Shows
Most Podern PodcastLive Near Friends. Be 40% Happier.What if the secret to a better life wasn’t a bigger house or higher salary, but simply living closer to your friends? Phil Levin, co-founder of Live Near Friends, reveals how proximity can drastically increase happiness, cut housing costs, and reshape how we think about community. From building a 10-home campus in Oakland to redefining what “neighbor” really means, we explore how small shifts in where—and who—you live near can change everything.Subscribe to Most Podern on:Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://po...2025-07-2949 min
Most Podern PodcastAmerica’s New Millionaire Class - The Skilled TradesWhat if plumbers and HVAC techs are America’s newest millionaires—and the secret heroes of our economy? Why is fixing your sink so expensive, and how is the skilled trades shortage reshaping everything from infrastructure to green energy? Could these hands-on careers actually be more future-proof—and profitable—than a traditional college degree?Dive into a revealing conversation with Ruchir Shah, CEO of SkillCat, who’s dismantling myths about trades work and spotlighting why these jobs are booming—some even building $100 million businesses. From the surprising political and environmental impact of the skilled trades shortage to how online t...2025-07-2334 min
Most Podern PodcastHow Climate Solutions Are Winning by Making Life BetterWhy does every conversation about climate change feel like we're being asked to sacrifice something? Josh Dorfman, host of the popular Supercool podcast, reveals how this narrative is completely backwards. From Formula-E racing that attracts 500 million viewers without mentioning climate to pneumatic trash systems that make cities cleaner while cutting carbon by 90%, Josh shares how the most effective climate solutions are actually upgrading modern life rather than restricting it. Discover why we're not in an age of climate awareness anymore but rather an "age of adoption," where $2 trillion in annual clean energy investment is quietly revolutionizing everything from home...2025-07-1654 min
Most Podern PodcastHow Mexico is Building Cities Around PeopleArchitect Ruben Segovia joins Alex Yuen and Minkoo Kang to reveal how Mexico is transforming its urban development. From Monterrey to Tulum, young designers and developers are creating walkable, mixed-use communities that prioritize public space and human-scale design. Segovia explains why the "developers are evil" narrative is shifting, how policy changes are enabling innovative real estate projects, and what American cities can learn from Mexico's bold urban experiments. Discover the ground-floor activation strategies, transit-oriented developments, and collaborative design processes transforming Mexican cities into 15-minute neighborhoods that actually work.Ruben Segovia is the co-founder of LS-LAB, an urban, architectural, and...2025-07-021h 11
Most Podern PodcastHow to Create Housing for Community over Profit - with Jeremy McLeod of Nightingale HousingWhat happens when an architect develops their own projects, stops chasing profit, and starts designing for people, planet, and purpose? Jeremy McLeod, founder of Breathe and Nightingale Housing, shares how a single prototype sparked a housing movement in Australia. From ditching car parks and private laundries to designing rooftop commons and slow elevators, Nightingale flips the development playbook — proving that sustainability, affordability, and community aren't just compatible, but catalytic. With a waitlist over 21,000 strong, this conversation reveals how one radical idea changed the market and inspired a new model of ethical housing.Subscribe to Mo...2025-06-1057 min
Most Podern PodcastFrom Icons to Ecosystems: Rethinking the High-Rise with Antony WoodWhy do we need to keep building skyscrapers and what separates them marvels or monstrosities?Dr. Antony Wood, one of the world’s foremost experts on tall buildings, reveals why cities go vertical, what drives the global icon race, and how most towers fall short. From skybridges and carbon-sequestering timber to the 5% of skyscrapers that actually work, this conversation reimagines the high-rise as more than a symbol, but rather as a system for living, density, and urban ambition.Subscribe to Most Podern on:Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zY...2025-05-2059 min
Most Podern PodcastCan Architects Still Shape the Future? - with Evelyn LeeWhat’s driving architects to rethink their role in a tech-driven world?Evelyn Lee, FAIA, NOMA, shares her journey from traditional architecture to tech leadership, offering insights on how architects can adapt and thrive. Discover how she blends design thinking with business strategy to redefine the profession’s future.Subscribe to Most Podern on:Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/comp...2025-05-1355 min
Most Podern PodcastWhy Digitalize Our Material World? - Manwen LiWhat if the bricks and mortar of tomorrow existed first as pixels? Discover how Manwen Li turned physical fabrics, tiles, and surfaces into ultra‑realistic digital twins—fueling faster iterations, richer creativity, and sampling. From pioneering Under Armour’s first virtual material library, she reveals the tech, the standards, and the surprising human challenges behind making “the physical digital.”Links:Manwen Li: https://www.manwenli.comUnder Amrour: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Under_ArmourMaterial Bank: https://www.materialbank.com/Swatchbook: https://www.swatchbook.us/2025-05-0657 min
Most Podern PodcastDemystifying Zoning and the Hidden Rules Behind Every CityWhy is zoning so opaque, and what if making it more accessible could unlock the future of our cities?Quang Truong, architect and founder of UrbanForm, joins Most Podern to unpack how zoning works, why it became so complex, and what it will take to make it transparent, legible, and collaborative. From trophy architecture in New York to building tools in Portland, Quang shares his journey from chasing prestige to reshaping the systems that shape our neighborhoods. He explains why zoning isn't neutral, how bad actors weaponize complexity, and why he believes the built environment needs a...2025-04-291h 11
