Shows
Archispeak Podcast#373 - ‘Slowing Down to Speed Up’, with Carla JohnsonIn this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Carla Johnson—author, speaker, and innovation strategist—for a conversation that’s both energizing and reflective. We dive into the idea of “slowing down to speed up” and how reconnecting with our innate curiosity might be the most important skill for architects and creative professionals today.Carla shares her journey from engineering to architecture marketing to helping AEC firms rediscover the lost art of asking better questions. We explore how our industrial-era systems stripped us of critical thinking and why now—thanks to tools like AI—we have a new opportunit...2025-06-161h 17Archispeak#373 - ‘Slowing Down to Speed Up’, with Carla JohnsonIn this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Carla Johnson—author, speaker, and innovation strategist—for a conversation that’s both energizing and reflective. We dive into the idea of “slowing down to speed up” and how reconnecting with our innate curiosity might be the most important skill for architects and creative professionals today.Carla shares her journey from engineering to architecture marketing to helping AEC firms rediscover the lost art of asking better questions. We explore how our industrial-era systems stripped us of critical thinking and why now—thanks to tools like AI—we have a new opportunit...2025-06-161h 17Archispeak Podcast#372 - AU - The Future of Home AutomationIn this episode of Archispeak, we explore the evolving frontier of home automation with Jeff Thomas of Control4 and Michael Smith of Bromic Heating. Together, we unpack the layered relationship between architecture and integrated technology—why it’s critical to bring smart home specialists in early, how lighting, heating, and sound are blending into seamless user experiences, and where the real opportunities lie for residential architects.We dig into the nitty-gritty: from the difference between Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi protocols, to the challenges of retrofitting systems in older homes. Along the way, we highlight how smart tech isn’...2025-06-091h 02Archispeak#372 - AU - The Future of Home AutomationIn this episode of Archispeak, we explore the evolving frontier of home automation with Jeff Thomas of Control4 and Michael Smith of Bromic Heating. Together, we unpack the layered relationship between architecture and integrated technology—why it’s critical to bring smart home specialists in early, how lighting, heating, and sound are blending into seamless user experiences, and where the real opportunities lie for residential architects.We dig into the nitty-gritty: from the difference between Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi protocols, to the challenges of retrofitting systems in older homes. Along the way, we highlight how smart tech isn’...2025-06-091h 02Archispeak#371 - Genius LociWhat makes architecture memorable? Why do some spaces hit you in the chest while others feel hollow? In this episode of Archispeak, we explore a concept that’s rarely taught but deeply felt. Genius loci. The spirit of the place.From volunteering as a docent at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio to taking a group of recent grads on an architectural pilgrimage through Chicago, Cormac shares stories that tie memory, mentorship, and emotion to design. Along the way, we discuss how the demands of modern practice often push this spirit aside in favor of speed, budg...2025-06-0257 minArchispeak Podcast#371 - Genius LociWhat makes architecture memorable? Why do some spaces hit you in the chest while others feel hollow? In this episode of Archispeak, we explore a concept that’s rarely taught but deeply felt. Genius loci. The spirit of the place.From volunteering as a docent at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio to taking a group of recent grads on an architectural pilgrimage through Chicago, Cormac shares stories that tie memory, mentorship, and emotion to design. Along the way, we discuss how the demands of modern practice often push this spirit aside in favor of speed, budg...2025-06-0257 minArchispeak Podcast#370 - Rebuilding After The LA FiresIn this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Jessica Orlando, Vice President and President-Elect of the AIA Pasadena Foothill chapter, to explore how architects are stepping up in the aftermath of the recent Altadena and Palisades wildfires in Southern California. Jessica shares how the AIA’s volunteer-led “Ask an Architect” initiative is connecting displaced residents with licensed professionals to help guide them through the overwhelming process of rebuilding—many for the first time.We discuss the powerful role architects can play in disaster response, the challenges of balancing speed with resilience in permitting and design, and the implic...2025-05-1939 minArchispeak#370 - Rebuilding After The LA FiresIn this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Jessica Orlando, Vice President and President-Elect of the