
Business of Architecture Podcast
Discover strategies, tips and secrets for running a fun, flexible and profitable architecture practice. The focus here is simple: discussion of ways for architects to create a dream architecture practice: design what you want, when you want, and get paid well for it.
Latest episodes

Nov 20, 2023 • 1h 7min
492: The Secret Handbook to Winning & Closing Projects with Jeff Frame of Frame Architecture
In the fiercely competitive arena of architecture, professionals frequently wrestle with the dual challenge of not merely securing projects but bringing them to fruition. This endeavor can be as intricate as the blueprints they create. The battle to differentiate oneself in a saturated marketplace consistently compels architects to seek out inventive strategies that will guarantee both their endurance and prosperity in the field. In this latest episode, Rion Willard invites you to delve into the transformative journey of Jeff Frame, an architect whose unorthodox strategies have reshaped the way architectural projects are secured. Jeff weaves a compelling tale of integrating philanthropy with strategic networking, revealing how combining professional acumen with a passion for the community can catalyze both business growth and societal impact. His narrative is a veritable masterclass in how to navigate the intricate dance of high-stakes business with finesse and a commitment to social good. This episode is a call to the curious and a promise of insights equipped to empower you to carve a niche through the power of giving and building sincere relationships. Explore Jeff's ingenious tactic that transforms community events into veritable opportunity hubs. Learn the 'unspoken dialogue' technique that could revolutionize your networking approach. Uncover a counterintuitive strategy that might just alter your perspective on marketing investment. Discover the one traditional tool Jeff champions for cultivating genuine connections, often overlooked yet exceedingly effective. ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/ltfD8W1xeoA4k6KjPAg-7IdMPK0?utm_source=copy_url ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/ ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call ► Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture ******* For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enoch.sears/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz ******* Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com Download the FREE Architecture Firm Marketing Process Flowchart video here: http://freearchitectgift.com Carpe Diem!

Nov 13, 2023 • 41min
491: The Free Architect's Journey with Enoch Sears and Rion Willard
Architects struggle in a competitive market due to outdated mindsets. Enoch and Rion discuss 'Rainmaking' for architects and emphasize controllable factors. They differentiate 'chicken marketing' from 'bold marketing' and highlight the importance of proactive marketing and specific skill sets in architecture.

Nov 6, 2023 • 51min
490: The Cost of Isolation: Architect Networking Reimagined with Enoch Sears & Rion Willard
Enoch Sears and Rion Willard discuss the cost of isolation in architecture, emphasizing the importance of networking and relationship building in maintaining financial stability and attracting ideal projects. They explore the impacts of isolation on architects' well-being, project opportunities, and business growth. The podcast also covers topics such as organizing events, enrollment conversations, resourcefulness in business, improving architectural practice through bold networking strategies, and the role of networking and rainmakers in architectural practices.

4 snips
Oct 30, 2023 • 54min
489: Architectural Permitting Pitfalls: From Red Tape to Red Carpet with Joe Russo
Joe Russo discusses challenges architects face when dealing with building departments and shares strategies for navigating architectural permitting pitfalls. Topics include post-COVID hurdles, turning 'no' into opportunities, underselling architects, the 'we approach' for difficult conversations, and the importance of strategic communication. The podcast also explores navigating building codes, horror stories of architectural permitting, a framework for conversations, training guides, and advocating for fair fees.

