Podcast
Lighting Controls Podcast
Hosted by Lighting Controls · EN
Join industry powerhouses Ron Kuszmar and C. Webster Marsh as they flip the switch on everything happening in the world of lighting controls. From cutting-edge technology and design best practices to hilarious field stories and deep-dive interviews with the pros shaping the future of our industry, this is the podcast that turns complex topics into bright ideas.
Whether you're a seasoned engineer, a designer obsessed with perfect dimming curves, or a newcomer trying to make sense of networks, sensors, and standards, Ron and Webster bring insight, clarity, and a whole lot of personality. Expect honest conversations, practical takeaways, and the kind of industry wisdom you can only get from people who’ve seen (and programmed) it all.
Smart buildings. Better design. Brilliant conversations.
If lighting controls are your world—or you want them to be—this is the show you don’t want to miss.
18episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 131: Episode 131 - Turning an Aircraft Carrier with Jason Livingston
1w ago00:42:08Summary ready🎙️ Jason Livingston joins the Lighting Controls Podcast to explain why lighting controls are no longer optional knowledge for lighting designers—they're essential. 💡 As a lighting designer, educator, author, and co-chair of the IES Color Committee, Jason discusses how energy codes, tunable white, and color-changing systems are reshaping the industry. He breaks down the difference between preset and timeline-based control systems, explains why every designer needs a solid foundation in controls, and shares how he teaches the next generation of lighting professionals. 🚀🌈 The conversation also dives into TM-30 and why it's replacing CRI as the future of color evaluation. Jason explains how better color metrics can improve lighting design, why manufacturers are slow to adopt new standards, and how designers can make more informed fixture selections. Whether you're new to lighting controls or an experienced professional looking to stay ahead, this episode is packed with practical insights on education, color science, and the future of architectural lighting. 🔥 Contact Jason: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-livingston-3267271a/ www.studio-tl.com Blog: https://designinglight.com/?p=4324#sthash.F1ZV9MwY.dpbs __________________ Read Jason's books: "Fundamentals of Energy Efficient Lighting and Controls" https://amzn.to/41kD7xd https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fundamentals-of-energy-efficient-lighting-and-controls-jason-livingston/1146628605?ean=9788770042369 https://www.routledge.com/Fundamentals-of-Energy-Efficient-Lighting-and-Controls/Livingston/p/book/9788770042369?srsltid=AfmBOoqN7XXqHd4NokPQ2j0INufQ4eF6y5qiBypSOM8_D-E5Dv3drFCc __________________ "Designing with Light: The Art, Science, and Practice of Architectural Lighting Design 2nd Edition" https://a.co/d/al45bg7 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/designing-with-light-jason-livingston/1118231097?ean=9781119807780 https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Designing+with+Light:+The+Art,+Science,+and+Practice+of+Architectural+Lighting+Design,+2nd+Edition-p-9781119807797 _____________________ The Lighting Controls Podcast is an official podcast of The National Association of Innovative Lighting Distributors.
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Episode 130: Episode 130 - WaveLinx - One Phone Call To Make with Martin Mercier
3w ago00:55:55Summary ready🚀 Is DALI Finally Ready for Prime Time?Is DALI-2 finally solving the problems that held digital lighting controls back for years?In this episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, Martin Mercier from Cooper Lighting Solutions explains how DALI has evolved from a difficult, proprietary system into an open, interoperable platform that's transforming smart buildings.We discuss: Why DALI struggled in North America How DALI-2 fixed many of the original pain points Open standards vs. proprietary lighting systems IoT, smart buildings, and the future of connected lighting Why digital lighting controls outperform traditional 0-10V dimming Cooper's new WaveLinx + DALI hybrid platform Whether you're a lighting designer, electrical contractor, specifier, distributor, or facility manager, this conversation explains why digital lighting controls are becoming the foundation for the next generation of intelligent buildings.If you've been hesitant about DALI because of its reputation, this episode may change your mind.#LightingControls #DALI #DALI2 #SmartBuildings #IoT #LightingDesign #CommercialLighting #CooperLighting #Wavelinx #BuildingAutomation #ElectricalContractor #LightingIndustry #Podcast Connect with Martin: https://www.cooperlighting.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-mercier/ Sponsor: Cooper Lighting Solutions, cooperlighting.com, @CooperLightingSolutions The Lighting Controls Podcast is an official podcast of The National Association of Innovative Lighting Distributors.