AIA Pasadena Foothill chapter, to explore how architects are stepping up in the aftermath of the recent Altadena and Palisades wildfires in Southern California. Jessica shares how the AIA’s volunteer-led “Ask an Architect” initiative is connecting displaced residents with licensed professionals to help guide them through the overwhelming process of rebuilding—many for the first time.We discuss the powerful role architects can play in disaster response, the challenges of balancing speed with resilience in permitting and design, and the implic...2025-05-1939 minArchispeak Podcast#369 - Salary Transparency in ArchitectureIn this episode of Archispeak, we sit down with Robert Yuen, CEO and co-founder of Monograph, to dive into the findings from their latest Architecture and Engineering Salary and Business Benchmarks Report 2025. We discuss how Monograph’s anonymized real-world data provides a clearer picture of salaries, utilization, and realization rates across the industry—without relying on traditional survey methods. Together, we unpack why project managers and engineers are out-earning architects, the crucial role of financial literacy, and how radical transparency can shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for the profession.Episode Links:2025 Architecture & Engineering Business Benchma...2025-04-2857 minArchispeak#369 - Salary Transparency in ArchitectureIn this episode of Archispeak, we sit down with Robert Yuen, CEO and co-founder of Monograph, to dive into the findings from their latest Architecture and Engineering Salary and Business Benchmarks Report 2025. We discuss how Monograph’s anonymized real-world data provides a clearer picture of salaries, utilization, and realization rates across the industry—without relying on traditional survey methods. Together, we unpack why project managers and engineers are out-earning architects, the crucial role of financial literacy, and how radical transparency can shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for the profession.Episode Links:2025 Architecture & Engineering Business Benchma...2025-04-2857 minArchispeak#354 - Fighting RevitIn this episode of 'Archispeak Theater,' we begin with some musical nostalgia and then transition into a detailed exploration of the complexities and challenges involved in managing large Revit models for architectural projects. Episode Sponsor - WorldTeamsWorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support Archispeak by making a donation.2024-12-0959 minArchispeak Podcast#354 - Fighting RevitIn this episode of 'Archispeak Theater,' we begin with some musical nostalgia and then transition into a detailed exploration of the complexities and challenges involved in managing large Revit models for architectural projects. Episode Sponsor - WorldTeamsWorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support Archispeak by making a donation.2024-12-0959 minArchispeak#353 - Architecture Students are ScrewedIn this episode, we discuss a listener's concerns about the financial burden of architectural education. We explore various career paths and alternative routes to licensure, examine the challenges young architects face, address the rising costs of education, and consider potential solutions such as specialization and entrepreneurship. We also reflect on our own career experiences and discuss how the profession continues to evolve.Episode Links:Minor ThreatSalad Days FilmCentre PompidouRichard RogersRenzo PianoArchispeak 332 - ‘Navigating Internships and Early Career Steps’, with Michael ErmannNCARB - Pathways to PracticeArchispeak 335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon BakerEpisode Sp...2024-12-0559 minArchispeak Podcast#353 - Architecture Students are ScrewedIn this episode, we discuss a listener's concerns about the financial burden of architectural education. We explore various career paths and alternative routes to licensure, examine the challenges young architects face, address the rising costs of education, and consider potential solutions such as specialization and entrepreneurship. We also reflect on our own career experiences and discuss how the profession continues to evolve.Episode Links:Minor ThreatSalad Days FilmCentre PompidouRichard RogersRenzo PianoArchispeak 332 - ‘Navigating Internships and Early Career Steps’, with Michael ErmannNCARB - Pathways to PracticeArchispeak 335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon BakerEpisode Sp...2024-12-0559 minArchispeak#350 - Coffee, Hurricanes, and LeadershipIn this special Episode 350 of the Archispeak podcast, we discuss the celebration of our milestone with an unboxing of fresh beans from “Coffee Boy”. We also talk about Evan’s un-conference experience in Florida that allowed for personal growth, leadership development, and some fun activities like learning to E-foil. Just beware of the 🌀 and 🐊.Episode Links:Coffee Sketch PodcastArchispeak episode 300 with the hosts of the Coffee Sketch Podcast (YouTube)AEC Acoustics Leadership RetreatAutodesk UniversityTurons of Yellowstone Instagram-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support A...2024-11-0452 minArchispeak Podcast#350 - Coffee, Hurricanes, and LeadershipIn this special Episode 350 of the Archispeak podcast, we discuss the celebration of our milestone with an unboxing of fresh beans from “Coffee Boy”. We also talk about Evan’s un-conference experience in Florida that allowed for personal growth, leadership development, and some fun activities like learning to E-foil. Just beware of the 🌀 and 🐊.Episode Links:Coffee Sketch PodcastArchispeak episode 300 with the hosts of the Coffee Sketch Podcast (YouTube)AEC Acoustics Leadership RetreatAutodesk UniversityTurons of Yellowstone Instagram-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support A...2024-11-0452 min
