Shows
Design Development132: Family Business & The Road to CEO with Kayla Nassar, CEO of AMCONKayla Nassar is the CEO of AMCON, a prominent construction company in New England. Under her leadership, AMCONhas achieved considerable growth, notably implementing a leadership team predominantly composed of women, innovating within the industry, and adopting emerging technologies like AI.Today, AMCON boasts a leadership team with over 50% women, showcasing Kayla's commitment to diversity. Kayla's conversation with Rens also uncovers insights about navigating family business dynamics, especially during ownership transitions. She shares the importance of clear communication and the flexibility required in shifting leadership roles. The episode further highlights AMCON strategic focus on key sectors, such as...2025-06-0455 minDesign Development130: Navigating Volatile Markets: How GCs and Developers Can Thrive Together with Mike Hartnett, VP of Plumb House Inc.Mike Hartnett is a prominent figure in the construction and real estate sector, currently serving as a vice president and partner at Plumb House. With a rich history in multifamily construction, Mike has extensive experience in various roles, from his beginnings as a project engineer to becoming a senior superintendent. Mike offers invaluable insights into the importance of maintaining strong relationships with design partners familiar with wood frame construction to ensure project design aligns with realistic pricing methods.Throughout the conversation, Mike and Rens explore the strategic advantages of Plumb House's niche focus on...2025-05-2137 minDesign Development128: Struggling to make a decision? You're missing this ONE thing.if you're uncertain about a decision, it's likely a lack of data causing the hesitation. Rens shares his journey of harnessing data to make informed decisions, emphasizing the significance of data in areas like marketing, sales, project management, and cost-effective design strategies in structural engineering. With personal anecdotes, he illustrates how understanding data can shift from a sense of gambling to a confident investment in business strategies.These experiences later fueled H&O's move toward Open Book Financial Management, underpinning their mission to shatter career ceilings for structural engineers. Through this framework, team members are empowered by...2025-04-3017 minDesign Development127: Two Lessons from Charlie MungerIn this solo episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes dives into the wisdom of Charlie Munger, an influential figure whose insights have profoundly impacted Renz's professional journey. This session is packed with valuable lessons drawn from Munger's philosophies, aimed at those in real estate, design, and construction who are eager to enhance their strategic approach and leadership skills.Rens introduces two impactful quotes from Charlie Munger, discussing how aligning incentives within a company can ensure long-term success and prevent culture debt—a crucial challenge for small to mid-sized businesses. He elaborates on how reading can...2025-04-2305 minDesign Development126: How to Engineer Business Value: Scaling Smart, Hiring Right, and Creating Freedom with Rens Hayes IV (Guest Episode)Most business owners go through a pivotal moment—their first real look behind the curtain at how buyers value companies. For Rens Hayes, that moment came when he went through a sale and due diligence process for his father’s structural steel business. What he learned from that experience completely changed how he approached building and scaling his own company, H&O Structural Engineering.In this episode of Independence by Design™, Rens and host, Ryan Tansom, break down how he engineered his business for value creation, using Ken Sanginario’s Engineer’s Value Opportunity Profile (VOP) as his roadma...2025-04-091h 41
Independence by Design™#429: How to Engineer Business Value: Scaling Smart, Hiring Right, and Creating Freedom with Rens HayesMost business owners go through a pivotal moment—their first real look behind the curtain at how buyers value companies. For Rens Hayes, that moment came when he went through a sale and due diligence process for his father’s structural steel business. What he learned from that experience completely changed how he approached building and scaling his own company, H&O Structural Engineering. Watch on YouTube
In this episode of Independence by Design™, Rens and I break down how he engineered his business for value creation, using Ken Sanginario’s Engineer’s Value Opportunity...2025-02-201h 40Design Development119: Helping Business Owner-Operators Create Independence with Ryan TansomIn this engaging episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes sits down with Ryan Tansom to discuss transitioning a business to align with personal goals. Ryan shares candid insights from his personal journey, which includes overcoming high-stakes financial hurdles, strategic business pivots, and eventual exit strategies. Listen to Ryan discuss the conceptual foundation of his framework, Independence by Design, which focuses on empowering businesses to see the 'matrix' of operations, cash flow, and value growth. With his experience as a guiding backdrop, Ryan dives deep into the nuances of ensuring business longevity and aligning daily operations with long-term personal...2025-02-1948 minDesign Development118: Depreciation Done Right with Cost Seg Isaac, Madison SPECSIn this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes sits down with Isaac Weinberger, a leading authority in cost segregation with Madison Specs. The discussion revolves around the role of cost segregation in real estate tax strategy, providing listeners valuable insights on how to maximize tax benefits and improve cash flow through strategic planning. Isaac shares his professional journey and how his creative thinking and hustle have carved his niche in the real estate sector.With key insights into the mechanics of cost segregation, Isaac explains the considerable tax-saving opportunities available to property owners and the strategic...2025-02-1244 minDesign Development117: Innovative Thinking with Marvin Lahoud, Partner TOCCI, CEO C StreetIn this engaging episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes delves into the multifaceted world of commercial construction with Marvin LaHoud. Marvin's insights offer a refreshing view on the challenges faced by general contractors, notably the high-risk, low-margin nature of the business. The conversation revolves around finding differentiation in a commoditized market by lowering costs and risks, aligning with principles that focus on 'risk engineering' and 'cost engineering.'Marvin also shares his experiences with Tocci, a progressive construction and consultancy firm. Key topics include the exploration of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), modular construction, and the application...2025-02-0556 minDesign Development115: Real Estate Law with David Libardoni, Partner at NutterIn this engaging episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes reconnects with long-lost high school friend David Libardoni, now a partner in Nutter's Real Estate Division. This conversation unveils David’s illustrious journey from Bishop Feehan High School to becoming a leading real estate attorney. David dives into various intriguing aspects of real estate law, including acquisitions, dispositions, land use, and environmental compliance. Through numerous anecdotes, David highlights the intricate world of real estate development, emphasizing how essential communication, negotiation, and having a holistic understanding of how different sectors and specialists intersect in real estate projects truly are...2025-01-2256 minDesign Development114: Distinct Real Estate with Bryan Lee, Cofounder & Principal of Transom Real EstateIn this engaging episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes, listeners are introduced to Bryan Lee, co-founder and principal of Transom Real Estate, a leading firm specializing in innovative and sustainable property development around Boston. Rens and Bryan delve into Bryan's journey from a real estate analyst during the Great Recession to becoming a pioneering real estate developer in Boston. Throughout the conversation, they explore the importance of practical experience in the real estate industry, emphasizing how Bryan transitioned from observing development plans while working on consulting and appraisals to influencing projects directly.The episode provides...2025-01-1559 minDesign Development111: Why BURNOUT Remains a Hidden Epidemic in the Engineering Industry (Guest Episode on The Civil Engineering CEO Show)This is a guest episode on The Civil Engineering CEO Show with Anthony Fasano. Enjoy!In this episode, Anthony Fasano & Rens Hayes, P.E., S.E., CVGA, Co-Founder and Principal at H+O Structural Engineering, unpack why burnout remains a hidden epidemic in the engineering industry. They explore the intense deadlines, project complexities, and stigma that keep burnout unaddressed—and how we can tackle it together. Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If thi...2024-12-2638 minDesign Development108: Chris Bushnell, Vice President of Bisnow - From Record Label DJ to Brokering RelationshipsIn this episode, Rens interviews Chris Bushnell of BisNow, diving deep into his intriguing career journey from multifamily development, to signing a record label deal in the music industry, and ultimately transitioning to his current role as Vice President of Bisnow's digital and business events in Boston, New York, and New Jersey. Chris shares his unique insights into brokering relationships, marketing and sales synergy, the importance of nurturing relationships, and leveraging platform-based strategies for connecting the right people. We also discuss effective storytelling, value-driven client interactions, business relationships through golf, and the significance of being proactive in d...2024-11-2758 minDesign Development107: 3 Reasons Why Strategic Planning Makes or Breaks BusinessesIn this episode of Design Development, host Rens dives into the intersection of strategic planning, leadership development, and personal career growth. As strategic planning season kicks off, Rens shares insights from years of building a business, writing content, and recording podcasts—all while balancing the demands of leadership.Key Takeaways:Content Creation & Business Growth:Content creation is a powerful tool to gain visibility in your industry. "It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you."Consistency is key: sticking to a schedule (e.g., weekly podcast episodes) helps build credibility and a...2024-11-2012 minDesign Development104: James Miner, Former CEO of SasakiJames Miner is the former CEO of Sasaki, a globally recognized architecture and urban design firm. With a rich educational background from MIT and Harvard, James transitioned from urban planning and architecture into leadership roles, culminating in his tenure as CEO of Sasaki. His career at Sasaki spans over two decades, where he worked on pivotal projects like the Beijing Olympics Master Plan. Throughout his career, James has emphasized interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic planning, contributing significantly to Sasaki's development and acclaim in the real estate design industry.Episode Summary: In this Design Development e...2024-10-301h 00Design Development103: 10 Actionable Steps to Skyrocket Your Career as a Young ProfessionalRens Hayes IV, the host of "Design Development," is a structural engineering expert and co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering. With a lifelong commitment to learning and growth, Rens is passionate about high-powered organizations and leadership. He brings extensive experience in real estate development, design, and construction, aiming to share actionable insights drawn from top industry performers through his podcast.Episode Summary:In this insightful episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes shares ten actionable steps for young professionals aiming to advance their real estate development, design, and construction careers. Rens emphasizes an "...2024-10-2317 minDesign Development102: Aligning Design, Cost, and Business Strategy with Rens Hayes IVRens Hayes IV is the co-founder of H+ O Structural Engineering, a pioneering firm focused on innovative solutions in real estate development, design, and construction. With a background in steel construction and engineering, Rens's journey in the industry has been fueled by an early influence from the family business and a commitment to lifelong learning. He is a certified value growth advisor and has utilized his expansive knowledge to scale H+O nationally, emphasizing alignment in design processes and financial efficiency.Joe Walker, principal at Walker Architects, operates in Georgia and Florida. A...2024-10-1655 minDesign Development101: From Startups to Real Estate: Eric Sullivan, Sullivan CapitalEric Sullivan is the managing partner and co-founder of Sullivan Capital, a Greater Boston-based real estate investment and development firm. With $70 million in assets, the firm specializes in condo conversions, hotel development, and long-term holds. Prior to his real estate ventures, Eric was a serial entrepreneur with a unique career journey, which included launching his first business in high school, engaging in software tech, clothing, and gaming industries, and successfully executing four business exits. His background is marked by adaptability, strategic vision, and an ability to capitalize on market opportunities.Episode Summary: In t...2024-10-091h 04Design Development100: Purpose Built Software for AE Firms with Matt Cooper, BQE SoftwareMatt Cooper is the CEO of BQE Software, which offers business management solutions for the architecture and engineering industries. He holds an industrial engineering degree from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Stanford. With experience at GE Healthcare, Boston Consulting Group, Bain Capital, and Serent Capital, Matt has a strong background in optimization, strategy consulting, and software growth, positioning him to lead BQE’s mission to enhance efficiency in the AE sector. Episode Summary:In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes talks with Matt Cooper, CEO of BQE Software, abou...2024-10-011h 00Design Development99: Distinctive Architecture and Education with Jeffry Burchard, Machado SilvettiJeffry Burchard, Partner at Machado Silvetti and Associate Professor at Harvard GSD, is known for his innovative design approach and contributions to architectural education. He influences both students and professionals with his expertise and focus on quality and conceptual thinking in architecture. Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of Design Development, Jeffry shares his journey in architecture, discussing his path from Idaho to becoming a partner at a world-renowned architectural firm. He delves into Machado Silvetti's unique design philosophy, which is centered around discovering underlying conceptual ideas for each project, resulting in uniquely t...2024-09-2555 minDesign Development98: Building Brands, Not Just Buildings with Mark Natale, Smarthinking Mark Natale is the Principal at Smarthinking, a top branding and marketing consultancy specializing in luxury real estate, hotels, and private clubs. With experience at Jack Parker Corporation in New York, Mark honed his expertise in branding within the hospitality industry. He creates compelling brand narratives, integrating a brand's story into all aspects of a project, from design to customer experience. Episode Summary:In this episode of "Design Development," Rens Hayes, the host and co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering, delves into the intricate world of luxury real estate branding with expert Mark Na...2024-09-1751 minDesign Development97: Mastering Contracts and Liability Insurance with Zach Waters, Black Swan Risk ManagementZach WatersZach Waters is the founder and CEO of Black Swan Risk Management, a specialized risk management firm dedicated exclusively to architects and engineers. With a professional background that intersects between legal tenets, insurance practices, and contract negotiation, Zach has become a well-versed expert in managing the intricacies related to risk in the architectural and engineering sector. His company aims to simplify the complexities of risk management and empower their clients to navigate through unpredictable and severe events.Episode Summary: In this episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes of H...2024-09-101h 02Design Development96: Navigating Boston's Tight Industrial Real Estate Market with Tony Coskren, NewmarkTony Coskren is the Executive Managing Director at Newmark, with a 17-year career in commercial real estate specializing in industrial and logistics markets. Tony has extensive experience working with billion-dollar institutions, top-tier companies like Amazon, FedEx, and Walmart, and local tenants. As a former Division-1 athlete and hockey player, Tony's competitive spirit drives his expert navigation and success in the high-stakes world of industrial real estate.Episode Summary:Welcome to another inspiring installment of "Design Development" hosted by Rens Hayes. Today, we dive deep into the industrial real estate market with Tony Coskren...2024-09-0454 minDesign Development95: Capturing Tax Credits with Jordan Wilson, Corporate Tax AdvisorsJordan Wilson is a seasoned expert in tax credit consulting, currently serving as Director of Business Development at Corporate Tax Advisors (CTA). With a background in payroll, HR technologies, and tax incentives, Jordan specializes in research and development (R&D) tax credits, cost segregation studies, and energy tax credits. His knowledge and practical approach help businesses navigate the complexities of tax strategies to optimize their financial outcomes.Episode Summary:Welcome to another episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of lucrative tax credits...2024-08-2844 minDesign Development94: Lessons from Gilbane, a 150+ Year Old Construction Giant with Justin MacEachernJustin MacEachern is the Vice President and Business Unit Leader for Massachusetts and Northern New England at Gilbane, a global leader in construction and real estate development. A graduate of Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Justin boasts a diverse career in both high-end residential construction and commercial real estate development. His extensive experience includes