio_Fred_Garcia_Ethics_auphonic.mp3Before we meet our guest today, it may be worth...
2023-08-281h 10
The B Better Podcast#59 Tim O'Brien on Impactful Change: When business meets purpose head-on#59 Tim O'Brien on Impactful Change: When business meets purpose head-on
Supercharge your passion for a better world as we explore the heart of purpose-driven business with the amazing Timothy O'Brien. He's a true trailblazer in systems finance, ESG, and strategies that aim to do good.
From when B Corp first popped up on his radar to his current role as CEO of Purpose Made (formerly Hatched), Tim's journey is one for the books.
In this episode:
🔍Tim walks us through his background in data and innovation, sharing how his passion for pur...
2023-08-171h 21
Shaping OpinionEncore: Justin from the Generation Why PodcastJustin from the popular true crime podcast called Generation Why joins Tim to talk about America’s obsession with true crime and his podcast’s role in shaping the growing genre. Justin and his best friend and co-host Aaron launched their podcast in 2012, helping to pioneer the true crime podcasting. This episode was first released on October 18, 2021.https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/shapingopinion/Encore_-_Justing_from_Generation_Why.mp3For a lot of people when they think of podcasts, they think of true crime. And for a lot of people, when they...
2023-08-071h 11
Shaping OpinionTim Schultz: What’s it Like to Win the Lottery?Powerball winner Tim Schultz joins Tim O’Brien to talk about what it’s like to win the lottery, and what you should do if you ever hit the jackpot for that big lottery prize. Tim is a YouTuber and the host of a podcast called Lottery, Dreams and Fortune. While working in a gas station to put himself through college, Tim won the $28 million Powerball prize in 1999 and his life hasn’t been the same since.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Winning_the_Lottery_auphonic.mp3Even if you’re not a ga...
2023-02-0650 min
Shaping OpinionMatt Campbell: The Ocean Hides Its SecretsBloomberg BusinessWeek reporter and author Matt Campbell joins Tim to talk about the story behind his new book, “Dead in the Water,” and what that story tells us about some of the darker sides of the international shipping industry. Matt Campbell co-authored the book with Kit Chellel. It’s a true story of hijacking, murder and a global maritime conspiracy.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Matt_Campbell_-_Dead_in_the_Water_auphonic.mp3Over a three-year period, from 2008 to 2011, roughly 200 vessels were raided and taken by Somali Pirates. Most of this a...
2023-01-1657 min
Shaping OpinionEncore: Nadine Strossen – Free Speech Over CensorshipNadine Strossen joins Tim to talk about how to fight “hate speech” or harmful speech without censorship. She’s a best-selling author and a Professor of Constitutional Law at New York Law School. She’s also the first woman national President of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). In this episode, she talks about private company censorship, the challenges, some solutions and all of it as addressed in her book “Hate: Why we should resist it with free speech, not censorship. This episode was first released April 12, 2021.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Encore_-_Nadine_Strossen_on_Free_Speech...
2023-01-0957 min
Shaping OpinionThe ‘Silk Road’ Story: Busting the Dark WebFormer FBI Cyber Special Agent Chris Tarbell joins Tim to talk about cyber crime and some of his most groundbreaking cases, including the Silk Road that centered on crypto currency and drug trafficking. And they talk about the take-down of the “Anonymous” hacktivist collective. Chris’s specialty is cyber investigations. He was the lead investigator on some of the more notorious cyber security crime cases in recent memory.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Silk_Road_auphonic.mp3Chris Tarbell is a former FBI Special Agent who focuses on cyber crime and cyber i...
2023-01-021h 04
Shaping OpinionProcrastination and Your New Year’s ResolutionsPrinceton University professor, researcher and author Nic Voge joins Tim to talk about procrastination, and more to the point, why we procrastinate every year just after we come up with those New Year’s resolutions. Nic directs Princeton’s McGraw Center Learning Programs. This includes the undergraduate learning program, and the graduate learning program.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Procrastination_and_New_Years_Resolutions_auphonic.mp3According to a study last year, the top three New Year’s resolutions for Americans are: exercising more, losing weight, and saving money. That study was co...
2022-12-261h 02
Building SustainablyBreaking Barriers with Charis HomesIn this episode, host Tim O'Brien is joined by founder and president of Charis Homes, Glenna Wilson, to discuss High Performance Homes and breaking barriers to entry for women in the home building and construction industries. For more information about Charis Homes, visit www.charishomes.com
2022-12-1636 min
Shaping OpinionEncore: Remembering the Sears Wish BookWriter, editor, producer and actor Jason Liebig joins Tim to talk about the Sears Wishbook. Jason is the creator of a website called WishbookWeb.com, which has archived complete, high-quality scans of Sears Wishbooks and other holiday catalogues going back to 1933. In this episode, we talk about a holiday tradition sure to bring a smile to your face. This episode was first released on December 10, 2018.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Encore_-_Sears_Wish_Book.mp3The very first Sears Wish Book was published in 1933. It featured dolls, a Mickey Mouse W...