Business of Architecture Podcast543: The Value of an Architect with Cormac Phalen & Evan Troxel of ArchispeakIn a thought-provoking podcast episode, Enoch Sears delves into the intricacies of running a successful firm with Cormac Phalen & Evan Troxel of Archispeak. They touch upon the importance of setting boundaries and shifting mindsets, hinting at transformative strategies for enhancing productivity and profitability. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful discussions, they explore the role of marketing and selling in elevating architectural practices. The conversation emphasizes the potential for architects to command higher fees by mastering these essential skills. Furthermore, the podcast guests share inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome challenges to achieve remarkable success in the industry. Unveil...2024-06-0756 minBusiness of Architecture Podcast543: The Value of an Architect with Cormac Phalen & Evan Troxel of ArchispeakIn a thought-provoking podcast episode, Enoch Sears delves into the intricacies of running a successful firm with Cormac Phalen & Evan Troxel of Archispeak. They touch upon the importance of setting boundaries and shifting mindsets, hinting at transformative strategies for enhancing productivity and profitability. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful discussions, they explore the role of marketing and selling in elevating architectural practices. The conversation emphasizes the potential for architects to command higher fees by mastering these essential skills. Furthermore, the podcast guests share inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome challenges to achieve remarkable success in the industry. Unveil...2024-06-0756 minArchispeak Podcast#339 - AU - Outdoor Design Innovation with StruXure and Bromic HeatingArchispeak welcomes Scott Selzer, CEO of StruXure, and Scott Smith, CEO of Bromic Heating, to discuss the evolution, current state, and innovations in building products, specifically focusing on outdoor heaters and pergolas. In this episode we talk about these building products in both residential and commercial projects and how they enhance outdoor living spaces. Scott and Scott share their unique journeys, product innovations, the role of technology, sustainability practices, and the importance of integrating designs early in the planning process. Learn more about how to transform outdoor spaces into functional, comfortable, and aesthetically...2024-06-0359 minArchispeak#339 - AU - Outdoor Design Innovation with StruXure and Bromic HeatingArchispeak welcomes Scott Selzer, CEO of StruXure, and Scott Smith, CEO of Bromic Heating, to discuss the evolution, current state, and innovations in building products, specifically focusing on outdoor heaters and pergolas. In this episode we talk about these building products in both residential and commercial projects and how they enhance outdoor living spaces. Scott and Scott share their unique journeys, product innovations, the role of technology, sustainability practices, and the importance of integrating designs early in the planning process. Learn more about how to transform outdoor spaces into functional, comfortable, and aesthetically...2024-06-0359 minArchispeak#336 - AU - Embracing SustainabilityIn this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Thomas Ventura of Gensler joins us to talk about evolving expectations in office and outdoor space design, influenced by sustainability trends and the need for adaptable, multi-use spaces in response to changing client needs and environmental responsibilities.We talk about Gensler's massive scale as a firm, boasting close to 7,000 employees and over 50 offices worldwide, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and the architectural industry's future.Thomas elaborates on Gensler's Global Cities Challenge commitment to achieve carbon-neutral projects by 2030 and the strategies to educate staff and integrate sustainable practices into...2024-05-0644 minArchispeak Podcast#336 - AU - Embracing SustainabilityIn this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Thomas Ventura of Gensler joins us to talk about evolving expectations in office and outdoor space design, influenced by sustainability trends and the need for adaptable, multi-use spaces in response to changing