Business of Architecture Podcast

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 led him to develop a software platform designed t...

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 internally, or exploring other options, this conversation u...

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 developer, leading to incredible efficiencies 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 Angela's mission to transform cities, this power...

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 discuss the counterintuitive ways pricing affects perc...

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 keeping you stuck? We explore why traditional different...

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 most firms are missing out on a crucial opportuni...

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 unlocking greater success. Ever wonder if the tool...

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 widespread. But amidst the challenges, there's a hopeful...

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 reshaping his business model into something far mor...

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 also opens up about how personal setbacks shaped h...

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 to blame. The conversation takes an unexpected tu...

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 innovative approaches that have not only shaped his care...

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 perspectives. Discover how architects can break free from a r...

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 leaders, strengthen client relationships, and gener...

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 to raising fees and creating lasting client relatio...

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 fresh perspective on overcoming the challenges archite...

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...

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...

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 chal...

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...

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...

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 wron...

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...

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 Di...