significant roles both on the construction side at Gilbane and on the real estate development side with Boylston Properties.Episode Summary:In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes speaks with Justin...2024-08-2051 minDesign Development93: Building Responsibly with Keith Shaw, President Delphi ConstructionKeith Shaw is the President of Delphi Construction, a leading construction firm in Massachusetts. His career began in vocational school, bypassing college for hands-on work. After founding his own construction business in his early 20s, Shaw joined Delphi, advancing from superintendent to COO and now President. His leadership and strategic vision have been vital to Delphi’s growth, especially in the multifamily, healthcare, and education sectors.Episode Summary:In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Keith Shaw, President of Delphi Construction. They discuss Shaw’s career journey from vocational school to l...2024-08-1351 minDesign Development92: CEO of TestFit, Clifton Harness: The Future of Real Estate Planning with Generative DesignClifton Harness is Co-founder and CEO of Testfit Inc., an innovative company revolutionizing the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) spaces with generative design. Clifton's background spans a variety of experiences from working in his family's entrepreneurial real estate business to earning an architecture degree from the University of Texas. He also has experience in high-density residential development through his role at Streetlights Residential, a prominent design-build development firm.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes, co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering, we delve into the...2024-08-0646 minDesign Development91: Rens Hayes IV on The Value Growth Podcast: Building a Successful CompanyA licensed engineer with entrepreneurial spirit, Rens Hayes has a robust background in steel construction, structural engineering and business operations. He co-founded H+O Structural Engineering with Jeremiah O'Neill and has led the company to significant growth through innovative approaches and a commitment to company culture. Rens is also deeply involved in educational pursuits, continually seeking knowledge to grow the business and inspire his team.Ken SanginarioKen Sanginario is the host of the Value Growth Podcast and a mentor to many business leaders through his Certified Value Growth Advisor (CVGA) platform. He...2024-07-3024 minDesign Development90: Energy and Sustainability with Samira Ahmadi, enviENERGY StudioSamira Ahmadi is the founding principal of enviENERGY Studio, a firm dedicated to making energy efficiency and sustainability accessible to all. With a background in architecture and a specialized master's degree in Building Performance and Diagnostics from Carnegie Mellon University, Samira has positioned her company at the forefront of the energy and sustainability sectors. She is also deeply committed to educating the next generation of sustainability experts through internships and co-ops, particularly from Northeastern University.Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes, co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering, dives...2024-07-2354 minDesign Development89: Michael Fabbiano - Partner, Highpoint EngineeringMichael Fabiano is a partner at Highpoint Engineering, a dedicated civil engineering firm in the Greater Boston area, which he co-founded in 2010. With a robust background in commercial real estate land development, Mike has played a pivotal role in growing Highpoint Engineering over the past 15 years. His career began at Roger Williams University, where he was an avid golfer and billiards champion. Mike's entrepreneurial journey includes significant involvement with the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) Boston, where he currently serves as the newly elected president.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of "Design Development," host...2024-07-1747 minDesign Development87: Marketing a Global Brand with HOK Marketing Principal, Sarah KeaneIn this episode of Design Development, hosted by Rens Hayes of H+O Structural Engineering, we dive deep into the intricacies of marketing within the architecture and engineering sector, featuring Sarah Keane, Marketing Principal at HOK. HOK is a world-renowned architecture, engineering, and planning firm. Established in 1955, HOK distinguishes itself with a workforce of over 1700 across 26 offices on three continents. As Sarah shares her wealth of experience, we explore how a company of this size and prestige handles its marketing efforts, offers strategic insights, and leverages its brand reputation to maintain competitive advantage.Sarah delves...2024-07-0356 min
The Value Growth Podcast7 - Unleashing Innovation: Blueprint for Building a Successful Company with H+O Structural Engineering's Principal, Rens Hayes IVIn this episode of the Value Growth Podcast, your host Ken Sanginario, interviews Rens Hayes IV. They discuss Rens' journey from helping his father's steel fabrication company to establishing his own firm.Rens emphasizes the importance of mission, vision, and values in building a successful company. He shares his strategies for creating a strong company culture through transparency and open-book financial management. Rens also highlights the significance of personal branding and industry presence, sharing his experiences with LinkedIn and his podcast, "Design Development," which features insights from top industry performers.Think you'd be a great...2024-06-2624 minDesign Development86: Real Estate Finance with Sean Kelly-Rand, Managing Partner RD AdvisorsSean Kelly-Rand is the Managing Partner of RD Advisors, a private lender specializing in flexible financing solutions for residential and commercial real estate developers. With a rich career spanning roles at Lehman Brothers, where he underwrote several billion dollars worth of loans, and Madison International, where he launched the London office, Sean brings a wealth of financial expertise and global real estate experience. His journey from working with his real estate-agent mother in Boston to establishing a significant presence in private lending demonstrates his deep understanding of market dynamics and strategic financial planning.Episode...2024-06-2652 minDesign Development85: Increase Your Margins By 66%Rens Hayes is the co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering and the host of the "Design Development" podcast. With a deep passion for creating high-powered organizations, Rens leverages his expertise in structural engineering to facilitate insightful conversations with top industry performers. He is a lifelong learner dedicated to improving the real estate development, design, and construction sectors by focusing on efficiency and optimal performance.Episode Summary:In this episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes delves into strategies to increase profit margins by 66% for architectural and engineering (AE) firms. By identifying and eliminating...2024-06-1811 minDesign Development84: Breaking Career PlateausRens Hayes is the passionate and insightful host of "Design Development." With a wealth of experience in architecture and engineering, Rens has dedicated his career to advancing professional growth within the industry. He leverages his podcast platform to share invaluable lessons, engaging discussions, and expert advice to help individuals overcome career plateaus and achieve their professional aspirations.Episode Summary:In this episode of "Design Development," host Rens delves into the crucial topic of breaking through career plateaus. The episode aims to challenge conventional career-growth mindsets and provide tangible strategies to advance professionally.In...2024-06-1124 minDesign Development83: Building a $500M+ Business Ecosystem with CEO Eric GarrettEric Garrett is the CEO and founder of The Garrett Companies, a multi-faceted holding company focusing on national multifamily development, construction, and asset management. Over the span of a decade, Eric has engineered The Garrett Companies into a $500 million annual revenue business, achieving notable growth with a unique approach in site evaluation and development. Eric's background spans real estate brokerage, banking, and multifamily development, showcasing his vast industry knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit.In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Eric Garrett, CEO and founder of The Garrett Companies. The conversation delves deep into the...2024-06-0455 minDesign Development82: Agile Design with Joe Walker, Walker ArchitectsJoe Walker is President and Principal-in-Charge at Walker Architects. Joe draws on 25 years of design experience to create engaging, sustainable, innovative spaces. As a leader, Joe prioritizes communication and clarity. Responsible for coordinating decisions and achieving consensus across large, diverse groups, he ensures that everyone is on the same page and speaking the same language every step of the way. His design and construction administration experience includes renovations and new construction of educational and research facilities, community centers, single- and multi-family residences, mixed-use buildings, municipal buildings, sports facilities, historic