Most Podern PodcastBIM to Bots: How Robots can Reshape the Future of Construction with Brian RingleyWhy is it taking so long for robots to build our buildings—and what happens when they finally do? Brian Ringley, Distinguished Product Manager at Boston Dynamics, takes us behind the curtain of construction robotics, from his time at WeWork experimenting with site automation to shaping Spot's evolution into a mobile sensor platform. We unpack why the construction industry resists innovation, how real-time data and feedback loops can transform project delivery, and what it takes to align business models with breakthrough tech. From layout bots to prefab ecosystems, this is a deep dive into the future of building....2025-04-221h 54
Most Podern PodcastHow Outdated Workflow is Stifling Architectural Design with Slantis COO Mercedes CarriquiryWhat’s holding architecture back—and who’s actually fixing it?Mercedes Carriquiry, IA., AIA, co-founder of Slantis, joins Most Podern to unpack why architecture firms can no longer afford to go it alone. From early disillusionment with traditional practice to building a 100-person company that’s redefining tech adoption in AEC, Mercedes shares hard-won insights on incentives, process design, and the real reasons most firms struggle with innovation. We explore the messy middle between design and production, why persuasion is an underrated skill in this industry, and how Slantis is helping teams—from boutique studios to global fir...2025-04-151h 05
Most Podern PodcastDesigning Dignity: How Scott Key and Every Shelter are Rethinking Refugee SheltersSummaryScott Key, CEO of Every Shelter, joins Most Podern to unpack how a simple design—a clean, insulated floor—sparked a global movement to improve life in refugee camps. From launching refugee-run hardware stores to embedding architecture studios inside settlements, Scott shares how design, policy, and persistence collide in one of the world’s most urgent humanitarian crises.LinksDonate to Support Every Shelter’s WorkEvery ShelterAn Endless WarKeywordsEvery Shelter, Scott Key, humanitarian design, insulated flooring, refugee support, architecture, disaster relief, innovation, safety, dignity, housing, construction, modular,Chapters00:00 The Birt...2025-04-0859 min
Most Podern PodcastCity Science and the Future of Urban Design with Ramon GrasUrban scientist and Aretian co-founder Ramon Gras joins Most Podern to unpack the design principles and data insights behind high-performing cities. Drawing from global research and on-the-ground practice, Gras reveals how fractal urban form, network connectivity, and balanced density lead to healthier, more dynamic urban environments. He explains why some neighborhoods foster social interaction and economic opportunity, while others fall flat—and how cities can use tools like digital twins to guide smarter, more human-centered development. From Cold War planning to innovation districts, this conversation offers a compelling framework for shaping the future of cities....2025-04-011h 32
Most Podern PodcastWe Are Pre-iPhone Era: Dr. Murat Melek on AI in Construction"Can AI transform construction’s sluggish pace?" In this episode, Dr. Murat Melek, Director of Design AI at Suffolk, explores how AI could reshape the $6B construction giant and the broader AEC industry. From predictive modeling to tackling inefficiencies, Murat shares his journey from structural engineering to leading AI innovation.Key PointsAI in Construction: how AI can streamline design and pre-construction phases.Efficiency Gains: Predictive analytics cuts rework, saving time and costs.Data Power: Suffolk’s data lake with half a million PDFs drives smarter decisions.Future Outlook: We’re in a “pre-iPhone era” of constructi...2025-03-251h 04
Most Podern PodcastHow America Became Stuck in a Broken Housing System with Yoni AppelbaumFor more on the future of the Built Environment, subscribe to Most Podern on:Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podernSummaryAmerica was once a land of movement—both physical and economic. But today, we’re stuck. In this episode of M...2025-03-0455 min
Most Podern PodcastAutonomous Vehicles and the Future of Cities with Evan ShiehAre autonomous vehicles the key to freeing our cities—or just another step toward deeper car dependency? In this episode, we sit down with Evan Shieh, architect, urbanist, professor, and author of Autonomous Urbanism:Towards a Transitopia, to explore how AVs could transform the urban landscape. We discuss the hidden impact of parking, the failures of past mobility revolutions, and whether AVs will truly liberate our streets or reinforce the status quo. From reclaiming urban space to rethinking transportation policy, this conversation will change the way you see the future of cities. Tune in now! 🎧Follow & Subscribe to Mo...2025-02-251h 00
Most Podern PodcastHow will AI impact our physical world?This week ok Most Podern, Libo and Alex dive into the evolving role of AI in various sectors, particularly in design and architecture. They break down discuss the tools and technologies that are shaping the future, the ethical implications of AI development, and the importance of curiosity and engagement in understanding AI's impact on society. They emphasize the need for better education and governance in AI, as well as the balance between technological advancement and human values. Libo discusses why he’s bullish on the tech and Alex explains why he’s pessimistic on some fields’ ability to keep up.2025-02-111h 01
Most Podern PodcastWriting Architecture - Julia van den HoutWhat role does written communication play in the creation of good buildings?
