124: Ed Hodges, CEO & Principal, DiMella Shaffer

Ed Hodges is the Principal and CEO of DiMella Shaffer, a leading architecture firm. With over 30 years of experience in the architectural sector, Ed has a rich history of guiding projects through various sectors such as senior housing, higher education, science and tech, and residential, making them a diverse practice group. His expertise extends beyond architecture into financial literacy and business management, establishing him as an insightful leader with a focus on cultivating strong relationships and a robust company culture.

Ed discusses his rich journey offering personal anecdotes and valuable insights on a career spanning over three decades. Throughout the discussion, Ed shares actionable strategies for personal and professional growth, including the importance of financial literacy, the concept of the 'Art of Balance' in architecture, and transitioning leadership roles within an evolving firm. He highlights how maintaining diversified market sectors can safeguard a company against economic fluctuations. 

Key Takeaways:

• Financial Literacy Matters: Understanding investments and the principles of financial growth are essential skills for professional success and long-term security.
• Art of Balance in Architecture: Great design stems from understanding and balancing client needs, design aesthetics, and practical constraints.
• Transitioning to Leadership: Moving from a project-focused role to a leadership role requires stepping back and letting team strengths shine while focusing on high-level strategy.
• Cultural and Market Diversification: Building a company resilient to economic changes through market diversification can ensure continuous growth and stability.
• Personal Life Lessons in Management: Management principles can be deeply enriched by personal life experiences, such as parenting a special needs child, which teaches patience, the value of small wins, and focusing on strengths.

Notable Quotes:

• "The biggest risk you have is not having enough money to retire, not the particular few years in the market."
• "Projects are a bit like children... you don't want to choose your favorite, but the journey of growing this firm has itself been a big project for me."
• "Changing work is easier than changing the culture."
• "If you talk to them, you will find you have a lot more time... This changed my life."
• "There has to be this sort of humbleness... if you keep yourself at the center of it for too long, your other people don't get recognized for doing the work."

Resources:

• DiMella Shaffer Website: dimellashaffer.com
• Book: "Tools of Titans" by Tim Ferriss
• Tim Ferriss Podcast and TED

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