client needs and environmental responsibilities.We talk about Gensler's massive scale as a firm, boasting close to 7,000 employees and over 50 offices worldwide, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and the architectural industry's future.Thomas elaborates on Gensler's Global Cities Challenge commitment to achieve carbon-neutral projects by 2030 and the strategies to educate staff and integrate sustainable practices into...2024-05-0644 minArchispeak Podcast#335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon BakerIn this episode of Archispeak, Jon Baker shares his unique journey to becoming an architect and discusses the different pathways to licensure offered by NCARB. The conversation covers the importance of licensure, initiatives like the IPAL program, and the need for practical experience to be integrated with education. Jon tackles criticisms and emphasizes the role of licensure in expanding career options. The discussion also sheds light on the ongoing efforts to evolve architectural education and licensure to meet the needs of the profession now and in the future. Listen in to learn about overcoming barriers in the architecture profession...2024-04-2957 minArchispeak#335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon BakerIn this episode of Archispeak, Jon Baker shares his unique journey to becoming an architect and discusses the different pathways to licensure offered by NCARB. The conversation covers the importance of licensure, initiatives like the IPAL program, and the need for practical experience to be integrated with education. Jon tackles criticisms and emphasizes the role of licensure in expanding career options. The discussion also sheds light on the ongoing efforts to evolve architectural education and licensure to meet the needs of the profession now and in the future. Listen in to learn about overcoming barriers in the architecture profession...2024-04-2957 minArchispeak#334 - ‘Evolving Architectural Practice’, with Je’Nen ChastainIn this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Je’Nen Chastain, founder of Apostrophe Consulting, joins us to discuss the shifts and challenges in the realm of architectural practice and running a successful firm, emphasizing leadership, business management, mentorship, and the need for adaptability within organizations. Je’Nen also touches on her personal challenges and professional evolution, the impact of the economic downturn on her generation, and the crucial role of mentorship and internal communication in fostering a supportive and engaging workspace.Episode Links:Je’Nen on LinkedInApostrophe Consulting websiteApostrophe Consulting on LinkedInApostrophe Consulting on InstagramLeadership Is an Art b...2024-04-1659 minArchispeak Podcast#334 - ‘Evolving Architectural Practice’, with Je’Nen ChastainIn this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Je’Nen Chastain, founder of Apostrophe Consulting, joins us to discuss the shifts and challenges in the realm of architectural practice and running a successful firm, emphasizing leadership, business management, mentorship, and the need for adaptability within organizations. Je’Nen also touches on her personal challenges and professional evolution, the impact of the economic downturn on her generation, and the crucial role of mentorship and internal communication in fostering a supportive and engaging workspace.Episode Links:Je’Nen on LinkedInApostrophe Consulting websiteApostrophe Consulting on LinkedInApostrophe Consulting on InstagramLeadership Is an Art b...2024-04-1659 minArchispeak Podcast#333 - AU - Evolving Workplace DesignThe Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Primo Orpilla, Principal and Owner of O+A Architecture, shares his extensive experience in workplace design, tracing his experiences in the evolution of office spaces over the last 30 years.Starting his career during a challenging period, Primo talks about how he adapted to the needs of tech companies in Silicon Valley, contributing to the transformation from traditional cubicle setups to dynamic, agile work environments.Today he discusses the shift towards accommodating a variety of...2024-04-0843 minArchispeak#333 - AU - Evolving Workplace DesignThe Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Primo Orpilla, Principal and Owner of O+A Architecture, shares his extensive experience in workplace design, tracing his experiences in the evolution of office spaces over the last 30 years.Starting his career during a challenging period, Primo talks about how he adapted to the needs of tech companies in Silicon Valley, contributing to the transformation from traditional cubicle setups to dynamic, agile work environments.Today he discusses the shift towards accommodating a variety of...2024-04-0843 minArchispeak Podcast#330 - Pseudo Productivity and the Right to DisconnectWe discuss Australia's 'Right to Disconnect' law, which aims to protect employees from having to engage in work-related communications outside of work hours, and the implications for both workers and companies. We