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.
15episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 128: Episode 128 - Technology Doesn’t Have to be Scary with Jonathan Perlis
1w ago00:48:19Summary 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 1100:55:03Tap to summarize🎙️ 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 400:46:47Tap to summarizeIn 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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Everyone has a Smartphone with Andrew Cardello & Mike Berube
Nov 2600:57:26Tap to summarizeIn this episode, hosts Ron Kuszmar and Webster Marsh sit down with two industry leaders: Andrew Cardello (Resource Innovations) – Program implementer helping utilities and vendors maximize incentives. Mike Berube (Independent Electric Supply) – VP of Sales with 15+ years in the field, driving efficiency projects across New England. Together, they dive into: 🔌 The shift from fixture rebates to controls 🏫 Common retrofit projects in higher education, healthcare, and industrial spaces 🤝 Bridging the gap between specifiers and distributors 📱 Why lighting controls are “just another app on your phone” 📚 The critical role of education and training for contractors and owners 🌍 How incentive programs are evolving and what that means for the future of smart buildings From specifiers and distributors to contractors—or anyone curious about the future of lighting controls—this episode delivers valuable insights on collaboration, adoption, and the evolving path toward greater efficiency. #LightingControls #SmartBuildings #EnergyEfficiency #Podcast #BostonLights Connect with Andrew: Https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-cardello/ Https://www.eversource.com/business/save-money-energy/energy-efficiency-programs/commercial-buildings/existing-building-solutions/express-lighting Connect with Michael: Linkedin.com/in/michael-berube-759ba622iesbuy.com Sponsor: Maxlite, maxlite.com
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With Greater Power Comes Greater Responsibility with Kyle Hemmi
Nov 2000:51:44Tap to summarizeWhy are lighting controls still such a tough sell? Kyle Hemmi from CLEAResult joins the podcast to unpack nearly 30 years of experience in energy efficiency, lighting, and HVAC integration — and he’s not sugarcoating it. In this episode, we dive into:⚡ The real-world friction points for lighting controls adoption 💰 Why incentives and ROI still make or break a project 🧠 Human factors: how color temperature, brightness, and bad experiences shape perception 🔧 Training, tools, and the need for flexible, user-friendly systems 🏭 Why most contractors aren’t designers — and how to bridge that gap 📉 False triggers, occupancy sensor fails, and the psychology of “too bright” 🛠️ How to leverage reps, distributors, and agencies for smarter installs 📚 Training, training, training — and why half-day sessions beat full-day lectures Wonder why your lights keep turning off mid-meeting? Listen to this episode for some insights, empathy, and actionable advice. #LightingControls #EnergyEfficiency #SmartBuildings #HVACIntegration #LightingDesign #CLEAResult #MaxLite #Podcast Connect with Kyle:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-hemmi-lc-44b843/https://www.clearesult.com/ Sponsor: Maxlite, maxlite.com
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Bring a Crash Cart with Dave Werry
Nov 1400:57:59Tap to summarizeWelcome to another electrifying episode of the Lighting Controls Podcast! This time, we’re joined by industry veteran Dave Werry, who brings over a decade of hands-on experience in lighting systems, engineering, and field service. 🔦 What’s Inside: Dave’s journey from semiconductors to lighting controls Real-world challenges of lighting system startups and maintenance Why remote access and regular backups are mission-critical The surprising truth about energy monitoring—yes, end users care! Navigating IT hurdles and cybersecurity in modern lighting networks Must-have tools and tips for field technicians and designers 💡 Curious about how smart buildings stay lit and efficient? Keep yourself lit and efficient by tuning into this episode, full of insights, stories, and practical advice. #LightingControls #SmartBuildings #IoT #EnergyEfficiency #Podcast #MWConnect #FieldEngineering #LightingDesign #TechTalks #DaveWerry #FacilityManagement Connect with Dave:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davewerry/ Sponsor: mwConnect, mwconnect.us
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