Many architects start their firms with a vision of creative freedom, only to find themselves buried in endless work, stretched too thin, and struggling financially. In this episode, Rion Willard joins Jason Owens to reveal why so many architects hit this wall—and what they must do to escape it. You’ll hear how business structures, delegation, and f…

Running an architecture firm can feel like being stuck—overwhelmed, overworked, and unsure how to get free. In this episode, Geoff Hoover, principal at Business of Architecture, shares what’s really holding firms back. Geoff’s path from engineering to sales and lifeguarding has given him a unique ability to spot the hidden issues firm owners often …

Architecture firm owners are increasingly burdened by succession planning, talent shortages, and the pressure to scale in a competitive market. Many are unsure how to exit gracefully, grow beyond 50 people, or prepare their business for long-term success, let alone navigate the complex world of mergers and acquisitions. In this eye-opening episode,…

Most architects start their own firms for more freedom. But too many end up overwhelmed, overworked, and underpaid. Why does this happen, and how can you break free? In this episode, Enoch Sears speaks with architect and developer Zeke Freeman about the unseen barriers that hold back small firm owners. They uncover the surprising mindset shifts tha…

Most architects dream of building their own projects—but when it comes time to raise money, navigate risk, and manage construction, many find themselves stuck. Without the right systems, support, or business model, those dreams quickly fade under the weight of complexity and cost. David Cross joins Rion Willard to tell the story of how he left a tr…

In this episode, Rion Willard speaks with Joseph Aniedu, a seasoned architect with extensive experience across a range of project types and procurement methods. Joseph has led both internal and external design teams in the successful delivery of complex, multi-disciplinary projects, spanning residential, hospitality, and mixed-use sectors. With a r…

How can you boost your architecture firm’s profitability—without taking on more work? In this episode, Rion Willard and Enoch Sears break down an often-overlooked strategy that could transform your business overnight. They discuss how pricing isn’t just a number—it’s positioning, marketing, and psychology all wrapped into one. Discover why some fir…

What happens when an architect breaks free from traditional practice and takes an unconventional path? In this episode, Josh Sanabria, founder of GoArchitect, shares how his journey led him from design studios to a unique intersection of software, community engagement, and architecture. His company has found an innovative way to help school distric…

Raising your fees can feel risky, but what if it actually enhances your client’s experience? In this episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard dive deeper into the psychology of pricing, client perception, and how creating the right kind of buying experience can make clients more willing to pay premium fees—without resistance. Rion shares a surprising …

Think you know what your clients truly value? You might be surprised. In this episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard dive into the hidden psychology behind financial decisions in architecture. They reveal why architects often assume the wrong things about their clients—and how those blind spots lead to pricing struggles, missed opportunities, and fr…

What if the biggest challenges in architecture—clients not paying on time and miscommunication disasters—could be solved with one powerful tool? In this episode, Rion Willard speaks with tech entrepreneur Harry Sofios, founder of Bugle Labs, about his mission to fix the broken architect-client relationship. Harry shares the eye-opening stories that…

Succession planning—it’s one of the biggest decisions an architecture firm owner will ever make. In this episode, we sit down with CPA and succession planning expert Phillip Ross to explore the key financial and strategic moves every firm should consider when planning their transition. Whether you’re thinking of selling, passing the baton internall…

What if architects didn’t have to rely on developers to bring their designs to life? In this episode, Rion Willard sits down with Charlie Kaplan, principal at Gluck+, to explore a unique business model that gives architects more control, creativity, and financial upside. They discuss how their firm blurs the lines between architect, builder, and de…

Hey architecture fans! This week we're giving you a sneak peek at our upcoming film about Brooks & Scarpa, and it's unlike any architecture story you've heard before. No glossy magazine feature here - just raw honesty about what it really takes to build a powerhouse design firm. From Larry's early days helping his immigrant dad with construction to…

How do you truly stand out in the architecture industry? In this follow-up episode, we dive deeper into real strategies for differentiation—beyond the usual clichés and overused tactics. If you’ve ever wondered why clients struggle to choose between firms or why pricing pressure keeps you stuck, this episode uncovers what’s really going on. We disc…

What sets one architecture firm apart from another? In an industry overflowing with talent, many firms struggle to stand out. In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest challenges architects face—differentiation. Most firms unknowingly blend in, using the same tired strategies as their competitors. But what if those approaches are actually keepi…

What if the key to long-term success in architecture and design wasn’t just great projects, but great relationships? In this episode, Ed Thompson, Director of Brick & Wonder, shares how this unique network is reshaping collaboration in the AEC industry. He reveals the surprising insights behind building a thriving community-driven business and why …

In this episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard tackle some of the most pressing questions from small architecture firm owners. From managing finances to standing out in a competitive market, they share surprising insights that challenge traditional thinking. Along the way, they explore hidden factors holding practices back and reveal strategies for …

What fuels the cynicism within the architecture profession? In this thought-provoking episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard explore an intriguing Reddit thread that sparks a deep dive into the hidden struggles architects face. From dashed expectations of glamour to the reality of long hours and low pay, they examine why disillusionment is so widesp…

What happens when an architect decides to take control—not just of the design, but the entire development process? In this episode, Rion Willard sits down with Josiah, an architect-turned-developer who made the bold leap from high-rise projects to building his own vision. He shares how a moment of burnout led him to rethink his career, ultimately r…

In this episode, Marcus Gleysteen shares his inspiring journey as the head of a design-driven architecture studio. From lessons on finding the right clients to surprising insights about the balance between creativity and business, Marcus doesn’t hold back. His perspective will challenge what you think you know about success in architecture. Marcus …

Discover why architects face ongoing challenges with salaries and fees in this insightful episode. Hosts Rion Willard and Enoch Sears explore the root causes of low compensation and long hours in the profession, drawing from their experiences across the UK, the US, and beyond. They question if regulations, client perceptions, or something deeper is…

In this engaging episode, Peter Barker, partner at Ryder Architecture, shares his journey from ancient languages to shaping one of the UK’s leading architectural practices. Discover how Ryder grew from its Newcastle roots to become an international force, redefining education, training, and the role of architecture in business. Peter reveals innova…

In this thought-provoking episode, Rion Willard dives into the pressing challenges architects face today. He explores how low salaries, fierce competition, and fee undercutting are reshaping the profession. Can regulation solve these problems—or does it introduce new ones? Rion’s insights challenge traditional thinking and inspire fresh perspective…

In this episode, Rion Willard dives into the world of podcasting for professional services firms with John Tyreman, the mastermind behind Red Cedar Marketing. John shares his journey from agency life to becoming a fractional marketing director, carving a niche in podcast marketing. Together, they explore how podcasts can position firms as thought l…

Welcome to Part 2 of Rion Willard’s conversation with Paul Iddon, founder of Agency PSI, on the Business of Architecture podcast. In this episode, they delve deeper into the unexpected power of emotion in sustainability and how it influences the architecture profession. Discover why beauty, storytelling, and emotional connections may hold the key t…

In this fascinating episode, host Rion Willard sits down with Paul Iddon, founder of Agency PSI, to explore the powerful intersection of architecture, marketing, and psychology. With over 22 years in architecture and another 22 in branding, Paul shares how architects can rethink their positioning, fees, and salaries. This conversation offers a fres…

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 surpr…

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 inn…

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…

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 practi…

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 coachin…

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 investme…

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 he…

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 ins…

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,…

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 financia…

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 c…

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 tradit…

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 go…

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 ch…

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 mark…

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 …

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 Sear…

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 ba…

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 y…

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 …

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 in…

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 …

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 es…