2022-12-1234 min
Shaping OpinionMartin Dugard: Taking BerlinNew York Times bestselling author Martin Dugard joins Tim to talk about his newest book called “Taking Berlin: The Bloody Race to Defeat the Third Reich.” It’s the story of the Allies’ campaign across Europe during World War II as seen through the eyes of five key figures. This book is part of the “Taking” trilogy on World War II, and follows Martin’s work with Bill O’Reilly on the popular “Killing” series of books.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Taking_Berlin_auphonic.mp3If you listen to our episode #243 from ea...
2022-12-051h 02
Shaping OpinionEncore: The Story Behind Those Hallmark KeepsakesHallmark artist and creator Tammy Haddix joins Tim to talk about one of America’s more lasting holiday traditions, our holiday ornaments and decorating the Christmas tree. Tammy tells her own story as a member of the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Studio, as a mother and a wife, and how all of that comes to play when she helps make the holidays that much more special for Americans across the country. This encore episode was originally released November 30, 2020.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Encore_-_Hallmark_Keepsakes.mp3The Christmas tree made it...
2022-11-2834 min
Shaping OpinionSal Piacente: Casino StoriesGaming expert Sal Piacente joins Tim to talk about casino cheaters, scammers, and how casinos watch for and catch them. But that’s just the beginning. Sal has some great stories about his career in gaming. He is a consultant and a trainer for casinos and regulators around the world on gaming security.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Sal_Piacente_-_Casino_Stories_auphonic.mp3There’s a saying in some casinos. The eye in the sky don’t lie.That’s a reference to the cameras placed throughout the casi...
2022-11-2152 min
Shaping OpinionAnthony Shore: Who’s In A Name?Anthony Shore is one of the few people in the world who makes a living at naming things like companies, brands, products or services. He joins Tim to talk about the magic in a name, and the work that goes into creating the right name so that the right brand identity can become a household name. Anthony is an expert in naming products, branding, services and organizations. For the past 30 years, he’s introduced more than 250 product and company names to the world. Many are well-known to this day.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Anthony_Shore_-_Wh...
2022-11-1456 min
Shaping OpinionJames R. Fitzgerald: Hunting the UnabomberFormer FBI profiler James R. Fitzgerald joins Tim to talk about his key role in cracking one of the most notorious serial killer cases in American history – the Unabomber. James was involved in the pioneering of something called forensic linguistics. The FBI used this profiling approach to identify and capture one of the most notorious serial killers in American history, Ted Kaczynski, otherwise known as the Unabomber.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Unabomber_auphonic.mp3One of the most notorious serial killers in American history was someone who terrorized the country in...
2022-11-071h 05
Shaping OpinionAaron Mackey: Swiping Your PrivacyAttorney Aaron Mackey joins Tim to talk about how intelligence agencies, law enforcement and private companies are buying your data as part of larger surveillance operations. Is this against the spirit of the Fourth Amendment rights to privacy? Aaron works for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, or the EFF. The foundation is the leading nonprofit organization defending civil liberties in the digital world. It champions user privacy, free expression, and innovation. In this episode, Aaron talks about your privacy. How much you have, who’s invading it, how they’re doing it. And most importantly, what they’re doing with your persona...
2022-10-3147 min
Shaping OpinionWorth Parker: Escape from AfghanistanU.S. Marine veteran Worth Parker joins Tim to talk about an unprecedented story that centers on the shadow evacuation of Afghanistan in 2021. The operation was conducted by veterans and others from throughout all of the U.S. military branches to evacuate civilians caught in the chaos of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Worth is a retired United States Marine turned writer, who tells us about his role in what we’ve dubbed, “Escape from Afghanistan.”https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Escape_from_Afghanistan_auphonic.mp3In April of 2021, President Biden a...
2022-10-241h 03
Shaping OpinionLarry Csonka: A Football StoryFootball legend Larry Csonka joins Tim to talk about his life and what football has done for his life. Larry’s a former fullback with the Miami Dolphins and the New York Giants. He was a Super Bowl MVP. He’s an NFL Hall of Famer and a College Football Hall of Famer. He’s a two-time Super Bowl Champion – a cornerstone of the NFL’s only undefeated team – with the Miami Dolphins. And he’s the author of a new book called, “Larry Csonka: Head On: A Memoir.”https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Larry_Csonka_auphonic.mp3...