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Episode 129: Episode 129 - Clients Don’t Hire Us to Repeat Repeat Repeat with Emad Hasan
Jun 2900:44:25Summary ready“Lighting controls aren’t just switches — they’re part of the user experience.”In this episode, lighting designer Emad Hasan, founder of Lux Foundry, argues that lighting designers should have a much bigger role in lighting controls. His reasoning? If the controls don't work, users blame the lighting design anyway.💡 Key takeaways: Lighting controls shape how people interact with a space—not just how it looks. Many engineers handle controls as a requirement, while designers understand the user experience. The biggest project scope gaps are often lighting controls, emergency lighting, and code compliance. Hospitality projects demand tighter control because dimming quality directly impacts the atmosphere. The industry still struggles with outdated analog control methods and slow adoption of digital standards. Wireless controls are promising, especially in historic buildings, but aren't yet a universal solution. Adaptability is critical: every project, client, and market requires a different approach. Emad's dream? Every lighting design firm would have an in-house lighting controls expert. Bottom line: Great lighting isn't just about fixtures—it's about how people experience and control the space.Connect with Emad: https://www.lux-foundry.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/emad-hasanSponsor: MaxLite, maxlite.com, @maxlite The Lighting Controls Podcast is an official podcast of The National Association of Innovative Lighting Distributors.
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Episode 128: Episode 128 - Technology Doesn’t Have to be Scary with Jonathan Perlis
May 1300:48:19Summary ready🎙️ From Fixtures to Full Control: The Lighting Industry ShiftIn this episode, we dive into the real transition happening in lighting—moving from simply selling fixtures to delivering full lighting control solutions.Jon shares what it’s actually like making that leap:⚡ Why selling controls is a totally different game⚡ The importance of asking the right questions early (“the pre-game”)⚡ How most clients only want simple automation—but miss bigger opportunities⚡ The growing role of wireless, IoT, and energy efficiencyWe also explore unique challenges in the Canadian market—from 347V systems to code differences—and why standardizing controls design could change everything.💡 Bottom line:It’s no longer “Do you want controls?”It’s “What do you want your lights to do?”Connect with Jonathan: https://www.standardpro.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanperlis Sponsor: mwConnect, mwconnect.us
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Episode 127 - DC Power - Let’s Be Disruptive with Bolis Ibrahim
Apr 900:44:38Summary ready🚀 Is AC power becoming obsolete? In this episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, entrepreneur & engineer Bolis Ibrahim breaks down a massive shift happening in buildings: the move from AC to DC power. ⚡ Key takeaways: - Most modern devices (LEDs, laptops, EVs, solar) already run on DC - Today’s buildings waste energy constantly converting AC → DC - DC systems can eliminate bulky drivers, reduce failures, and cut inefficiencies - New wiring methods = less copper, less conduit, lower costs - Emerging standards (like USB-C power) are pushing DC adoption even further - The future? Hybrid buildings now → fully DC-powered later 💡 Bottom line: We’re potentially witnessing a transformation as big as Tesla vs Edison… again. #Lighting #Engineering #Energy #Innovation #SmartBuildings #dcpower Connect with Bolis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolis/ https://www.cencepower.com/ Sponsor: MaxLite, www.maxlite.com
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Episode 126 - You Can’t Guess Lighting Levels with Hilary Wainer
Mar 2600:49:19Summary readyIn this episode, Hilary Wainer—owner of Lux et Veritas Design—shares her journey from theatrical lighting to leading high-end architectural projects. She breaks down why lighting controls are getting more complex (not simpler) and how that impacts designers, engineers, and clients. From hotels and restaurants to ballrooms, Hilary explains how great lighting isn’t just design—it’s experience, usability, and smart control strategy. 💡 Key takeaways: - Simplicity beats overcomplication in control systems - You can’t “just throw it on a dimmer” anymore - Real success comes from early conversations with clients - Lighting design must consider time of day, user behavior, and staff turnover - The best systems balance flexibility + ease of use 🔥 Bottom line: Great lighting control isn’t about tech—it’s about understanding people, spaces, and how they interact. https://luxetveritasdesign.com/ www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-wainer-donnelly-805a4b1 Sponsor: mwConnect, mwconnect.us
