Business Of Architecture Podcast

In this episode of Business of Architecture, Enoch Sears dives into a game-changing concept for small firm owners: working on your business instead of just in it. He shares a powerful framework to help you shift your mindset, tackle challenges, and build systems that lead to more freedom, fulfillment, and profit. Along the way, Enoch explores surprising strategies for creating a thriving practice and shares insights from coaching calls with real architects. You’ll also hear about a key approach that transforms hiring struggles into opportunities for growth. Discover the untapped potential in your daily decisions and why most firm owners miss a crucial step to consistent success. Plus, learn how AI tools are reshaping the way architects grow their businesses. The biggest mistake architects make when hiring their first team member. A hidden approach to growing your practice while reducing stress. The one question every architect should ask about their business. How AI is being used to reveal behind-the-scenes

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard sits down with Colin Davis and Suzanne Davenport of Studio Partington for part two of their conversation on sustainable design and retrofitting. Listen as they explore real-world stories about tackling outdated housing stock, collaborating with local authorities, and creating innovative solutions for energy efficiency—all while navigating complex procurement processes. This engaging discussion sheds light on the untapped potential of retrofitting and how architects can lead transformative projects. Discover how Davis and Davenport’s experiences reveal the intricate balance between energy goals, resident needs, and design practicality. They also share candid insights into overcoming challenges in software decisions, working with tight budgets, and collaborating with residents to shape better communities. The surprising connection between retrofitting and community transformation. A bold strategy for tackling procurement roadblocks in archit

Studio Partington has made a name for itself in sustainable design and retrofit architecture, but how did this small team achieve such big results? In this episode, Rion Willard sits down with Colin Davis and Suzanne Davenport to explore their journey from humble beginnings to creating impactful projects that redefine what's possible in housing and beyond. Discover how they navigated industry challenges, shifted focus during uncertain times, and used their expertise to tackle pressing environmental issues. They also share surprising insights about their unique team dynamics and what makes their approach stand out. This conversation is packed with lessons for architects and designers who want to make a real difference while thriving in business. What unexpected tools do they use to gain an edge in sustainable design? How they turned a setback into one of their biggest opportunities. Why do they believe being a "generalist" is key in today’s architecture world? The surprising role writing plays in their archit

What happens when an architect takes on the role of developer? In this episode, Jeff Krieger shares his bold leap into real estate development, revealing the challenges, risks, and surprising lessons learned along the way. From unexpected obstacles to eye-opening insights, Jeff opens up about how this experience transformed his architectural practice and perspective. Jeff dives into the emotional and financial realities of development, offering an inside look at the highs and lows. What would he do differently, and was it all worth it? You’ll hear stories of resilience, strategy, and lessons that every architect should know before taking a similar plunge. The one decision that nearly derailed the entire project—and how Jeff handled it. Why architects have a hidden edge in real estate development but often miss it. The surprising outcome of a “dream” project and its impact on his career. What Jeff learned about risk, reward, and the mindset you need to succeed.   To learn more about Jeff, visit his: Website:

Are your feelings steering your business decisions? In this episode, Enoch Sears explores the critical difference between perception and reality in running an architectural practice. He shares a surprising story about a bodybuilder that reveals why focusing on measurable data is essential to making better choices. You'll hear about a unique coaching session where architects tackled challenges like tracking profitability, setting the right fees, and balancing billable and non-billable time. Enoch teases a game-changing tool to assess your firm’s revenue potential and highlights the importance of asking smarter questions to build stronger client relationships. Want to know how architects can move beyond chaos to take control of their business? This episode offers eye-opening insights you won’t want to miss. Why did a bodybuilder feel smaller as he grew larger—and what’s the lesson for architects? What simple tool can reveal your firm's true revenue potential? How does one key shift in mindset lead to better cl

Hiring is one of the trickiest parts of growing your architecture firm. In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into the challenges and rewards of building the right team. Whether you’re overwhelmed with deadlines or stuck deciding who to hire, this episode offers powerful insights to guide you. You’ll discover what makes hiring a game-changing investment rather than a risky expense. Learn why the wrong hire can tie your hands and how the right hire can transform your workload, your stress levels, and your entire practice. Packed with stories, practical steps, and a surprising tool you can start using today, this episode is a must-listen for architects ready to scale their firms without losing their freedom. The surprising shift that makes hiring less risky and more rewarding. The #1 mistake most firm owners make when hiring their first team member. A proven exercise to uncover exactly what tasks you should delegate. Why the right hire can triple your revenue in just months.   Link: https://www.businessofarchite

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard dives into the fascinating intersection of fashion, personal branding, and business success with tailor and stylist Victoria from Klein Epstein Parker. Victoria shares her journey into bespoke tailoring, revealing surprising challenges and unexpected collaborations that helped her business thrive. Together, they explore why what you wear says so much about who you are and how it can impact your confidence, career, and even the perception of your leadership. Discover how a bold outfit can transform your mindset and command respect, and why some style choices make a bigger statement than others. Victoria also touches on a major cultural difference in dressing well and how it reflects values of respect and professionalism. Why a single outfit can change how people see you—and how you see yourself. The secret power behind dressing like a leader. A fascinating story about a basketball team using fashion to gain an edge. The surprising way perso