Julia van den Hout, founder of Original Copy, shares her journey from art history to architecture, emphasizing the importance of writing in the field. She discusses her experiences at Steven Holl Architects, the evolution of architectural communication, and the founding of CLOG, a journal aimed at bridging the gap between rapid online discourse and traditional publishing. Julia also reflects on her current practice, Original Copy, and her role at the Art Omi, the Hudson Valley based arts center. In talking with MoPo, Julia highlights the...2025-01-2845 min
Most Podern Podcast2025 LA FiresAlex and Minkoo discuss the urban ramifications on the devastating fires that have affected LA. In addressing the the challenges of rebuilding they emphasize the need for better building codes, materials, and leadership to create safer, more resilient communities. The discussion also touches on the role of the non-tangible, including insurance, economic pressures, and the importance of collaboration in urban design to address the complexities of recovery and future planning.
Keywords
architecture, landscape, urban planning, urban design, wildfires, community impact, rebuilding, building codes, insurance, leadership, urban design, building culture, California, environmental policy
Chapters2025-01-2136 min
Most Podern PodcastJeonse Games - Financing Housing in South KoreaHow do different countries pay for housing?
Alex and Minkoo delve into peculiar, but impactful complexities of South Korea's real estate market, focusing on the significant rise in housing prices, the cultural implications of high-rise living, and the unique Jeonse system. They discuss the impact of fluctuating financial conditions on housing, the consequences of the Jeonse collapse, and draw comparisons with China's real estate challenges. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of Korea's housing market amidst demographic shifts and economic pressures.
Keywords
South Korea, real estate, housing market, Junsei system, Seoul...2025-01-1448 min
Most Podern PodcastLooking Back on MoPo's First YearSummary
In this reflective episode, the hosts of MoPo discuss their journey over the first year making the show. They emphasize the need to expand their network beyond familiar circles and the value of learning through conversations with diverse guests. The hosts also share insights on the iterative process of podcasting, the challenges and opportunities in their field, and their hopes for the future of the show.
Keywords
podcast, built environment, pandemic impact, communication, collaboration, interdisciplinary, growth, opportunities, challenges, reflection
Chapters
00:00 Reflecting on a Year of Conversations
02:54...2025-01-0233 min
Most Podern PodcastGrassroots Development: Building Communities Abroad - KC HardinKC Hardin, founder of Conservatorio, joins MoPo and shares his inspiring journey from corporate law in New York to real estate development in Panama. He discusses the revitalization of Casco Viejo - a historic district in Panama City, the lessons learned in navigating the complexities of real estate, and the importance of community engagement in urban development. KC also reflects on the current landscape of real estate in Panama, the challenges of affordability, and his vision for interconnected neighborhoods that foster community. He emphasizes the need for adaptive reuse of buildings and the role of developers in shaping vibrant...2024-12-1852 min
Most Podern PodcastThe Language of Design Technology - Leland Jobson
Leland Jobson rides the intersection of architecture and technology. In this conversation, he emphasizing the importance of computational design and the role of teaching in shaping future architects. He introduces the significance of Open USD in bridging gaps in design and technology, the philosophical implications of language in representation, and the evolving landscape of architecture in the digital age. Leland shares insights on how software can enhance architectural practice and the need for architects to embrace technology to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
https://www.lelandjobson.com/
https://www.lelandjobson.com...2024-12-091h 02
Most Podern PodcastA New Era of Landscape Architecture - William ShiversSummary
What is the role of landscape in our built environment and how are spaces shaped for nature?