2022-10-171h 08
Shaping OpinionAndrew Bustamante: Inside the World of Covert IntelligenceFormer covert CIA intelligence officer and U.S. Air Force combat veteran Andrew Bustamante joins Tim to talk about his life as a CIA operative, the lessons he’s learned, and we get some insights into the world of the CIA. Today, Andrew is a Fortune 10 corporate advisor, and he’s the man behind the EveryDay Spy self-improvement program, and the host of the EveryDay Espionage podcast.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Andrew_Bustamante_Episode_auphonic.mp3Before we talk to our guest, you need to know some things about America’s inte...
2022-10-101h 16Building SustainablySmart Home Technology with Digitek DigitalIn this episode, Tim O’Brien is joined by owner of Digitek Digital, Dave Mihalovic, to discuss home automation and how new homeowners can optimize their smart home technology. Dave provides insights on what to do and what to avoid as it relates to the technology in your new home.
2022-10-0723 min
Shaping OpinionJohn Abramson: Behind the Curtain at Big PharmaAuthor, doctor and college professor John Abramson joins Tim to talk about his book called, “Sickening: How Big Pharma Broke American Health Care and How We can Repair It.” John has been on the faculty of Harvard Medical School for over 25 years, and prior to that spent many years in private practice. In this episode, John about America’s healthcare system, which often traces its roots to how drugs are approved for use and marketed to both doctors and consumers.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/John_Abramson_Sickening_auphonic.mp3Prior to the...
2022-10-031h 17
Shaping OpinionJosh Chin: The Emerging Surveillance StateWall Street Journal Deputy Bureau Chief for China and author Josh Chin joins Tim to talk about his new book he co-authored with fellow WSJ journalist Liza Lin. It’s called “Surveillance State: Inside China’s Quest to Launch a New Era of Social Control.” Josh tells about how China has led the way into a new era of mass surveillance on a scale the world has never seen. And it’s not limited to China.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Surveillance_State_auphonic.mp3The idea of an authoritarian state spying on...
2022-09-261h 07Building SustainablyUsing Avid Ratings to Improve the Customer ExperienceIn this episode, Tim O’Brien talks about our process for surveying customers throughout their new home journey, including design, construction, and customer care. Through the use of third-party surveys from Avid Ratings, which is a comprehensive customer experience surveying platform, we have consistently improved on our commitment to deliver extraordinary experiences to our customers.
2022-09-2314 min
Shaping OpinionMike Mariani: Moving On with Life After CatastropheAuthor Mike Mariani joins Tim to talk about what he learned about how people move on in their lives after enduring a life-changing trauma or catastrophe. He’s the author of the new book called, “What Doesn’t Kill Us Makes Us: Who we become after tragedy and trauma.” In this episode, Mike uses the famous saying that inspired the title of his book as a launching point to tell a story that doesn’t sugar-coat how people respond to adversity, while providing hope and inspiration.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Life_After_Catastrophe_auphonic.mp3
2022-09-1956 min
Shaping OpinionDr. Warren Farrell: America’s Boy CrisisBest-selling author Dr. Warren Farrell joins Tim to talk about America’s boy crisis. Warren has written books that have sold around the world, and was named by the Financial Times as one of the world’s 100 top thought leaders. In this episode he talks about his book called, “The Boy Crisis: Why our boys are struggling and what we can do about it.” We dig into the challenges boys face now and how parents and others can help them become the men everyone wants them to be.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Boy_Crisis_auphonic.mp3...
2022-09-1226 minBuilding SustainablyMoving Toward a Positive Impact on Energy Use and Climate ChangeIn this episode, Tim O'Brien speaks with the Director of the Dane County of Energy and Climate Change, Kathy Kuntz, about their mission to design and implement collaborate initiatives that accelerate change and yield substantive results for energy use and climate change in Dane County and beyond. For more information, visit https://daneclimateaction.org/
2022-09-0929 min
Shaping OpinionEight Voices: Where Were You on 9/11?In this episode we hear from eight people who talked with Tim to answer the question, “Where were you on 9/11?" But the real focus of this episode is on you, your experience with 9/11. Just as importantly, even if you were too young to remember or weren’t even born yet, this episode is all about why 9/11 still matters to this day, even if you don’t realize it.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Where_were_you_on_9-11_auphonic.mp3It’s now been 21 years since the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001...
2022-09-051h 01
Shaping OpinionNeuroscientist Karl Friston on Intelligence and Free EnergyPioneering neuroscientist Karl Friston joins Tim to talk about a concept he’s developed called the free-energy principle, which may hold the key to advancing the understanding human intelligence as we know it. Karl is a theoretical neuroscientist. He’s an authority on brain imaging. His work has advanced mankind’s understanding of schizophrenia, among other things. At the moment, he’s becoming better known as the originator of the free-energy principle for human action and perception. In this episode, we’ll talk with Karl about that free-energy principle, what it is, what it means and what it can mean for the fu...