structures, and more throughout Florida. In this engaging e...2024-05-2954 minDesign Development81: Improving the Architecture Industry: Challenges and Opportunities with Evelyn LeeEvelyn Lee is the founder of Practice of Architecture, a consultancy, and resource for small to medium-sized architecture and design firms. With a career that spans across various sectors, Evelyn has established herself as a forward-thinker in the realms of real estate development, architectural practice, and technology. After starting her career in architecture, she pursued an MBA, worked in the tech industry with notable names like Slack, and has been an editor and startup advisor. Her current mission is to advance the architecture industry by rethinking revenue streams and expanding services in her sector.Episode Summary:2024-05-2248 minDesign Development80: Generative AI with the AE Marketer Frank LazaroFrank Lazaro is a seasoned professional whose career trajectory has spanned various technology sectors, from the early days of dial-up Internet to sophisticated applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in marketing. With a background in political science and technology, Frank found his true passion in marketing and the analysis of human purchasing behavior. His vast experience includes pivotal roles in tech giants like Deloitte and mobile industry leaders such as Cingular Wireless, which later became AT&T. Frank’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found the AE Marketer, a company that assists businesses in harnessing AI for marketing an...2024-05-0755 minDesign Development79: Fulcrum Land & Infrastructure with Partner, Michael TilfordMichael Tilford is a seasoned real estate development professional with over 15 years of experience in the Boston area. His expertise encompasses areas from historical tax credits to large-scale developments like 121 Seaport and Eversource's underground substation in Cambridge. Along with his business partner, Ian Hatch, Michael co-founded Fulcrum Land and Infrastructure in January 2023. The company specializes in the entitlement process for real estate development projects, aiming to leverage public benefit and private gain through thoughtful development.Episode Summary:In this engaging discussion on "Design Development" with host Rens Hayes, Michael Tilford takes us through his serendipitous...2024-05-0749 minDesign Development78: MIT Investment Management Co with Maureen McCaffreyMaureen McCaffrey is an experienced professional in the realms of construction, development, and investment management. She hails from a civil engineering background, having graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), where she nurtured a passion for the built environment. Initially forging her career in heavy construction, McCaffrey expanded her expertise into commercial real estate development. She currently serves as a Director at the MIT Investment Management Company (MITIMCo), where she has been a key player in the life science innovation hub in East Cambridge and Kendall Square for over two decades. Maureen is also actively involved in women's leadership initiatives...2024-05-0151 minDesign Development77: Influencing the Skyline: How SCB Shapes Urban Landscapes with Clara WinebergClara Wineberg is a principal at Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB), an architectural firm with a 90-plus year legacy, headquartered in Chicago and with offices also in San Francisco, Seattle, and Boston. Clara specifically spearheaded the establishment of SCB's Boston office, exemplifying her dedication and skill in expanding the firm's national presence. With expertise in high-rise development and urban design, Weinberg and her team at SCB have influenced skylines across major cities in the United States, showcasing their commitment to crafting sophisticated designs within challenging urban landscapes.Episode Summary:In this episode of Design...2024-04-2344 minDesign Development76: Rental Housing Economist, Jay ParsonsJay Parsons is a rental housing economist with a robust profile that encompasses a journalistic background and a longstanding career focused on the multifamily and single-family rental markets. With 15 years of expertise gained at RealPage, Parsons has developed a deep understanding of the industry, interacting with a diverse array of stakeholders, including investors, property managers, developers, lenders, policymakers, and renters. He is well-known for his insightful research and content shared across platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. More recently, Jay Parsons has been instrumental in investment strategy for Madeira Residential, where he oversees a portfolio of approximately 11,000 units and focuses...2024-04-1750 minDesign Development75: Hallam-ICS President & CEO, Keith FlahertyKeith Flaherty is the CEO and President of Hallam-ICS, a company founded in 1981 that specializes in MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) consulting, industrial automation, electrical safety, and commissioning/validation services for various sectors, including life sciences, semiconductors, food and beverage, and more. Starting his career at Hallam straight out of college, Keith boasts a journey of rapid growth within the organization. With a background in electrical engineering and an MBA under his belt, Keith quickly rose through the ranks, eventually leading to his current leadership roles. He has been pivotal in transitioning Hallam into a 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership...2024-04-101h 00Design Development74: BOND: 100+ Years of Evolution in Construction with CEO, Anthony BondAnthony Bond is the fifth-generation CEO of Bond, a family-owned construction firm with a rich history that stretches over a century. Founded in 1907, Bond has played a prominent role in shaping infrastructural development within and around the city of Boston. Bond’s leadership oversees two distinct divisions: Bond Building and Bond Civil and Utility, both of which exemplify excellence in their respective domains. Under Anthony's guidance, Bond nurtures a long-standing relationship with clients such as Eversource and contributes to the region’s landmark projects, including the central artery tunnel in Boston.Episode Summary:In this fasc...2024-04-0258 minDesign Development73: Triple Your Company’s Value in 3-5 years with Ken SanginarioKen Sanginario is the founder of Corporate Value Metrics and the architect behind the Value Opportunity Profile and the Certified Value Growth Advisor program. With an extensive career spanning over four decades, Ken began as a CPA before transitioning into the corporate world as a controller and CFO. He has a profound background in turnaround management, business valuation, and M&A advisory. Ken's expertise lies in guiding companies through periods of distress, identifying business gaps, and creating value growth strategies that significantly enhance enterprise value.Episode Summary:In this captivating episode of "Design Development," host...2024-03-261h 01Design Development72: Driving Business Results through L&D with Building PPL Founder, Krysta Van RanstKrysta Van Ranst is the founder of Building PPL, an innovative company specializing in outsourced learning and development programs, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. With her early career beginning in event planning, Krysta quickly discovered her passion for learning and development during her tenure at Suffolk Construction. Her dedication to enhancing organizational cultures through learning opportunities has established her as a key figure in the field. Krysta’s work now involves aiding companies in obtaining training funds through grants, emphasizing the importance of investing in team competencies for corporate growth.2024-03-191h 02Design Development71: Northstar Project & Real Estate Services with President Kirstin BrownKirstin Brown is the principal and president of Northstar Project and Real Estate Services, a consultancy firm based in Greater Boston. With a tenure of over a decade at Northstar, Kirstin has been instrumental in steering the company's growth and solidifying its presence across various market sectors. She holds a degree in finance and a master's in real estate development. Prior to her current role, Kirstin gained valuable experience at Spaulding and Sly, specifically in land evaluation and development processes, notably in the Seaport district's fan pier project.Episode Summary:In this engaging...2024-03-1253 minDesign Development69: Haley & Aldrich with Lizetta Fennessy, General Manger of Eastern Business UnitLizetta Fennesey is the General Manager of the Eastern Business Unit for Haley and Aldrich, a national environmental and geotechnical firm known for its expertise and substantial footprint across the United States. Her tenure at Haley and Aldrich has seen her rise through the ranks, beginning as a geotechnical engineer, evolving through project management, and overseeing substantial growth within the company. Lizetta boasts a rich professional history that includes a stint in real estate development, providing her with a unique perspective on creating customer value. Her leadership has been instrumental in the firm's growth from around 400 employees to approaching...2024-02-2752 minDesign Development67: Gaston Electrical with