Landscape architect William Shivers discusses his journey into landscape architecture, the education process, and the role of landscape architects in urban design. He emphasizes the importance of integrating nature into urban environments, the challenges of working with living elements, and the significance of iconic public spaces. Shivers also shares insights from his PhD research on American landscapes, particularly focusing on Hawaii's unique ecological and historical context. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of landscape architecture, its economic...2024-11-261h 03
Most Podern PodcastDevelopment for Community - Sean WebsterSummary
What does it take to get something done in a community? What does it take to get something built? What does it take to change a city?
Sean Webster is an social entrepreneur, organizer, and citizen developer. His story centers around how one can make change in a community despite immense headwinds. Sean discusses his journey as an entrepreneur and community developer in Boston, focusing on the importance of creating sustainable environments for growth. He shares insights on navigating the challenges of urban development, the need for trust and communication between developers and the...2024-11-191h 18
Most Podern PodcastThe State of Housing Design & Development - Sam Naylor
How can we build better housing and more of it?
Sam Naylor is the co-author of “The State of Housing Design 2023” (Harvard University Press) and the research report “Legalizing Mid-rise Single-stair Housing in Massachusetts”. He is a licensed architect and researcher and joins MoPo to discuss the critical importance of housing design in addressing the current housing crisis. He emphasizes the need for innovative and quality housing solutions and the challenges posed by zoning laws and community resistance. Naylor advocates for design thinking as a means to unlock production and density while also highlighting the significance of community engagement and lead...2024-11-141h 13
Most Podern PodcastFinding Your Voice Through Art - Betty ChenIn this conversation, Betty Chen shares her multifaceted journey as a student, project manager, and content creator in the fields of architecture and art. She discusses her experiences in public speaking, the origins of her YouTube channel, and her passion for making art and architecture accessible to the public. Betty emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, community engagement, and the challenges of navigating criticism in her work. The conversation culminates in reflections on the future of architecture and the need for mutual understanding in society.
Episode Links:
https://www.youtube.com/articulations
https...2024-11-041h 06
Most Podern PodcastShouting Quietly through Architecture - Rob Meyerson and William McKee of Common OfficeSummary
Rob Meyerson and William McKee lead the architectural practice, Common Office, in Sydney, Australia. Their work has been featured in Archdaily, Vogue, and the Sydney Morning Herald. Common Office was founded on an interest in interiors, buildings, urbanism and territory. Emerging out of a body of work that ranges between the domestic and large scale urban design proposals, the office is committed to making buildings, design research and speculative work.
The conversation delves into the opportunities for architectural design in development in Australia and Europe, while also addressing the challenges facing the implementation project...2024-10-291h 21
Most Podern Podcast"The Architectural Chef" - Ryan WilliamsIn this conversation, Ryan Williams shares his journey from an unintentional start in architecture to becoming a co-founder of Arcqive, a platform designed for architects and designers. He discusses his educational background, the role of software in his development, and his experiences at WeWork, including the founding of We of Color. Ryan reflects on the challenges of transitioning from a structured environment to agency work and the importance of creating meaningful experiences in design. He emphasizes the need for curation in a world overflowing with options and the evolving nature of physical spaces in the digital age.
2024-10-2251 min
Most Podern Podcast"AI is a tool for exploration.” - Architect Daeho Lee on Shaping the Future of the Built Environment with AI
How will AI change the world around us? Architect Daeho Lee has been working with AI visualization software to project a new path forward for architecture and design. He joins MoPo discusses his journey in architecture, the evolution of rendering, and the impact of AI on design. He reflects on the transition from traditional rendering methods to AI-generated visuals, emphasizing the importance of visualization as a communication tool in architecture. Daeho shares insights on how AI can enhance the design process, particularly for young architects, while also addressing the limitations and challenges of integrating AI into architectural practice. The...2024-10-141h 02
Most Podern PodcastResiliency Without Borders - Caroline SorgeThis week, Caroline Sorge joins us to discuss the multifaceted role of architecture in addressing resilience, climate change, and community needs. She the unique challenges faced by different communities in the context of climate justice. Through her experiences in humanitarian initiatives and local projects, she highlights the need for architects to engage with communities, listen to their needs, and collaborate with policymakers to create sustainable solutions. The conversation also touches on the unequal impacts of climate change and the necessity of balancing immediate community needs with long-term sustainability goals.