2022-08-291h 07Building SustainablyAeroBarrier's Innovative Home Sealing TechnologyIn this episode of the Building Sustainably Podcast, Tim O’Brien meets with the National Director of AeroBarrier, Paul Springer, to discuss the innovative way in which AeroSeal's innovative home sealing product aims to benefit both new and existing homes. Tim and Paul talk through the application process and the benefits of creating an airtight home. For more information, visit aeroseal.com/aerobarrier/
2022-08-2622 min
Shaping OpinionEncore: Miss Manners Talks about 21st Century EtiquetteJudith Martin, better known to millions of readers as Miss Manners, joins Tim to talk about good manners, an understanding of etiquette and civility are as important as ever. Judith is an author and a syndicated columnist. In this episode, she talks about her career at the Washington Post, about how etiquette and manners in society have evolved, and about her new book called, “Minding Miss Manners: In an Era of Fake Etiquette.” This episode was first released April 27, 2020.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Encore_-_Miss_Manners.mp3In Judith Mart...
2022-08-2239 min
Shaping OpinionEncore: The Story Behind the Electoral CollegeAuthor and Electoral College expert Tara Ross joins Tim to tell the story behind the Electoral College, how it governs elections and why it is still needed. Tara’s latest book is entitled, “Why We Need the Electoral College.” This episode was first released October 12, 2020.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Encore_-_The_Electoral_College.mp3It’s happened five times. Five times a candidate won the presidency even though he did not win the popular vote. He won the presidency because he won the Electoral College.If you’re wonderi...
2022-08-1552 minBuilding SustainablyWhat Is Geothermal Energy & How Can We Use It? In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O'Brien talks about the importance and benefits of using geothermal energy in homes. Geothermal energy is a renewable resource that is naturally produced in the earth’s core. By utilizing this energy source, you can reduce your energy costs, improve the comfort of your home, and extend the useful life of your equipment.
2022-08-1221 min
Shaping OpinionEncore: Sharyl Attkisson Focuses on “The Narrative”Sharyl Attkisson joins Tim to talk about her latest book and the current state of the news media in society. Her book, “Slanted: How the news media taught us to love censorship and hate journalism,” centers on that dynamic called “The Narrative,” which appears to drive so much news coverage we see today. Sharyl talks of her many years as a network reporter and the way the media covers news today. This encore episode was first released December 7, 2020.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Encore_Sharyl_Attkisson.mp3Sharyl Attkisson has been a working...
2022-08-0848 min
Shaping OpinionEncore – Sgt. Leroy Petry’s Medal of Honor StoryU.S. Medal of Honor awardee Sgt. Leroy Petry joins Tim to tell his Medal of Honor story, from a life and death battle in Afghanistan to the very definition of the word, “honor.” Sgt. Petry is a retired U.S. Army Ranger who is one of the few to receive the military’s highest honor, and one of the very few medal recipients who have survived to tell their own story. This episode was first released October 20, 2020.https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Encore_-_Sgt._Leroy_Petry.mp3 In Apri...
2022-08-0149 min
Shaping OpinionSusan Wagner: An American SculptorSculptor Susan Wagner joins Tim to talk about a life as an American sculptor, some of her iconic works, and the creative process. Listen to Susan give insights into what it is about three-dimensional art, sculpture, that taps the human imagination, and draws us to it. She’ll also talk about what it means to “dance with clay.”https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/American_Sculptor_auphonic.mp3If you were to travel to the Vatican in Rome, or the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, or just about any major d...
2022-07-251h 03Building SustainablyA Community-Driven Approach to HousingIn this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O'Brien is joined by Melissa Songco, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity, to discuss their story and efforts to help the Waukesha community. Habitat for Humanity has been building affordable housing for families for many years. Being a non-profit organization, Songco talks about how they benefit from the love and support within the community.
2022-07-0827 minBuilding SustainablyLeadership and Core Values Within a Growing OrganizationIn this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O’Brien is joined by Ryan Hanna, Executive Vice President of Dave Jones, Inc, to discuss the advantages of building strong relationships with your coworkers, business partners, customers, and the community. They also dive into the significance of having a strong company culture, as well as the benefits of apprenticeship programs for high schools and universities to assist students in transitioning into the trades.
2022-06-2435 minBuilding SustainablyHomebuilder Collaboration Through Builder 20 Clubs In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Tim O'Brien is joined by Rachel Flint, Vice President of Hubbell Homes in Des Moines, Iowa, to discuss the advantages of participating in the Builder 20 Group through the National Home Builders Association. This diverse group of homebuilders across the country meets to discuss every aspect of their businesses. Through these transparent peer conversations and site visits, builders can gain insights and apply new processes and ideas to their own operations.