Welcome back for Part II of this episode of the Business of Architecture Podcast with Enoch Sears and Rion Willard. In this episode, Enoch and Rion dive into the challenges and opportunities that come with running a practice. They reflect on the surprising relationship between personal growth and business success, sharing compelling stories and insights from a recent Design Council event in San Diego. If you've ever felt stuck in your practice or wondered how to unlock its next level of potential, this conversation is packed with eye-opening ideas. Discover how to navigate the "right kind of problems" as your business grows. Learn why some common leadership mistakes may be holding your team back. And hear a fresh perspective on creating opportunities for your team that can transform your practice into something truly extraordinary. What does “choosing your problems” mean, and how can it change your business? The hidden cost of clinging too tightly to control in leadership. A mindset shift that could turn tea

Are you running your architecture firm like a thriving business—or are you just reacting to one crisis after another? In this episode of the Business of Architecture Podcast, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard dive into the hidden challenges successful firm owners face and how to break free from limiting patterns. Recorded on location in sunny San Diego, the conversation is packed with insights from their Design Council event with top-performing clients. Discover the traps that even thriving firms fall into and why some architects struggle to delegate effectively. Enoch and Rion discuss the pitfalls of playing it safe and how it can lead to stagnation. If you're ready to move beyond survival and start playing to win, this episode is for you.   The single mindset shift that separates stagnant firms from growing ones. What architects get wrong about solving client problems—and what to do instead. How to fix the #1 bottleneck in your firm’s efficiency. Why delegating isn’t as simple as it seems (and how to do it righ

What’s the future of architecture? Architect and entrepreneur Nourah Said joins the podcast to explore groundbreaking ideas that could change how architects work and earn. From her Cambridge Judge School thesis to her own entrepreneurial journey, Nourah sheds light on challenges in the profession and how architects can reclaim creative and financial control. Learn why the traditional role of architects may no longer fit the modern world. Nourah discusses how breaking free from old systems could unlock new growth opportunities. Along the way, she reveals surprising lessons architects can learn from developers and entrepreneurs. Could architects really take on a different role in the construction process? Nourah shares insights from her research and conversations with industry leaders that might make you rethink what’s possible for architects today.   A controversial idea that merges two traditionally separate roles in construction. Why one business model might be holding architects back—and how to break free.

In this episode, RIon Willard has an intriguing conversation with Jack Chaffin, partner at Johnston Architects, as he reveals the surprising strategies his team uses to bring designs to life in new ways. Jack shares how they blend digital tech with hands-on creativity, breaking down the usual limits of architectural practice. From crafting custom components to reimagining client interactions, Johnston Architects is rewriting the playbook on what architects can do. Jack also discusses a unique tool that lets clients shape their own projects online and hints at the firm’s future plans for even bolder innovations. Discover the unexpected way Johnston Architects bridges design and construction Find out how clients are now shaping their own homes with just a few clicks Hear Jack’s take on what could redefine the architect’s role in project delivery Learn about a new approach that could make your next project both faster and cheaper   To learn more about Jack, visit his: Website: https://www.johnstonarchitects.co

In this eye-opening episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Dr. Ray Andrew to explore the hidden drivers behind burnout and chronic fatigue, particularly in high-achieving professionals. Dr. Andrew reveals surprising truths about modern medicine's limitations and offers alternative approaches to health that go beyond traditional treatments. This conversation challenges what we think we know about wellness and introduces practices that may redefine vitality in 2024. Discover why common medical advice might not be enough for lasting health. Hear an unexpected story of recovery from pain that went untreated for years. Learn the simple, yet overlooked, steps to reignite your energy and passion. Understand the crucial factor most doctors miss that affects true health.   To learn more about Dr. Andrew, visit his: Website: https://www.prestigewellnessinstitute.com/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/DMH4gddtJUbNb_Fe03pCPAaSSo0?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@busine

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Enoch Sears dives into a single, game-changing shift that can boost performance for both you and your team. Through stories, lessons from personal coaching, and an impactful conversation with seasoned firm owners, Enoch explores the hidden factor that could be keeping you from hitting your goals. He shares why traditional methods often fall short and what truly drives sustained success. Discover how one insight from a well-known figure led Enoch to rethink his approach to goals and results. Hear relatable stories about business struggles and the surprising realizations that follow. This episode sheds light on how our deepest motivations shape outcomes in unexpected ways. What powerful insight did Enoch’s mentor share that changed everything? Why do some architects feel unfulfilled, even after achieving great success? What is the invisible factor that drives all your actions? Could you be approaching your business goals backward?   ► Transcription: htt