Takeaways
- Architecture...2024-09-3046 min
Most Podern PodcastPassive House A-Z with Energy Designer Liz HauverHow can we make our habitats more sustainable?
Architectural and energy designer, Liz Hauver dives into the world of energy-efficient design. She shares her journey into the field, breaks down the fundamentals of Passive House architecture, and highlights why energy modeling should be a core part of architectural education. Liz explores the cost and challenges of Passive House certification, the complexities of retrofitting, and what’s next for sustainable design in Massachusetts.
Liz on LinkedIn
Keywords
Passive House, Energy Design, Sustainable Architecture, Building Science, Massachusetts En...2024-09-2445 min
Most Podern Podcast“Concrete buildings can have lower carbon intensity than steel buildings!” - Embodied Carbon in Focus with Jared FriedmanJared Friedman, a Computational Product Manager at Walter P Moore, joins Most Podern to discuss the challenges and opportunities of incorporating embodied carbon calculations into the design process. The conversation discusses It emphasizes the importance of starting early in design, how to handle inevitable uncertainties, and the outsize role that data plays in delivering a sustainable building project. The conversation also touches on the role of policies and regulations in driving sustainability efforts, the need for better data collection and communication, and the potential for new solutions and technologies in the future.
About Jared
Jared...2024-09-1652 min
Most Podern PodcastCarbon CountingDaniel McDermott, a greenhouse gas accounting expert, joins MoPo to dive into his career in sustainability and the challenges companies face in reducing their carbon footprint. From the importance of accurate data and standardized reporting to the role of ESG auditors and breakthrough technologies like carbon air capture, Dan sheds light on the critical steps needed to track, trend, and tackle emissions effectively.2024-09-0952 min
Most Podern PodcastESG: Getting Everyone on the Same PageWhat are sustainability and ESG and how do they fit into the incentive structures that shape the built environment?
Grey Lee. an Sustainability and ESG Specialist at S&P Global and instructor at Harvard, joins Most Podern as we dive into the critical differences between sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and how they impact our daily lives. We explore the role of ESG in the real estate industry—how it drives investment decisions, attracts tenants, and maximizes financial performance. Learn how ESG metrics help manage risks and quantify sustainability efforts, and why a...2024-09-021h 04
Most Podern PodcastSeason 4 Intro: SustainabilityIn Season 4 of the Most Podern Podcast, we focus on the urgent need for sustainable buildings amid growing housing and infrastructure demands and the need to upgrade existing structures. Our guests discuss how data and technology can improve building performance, as well as the challenges and opportunities of green building practices. We cover key themes such as the impact of inflation on sustainability costs, the importance of industry education, the potential for sustainability to become standard practice, global collaboration, and technology’s role in advancing sustainable practices. We hope you enjoy this season as much as we did.
...2024-08-2641 min
Most Podern PodcastParis: Olympic Playground or Pricey Party?Is the Olympics worth it? Alex is on the ground in Paris to find out. From the mind-boggling logistics to the uncertain impact on host cities, we dive deep into the world of the Summer Games. We dissect the spectacle, the spending, and the legacy of this global event. Are the Olympics a celebration of humanity or a colossal waste of resources?
Chapters
00:00 The Olympics: A Moment of Glory for Athletes
02:35 Managing the Impact: Infrastructure and ROI
06:15 Paris: An Established City for the Olympics
08:18 Temporary Structures...2024-08-1246 minMost Podern PodcastConcrete Cowboys and Green Queens: Who's Winning the City Sustainability Race?Is it possible to balance economic growth with environmental protection? Can we learn from international examples like China's sponge city movement? Join us as we navigate the complexities of urban sustainability.
In this deep dive episode, we tackle the complex issue of urban sustainability. From New York City's aggressive emissions reduction goals to Boston's carrot-and-stick approach, we explore how different cities are legislating for a greener future. We delve into the challenges and opportunities of retrofitting existing buildings, the role of technology, and the impact of political climate on policy implementation. We also discuss the broader implications...2024-07-2946 minMost Podern PodcastRising Tides and Resilient Cities: Navigating Sea Level RiseWhat is the impact of sea level rise on coastal cities and what strategies are we implementing to address this issue? We explore the challenges faced by cities like Boston and New York, the role of design and policy in mitigating the effects of sea level rise, and the need for both individual and collective action. Our discussion highlights the importance of considering future risks and making informed decisions about buying property in flood-prone areas. We also touch on the role of incentives and government programs in supporting resilience efforts.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Impact...2024-07-2241 minMost Podern PodcastDecoding Development: Who gets to be a developer?In this episode, we dive deep into the world of development and uncover what it takes to become a developer. We start by exploring the roots of development, the essential skills needed, and the various development models that shape the industry.