2022-06-1036 minBuilding SustainablyTotal Quality Management in Construction: A Review of the Journey (Part 3)In the final part of this three-part episode, Tim finishes his conversation with president of TrueNorth Development, Scott Sedam, as they break down principles of lean construction as it relates to total quality within the homebuilding industry.
2022-05-2727 minBuilding SustainablyTotal Quality Management in Construction: A Review of the Journey (Part 2)In part two of this three-part episode, Tim O’Brien continues his conversation with president of TrueNorth Development, Scott Sedam, as they discuss how the Total Quality Management (TQM) model has had an effect on the homebuilding industry through programs such as the National Housing Quality Awards.
2022-05-1324 minBuilding SustainablyTotal Quality Management in Construction: A Review of the Journey (Part 1)In this part one of this three part episode, Tim O’Brien is joined by president of TrueNorth Development, Scott Sedam, to discuss the history of the Total Quality Management (TQM) model, and how companies were able to improve products, process, and profits through a focus on quality.
2022-04-2830 minBuilding SustainablyThe McKenzie Regional Workforce CenterIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by our very own, Danny Lowery, President of our Madison division, to discuss the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center. Danny explains how the project was conceived, how he first got involved, and the commitment by the Boys and Girls Club to develop a new, diverse generation of skilled tradespeople throughout the Madison area and beyond. For more information, click here.
2022-04-1531 minBuilding SustainablyA Work-From-Home Space That Won’t Break Your BudgetIt should be no surprise that this trend is elevating the home office from an amenity to a must-have. A new home is a chance to create an office that's functional and useful—a space you will look forward to stepping into each morning. In this episode, Tim O'Brien highlights some important things to consider when creating a work-from-home space within your budget.
2022-04-0116 minBuilding SustainablyWhich Home Building Process Is Right For You? In this episode, Tim explores the three different home building processes, which include Production, Semi-Custom, and Custom. Tim explains that although one is not necessarily better than the other, it’s important to think about the pros and cons of each to determine which process is right for you and your family.
2022-03-0427 minBuilding SustainablyDesigning A New Home PlanIn this episode, Tim is joined by our Lead Home Designer, Andrew Elder, to discuss the process of creating new home plans. Andrew details how a plan goes from a prototype to a finished home plan and explains his thoughts on several elements that go into designing a new home.
2022-02-1831 minBuilding SustainablyHousing Market 2021 Recap & 2022 OutlookIn this episode, Tim O’Brien details the challenges faced by the home building industry in 2021 such as supply chain issues, building material costs, and labor shortages and how those challenges will potentially continue through 2022. Tim also summarizes a 2022 market outlook from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) as interest rates are projected to increase, and housing affordability remains low.
2022-02-0414 minBuilding SustainablyThe National Housing Quality Award - A Symbol of ExcellenceIn this episode, Tim O’Brien is joined by Tom Gillespie to discuss the National Housing Quality Award and its impact on homebuilders across the country. Tim and Tom go through how the award was created, as well as delve into the rigorous application and extensive criteria in which applicants are judged on each year.
2022-01-0731 minBuilding SustainablyConsumer Insights Customer SatisfactionIn this episode, Tim is joined by Vice President of Customer Success and Sales at Avid Ratings, Zach Buehl, to discuss the importance of third-party surveys for homebuilders. Zach explains how the data collected from Avid Surveys is used by companies to gather consumer insights on all aspects of their business, including products, processes, and people.
2021-12-0334 minBuilding SustainablyTotal Quality ManagementIn this episode, Tim O’Brien explains the TQM (total quality management) approach as a management system for a customer-focused organization that involves all employees in continual improvement. It uses strategy, data, and effective communications to integrate the quality discipline into the culture and activities of the organization. Tim explores the history of this approach, and how we implement it into Tim O’Brien Homes to deliver value to our employees, Trade Partners, and customers.
2021-11-1940 minBuilding SustainablyHGTV & Pinterest from a Homebuilder's Point of ViewIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by our Director of Sales, Pete Lange, to discuss the impact of platforms like HGTV and Pinterest on homebuyer expectations. Tim and Pete explore the benefits and challenges that these present when homebuyers are choosing finishes for their new home.
2021-11-0532 minBuilding SustainablyFinancing Your New Home Construcion ProjectIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by AVP Senior Mortgage Loan Officer at Associated Bank, Jackie Portz, to discuss the construction loan process and some common misconceptions about home financing.
