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...

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. ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Architects often face the daunting challenge of growing a firm while juggling client demands, managing teams, and navigating competitive markets. Balancing creativity with the need for profitability can be overwhelming. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard interviews Blima Ehrentreu, founder of The Designers Group. They dive into how she grew her architecture and design firm from scratch to over 30 employees, with projects spanning multiple cities. Blima shares the...

Architects often struggle with balancing leadership while managing their practice, where creative vision, profit, and team dynamics can clash. Many find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and stuck in a cycle of decisions, unable to move beyond being the central figure in their business. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard dives deep into an often overlooked aspect of leadership that many mistake as being weak. He challenges common perceptions and offers a...

Architects often face uncertainty and fear when a recession hits. Projects get canceled, clients pull back, and the ripple effect can lead to layoffs and financial strain. In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into these challenges and how architects can navigate them. He shares personal stories from past recessions and explains why architecture is especially vulnerable to these cycles. Instead of worrying about the next downturn, he outlines key skills every architect should master. Discover...

Architects often struggle to balance client expectations, business management, and the creative demands of design. Managing client relationships while ensuring high-quality design work, all within the constraints of time and budget can be overwhelming. Technology adds another layer of complexity but also offers solutions. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard talks with Chris Kempel, an experienced architect who shares his journey from co-founding Rockefeller...

Architects often struggle with balancing leadership roles, managing design integrity, and navigating the complexities of construction development. As project demands increase, they face the challenge of maintaining control while collaborating with contractors who often take on more design responsibility. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Chris Butler, managing director of Walter Lily, to explore his remarkable career journey. Chris shares insights from...

One of the biggest challenges architects face is managing a growing team while ensuring design quality doesn't suffer. As firms expand, architects often struggle to balance creative vision with the demands of business growth. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Brian Wakelin, co-founder of Public Architecture, to discuss the evolution of his firm and its unique multidisciplinary approach. Brian shares how his background, unexpected opportunities, and key...

Architects often face unique challenges when trying to grow their team, from hiring talent with the right skills to managing the overwhelming demand for new projects. Finding the right fit in a competitive market can feel like an uphill battle, leaving many firms struggling with staffing issues. In this episode, Rion Willard talks with Jamie Van Cuyk, a small business hiring strategist and owner of Growing Your Team. Jamie shares her unique journey from corporate life to becoming a hiring...

In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into the habits that could be holding your architecture firm back. He highlights the common mistakes firm owners make without even realizing it. By following these patterns, you may be working harder but not seeing the results you deserve. What if avoiding just a few key habits could lead to better clients, more time, and more money? Enoch’s advice might be the game-changer you need. Discover how making small changes could help you step off the hamster...

Join us for this episode, where Enoch Sears sits down with Erika Moody, president of Helix Architecture + Design and current IIDA president, to explore the qualities that make for effective leadership in architecture. Erika shares valuable insights on navigating challenges in leadership, managing ego, and adapting to client demands. She also reflects on her experience as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, offering candid advice for younger architects. Throughout the...

In this episode, Erika Moody shares her experience navigating a major merger with Helix Architecture + Design. She reveals how the transition unfolded, along with the unexpected opportunities that came with it. Erika also dives into the leadership challenges and rewards of managing a studio in both large and small firms. You’ll hear how the merger opened up new growth areas, especially in a surprising market. Erika also offers her thoughts on how the firm plans to expand its portfolio and...

In this episode of Business of Architecture, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard talk about what it takes to build a team that can run itself. They share stories from the field and discuss the unexpected challenges leaders face when trying to grow their teams. The conversation also touches on why some people may not want to lead and how that can affect your firm’s success. They offer tips on how to make sure you hire the right people and create a team that truly flourishes. If you’ve ever wondered...

In this episode, Rion Willard and Gurmeet Sian delve into the intricate dynamics of architectural fees and their impact on both individual architects and their teams. They discuss insights into how firms can effectively communicate the value of their work and the challenges of raising fees. Discover practical strategies for aligning client expectations and managing project budgets, and how transparency in fees can foster a more understanding work environment. What surprising truth did...

Discover the fascinating dynamics of New York City's real estate market in this captivating episode. Our guests delve into the challenges of converting office spaces into residential units, shedding light on the complexities and opportunities involved. The conversation also touches on the peculiarities of New York's housing market, making you question the sustainability of current trends. Why are some of New York's buildings seemingly underutilized? What's the real impact of tax breaks on...

In this episode of the Business of Architecture, Rion Willard speaks with husband and wife team, Alain and Liliana Meylan, who’ve transformed their architectural firm into a full-fledged property development business in the south of France. Alain and Liliana reveal their journey from creating luxury homes in Geneva to reviving old properties with stunning attention to detail. This conversation delves into the challenges of balancing personal and professional life while designing dream homes...