get into the challenges and inefficiencies of modern work environments, including constant connectivity, the impact of email, and how technology has both helped and worsened work-life balance. We conclude with reflections on potential solutions for managing workloads and maintaining boundaries in the digital age.Episode Links:Australia Introduces Workers’ ‘Right to Disconnect’ (New York Times)-----Thank you for listening to Archis...2024-03-1842 minArchispeak#330 - Pseudo Productivity and the Right to DisconnectWe discuss Australia's 'Right to Disconnect' law, which aims to protect employees from having to engage in work-related communications outside of work hours, and the implications for both workers and companies. We get into the challenges and inefficiencies of modern work environments, including constant connectivity, the impact of email, and how technology has both helped and worsened work-life balance. We conclude with reflections on potential solutions for managing workloads and maintaining boundaries in the digital age.Episode Links:Australia Introduces Workers’ ‘Right to Disconnect’ (New York Times)-----Thank you for listening to Archis...2024-03-1842 minArchispeak Podcast#329 - AU - Designing the Future of Multifamily LivingThe Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.In this episode, Sara Schneider of TCA Architects joins us to talk about design trends in multi-family and mixed use project types.Sara is a veteran in the interior design field with a 20-year background, predominantly in hospitality, now focusing on multifamily residential projects with a mixed-use aspect at TCA. Located in Irvine, California, with offices in Los Angeles, Oakland, and Honolulu, TCA specializes in creating multifamily residential spaces that offer a blend of luxury, functionality, and community living....2024-03-1152 minArchispeak#329 - AU - Designing the Future of Multifamily LivingThe Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.In this episode, Sara Schneider of TCA Architects joins us to talk about design trends in multi-family and mixed use project types.Sara is a veteran in the interior design field with a 20-year background, predominantly in hospitality, now focusing on multifamily residential projects with a mixed-use aspect at TCA. Located in Irvine, California, with offices in Los Angeles, Oakland, and Honolulu, TCA specializes in creating multifamily residential spaces that offer a blend of luxury, functionality, and community living....2024-03-1152 minArchispeak Podcast#328 - Losing Track of TimeIn this episode, we talk about the things we do where we are so “in the zone” that we completely lose track of time. We also talk about the importance of failing as part of the learning process, the idea of the ‘flow state’, and how this can be achieved when deeply engaged in problem solving. We also touch on the notion of self-doubt and imposter syndrome and the importance of intrinsic motivation and good habits in achieving success.Episode Links:System Kid music (Evan’s band)Flow state (Wikipedia)Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us...2024-03-0453 minArchispeak#328 - Losing Track of TimeIn this episode, we talk about the things we do where we are so “in the zone” that we completely lose track of time. We also talk about the importance of failing as part of the learning process, the idea of the ‘flow state’, and how this can be achieved when deeply engaged in problem solving. We also touch on the notion of self-doubt and imposter syndrome and the importance of intrinsic motivation and good habits in achieving success.Episode Links:System Kid music (Evan’s band)Flow state (Wikipedia)Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us...2024-03-0453 minArchispeak Podcast#327 - Broke, Broken, and Broke-InIn this episode, Cormac reflects on the challenges, memories, and learnings from his most successful and intense project. He shares the story of the EO Wilson Biophilia Center in Florida which he compares to 'jazz' due to the ensemble of different ideas, skills, and experiences that came together to create something harmonious. We also explore our experiences with difficult projects, budgets, and client relationships that still resulted in remarkable outcomes.Episode SponsorChaosFor a limited time, get a 20% discount on Fixed and Floating Annual License of Enscape. Head to https://chaos-enscape.com...2024-02-2654 minArchispeak#327 - Broke, Broken, and Broke-InIn this episode, Cormac reflects on the challenges, memories, and learnings from his most successful and intense project. He shares the story of the EO Wilson Biophilia Center in Florida which he compares to 'jazz' due to the ensemble of different ideas, skills, and experiences that came together to create something harmonious. We also explore our experiences with difficult projects, budgets, and client relationships that still resulted in remarkable outcomes.Episode SponsorChaosFor a limited time, get a 20% discount on Fixed and Floating Annual License of Enscape. Head to https://chaos-enscape.com...2024-02-2654 min