B&W Insights
B&W Insights
Baxter & Woodman
The Baxter & Woodman Insights Podcast is brought to you by Baxter & Woodman, a forward-thinking civil engineering firm committed to shaping resilient and sustainable communities. In each episode, we dive deep into key aspects of infrastructure, design, and construction, showcasing innovative solutions that address today’s most pressing challenges. Our expert guests discuss topics ranging from water resources and stormwater management to cutting-edge engineering technologies, all with the goal of enhancing community value and improving quality of life. Learn more at baxterwoodman.com.This has been a Baxter & Woodman production, 2025 
B&W Insights: Inspiring the Next Generation of Water Leaders with Alex Han
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 green infrastructure, Alex offers a fresh perspective on why water is the most critical resource...
Dec 2, 2025
24 min
B&W Insights: Live from WIAWWA's 104th Annual Conference
🎙️ 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, engineer, student, or advocate, you’ll walk away with fresh insights, practical takeaways, and a dose of...
Nov 4, 2025
45 min
B&W Insights: Germany on Tap - Global Insights for Local Water
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—offering valuable lessons for U.S. utilities. Check out our previous episodes or look for a ne...
Oct 7, 2025
33 min
B&W Insights: Love ‘em or Hate ‘em: Roundabouts
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 future of safer roadways. Don't forget to check out our previous episodes and marks your calendars for a ...
Sep 2, 2025
24 min
B&W Insights: Stormwater & Sea Level Rise: Engineering the Solutions
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 enthusiast, engineer, or policymaker, this conversation offers practical insights and a call to action for...
Aug 5, 2025
21 min
B&W Insights: Shaping Tomorrow - Community Planning in Action
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 future. Guest Bio: Cristin Emshoff, MUP, ENV SP, Community & Urban Planning Department Manage...
Jul 1, 2025
22 min
B&W Insights: LIVE FROM WATERCON 2025- A Discussion with Heather Collins
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 change. We also turn our focus westward to explore the 2025 California wildfires — examining the fir...
Jun 3, 2025
28 min
B&W Insights: WATERCON 2025 LIVE!
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 information visit baxterwoodman.com Produced by Baxter & Woodman, 2025
May 6, 2025
50 min
B&W Insights: The Dollars and Sense of Rate Studies
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 Siefert, Assistant Department Manager – Municipal Services A new episode of B&W In...
Apr 1, 2025
19 min
B&W Insights: MS4 Unfiltered
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 regulations, best practices, and real-world solutions to keeping our waterways clean and communities...
Mar 4, 2025
17 min
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