Traditionally, developers acquire land, oversee design and permits, and eventually sell or rent their projects for profit. However, there's a shift towards newer models like the service model and developer consulting, which spread out risk and engage multiple stakeholders in the process.
Throughout our discussion, we showcase inspiring examples of development projects, from community-driven...2024-07-1545 min
Most Podern PodcastIntegrating Sustainability from Blueprint to Reality - Dr. Irmak TuranOn this episode of our podcast, we dive into the world of sustainable building design with Dr. Irmak Turan, a trailblazer in sustainability and resilience. Discover how integrating sustainability into your projects from the get-go can transform energy efficiency, materials usage, and even enhance occupant well-being. Dr. Turan sheds light on key certifications like LEED and WELL that set the stage for sustainable design excellence. Join us as we explore the pivotal role of daylight, views, and early goal-setting in creating greener, more efficient buildings.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Early Career Journey
2024-07-0846 min
Most Podern PodcastShaping Our Material Future - Brian LeeHow does mushrooms have to do with sustainable materials? In this Episode, Brian Lee, a principal research scientist at Autodesk, introduces his research on low carbon materials. We learn about mycelium composites and how it can be used as a sustainable and carbon-negative material for building facades. Brian teaches us about the role of research in driving innovation and sustainability at Autodesk. He introduces the challenges of scaling up new materials, and the importance of collaboration with experts from different domains.
Chapters
00:00 Brian’s Background and How He Got Into Design Research
07:09 The Ro...2024-07-0150 min
Most Podern PodcastThe New Urban Equation - Yair TitelboimStep into the world of cutting-edge real estate with our latest episode featuring Yair, an architect-turned-data scientist who's reshaping the industry at Hines. We explore the fascinating journey from drafting tables to data analytics, and discover how this unique perspective is transforming urban landscapes.
Yair shares his obsession with converting offices into housing, a timely topic in today's evolving housing environment. We'll dive into the challenges of urban redevelopment, the future of office spaces, and how companies like Hines are adapting to a rapidly changing market.
Get an insider's look at:
The success story...2024-06-251h 01
Most Podern PodcastDecisions as a Liquid Democracy - Yasushi SakaiYasushi Sakai is a researcher, artist, and architect that lives in the computer terminal. In this conversation, Yasushi explains his journey from being an architect to his current research at MIT's Media Lab. He discusses his time working in architecture firms and his involvement in digital design divisions. He reflects on the limitations of parametric design tools like Rhino and Grasshopper in fundamentally changing the design process. Yasushi introduces us to the unique composition of the Media Lab and its focus on realizing research ideas and testing them in the real world. We discuss his research on propagational proxy...2024-06-161h 00
Most Podern PodcastThe Value of Design - Helena Rong, Juncheng Tony Yang, and Minkoo KangWhat is design worth and can its value even be measured?
The authors of the forthcoming book, Value of Design: Creating Agency Through Data-Driven Insights, join Most Podern to state that it can be and discuss the importance of design in the built environment and its impact on society. They aim to bridge the gap between design and finance, and quantify the value of design in terms of its impact on financial value, social value, and cultural value. The discussion also touches on the subjective nature of design, the role of developers and policy makers in decision-making...2024-06-1059 min
Most Podern PodcastDesign as Research - De Peter YiDe Peter Yi joins Most Podern to talk about his work in addressing the built environment through a design research approach to architectural practice. As an Assistant Professor of Architecture at the University of Cincinnati, and founder of Rebuild Collective, an architectural research and design studio, Peter’s practice addresses ways in which architectural and urban design plays a role in the evolution of contemporary society.
Combining his various roles as an architect, researcher, and educator, Peter discusses his journey from childhood experiences to architectural training, education, and professional practice. He explores the impact of research...2024-06-041h 12
Most Podern PodcastSeason 3: Research- Season PreviewSeason 3 of the Most Podern Podcast focuses on design research in the built environment, ranging from innovative ways to address real estate finance, sustainability, policy, civic and engagement. In this season preview, your hosts Libo, Minkoo, and Alex explore how knowledge is created, disseminated, and applied in the industry and introduce the guests, topics, themes, and insights from the season’s upcoming episodes.