2021-10-2217 minBuilding SustainablySustainability Through The Consumer's Eyes with Suzanne Shelton (Part 2)In the second part of this two-part episode, Tim O'Brien continues his conversation with President and CEO of Shelton Group, Suzanne Shelton, to discuss how consumers view sustainability within the homebuilding industry and beyond.
2021-10-0830 minBuilding SustainablySustainability Through The Consumer's Eyes with Suzanne Shelton (Part 1)In this two part episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by President and CEO of Shelton Group, Suzanne Shelton, to discuss how consumers view sustainability within the homebuilding industry and beyond. Suzanne highlights data her team has collected through years of research and focus groups, which indicates a shift in consumer sentiment toward sustainability over the past few years.
2021-09-2419 minBuilding SustainablyWeather Resistant Barriers & Sustainable New Home ProductsIn this episode, Hallmark Building Supplies Business Development Manager, Linda Heipp, joins Tim O'Brien to discuss the benefits of Tyvek Homewrap, and what makes this particular product one of the most important things that goes into building a home. Linda also highlights some other innovative and sustainable new home products.
2021-09-1031 minBuilding SustainablyThe Core Values of Tim O'Brien HomesIn this episode, Tim talks through the importance of defining core values within an organization and how those values can contribute to a positive company culture. Tim delves into each one of 7 core values of Tim O'Brien Homes, and explains how they were developed.
2021-08-2736 minBuilding SustainablyEEBA Summit & Sustainable National Housing Trends with Aaron SmithIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by CEO of the Energy and Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA), Aaron Smith, to discuss the community of over 50,000 builders and their stakeholders across North America that are truly the early adopters and innovators in driving sustainable transformation of the homebuilding industry.
2021-08-1336 minBuilding SustainablyThe History of Tim O'Brien HomesIn this episode, Tim O'Brien takes us back through the history of Tim O'Brien Homes and how the company was started. Tim talks about some of the challenges that he faced, how he identified a way to separate from other homebuilders in the area, and much more!
2021-07-3044 minBuilding SustainablyDeveloping New Communities with Sustainability in Mind In this episode, Tim O'Brien talks with Steve DeCleene of Neumann Developments about sustainable land development. Tim and Steve also discuss a variety of topics including lack of available land in desirable areas, building relationships with municipalities, and upcoming developments in Southeastern Wisconsin.
2021-07-1638 minBuilding SustainablyTim O'Brien's Top Home Options Most People Don't Think AboutIn this episode, Tim O'Brien provides insights into some home options that people often don't think about until after they move into their new home. Tim draws from his experiences building his own personal homes to talk through some things that homebuyers should think about when choosing their options and finishes. This includes things like laundry room location, future finished basement considerations, and much more.
2021-07-0236 minBuilding SustainablyOur 'Build On Your Lot' ProgramIn this episode, Tim O'Brien talks through the Tim O'Brien Homes 'Build On Your Lot' program, which affords homebuyers with the same attention to detail, construction standards, green building practices and outstanding service as those who purchase a home in one of our established neighborhoods.
2021-06-1821 minBuilding SustainablyChanging Community Habits and Sustainability with Waukesha County Green TeamIn this episode, Tim is joined by Laura Loucks, who is a board member on the Waukesha County Green Team, which is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote environmental and economic sustainability in Waukesha County communities through education, communication, and local action. Tim and Laura discuss ways in which community members can get involved including educational forums, networking events, and projects that help to conserve Waukesha County resources and to build a sustainable future.
2021-06-0432 minBuilding SustainablyU.S. DOE Housing Innovation Awards Recognize Top Industry Leaders with Joe NebbiaIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Joe Nebbia who is a Technical Consultant for the U.S. Department of Energy and Operations Director for its Zero Energy Ready Home Program. Tim and Joe discuss the Housing Innovation Awards and the rigorous application process, which is designed to recognize innovative homebuilders across the country that strive for excellence in High Performance home building practices.
2021-05-2138 minBuilding SustainablyPost-COVID Housing Boom Creates Supply Chain Challenges for HomebuildersIn this episode, Tim O'Brien delves into the history of the housing industry supply chain and discusses the challenges it has faced as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, including labor force shortages and manufacturing halts. Tim highlights the importance of creating positive builder-supplier relationships in order to mitigate disruptions in the building process and tells homebuyers what to expect when building a new home in the current market conditions.