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Episode 125 - When You Hear Hoofbeats, Don’t Expect Zebras with David Fox
Mar 601:02:13Summary readyTroubleshooting lighting systems isn’t just about knowing the technology—it’s about thinking clearly under pressure. In this episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, industry veteran David Fox shares powerful real-world insights from nearly three decades in entertainment and architectural lighting. From separating symptoms vs. real problems to asking smarter questions and staying calm when everything is on fire, David breaks down the soft skills and mindset that make great troubleshooters. This conversation features practical strategies to diagnose issues faster, communicate better, and solve problems without losing your head.Key takeaways:Why troubleshooting is more about process than product knowledge How to identify the actual problem behind the symptoms The importance of clear communication and active listening Simple techniques like divide-and-conquer debugging Why the best technicians know where to find answers, not just the answers themselves A must-listen for technicians, integrators, and anyone who’s ever heard the words:“The lights aren’t working.” 💡Sponsor: mwConnect, www.mwconnect.us
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Episode 124 - Simple Devices Do Not Mean Simple Solutions
Feb 1300:52:00Summary readyAfter a brief hiatus, the Lighting Controls Podcast is back with a wide-ranging conversation about where the industry stands today. In this episode, we discuss why consistent content matters, where professionals can start learning lighting controls, and why local reps and manufacturers are often the most overlooked educational resources.We also dive into real-world lessons from the field, including when to test new technology, why lighting control systems require ongoing maintenance, and how “simple” devices can sometimes create complex user experiences. From schools to restaurants to commercial offices, we explore how thoughtful lighting control design directly impacts both performance and end-user satisfaction.If you're a specifier, integrator, contractor, distributor, or simply curious about lighting controls, this episode offers practical insight and actionable advice drawn from real project experience.Welcome back — we’re glad you’re here.To learn more about Lighting Controls education and training, visit https://lightingcontrolsacademy.org/video-courses/ArchLIGHT Summit, September 15-16, 2026. https://archlightsummit.com/Sponsor: Maxlite, www.maxlite.com,
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The Mistakes We’ve Made with Ron Kuszmar & Webster Marsh
Dec 1100:55:03Summary ready🎙️ Ron & Web get real about the biggest mistakes they’ve made in the lighting + construction world — from costly fixture mix‑ups to terrifying rigging surprises. It’s a humbling, funny, and brutally honest look at lessons learned the hard way. 👉 Tune in for stories of near‑disasters, fixes on the fly, and why owning your mistakes is the ultimate power move. #Podcast #LightingDesign #ConstructionFails #LessonsLearned Sponsor: MaxLite, www.maxlite.com
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The Best Way to Control the Job is to Control the Job with Kenny Schutz
Dec 400:46:47Summary readyIn this episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast, the team sits down with Kenny Schutz, Principal at Focus Lighting in New York. Kenny shares his journey from theater kid to architectural lighting designer, and how theatrical training uniquely prepares professionals for the world of lighting controls. 💡 Key Highlights: Why so many theater professionals transition into lighting design and controls. The importance of collaboration, deadlines, and storytelling in lighting projects. Focus Lighting’s hands-on approach: in-house testing, mockups, and troubleshooting real-world dimming challenges. Memorable stories of flickering fixtures, elevator interference, and the infamous “40 fixtures on one dimmer” problem. How Focus Lighting blends creativity with technical expertise to deliver hospitality and residential projects that truly shine. 👉 Tune in to hear Kenny’s insights on controls, programming, and the art of making lighting both reliable and emotional. Connect with Kenny:www.linkedin.com/in/kennyschutz1880www.focuslighting.com Sponsor: mwConnect, mwconnect.us
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