Season 3 Schedule
May 27 - Season Introduction with your hosts
June 3 - De Peter Yi - Architect and Professor at the University of Cincinnati
June 10 - Helena Rong, Tony Juncheng Ya...2024-05-2738 min
Most Podern PodcastWhat Makes a Good Building?In another in between episode, we explore the question of what makes a good building. We touch on the importance of context, the challenges of building in urban environments, and the impact of building materials and technologies. We explore the importance of light, air, and ceilings in creating a pleasant environment. Our next season on the topic of Research is dropping next week!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Questioning the Definition of a Building
02:24 Exploring the Importance of Purpose and Context
06:49 Adaptability and Flexibility in Urban Environments
10:11 The Role of Materials...2024-05-2054 min
Most Podern PodcastBuilding or Billboard? The SphereThe Sphere in Las Vegas is a unique and captivating building that has gained viral attention. It is a giant LED screen and a building in one, displaying dynamic and immersive content. It has quickly become a symbol of Las Vegas and its entertainment culture. In this episode, we discuss the Sphere's impact on the built environment and its place in the prioritization of spectacle and entertainment, pushing the boundaries of architecture and real estate.
00:00Introduction to the Sphere
13:41The Sphere as an Immersive Experience
28:57The Sphere: Building or Billboard?
39:35The Importance of...2024-05-1340 min
Most Podern PodcastThe Business of DesignIn this conversation, we explore the challenges of running an architecture business. Why architects are reluctant to view their practice as a business and the stigma associated with prioritizing profit. We dive into the intersection of architecture and entrepreneurship, how architects can become developers and create their own projects. We discuss the business side of architecture and the importance of having the ability to adapt and pivot in response to market changes.
Chapters
00:00The Stigma of Viewing Architecture as a Business
01:50The Lack of Emphasis on Business Practices in Architecture Education
05:09...2024-05-0658 min
Most Podern PodcastWhat is work?In this conversation, we explore the definitions of work, career, and job, and how they differ from each other. We discuss the importance of finding work that aligns with one's values and provides a sense of fulfillment. What is the role of office culture and politics in work satisfaction, and how it can it vary across different industries and regions?
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Work
08:14 Work-Life Balance and Approaches
25:50 Finding Flow
38:04 Lessons Learned and Applying Them to Business2024-04-2942 min
Most Podern PodcastWhere do buildings come from?Have you wondered how the buildings you live, work, learn, and play in actually get created? Libo, Minkoo, and Alex break down the process of making a building and who is involved - who allows it, who pays for it, who designs, and who builds it. The group breaks down how it all comes together and starts to get at the important challenges and opportunities that the process enables.
00:00 Introduction: The Missing Gap in the Building Conversation
06:12 Market Conditions and Incentives in Building Construction
23:45 The Importance of Community Feedback in the Design Process2024-04-2254 min
Most Podern PodcastThe Architect’s Journey - Brandon Hall, Season 2: CareersBrandon Hall, architect and founder of BHA in Chicago, discusses his career journey and experiences in the field of architecture. He shares how his early interest in building and design led him to pursue a career in architecture that saw him work across continents for some of the most recognized firms in the world. Brandon reflects on his own education and training, and the lessons he continues to learn as the founder of an active architecture practice that looks to build buildings of character and value.
00:00 Introduction and Career Journey
09:30 Design Competitions in Europe
2024-04-1554 min
Most Podern PodcastStudio to Startup: Architect Founder - Zach Soflin, Season 2: CareersCan design training translate to technological innovation?
Zach Soflin, architect turned tech entrepreneur joins Most Podern to discuss his journey from studio to startup. Zach discusses his path from being an architect to building Layer, a transformative software for the building industry, that tackles the unique challenges of working with spatial data. Zach shares how he first became interested in architecture and how his passion for design led him to pursue a career in the field and then beyond.
00:00 Zach's Background and Journey to Architecture
03:18 The Birth of Layer: Solving a Project's Problem2024-04-0844 min
Most Podern PodcastBuilding Businesses and Buildings - Evan Smith, Season 2: Careers
Evan Smith is Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Highland Park Technologies, a company focused on developing automated and cost effective ways to retrofit our built environment. As a licensed general contractor, creator, developer, and serial entrepreneur, shares his career journey moving through various roles and organizations to shape the world around us.
The discussion touches on creating a culture of learning and adaptation, both personally and professionally, shifting focus to leaner approaches in design and building, and challenging assumptions to embrace innovation.
https://www.hiparktech.com/
2024-04-0155 min
Most Podern PodcastBuilding Happiness Through Design and Development - Evan Wiskup, Season 2: CareersEvan Wiskup, founder of Wiskup Architecture and co-founder of Neighbor, shares his unique perspective as both an architect and a real estate developer. He discusses his early interest in design and architecture, his intentionality when studying and practicing architecture, and his transition into real estate development.