2021-04-3026 minBuilding SustainablyChoosing The Right HomebuilderIn this episode, Tim O'Brien talks through some things to think about as you start your new home search. Tim discusses the importance of asking your builder the right questions when choosing to build or buy a new construction home and highlights the benefits of choosing a High Performance homebuilder backed by a proven process and established industry certifications.For more resources on this topic and to download our guide to choosing the right homebuilder, visit info.timobrienhomes.com/live-in-better
2021-04-1621 minBuilding SustainablyWhat is the HERS Index and Why Should I Care? Featuring Ryan MeresIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by the Program Director of RESNET, Ryan Meres, to discuss the meaning of The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, and why new home buyers should better understand how and why this Index is calculated. Ryan Meres has 15 years of experience in energy and water efficiency, energy policy and building energy codes and has worked at the Federal, state, and local level. As the Program Director for the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET), Ryan currently leads numerous programs, including implementation of RESNET’s HERSH2O whole-house water efficiency ratin...
2021-04-0232 minBuilding SustainablyDesigning Products for the Future of Water Conservation with Kohler Co.In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Senior Environmental Project Engineer at Kohler, Olivia Fritz, to discuss ways in which Kohler's focus on water conservation and environmental design can contribute to the homebuilding industry's push toward sustainability.For more information about Kohler's commitment to sustainability and Design For Environment program, visit www.kohlercompany.com/sustainability/
2021-03-1844 minBuilding SustainablyFrequently Asked Questions When Buying A HomeIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by our Director of Sales and his long-time colleague and friend, Pete Lange. Pete began his career in the homebuilding industry in 1990 and continued until 2009, serving in roles ranging from Customer Service Manager to Production Manager to Vice President of Sales. He then followed his passion for teaching and music, teaching Band and Choir from 2009 to 2017. Pete Re-entered homebuilding and joining Tim O’Brien Homes in 2016 and continues teaching Sales, Customer Service, and Construction.During the interview, Pete shares his insights on frequently asked questions by homebuyers looking to build or bu...
2021-03-0554 minBuilding SustainablyThe Tim O'Brien Homes Warranty ProcessIn this episode, Tim O'Brien discusses each phase of the Tim O'Brien Homes Warranty Process from the Pre-Move-In Orientation and beyond. Tim details some of our standard and manufacturer warranties and highlights ways in which our Customer Care team strives to educate homeowners on how to care for their home to ensure lasting value.
2021-02-1935 minBuilding SustainablyThe US D.O.E. Zero Energy Ready Home Program with Sam BowlesIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Marketing and Research Analyst at Newport Partners, Sam Bowles, to discuss the U.S. D.O.E. Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) Program. This program recognizes home the top 1% percent of home builders in the country meeting the extraordinary levels of excellence in energy and performance specified in the national program requirements. Sam highlights the history and goals of the program, as well as the ways in which every certified Zero Energy Ready Homes represents a whole new level of performance with rigorous requirements that ensure outstanding levels of e...
2021-02-0546 minBuilding SustainablyThe Tim O'Brien Homes Construction ProcessIn this episode, Tim O'Brien discusses each phase of the Tim O'Brien Homes construction process from foundation and framing to finishes and final clean. Tim details what homeowners should expect during each of the main stages of the build and explains the relationship/communication between the homeowner and Construction Manager throughout the process.www.timobrienhomes.com/building-process
2021-01-2229 minBuilding SustainablyWisconsin's Focus on Energy Empowers Builders and ConsumersIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Focus on Energy's New Home Residential Program Manager, Andy Kuc, to discuss ways in which Focus on Energy empowers the people and businesses of Wisconsin to make smart energy decisions with enduring economic benefits. Focus on Energyfocusonenergy.com/Tim O'Brien Homeswww.timobrienhomes.com/
2021-01-0847 minBuilding SustainablyBroan-Nutone - A Leader in Healtheir Home Systems In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Edwin Bender and Patrick Nielsen from Broan-Nutone, the global leader in residential indoor air quality, to discuss areas of growth in the industry as well as opportunities for residential construction to continue to innovate and develop technologies to further improve fresh air ventilation systems. About Edwin BenderEdwin Bender has over 25 years of experience in the sale and marketing of commercial and DIY products. His teams have increased the development of award-winning products that exceed customer expectations and is passionate about making sure that Broan is a...
2020-12-1837 minBuilding SustainablyA Breath of Fresh Air: The EPA's Commitment to Indoor Air QualityIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Environmental Protection Specialist at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Aaron Johnson, to discuss the EPA's Indoor airPLUS program, and the increasing importance of Indoor Air Quality in our homes as it relates to our health.EPA Indoor airPLUSwww.epa.gov/indoorairplusIndoor Air Qualitywww.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
2020-12-0435 minBuilding SustainablyThe Power of the Sun: Where We Are and Where We Are Going with SolarIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Vice President of Project Development at SunVest Solar, John Daugherty, to discuss the benefits of solar energy production in new home construction for both builders and consumers alike.John also highlights factors such as reduced cost, surging consumer demand, and increased government subsidies as key drivers for the rapid growth in the solar industry.SunVest Solarhttps://www.sunvest.com/State Programs for Solarhttps://www.sunvest.com/state-programs/Tim O'Brien Homeshttps://www...
