{Brief}ly Speaking Podcast

Why Some Greenspaces Thrive and Others Struggle with Karl Weissenborn

{Brief}ly Speaking about what happens after the ribbon cutting. SEH senior landscape architect Karl Weissenborn shares how communities can create greenspaces that remain beautiful, functional, and sustainable long after opening day. From maintenance planning and staffing realities to irrigation, native plantings, and long-term stewardship, this episode explores how thoughtful design decisions today can help communities reduce costs, improve resilience, and protect their investment for decades to come.

*Registered Professional Landscape Architect in MN, IA, KS, MI, ND, SD

 What Actually Makes Bike Lanes Safer? With Ken Brubaker

{Brief}ly Speaking about what actually makes bike lanes safer. SEH’s Ken Brubaker, PE, breaks down the differences between painted, buffered, and protected bike lanes, explaining how each design influences safety, rider comfort, and driver behavior. From balancing cost and risk to prioritizing investments where they matter most, this episode explores how communities can move beyond simply adding bike lanes and focus on creating infrastructure that delivers meaningful safety benefits.

 *Registered Professional Engineer in CO, MI, MN

How Drones Are Changing Project Delivery with Bailey Nelson

{Brief}ly Speaking about how drone technology is helping infrastructure teams see projects differently. SEH’s Bailey Nelson shares how drones are improving safety, capturing more accurate site data, and helping agencies make faster, more informed decisions from planning through construction. From lidar mapping and inspections to operating near active airports, this episode explores how drone technology is giving engineers and communities a clearer view of infrastructure while reducing risk and saving time.

Minnesota’s Infrastructure Report Card Is Out. Now What? With Ariel Christenson

{Brief}ly Speaking about what infrastructure grades really mean for communities and what should happen after the headlines fade. SEH structural engineer Ariel Christenson shares how communities can use Minnesota’s latest infrastructure report card as a practical tool for planning, prioritization, and long-term investment. From aging water and wastewater systems to structural and transportation assets, this episode explores where progress is happening, where opportunities remain, and how communities can turn infrastructure challenges into actionable next steps.

 *Registered Professional Engineer in IN, MN, NC, TX, VA, WI

Safe Streets for All Is Back: What Communities Need to Do Now with Nate Day

{Brief}ly Speaking about what it really takes to compete for Safe Streets for All funding. Transportation planner Nate Day breaks down what’s changed, where communities fall short, and how to turn safety goals into fundable projects. From Action Plans to Implementation Grants, this episode focuses on the strategy, data, and partnerships that separate successful applications from the rest.

Texas’ $1 Billion Water Grant – What You Need to Know with Daniela Garnica

{Brief}ly Speaking about a rare $1 billion funding opportunity for Texas water systems. SEH’s Daniela Garnica breaks down the Texas Water Development Board’s Water Supply and Infrastructure Grants program, including who qualifies, what projects are eligible, and how it differs from traditional funding.

With a fast-approaching 2027 deadline, this episode highlights what communities need to know now to plan strategically and secure long-term water reliability.

Designed with Firefighters, Built for Real Response with Chuck Leipzig

{Brief}ly Speaking about why firefighter experience matters in fire station design. SEH Operational Planner and Former Fire Chief, Chuck Leipzig, shares how firsthand fire service knowledge helps bridge the gap between operational reality and facility design, ensuring stations support both emergency response and daily life in the firehouse. From translating firefighter workflows into practical design choices to helping project teams avoid costly oversights, this episode explores how having former fire chiefs and firefighters involved in planning leads to safer, more functional stations for departments and the communities they serve.