Linen, Uniform & Facility Services Podcast - Interviews & Insights by TRSA
TRSA
Who exactly are the thought leaders in the $18-billion-plus linen, uniform and facility services industry? This podcast aims to shine a light on this industry’s more than 200,000 employees through thought-provoking interviews with industry insiders and business experts on issues critical to your company and workforce. Most Americans might not realize it, but they benefit at least once per week from the cleanliness and safety of laundered, reusable linens, uniforms, towels, mats and other products provided to businesses, retailers, manufacturers, healthcare facilities, restaurants and hotels.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 20, 2025 • 22min
Episode 77 – Artificial Intelligence
Larry Erickson, the chief technology officer at Kannegiesser North America, discusses breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI), the importance of collecting data and using it to improve plant productivity and efficiency, as well as technology that will shape the future of laundry plant operations. View the latest technology in action at Clean Show 2025. For more information, visit www.thecleanshow.com.
Jun 30, 2025 • 17min
Episode 76 – Texas Levels the Playing Field
Kevin Schwalb, Vice President of Government Relations at TRSA, discusses a game-changing Texas law that reclassifies the linen, uniform, and facility services industry under retail trade for tax purposes. This move could save the industry $3 million annually and enhance political clout. Schwalb highlights grassroots advocacy's role in creating job opportunities and supporting first responders. The conversation also touches on how Texas' legislative success might inspire other states aiming to boost economic growth and workforce development.
May 30, 2025 • 24min
Episode 75 – Elevating the Industry: Q&A with Randy Bartsch
Randy Bartsch, TRSA Chair and executive at Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service, shares his vision for the industry during his tenure. He emphasizes the importance of advocacy and innovative policies in textile services. Bartsch discusses the challenges of navigating tariffs and investment uncertainties impacting operations across North America. He highlights the need for leadership development and certification programs to elevate industry standards. Additionally, he delves into current healthcare market trends and the role of education in adapting to evolving demands.
Apr 30, 2025 • 32min
Episode 74 – Laundry Automation
Silje Mari Sunde, project manager at Nor Tekstil, the market leader in Norway with 26 facilities and more than 1,300 employees, discusses how the company has increased automation in its facilities to boost the company’s efficiency and throughput. She outlines the benefits and challenges of automation, as well as how to ensure quality and consistency when implementing automation.
Mar 31, 2025 • 17min
Episode 73 – Annual Conference Preview
TRSA President & CEO Joseph Ricci gives an overview of the 112th Annual Conference agenda, including several inspiring speakers, a plethora of networking opportunities for attendees, industry award winners and more. For more information on TRSA’s 112th Annual Conference, scheduled for May 13-15 near Palm Springs, CA, visit www.trsa.org/annualconference.
Mar 1, 2025 • 22min
Episode 72 – The Trump Administration, Tariffs and More
John Harwood, an award-winning journalist known for his impartial analysis of U.S. elections, politics and the presidency, recently gave a keynote address at TRSA’s 15th Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, DC. During his keynote speech, Harwood discussed the Trump administration, tariffs, foreign policy and more. For more information on TRSA’s government relations initiatives, contact TRSA’s Vice President of Government Relations Kevin Schwalb at kschwalb@trsa.org.
Dec 20, 2024 • 42min
Episode 71 – GR: 2024 Review and a Look Ahead to 2025
TRSA’s Vice President of Government Relations Kevin Schwalb gives an update on the latest news impacting the linen, uniform and facility services industry from Washington, DC. He talks about the results of the recent election and its impact on the industry, TRSA’s advocacy efforts at both the federal and state levels, as well as what to keep an eye on in 2025. For more information on TRSA’s government relations initiatives, contact Schwalb at kschwalb@trsa.org.
Nov 28, 2024 • 10min
Episode 70 – The Wash Meets TRSA
Zach Ostendorf, host of the industry podcast The Wash and a videographer for Clean & Simple Marketing/CITY Laundering, interviews TRSA President & CEO Joseph Ricci while the duo eats progressively spicier hot wings. The interview was recorded in front of a live audience at TRSA’s 7th Annual Marketing, Sales & Service Summit in Atlanta.
Oct 30, 2024 • 13min
Episode 69 – Enhancing Safety: Fire Safety Survey
Charles Edelman, the corporate safety director at Unitex Healthcare Laundry Services in Elmsford, NY, and the chair of TRSA’s Safety Committee, discusses the results of TRSA’s Fire Safety Survey. Additionally, Johnny Sandras of Sanico Rental Service in Cottondale, AL, discusses the impact that a devastating fire had on his business and the lessons learned from the experience.
Jul 18, 2024 • 40min
Episode 68 – PFAS: Update from the EPA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials Brian D’Amico and Matt Klasen join the podcast to give an overview of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the EPA’s strategic roadmap for dealing with the issue, as well as effluent limitation guidelines and several ongoing studies to note moving forward. For more information on PFAS, contact TRSA’s Vice President of Government Relations Kevin Schwalb at kschwalb@trsa.org.