2020-11-2044 minBuilding SustainablyCreating a Sustainable Workplace Culture with Chad SanschagrinIn this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by international speaker, leadership and sales coaching expert, and founder of Cannonball Moments, Chad Sanschagrin, to discuss the importance of creating a sustainable workplace culture. Chad offers his unique experience and insight on developing a growth mindset and long-term success within an organization. About Chad SanschagrinChad began Cannonball to use the skills he gained as a top-rated sales professional for a national homebuilder to empower, motivate, and encourage others to reach their full potential. He is a well-known executive leadership and sales coach who has delivered...
2020-11-061h 08Building SustainablyHome Design for a Climate-Changing World with Sam Rashkin In this episode, Tim O'Brien is joined by Chief Architect of the Building Technologies Office in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Sam Rashkin, to discuss new home design as our environment continues to change around us. Sam highlights the importance of resilient, future-ready homes as well as how and why homebuilders should implement sustainable building practices going forward. About Sam RashkinSam is the author of the book titled “Retooling the U.S. Housing Industry: How It Got Here, Why It’s Broken, and How to Fix It” that presents a compreh...
2020-10-2356 minBuilding SustainablyBuilding The Future of Trades Through Hands-On Education ProgramsIn this episode, we're joined by Steve Olson who is the teacher of the Oconomowoc High School Building Trades class to discuss the partnership between Tim O'Brien Homes and local high schools in order to develop the future of the trade industry by giving students real, hands-on experience in homebuilding.About Steve OlsonSteve has been a certified staff member at OHS since the fall of 1995. After graduating from UW-Stout in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Education, he earned a Masters degree in Curriculum & Instruction from National-Louis University in the spring o...
2020-10-0949 minBuilding SustainablyBuilding Science Advocates: The Energy & Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA)In this episode, we're joined by Gene Myers who is the owner and CEO of Thrive Home Builders in Denver, Colorado and current president of The Energy & Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA) board of directors to discuss EEBA and its commitment to provide the most trusted resources for building science information and education in the construction industry. About Gene MyersGene is owner and CEO of Thrive Home Builders (formerly New Town Builders), Denver's leader in building green, energy efficient production homes and recent winner of the U.S. Department of Energy's Housing Innovation Award.
2020-09-2430 min
2020-05-2827 minThe Person To See ShowTim O'Brien - Staying On OffenceStrategies for Staying on Offense during COVID19.
2020-05-0226 minThe Person To See ShowTim O'Brien - Strive for ImperfectionAlert! The founder of LinkedIn, Reid Hoffman thinks perfection is a dumb idea
2020-04-0823 minThe Person To See ShowTim O'Brien - Habits of a Highly Effective CitizenSuggestions on how to be a great member of your community in the time of COVID19
2020-03-2614 min2019-12-0421 min
Running Inside Out Podcast080: Barkley Marathons at Mind The Ducks - with John Fegyveresi and Tim HardyYou may have heard of a little Netflix documentary called "Barkley, the Race that eats its young" and if you are a trail or ultra runner, you may have even been asked if you ever ran or want to run Barkley. And if you are a silly person, you might even be thinking that you DO want to run Barkley someday. What you may not know is that we have two people from the Rochester Area that have run Barkley. In fact, 6 they have 6 attempts between the two of them!
Tim Hardy and John Fegyveresi both ran...
2019-05-141h 19
Running Inside Out Podcast077: Voices From the Trail 2019Laura Rekkerth made her way to 74 peaks last year. Daven Oskvig has run more than 70 ultras, finishing many on the podium. Tim Kent is a purposeful training machine setting an example for the next generation. Laura Webber is a family oriented adventure racer who did a 24 hour mountain bike relay race with her husband Ian while their 1 and 3 year old served as crew.
They each were kind enough to share their experiences and motivations running and getting outside as well as humoring me during some of my more … interesting lines of questioning.Special Guests: Daven os...
2019-03-301h 16
Code Monkey TalksEpisode 2: WalmartLabs with Tim O'BrienIn this week's episode we chat with Tim O'Brien from WalmartLabs about how they are reinventing development at the largest company in the world with OneOps. We also discuss the LEGO Boost, Adobe Acrobat Reader silently installs Chrome extension; Atlassian buys Trello and the religion of JIRA.
Links
LEGO Boost
Adobe Acrobat Reader silently installs Chrome extension
Atlassian buys Trello
WalmartLabs Engineering Blog
Continuous Delivery by Jez Humble
Gyroscope App
RescueTime
Credits
Opening Music: Another beek beep beer please by RolemusicSpecial Guest: Tim O'Brien.
2017-01-1345 min