In this episode of the Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with FCA leaders Jennifer Kenson and Aran McCarthy. They share their unique journeys to their current roles and offer insights into how FCA manages growth, especially through recent acquisitions. Their approach to culture, transparency, and leadership is refreshing and could change how you view the dynamics of large architecture firms. They also reveal FCA’s approach to building a collaborative, supportive work environment. Listen in to discover how this multi-office firm integrates new teams without losing its values and keeps the culture strong across locations. Curious how a major architecture firm stays true to its roots after 70 years? Want to know FCA’s secret to successfully blending cultures after acquisitions? Hear the surprising way FCA handles financial transparency with employees. Discover why “culture eats strategy for breakfast” at this firm.   To learn more about Aran & Jennifer, visit their: Website: www.fcarchitects

Joel Tanner, founder of SMPL Design Studio, joins Rion Willard to discuss the journey from a one-person team to a firm of 20, taking on complex and custom residential projects. Joel shares lessons from navigating major economic shifts and reveals the systems and strategies that keep his firm resilient. He also dives into his unique approach to marketing, handling client expectations, and expanding SMPL’s offerings with new product lines. How a single contract sparked SMPL Design Studio’s success The approach that helped SMPL navigate economic storms Key strategies Joel uses to attract high-end clients in a competitive market Discover the secret behind SMPL’s innovative product expansion   To learn more about Joel, visit his: Website: www.smpldesignstudio.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smpldesignstudio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMPLDesignStudio/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/jkIEc2Qj_po_vsw7g5lNEcd8IXU?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com

Succession planning is a daunting task for many architecture firm owners. The thought of transitioning leadership brings up fears of losing firm culture, financial instability, and operational chaos. In this episode of Business of Architecture, host Rion Willard dives deep into the essential blueprint for legacy in architecture firms. Discover why many practices struggle to hand over the reins smoothly and how this can impact leadership, firm culture, and financial stability. Learn how proactive strategies can transform a challenging transition into a seamless experience that secures the future of your firm. Rion shares insights from real-world examples and practical advice that will resonate with firm owners at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re just beginning to think about leadership succession or seeking to refine your plan, this episode offers valuable perspectives you won’t want to miss. What hidden risks are threatening your firm’s future? Why does succession planning often go wrong—and how

Architects juggling marriage and business often face intense pressures, from blurred work-life boundaries to conflicts that spill from office to home. These challenges can strain even the strongest relationships, adding stress to both personal and professional lives. In this episode of the Business of Architecture, hosts Rion Willard and Enoch Sears dive into the unique dynamics of running an architecture practice as a married couple. With over 25% of their clients in this position, they explore the balancing act between personal and professional lives. From sharing personal stories to hard-won lessons from other couples, Rion and Enoch offer practical insights on making this challenging setup work. They discuss common challenges faced by couples in business together, such as finding boundaries, defining roles, and building mutual respect. And for those seeking support, they reveal strategies to make your relationship and practice thrive. Why over 25% of architecture firms run by married couples face unique

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard talks with Ben Parco, founder of Parco Studio. Ben shares his journey from working at large firms to starting his own practice and the challenges that came with that leap. He reveals his innovative approach to projects and how he navigated the complexities of development while balancing creativity and business. What surprising opportunities can arise from a chance conversation? How does embracing risk change your perspective on projects? What unique strategies can architects use to create value in development? Why is understanding your financial landscape crucial for success? Join us for an insightful discussion that explores the intersection of architecture and development, as Ben shares lessons learned and exciting new ventures on the horizon. Don't miss the chance to hear how a creative mindset can reshape the architectural landscape!   To learn more about Ben, visit his: Website: http://parcostudio.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagra

In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into one of the toughest challenges facing architectural firms today—hiring the right people. He shares stories from real architects who’ve recently lost key team members, highlighting the stressful impact this can have on small firms. Enoch offers valuable advice on how to tackle these hiring struggles and what you can do to make sure you’re bringing the best talent into your practice. He also reveals a unique perspective on why hiring should be treated like something you’re already doing every day in your business. You’ll learn the surprising connection between marketing and hiring, and how a small change in mindset can completely transform your process. Plus, Enoch shares a little-known tool to make your next hire a success. Discover why your hiring process might be broken. Learn how one small shift can change everything. Find out what most firms get wrong about their job ads. Hear a surprising solution that can unlock better hires.   Link: https://www.businessofarchite

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Enoch Sears sits down with David Supple, the CEO of New England Design & Construction. David shares his unconventional journey from architecture school to becoming a leader in design-build. Along the way, he talks about hard lessons learned and how he built a thriving business with a team of 25. David also reveals the surprising reason why he chose not to become a licensed architect and how it impacted his career. He discusses the challenges of building a company, including a difficult moment that could have ended it all. Finally, David opens up about the biggest mistake he made and how it set him back for years. What major challenge almost forced David to close his business? Why does David believe architects don’t always need a license? Discover the unexpected strategy that helped David find success. What one decision did David regret that nearly cost him everything?   To learn more about David, visit his: Website: https://www.nedesignbuild.com/