Bill & Mike Weber : From $6M to $140M in RevenueBill Weber and Mike Weber are the dynamic brother duo who have propelled Gaston Electrical Services to notable success in the electrical construction industry. Joining their father's business in the early 2000s, they acquired the company a few years later and embarked on a transformative journey. Under their leadership, Gaston Electrical Services saw exponential growth, skyrocketing from $6 million to over $140 million in revenue by 2022. Their roles as CEO and President respectively were instrumental in the company's acquisition by the public company EMCOR , an accomplishment that speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence and the fostering...2024-02-1352 minDesign Development66: Building a Global Leader in Innovative Building Solutions with Rothoblaas USA CEO, Hannes BlaasHannes Blass is the CEO of Rothoblaas USA, a multifaceted company that provides a wide range of products for the construction industry, including fasteners and connectors, building envelope products, acoustics, safety equipment, and tools. Founded in the Alps of Italy in 1991, Rothoblaas has expanded to service over 100 countries with employees in about 70 of them. Hannes has been responsible for the company's tremendous growth in the US market since their first project in Montana in 2011. Under his leadership, the company maintains a forward-thinking approach and invests heavily in its people, contributing to its growth-oriented strategy.Episode Summary:2024-02-0646 minDesign Development65: Iconic Retail Anchored Mixed-Use Developments with Don Briggs, Hg80Don Briggs is a seasoned veteran in the real estate development industry, with a robust career spanning nearly three decades. He co-founded and serves as the managing partner at Hg 80. Previously, Don was the director of development for Federal Realty Investment Trust and played a pivotal role in creating iconic retail-anchored mixed-use developments, including Assembly Row in Greater Boston. An Army brat with roots in various parts of the United States, Don studied architecture, moved into construction, and ultimately found his passion in development. He's respected for his ability to engage with a broad spectrum of disciplines, from design...2024-01-3149 minDesign Development64: A 40-year-old startup: Amenta Emma Architects with Anthony AmentaAnthony Amenta is a Founding Member and Principal at Amenta Emma Architects, a full-service architecture firm headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut, with branch offices in New York and Boston. Approaching 40 years in business, Anthony has led his firm through a landscape of changes, ensuring growth and market resilience. Under his guidance, Amenta Emma has cultivated a reputation for creating inspiring spaces and building strong client relationships.Episode Summary:In this episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes sits down with Anthony Amenta, the seasoned architecture professional whose almost four decades in the business offer...2024-01-2353 minDesign Development59: Pegasystems VP of Real Estate & Facilities, Dan RyanDan Ryan is the VP of Real Estate and Facilities at Pegasystems, a leading enterprise software company. He has over 13 years of experience in the industry and has played a key role in the company's growth and development. Dan is known for his leadership style, which emphasizes transparency, accountability, and giving people opportunities to grow within the organization.Summary:In this conversation, Rens Hayes interviews Dan Ryan, the VP of Real Estate and Facilities at Pegasystems. They discuss the unique approach Pegasystems takes in the real estate industry, focusing on enterprise software and integrating...2023-12-2049 minDesign Development49: Part I: Business-like approach to investing with Steve Huntzinger, Dunham Lane Capital PartnersSteve Huntzinger is the co-founder and managing partner at Dunham Lane Capital Partners. He has a background in finance and has worked in fixed income sales and trading at Citigroup. Steve is known for his business-like approach to investing and his focus on long-term value.Summary:In the part I of this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Steve Huntzinger, co-founder of Dunham Lane Capital Partners. Steve shares his background in finance and his experience working on Wall Street. He discusses the importance of taking a business-like approach to investing and the...2023-10-1645 minDesign Development48: The Importance of Hands-on Experience and Can-do Attitude with Monte FrenchAbout The Guest(s):Monte French is the founder and principal of Monte French Design Studio, a Boston-based architecture firm specializing in multifamily residential, commercial, and retail projects. With a background in engineering, ironworking, and the Navy, Monte brings a unique perspective to his work and is known for his can-do attitude and commitment to client success.Summary:In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Monte French, founder and principal of Monte French Design Studio. Monte shares his journey from working as an ironworker and serving in...2023-10-1044 minDesign Development41: Crafting Partnerships and Design Excellence: Insights from Rob Elfer of Studio TroikaRob Elfer is a partner at Studio Troika, a design firm based in Boston. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Rob has worked on a wide range of projects, including stadiums, high-rises, and commercial buildings. He is known for his innovative design approach and his ability to bring together diverse teams to create unique and successful projects.Rens Hayes interviews Rob Elfer, partner at Studio Troika. They discuss the importance of design in the architecture industry and how Studio Troika focuses on design as a value component. They also talk about the different...2023-08-221h 02Design Development40: Owner’s Rep: Innovation in design + construction with Enzo Scalora, Scalora Consulting GroupEnzo Scalora is the founder and CEO of Scalora Consulting Group, an owner's project management firm that provides support and guidance to clients in various sectors. With over 26 years of experience in the industry, Enzo is known for his leadership awareness and expertise in organizational structure and balance.Enzo Scalora, founder and CEO of Scalora Consulting Group, joins the podcast to discuss the role of an owner's project manager and the importance of bringing them in early in the project. He emphasizes the need for transparency, collaboration, and alignment among the project team to minimize risks and...2023-08-1659 minDesign Development39: The Power of Lifelong Learning: Transforming Careers and Personal Growth with Rens HayesExpand your perspective and unlock new opportunities with a daily learning habit. Tune in to this episode to learn more about the impact of lifelong learning.The main speaker in this episode is not a guest but the host of the podcast, Design Development. He shares his personal experiences and insights on the topic of lifelong learning. Hey everyone, today we're going to delve into a topic that has had a profound impact on my life - lifelong learning. Learning is not just something we do in school or at work; it is a daily...2023-08-0912 minDesign Development38: Navigating the Development Industry: Trends and Projects with Rens Hayes of H + O Structural EngineeringThis week, we have an extraordinary crossover episode as Rens Hayes, the charismatic host of the immensely popular Design Development Podcast, makes a special appearance on the Empowered Returns Podcast hosted by Michael DiMella & P.T. Vineburgh.Rens Hayes is the founding partner of H&O Structural Engineering. With a background in structural steel fabrication, Rens brings a unique perspective to the field of engineering. He is passionate about building a strong brand and providing value to clients through a well-defined design process.Rens Hayes, founding partner of H&O Structural Engineering, shares his...2023-08-021h 02Design Development37: Streamlining Success in Real Estate and Construction: Jet.Build's Software Innovation and Data-Driven Project Management with Adam StarkAbout The Guest(s):Adam Stark is the co-founder of JetBuild, a construction management software that streamlines administrative tasks and improves collaboration among stakeholders in the real estate development industry. With a background in commercial real estate and a passion for wellness, Adam brings a unique perspective to the world of construction technology.Adam Stark, co-founder of JetBuild, shares his journey from military service to commercial real estate development and the inspiration behind creating a construction management software. JetBuild aims to solve the administrative and time-wasting tasks faced by developers and contractors, offering...2023-07-2548 minDesign Development36: Building a Successful Marketing and Business Development Team in Construction with Scott Bates, Erland ConstructionScott Bates is the Vice President of Strategy and Development at Erland Construction, a leading construction management firm based in Massachusetts. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Scott has played a key role in the growth and success of Erland Construction, overseeing marketing, business development, and strategy. He is also a principal owner of the company.Scott Bates, Vice President of Strategy and Development at Erland Construction, shares his insights on marketing, business development, and ownership transition in the construction industry. He discusses the unique challenges of differentiating in a mature and commoditized market, the...2023-07-181h 00Design Development35: Developing Denver’s Tallest Mass Timber Building with Andrew Katz, Katz DevelopmentAndrew Katz is a real estate developer and co-founder of Katz Development, a family-owned development company based in Denver, Colorado. With a background in retail brokerage, Andrew brings a unique perspective to the development process. He is known for his innovative approach to design and his focus on creating high-quality, sustainable buildings.Andrew Katz, co-founder of Katz Development, joins the podcast to discuss his journey in real estate development and the company's latest project, Denver's tallest mass timber building. Andrew shares his background in retail brokerage and how it helped him learn the city of Denver and...2023-07-1150 minDesign Development34: Insights on AEC Leadership and Growth Strategies with Peter Atherton, Founder + President of ActionsProvePeter Atherton, founder of ActionsProve, discusses the causes and solutions for burnout in the workforce. He emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and growth in the AEC industry and the need for owner-led organizations to create opportunities for their employees. Peter highlights the challenges of mergers and acquisitions and their impact on company culture. He also explores the shift from individual superheroes to high-performing teams as a solution to burnout. Peter concludes by sharing resources available through his website and offering advice for emerging leaders.Key Takeaways:Strategic planning is a process that requires...2023-07-0458 minDesign Development33: Big Company Capability, Small Company Feels with Matt Sluter, New England ConstructionMatt Sluter is the CEO of New England Construction, a general contractor based in Rhode Island. With 37 years of experience, Matt has been running the company for nine years and has grown it into a mid-sized business with 53 employees and over $70 million in revenue. In this interview, Matt shares his insights on organizational leadership, growing a family business, and his experience in the construction industry.Matt talks about his background and how he started selling in 2009 when there was nothing to sell. He shares how New England Construction has evolved from a design-build firm to a generalist...2023-06-2749 minDesign Development32: Strategic Growth, Marketing + Digital Strategies for AEC with Judy Sparks, SmartegiesJudy Sparks, CEO of Smartegies, a marketing company that helps Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) firms achieve scalability and growth, emphasizes the importance of understanding the highest-value customers and targets and how to bring value to them. She believes that having a different infrastructure for marketing and sales can allow companies to scale faster, and conferences and pounding the pavement are no longer as effective as most professions and targets are reachable via digital.Sparks is an expert in account-based marketing (ABM), which involves identifying high-value accounts and creating personalized campaigns that resonate with them. Marketing departments...2023-06-2054 minDesign Development31: The State of Real Estate Market & Successful Commercial Real Estate Investment Strategy with John Parsons, CEO of Parsons Commercial GroupParsons Commercial Group is a full-service commercial real estate firm founded by John Parsons in 1993. The company has grown over the years and now has 40 employees, 14 brokers, and a portfolio of over five and a half million square feet. Parsons believes in buying value-added properties that require work, rather than fully-baked deals, such as single-tenant properties with long-term leases. He sees risk in single-tenant deals, as the tenant may not renew the lease, leaving the owner with a property that requires significant investment to attract a new tenant. Parsons' reputation for closing deals and his strong tenant relationships have...2023-06-1352 minDesign Development30: An entrepreneurial Journey and Leadership Masterclass with Steve Kelly, Timberline ConstructionThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable...2023-06-071h 03Design Development29: Monograph- Solving Architecture & Engineering Service Industry's Time & Budget Tracking Flaws with Robert YeunThis week on the Design Development show, Rens Hayes sits down with Robert Yuen, the CEO and Co-founder of Monograph, for an exciting and insightful conversation. Join them as they delve into the world of digital product design and how Monograph is revolutionizing the architecture and engineering industry. Discover how Monograph's innovative platform helps teams create, collaborate, and manage digital product designs, making the process more efficient and streamlined. Robert shares his inspiration behind starting Monograph and how it aims to solve common issues faced by architectural and engineering firms. Tune in to learn more about the importance of...2023-05-3055 minDesign Development28: Where there's a will, there's a way with Joshua Brandt, Stack + CoPrepare to be captivated by the extraordinary story of Joshua Brandt, the mastermind behind the renowned architecture, construction, and real estate development firm, Stack + Co. In this riveting episode, Joshua unveils the secrets behind their incredible success and shares how a series of fortunate accidents led him to embark on a remarkable journey in the construction industry. From his humble beginnings as a civil engineering student at Brown University to becoming a founding partner of Stack + Co., Joshua's story is nothing short of awe-inspiring.Join us as Joshua reveals the unique approach of Stack + Co., operating as...2023-05-2350 minDesign Development27: Building a Culture of Energy and Motivation in Architecture: A Conversation with Kevin Deabler of RODE ArchitectsPrepare for an extraordinary episode of Design Development as Rens Hayes brings you an in-depth conversation with the renowned Kevin Deabler, Principal at RODE Architects. Get ready to be captivated by their engaging discussion that will not only educate but also inspire you to take your own architectural journey to new heights.To provide context, Rens prompts Kevin to delve into his remarkable background and shed light on the remarkable journey of RODE Architects. As a seasoned professional in the architecture industry, Kevin proudly unveils the vision and accomplishments of RODE Architects, a dynamic firm that designs...2023-05-1640 minDesign Development26: Transforming a 100-year-old architecture firm with William Mandara Jr., CEO of Mancini DuffyJoin Rens Hayes and William Mandara Jr., CEO of Mancini Duffy, for an exciting conversation about how they are shaking up the architecture industry on the Design development. Mancini Duffy is a full-service architectural firm that has been around for over 100 years, but William and his partners acquired it in 2017 and have been reinventing it ever since. With offices in New York City and New Jersey, they serve clients nationwide, offering expertise in everything from corporate interiors to multifamily residential development.In this episode, William shares his secrets for success, including the critical importance of expertise and e...2023-05-0945 minDesign Development25: Exposing the Risk in the Dirt with Stan Sadkowski, Principal at GeoEngineersStan leads GeoEngineers USA’s development work in the Boston market. It takes more than just technical experience to succeed in this fast-paced environment, it takes people skills. Stan takes pride in both. He specializes in geotechnical design and construction, especially shallow and deep foundations, but his greatest passion is for the people and relationships on which this business is built.Stan is an accomplished business leader with nearly two decades of experience in geotechnical and environmental engineering for urban and suburban development. Over the years, Stan has been the geotechnical engineer of record for some of th...2023-05-0245 minDesign Development24: Partnership, affordable housing and succession planning with Architect, Nancy Ludwig - President, ICON ArchitectureNancy Ludwig is an architect who has been working at ICON Architecture for 40 years, and has been president for the past 15. ICON is a woman-owned business located in downtown Boston, and they specialize in multi-family housing and municipal projects. Nancy was originally brought on to do architecture, and was involved in the New York Urban Cultural Parks Plan, as well as historic resource planning in Lowell. She was also part of a project in Portsmouth which involved building a hotel, condos, and retail spaces. Nancy has worked on a variety of projects over the years and has an extensive...2023-04-2654 minDesign Development23: Unlocking Business Growth Secrets: Boost Revenue, Profitability & Salable Value with Eric CrewsIn this episode of the Design Development podcast, host Rens Hayes interviews Eric Crews, Founder & CEO of Crews & co., who has built two businesses around painting and is now running his own business consulting firm. Eric shares his trade and service