Evan emphasizes the importance of finding fulfillment in one's work through balancing between design excellence and practicality, finding compatibility in project partnerships, and moving towards happiness every single day.
wiskuparchitecture.com
itsneighbor.com
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:22 Early...2024-03-2544 min
Most Podern PodcastTowards Beauty and Efficiency: A Career by Design - Andrew Kao, Season 2: CareersOnce captivated by design's allure, how do those shaping our built environment tap into the compounding power of sharing knowledge, honing their skills, and seamlessly blending beauty with efficiency?
Andrew Kao is a licensed architect, a former Product Manager at WeWork, and a former Vice President at both CBRE/Hana and MillerKnoll. He discusses the challenges and frustrations he faced in the architecture industry, navigating his career through a global financial crisis and pandemic, as well as the opportunities he found seeking more from the profession and sharing knowledge along the way. The conversation touches on what it's like...2024-03-1857 min
Most Podern PodcastArchitecture Career Specialist: Finding Your Way Towards Meaning and Fulfillment in Architecture - Jacki Schaefer, Season 2: CareersHow can one develop a rewarding and meaningful career as an architect?
Jacki Schaefer, an architecture career specialist, discusses her journey in the field of architecture and how transitioning away from it led to creating value for others. She highlights the disillusionment she experienced in practice and the disconnect between academia and the profession and how she turned both into a force for positive change for her own life. Jacki also emphasizes the value of career coaching and the need for individuals to understand their motivations and goals in the face of the narrow definitions of success...2024-03-1150 min
Most Podern PodcastSeason 2: Careers - Season PreviewOn the inaugural season of Most Podern, where we embark on an exploration of a fundamental question: How do we shape the world around us professionally? Join hosts Minkoo Kang, Libo Li, and Alex Yuen as they guide us on an insightful journey into the dynamic landscape of careers in and around the built environment.
Through candid conversations with professionals from an array of fields and pursuits, we delve into the intricacies of careers that quietly influence our world. From passionate architects to determined startup founders, our guests generously share their personal journeys, challenges, and aspirations as...2024-03-0447 min
Most Podern PodcastDesigning and Teaching With Freedom and Joy: AlexAlex is an urban designer and architect from San Francisco. He’s a founding partner of Collective Operations (CO) and teaches urban design at Harvard GSD. In this conversation, Alex discusses how he fell in love with cities, how Steph Curry inspired his approach to his career, and his motivations as a teacher, urban designer, architect, and developer.
Highlights
1:17 When and where Alex fell in love with cities
8:00 Perceptorship at DS+R
12:15 First days at OMA
15:10 The economics of towers
17:45 What motivated Alex to move into development...2024-02-0550 min
Most Podern PodcastHow to Go From Architecture to Tech: LiboLibo is a Data Engineer at Meta. He trained as an architect and worked in a wide variety of roles across different companies. In this conversation, we discuss his move from design into technology, the motivations and challenges in career transitions, and the relationship between a title and one’s identity.
8:45 Transitioning from design into “tech”
12:15 The culture shock of going to WeWork
18:05 Working in a Revit forward design environment
21:08 The newness of BIM
22:05 Data and BIM as a medium of communication
25:30 What was WeWork good at at?
31:10 Labeling oneself as an architect
33:50 Learning from Meta
...2024-01-2944 min
Most Podern PodcastFrom Design to Finance, to Discovering the Value of Design: MinkooMinkoo Kang is a designer and developer from Seoul. In this episode we talk to Minkoo about his journey into design, what motivated his move towards finance, and discovering the value of design.
1:00 How Gaudi inspired his journey into design
4:08 The limitations even at the highest levels of design
9:58 Burning out at OMA
16:41 Money as the missing element
19:55 Experiencing different disciplines at MIT
33:29 John Portman as architect developer
38:26 Development projects Minkoo is working on now
45:13 The struggle with community activists
50:00 The stigma against developers
52:15 Minkoo's hopes for this podcast
People, Companies, and Things Mentioned.
OMA
MIT R...2024-01-2254 min
Most Podern PodcastIntroduction: Minkoo, Alex, and Libo Start a PodcastWelcome to the Most Podern Podcast!
In this episode, we discuss why we are starting this podcast and what we think is missing from the conversation around the built environment.
1:10: What makes us a good trio to start a podcast
3:14: What does “establishing convening power in the build environment mean?”
6:32: Bridging conversations and culture
9:40: Agency and time as a key constraint of Architecture
13:30: What we want to do with this podcast
16:15: Why we want to invite plumbers on the show
24:24: What lessons listeners can...2024-01-1631 min