Business of Architecture Podcast

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework   In this bold episode of Business of Architecture, host Enoch Sears sits down with serial entrepreneur and black belt Adam Marburger. From hitting personal rock bottom to building six companies, Adam shares raw lessons that will challenge how you think about growth, pain, and leadership. His story starts with heartbreak—and leads to unexpected clarity. What follows is a grounded conversation about building real wealth, emotional freedom, and business systems that actually work. Adam doesn’t sugarcoat the journey. He reveals the mindset shifts that helped him turn chaos into clarity—and what most architects get totally wrong about delegation and control.   The brutal 2-word phrase that changed everything—and why you need to say it to yourself Why your “dream team” might be the biggest thing holding you back The hidden mistake most firm owners make when trying to scale (and what to do instead)   To learn more about Adam, visit his website: https://www.adammarburger.com/

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework Frank and Megan Lin didn’t set out to build a high-profit, award-winning firm. For years, they worked late, chased too many projects, and tried to out-hustle their burnout. Then something happened that changed the entire direction of their practice—and their lives. In this episode, they share what it really took to stop grinding and start growing. You’ll hear how they created freedom without sacrificing design, and how they reconnected with their deeper purpose through the business itself. If you’ve ever wondered whether building a thriving firm means giving up your life, this episode is for you. Here’s a taste of what you’ll discover: The hiring ritual that saved their culture—and helped eliminate expensive missteps The one mindset shift that turned a draining practice into a design-led enterprise Why most architects stay broke (and the invisible belief keeping them stuck) This is one of the most honest, inspiring conversations we’ve had. Don’t miss it. To learn more about Frank & Megan, visit their website: https://www.coxiststudio.com/

Robert Yuen, CEO and co-founder of Monograph, shares insights on enhancing architectural firm profitability through innovative technologies. He discusses the critical impact of automated billing methods like upfront billing, which can boost cash flow predictability. The conversation highlights how AI is reshaping firms by reducing manual tasks and optimizing operations. Yuen also reveals how certain strategies can help firms break free from survival mode, emphasizing the significance of adapting to new tools to enhance overall efficiency and financial health.

Mike Linn, a licensed CPA with over two decades of experience, discusses how architects can reclaim their financial health and confidence. He identifies hidden profit leaks affecting many firms and shares strategies for effective time tracking and hiring, even during tight cash flow. Linn emphasizes treating projects as mini businesses and offers insights on managing invoicing chaos. He also highlights how innovations like AI can streamline financial processes, empowering architects to focus on creativity while maintaining strong business practices.

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework Running a successful architecture firm for decades is no small feat—especially when it spans three generations. In this heartwarming and high-energy episode, Scott Spector of Spectorgroup shares the story of how his father built a practice that shaped the skyline of Long Island—and how Scott expanded its reach into Manhattan and beyond. The conversation dives into culture, legacy, and what it really takes to build a firm that thrives across time. From stories of “visiting dad’s dirt” to lessons learned in lacrosse and leadership, Scott reveals the hidden ingredients that fuel sustainable growth. You’ll hear how he hires with intention, energizes his teams, and strikes the elusive balance between creativity and accountability. It’s a masterclass in positive leadership—with just enough grit. The unusual team system that unlocked surprising productivity How to grow a firm without killing your creativity—or your culture Why this firm says "no" to cookie-cutter hires—and how it pays off To learn more about Scott, visit his website: https://www.spectorgroup.com/

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework Most architecture firm owners don’t realize how much money they’re leaving on the table. In this episode, financial experts Tal and Rachel Richards, CPA, reveal some of the most common — and costly — mistakes architects make when it comes to taxes. They also offer powerful insights on how to build long-term wealth with the income you’re already earning. Whether you’re just starting out or have a small team, this conversation will change how you think about profit, planning, and even partnerships. Enoch guides the discussion toward real-world scenarios so you can apply these lessons today. But be warned — what you don’t know might already be hurting you. In this episode, you’ll discover: A legal setup most architects choose — and why it could quietly wreck your margins The surprising place many firm owners hide thousands (without knowing it) How smart architects turn business income into tax-free personal wealth Tune in — your future self will thank you. To learn more about Tal & Rachel, visit their website: https://www.joingelt.com/

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework In this episode of Business of Architecture, we dive into a sharp, honest conversation with Elias Christeas, founder of Lighthouse Digital Marketing, about what really works—and what doesn’t—when architects try to grow their firms online. From digital visibility to long-term reputation, Elias pulls back the curtain on common traps and powerful strategies architects often overlook. Whether you're fighting to stand out in a crowded market or dreaming of building a lasting legacy, this episode offers an eye-opening perspective. Elias shares stories from the field, busts a few myths, and reveals how to pivot marketing tactics to match your goals—and your personality. Don’t be surprised if you start rethinking your entire website before the show ends. The surprising website mistake that’s costing you leads, without you realizing it. Why most SEO strategies fail before they even begin. What elite firms do after they stop chasing clients. To learn more about Elias, visit his website: https://lighthouse-digitalmarketing.com/

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework What really happens when it’s time to step back from your architecture firm? In this eye-opening episode, Enoch Sears and Ryan break down the hidden traps and quiet wins that make or break firm transitions. If you think a buyout or equity plan is all it takes, think again. This isn’t just about handing over the reins—it’s about what really drives a thriving business when you're no longer in the driver's seat. You'll hear behind-the-scenes stories of success, failure, and everything in between. Some will hit a little too close to home. Whether you're five years in or ready to exit, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, trust, and legacy. The silent killer inside most transition plans (and how to see it coming) Why your identity might be the biggest threat to your firm’s future The one overlooked factor that separates firm freedom from firm failure

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework What does it take to lead one of the oldest architecture firms in America—and keep it thriving? In this episode, Troy Thompson and Roxanne Malek pull back the curtain on how legacy, leadership, and long-term thinking come together inside SmithGroup. But don’t expect the usual corporate jargon—this is a rare look into the mindset behind real, lasting success. From navigating ambiguity to balancing profit and purpose, they share lessons learned from decades of growth. You’ll hear how they make bold decisions without losing their soul—or their sanity. And why true leadership in architecture today means designing much more than buildings. Listen now to discover: The one trait no architecture school teaches—but every top leader needs Why "more money" isn’t the real goal (and what actually is) How to scale a firm without becoming a soulless machine This episode will challenge how you see success—and how you lead. To learn more about Roxanne & Troy, visit their: Website: www.smithgroup.com  

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework What if the secret to running a thriving architecture firm wasn’t doing more, but actually doing less? In this episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard share a surprising insight from the East that changed how they think about leadership, creativity, and business growth. Rion’s recent travels sparked a deep realization that may flip your idea of “productivity” on its head. You’ll hear stories, metaphors, and one simple daily ritual that reveals a new way to think about time, decision-making, and the path to long-term success. Whether you're burned out, overwhelmed, or just looking for a fresh perspective, this conversation delivers. Listen now to discover: A strange habit from overseas that can shift your mindset in minutes Why you might be making your biggest decisions at the worst possible moment A forgotten rule for success used by top creators, leaders, and yes…even monks