background, revealing how his family has been entrepreneurs for generations.The conversation revolves around the concept of entrepreneurship and running businesses, where Eric shares how he started his own student painting business while in college, which he eventually grew over many years and sold last year. He also talks about his partnership with Mark Moses to...2023-04-1857 minDesign Development22 : Institutional Investment Advisory and Raising Equity for Real Estate Development with Adam Dunn of BerkadiaIn this episode of the Design Development podcast, host Rens Hayes sits down with Adam Dunn, a managing director at Berkadia in their Boston office, to discuss the ins and outs of raising equity for real estate development projects. Adam Dunn, who has been in the investment sales business for the last 15 years, shares his personal story and explains the role of his team in helping developers identify great sites, go through the entitlement process, and get development plans approved.Adam Dunn also sheds light on the challenges of raising equity for pre-development costs and the fragmented...2023-04-1255 minDesign Development21 : The Developer's Architect:- The Journey of Dartagnan Brown, Founder and CEO of EMBARC, Through Collaboration, Friendship, and Global InfluencesIn this episode, we bring you an exciting conversation with Dartagnan Brown, the founder of a Boston-based architecture firm, to discuss the importance of collaboration and teamwork in business. Dartagnan shares about his background and how his upbringing and experiences have influenced his work as an architect. He also talks about the success of his company, EMBARC, and the importance of delivering value to clients. Host and Dartagnan also discuss the benefits of working together, the need for content marketing, and the impact of recycling clips to bring in new viewers. Tune in to learn more about the power...2023-04-0437 minDesign Development20: Sustainability And Environmental Resilience Leader Dena Prastos - Bridging Design And ConstructionIn this episode, we sit down with Dena Prestos, the brilliant architect and civil engineer who is leading the charge against sea-level rise and its devastating impact on our coasts. Dena shares her journey from the untouched wilderness of Alaska to the bustling New York Harbor, where she is working tirelessly to adapt our infrastructure to the changing natural environment. With sophisticated monitoring tools and a deep understanding of resilient construction, Dena is shaping the future of waterfront infrastructure and protecting our most valuable real estate. Don't miss this riveting conversation on climate adaptation and the urgent need for...2023-03-2845 minDesign Development19: Business Valuation, Mergers, Acquisitions and Succession Planning with PSMJ President Greg HartIn this episode, we welcome Greg Hart, the President of PSMJ Resources, a company that offers a wide range of services to the architecture and engineering industries. From educational services and events to consulting and mergers and acquisitions, PSMJ has become a well-known name in the business world.Greg discusses the importance of paying bills upfront in the architecture and engineering industry and how accounts receivables can affect cash flow. He gives valuable tips on how to speed up the payment process and why it's crucial for a firm's sustainability.But that's not all! The...2023-03-2259 min
Modern Craftsman#253 - Rens Hayes of H+O Structural EngineeringOur Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend The Episode: Rens Hayes, co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering, joins Nick and Tyler this week to talk business and changing the industry that you are in for the better. As a strong communicator and leader, Ren’s shares how he empowers his team, and his clients, by keeping them informed and educated in their business decisions. Don’t miss this episode focused on achieving professional and personal goals! The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Guest: Rens H...2023-03-202h 04Design Development18: Revolutionizing Modular Construction: A Discussion With Roger Krulak Of FullStack ModularWith over 25 years in the construction industry, Roger has extensive experience on both the construction and development sides of the real estate business. Prior to starting FC Modular within Forest City Ratner Companies, Roger spent 12 years at Forest City Ratner Companies as SVP of Mixed Use and Residential Development, entitling and planning over 1,000 residential apartment units integrated into many of FCRC’s Retail projects.In 2008 Roger spearheaded the first R&D project for Modular Construction which lead to The Creation of FC Modular and subsequently the creation of a factory and business to build the tallest volumetric modular bu...2023-03-1542 minDesign Development17: Transforming the fractured preconstruction environment with Steve Dell’Orto, Founder + CEO, ConCntric Steve Dell’Orto is the founder and CEO of ConCntric, a preconstruction platform that is transforming the fractured preconstruction environment by unifying data, people and processes. ConCntric acts as a single source of truth for all preconstruction stakeholders by providing a dynamic view of the project that ensures a certainty of outcome. As a 26-year construction industry veteran who has lived and breathed the world of delivering preconstruction projects, Steve is uniquely positioned to bring digital transformation to the industry. Steve is the former Executive Officer of one of the largest privately-owned, domestic general contractors in the U.S. wit...2023-03-0852 minDesign Development16: 5 Companies; $100M+ assets in 5 years with Peter W. Bartash of Port One CompaniesIn this week's episode of our podcast, Rens sits down with Peter Bartash, the founder of Port One Companies, a dynamic multidisciplinary firm. Peter shares how he discovered his passion for problem-solving through his background in architecture and how it has helped him in his current role. Rens and Peter discuss how taking on big challenges can lead to greater opportunities and the importance of being adaptable in a constantly evolving industry.Peter's expertise in the architecture industry is impressive, especially given the challenging times he faced when he graduated in 2008. He recognized a gap in the...2023-02-2837 minDesign Development15: Jim Grossman's RISE in construction and developmentIn this podcast episode, the host sits down with Jim Grossman, one of the founders of RISE Construction + Development, a full-service construction management and development firm focusing on the middle market in Boston, Massachusetts. Jim shares his journey into the construction industry, growing up in a Boston Housing Authority development, and how he started through a program that recruited low-income workers. He worked his way up through the ranks to become the National COO of Suffolk Construction, one of the largest construction companies in the country. Jim shares his unique perspective on the industry, given his experience s...2023-02-2152 minDesign Development14: Organizational Leadership and Building Envelopes with John WheatonIn this episode, we sit down with John Wheaton, a successful entrepreneur and, podcaster, and author, to explore his insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a solid company culture. John shares his perspectives on what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur and provides practical advice for creating a positive work environment and mentoring other business leaders. He also offers strategies for overcoming common challenges entrepreneurs face, such as burnout and self-doubt. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an experienced business leader, John's insights are sure to inspire and inform. He shared his perspective on what it t...2023-02-1545 minDesign Development13: Building a Greener Future! High-Performance buildings and Net-Zero Commitment with Patrick HaydonIn this electrifying episode of the podcast, the host welcomes Patrick Haydon, the founder, and owner of Haycon, a premier construction and design/build firm based in Boston. With a passion for sustainable building techniques and a wealth of knowledge about the industry, Patrick is sure to provide listeners with an insightful and engaging discussion about his background and career.The conversation starts with Patrick discussing his upbringing in the construction world and how it led him to pursue a career in architecture. He explains how his experience as an architect, builder, and developer has helped him...2023-02-0731 minDesign Development12: This isn't 2008! Market Predictions with Ricky BeliveauRicky Beliveau is a highly successful entrepreneur and real estate expert based in Massachusetts. He is the owner of several real estate businesses and has made a name for himself in the industry with his innovative ideas and passion for building real estate assets.Ricky is the founder of Volnay Capital, a venture capitalist company that invests in rental properties and condo projects with a focus on small-scale development. This company is a result of his education in finance and his interest in investing in the real estate market. He believes that small-scale development is the future...2023-01-3152 minDesign Development11: Professional development systems to sustain growth - Anthony Fasano, Engineering Management InstituteAnthony Fasano is the founder of the Engineering Management Institute. Like many engineers, he aimed to become a high-level executive in my engineering organization. When observing the leaders in my company, it is evident that they possessed skills in addition to their technical skills, namely excellent people management or ‘soft’ skills. So, he set out to develop my ‘soft skills,’ a move that not only rapidly advanced my career, but led to me becoming an internal coach and trainer for my company, and ultimately inspired me to leave my engineering career behind to spend more time helping engineers become more effec...2023-01-2547 minDesign Development10: Boston Real Estate's Superconnector - Marc SavatskyMarc Savatsky is a Boston-based developer, broker and licensed contractor Marc Savatsky knows real estate. Marc specializes in identifying and assessing development sites, financial modeling, zoning analysis, project permitting plus construction cost estimating and project management. He has a BS in construction management from Purdue University and is currently completing coursework in Boston University’s Real Estate Finance Program. Marc co-hosts a popular podcast called “The Real Estate Addicts”, a passion project which helps to educate others in the field of real estate development and has over 200,000 listens.Marc lives in Boston and stays closely connected with the co...2023-01-1830 minDesign Development09: Making Affordable Housing Pencil out- Benjie MollBenji Moll is the CEO and founder of Arts Urban. They've entered Boston real estate and carved out their unique market corner. The episode highlights creative capital stacks and debt financing and the relationships it takes to really find a way to create affordable housing, help people, and invest in long-term real estate assets.Benjie founded Arx Urban in 2014 and is responsible for the c, including all acquisitions, capital markets, and investor relations activity. He previously served as Vice President of Investments at Atlas Real Estate Partners and was an Associate at JP Morgan Global Real Assets...2023-01-1043 minDesign Development08: Tall Mass Timber with WoodWorks’ in-house expert - Ricky McLainIn today's episode, we will be discussing mass timber and introducing our guest, Ricky McClain, an expert in the field from WoodWorks. We will also explore the most suitable applications for mass timber and learn more about Ricky's background.Ricky is WoodWorks’ in-house expert on tall mass timber buildings, providing analysis and guidance on architectural, fire and life safety, and structural design topics. He supports the AEC community both directly and collaboratively with WoodWorks Regional Directors and guides the development of education and resources related to tall mass timber buildings in the U.S. Prior to this em...2023-01-0452 minDesign Development07: Why is Marketing an Investment?- Lisa NickersonLisa Nickerson is the CEO & Founder of Nickerson, an international, award-winning, full-service branding, marketing, PR, and communications agency with offices in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Lisa also serves as the CMO and CRO of Infinityy, an online platform transforming real estate decision-making into a collaborative online experience.Lisa was recognized as a 2022 GlobeSt Real Estate Forum Woman of Influence in the Marketing/Communications Professional category, an honor given to the most influential women in real estate marketing. Additionally, Lisa was recognized by Bisnow in 2018 as a “Boston Power Woman” and was also awarded the 2016 PRIS...2022-12-2850 minDesign Development06: Sheds to $10M Custom Homes- The story of NS Builders and beyond -Nick SchifferOur guest today is Nick Schiffer, the owner and founder of NS Builders. Nick is a seasoned construction professional with over a decade of experience in the industry. He has a passion for creating high-quality, functional spaces for his clients, and takes great pride in his work. In addition to running NS Builders, Nick is also an active member of his community, volunteering his time and resources to various charitable causes. We're excited to have him on the show today to talk about all things construction and get his insights on the industry. So let's give a warm welcome...2022-12-211h 07Design Development05: Organizational best practices from $5.5B design-build GC (ARCO) - George GreenExpanding ARCO National New England from two employees in 2018 to 22 in 2022 while growing the business from $10 million in revenue to $300 million in revenue – and having a ton of fun while doing it.George Green wanted to be an engineer from a young age, and I grew up around heavy equipment since my dad managed a gas company’s equipment fleet, so working for a design-build construction firm was the perfect fit.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest epis...2022-12-1348 minDesign Development04: Inc. 500/5000 Serial AEC Entrepreneur - Mark ZweigMark Zweig is a decorated entrepreneur. He founded the Zweig Group, a three-time Inc. 500/5000 fastest-growing company. Throughout his career at Zweig Group, Mark has worked with several thousand CEOs and managers of AEC firms throughout the US as well as foreign countries and helped them with every problem from strategic planning, to ownership and leadership transition, to mergers and acquisitions, marketing, and more. He has written several thousand articles and authored several books, with a new book coming out shortly entitled.Check out his book "Confessions of an Entrepreneur." He still writes his weekly editorial for The...2022-12-061h 02Design Development03: Nordic Structures:- Mass Timber Trailblazers - Jean-Marc DuboisMass timber is the hottest topic in design and development today. Who better than Jean-Marc Dubois from Nordic Structures to bring that conversation straight to you! He's a passionate leader. He knows everything there is to know about mass timber. He's a great connector of people. Nordic structures is one major supplier of mass timber. You're going to learn about sustainable forest harvesting in the mass timber supply chain and the importance of bringing in someone like Nordic structures as a mass timber partner at the conception of development. This episode will get you to...2022-11-2858 minDesign Development02: Traditional Brokerage to fully integrated Real Estate firm- Mike DiMellaMichael DiMella is a partner at Charles Gate Realty Group. Mike's Story is so incredible. He was an entrepreneur from day one, practically straight out of college. He and his partner, Vineberg, went right to work for themselves at a real estate brokerage firm. They learned many lessons from the 2008 recession. They realized the risk in that business, which helped them build an INC 5000 fastest-growing company today. They're an integrated real estate firm. You'll learn a lot more about leadership, growing a company partnership, and the importance of marketing in multifamily lease-ups.Welcome to the...2022-11-2858 minDesign Development01: Single Family to $300M CRE Development - Michael ProcopioMichael Procopio, the outspoken CEO of The Procopio Company, is a family-led business they launched in 1950. That means they've been around for over 70 years. They're into construction and real estate development. Mike and his brothers, Greg and Mark, took over the business in 2016, and they grew it from simple single-family developments to over $300 million in multifamily development in 2022. Mike is really tuned in to critical leadership and business practices. He's an avid learner lifelong learner. You're going to learn more about business transition, ownership, transition, family-led businesses, real estate development, construction, and everything in between. I hope you enjoy...2022-11-281h 03
Architecture & Engineering Business StrategiesH+O Structural Engineering: How to Run an Operationally Efficient Organization (w/ Rens Hayes)Architecture and engineering are careers that offer a lot of autonomy and entrepreneurial spirit. But these industries also breed chaotic organizations and burnout. Rens Hayes, founder of H+O Structural Engineering, has set out to do things differently. He shared with us how he’s built a people-first business that’s all about value-driven growth.Interview TakeawaysHelp good people find youDefine your mission, vision, and valuesFight back against burnout cultureUse your core values to create resultsIntegrate your values into every decision and messageAttract the right people by sharing your storyCreate a triangle-shaped framework for successIncentivize grea...2021-07-0754 min
Mass Timber Construction PodcastMass Timber Construction Podcast - Special Guest Episode with Rens Hayes H + O Structural EngineeringIs it possible to transition from traditional forms of construction to mass timber? In this episode with Rens Hayes from H + O Structural Engineering we found out how its done. Rens talks about his amazing project in downtown Boston. With a consortium behind the project consisting of Haycon, Monte French Design Studio, and Nordic Structures it was always going to be a success. A few key details:- Glulam beams and columns support 5ply CLT panels- 7 stories under 70 ft with 8'-8" ceilings.- Double-beam design permits allows columns to be pulled in from th...2021-01-2633 min