Oct 23, 2023 • 56min
488: How Negotiation Skills Doubled Our Revenue with Arlene Edjourian and Katie Flores of AMK Studio
Today, I have the pleasure of engaging in a conversation with Arlene Edjourian and Katie Flores from AMK Studio. Arlene Edjourian is an exceptional architect with 23 years of experience and a multitude of prestigious accolades to her name. A graduate of the USC School of Architecture, Arlene stands as a founding partner and architect within the renowned firm, AMK Studio, and GMD Design Group of CA. Her expertise spans both Custom and Production facets of residential architecture, in addition to Commercial/Hospitality and Community design. Arlene imbues each project with authenticity and a meticulous balance between client expectations and the realm of creative possibilities. Situated in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas of Southern California, Arlene is a registered architect across multiple states, including California, Arizona, Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey. Katie Flores, the co-founder of AMK Studio, also holds a partnership role with GMD Design Group and ADU Diggs, having over two decades of experience within the construction industry. She derives immense satisfaction from actively participating in the entire design process, shaping vibrant and habitable residential and mixed-use environments. Her involvement commences with conceptualization, extends through community planning and pre-design phases, and culminates in the design and construction stages. Katie holds extensive expertise spanning all aspects of design and construction, encompassing master planning, the formulation of design guidelines, construction documentation, and field coordination. Her core specialization revolves around the design and construction of single-family residential properties. In her leisure hours, Katie dedicates herself to community service, actively contributing to her church, Holy Faith Fellowship in Compton, CA, and volunteering as a Co-Leader of her daughter's Girl Scout Troop. Today we will be discussing the seven keys to doubling their revenue: ‘Everything can be negotiated’ Powerful role division Subscription invoicing Financial optics More revenue = high caliber service Leveraging outsourced expertise 2 calls a day! To learn more about Arlene & Katie visit their: Website: https://www.amkstudio.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amkarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareamkstudio/ ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/Zhy-cc5nA3mZWggPrZb3I4Mw4N4?utm_source=copy_url ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/ ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call ► Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture ******* For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enoch.sears/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz ******* Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com Download the FREE Architecture Firm Marketing Process Flowchart video here: http://freearchitectgift.com Come to my next live, in-person event: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/live Carpe Diem!

Oct 16, 2023 • 1h 27min
487: Recession Strategies for Architects with Enoch Sears & Rion Willard
Architectural principals Enoch Sears and Rion Willard discuss recession strategies for small firm owners in this podcast. They cover topics such as challenges faced by small architecture firms, importance of frank conversations about financial strength, navigating uncertainty in the architecture industry, exploring opportunities and strategies during a recession, and strategies for architects to cope with a recession. They provide insights on building networks, managing finances, negotiating with employees, and maintaining crucial expenses.

Oct 9, 2023 • 51min
486: Architect Developer with Victor Caban-Diaz of Building Ingenuity
Discover how architect Victor Caban-Diaz developed his first duplex project in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I originally interviewed Victor on the podcast back in May of 2016 (episode number 157). At that time, his dream of developing a multi-family project was just a dream. Fast forward seven years, and he has just finished the 3,400 sf duplex in the South River Middle neighborhood of Ft. Lauderdale. In this episode, you'll discover the lessons Caban-Diaz learned while developing this project, including how increases in building products almost crushed the project. To learn more about Victor, visit his: Website: https://www.buildingenuity.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildingenuity/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/buildingingenuity/ ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/ACiOmxLsJpWhvj-XYTFhRTYvRJg?utm_source=copy_url ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/ ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call ► Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture ******* For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enoch.sears/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz ******* Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com Download the FREE Architecture Firm Marketing Process Flowchart video here: http://freearchitectgift.com Come to my next live, in-person event: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/live Carpe Diem!

Oct 2, 2023 • 42min
485 Architects Unveiled: Deciphering Firm Performance with Enoch Sears & Rion Willard
Architectural practice benchmarking experts Enoch Sears and Rion Willard discuss the '200 Club' and the importance of business principles in architecture. They explore challenges faced by small firm owners, the lack of comparators for high performance, and the benefits of achieving success in architecture. The podcast also delves into the concept of the '200 Club' performance ratio and emphasizes the need for industry-wide improvements.

6 snips
Sep 25, 2023 • 58min
484: Lies of Architecture with Rion Willard and Enoch Sears
Architectural firm owners Rion Willard and Enoch Sears discuss the challenges of running an architectural practice, including overwhelm, fee competition, and hiring difficulties. They explore the detrimental effects of 'lies' in architecture, such as team discomfort and hindered goal achievement. The speakers highlight the negative consequences of low fees on practice owners' health, creativity, work quality, staff retention, and ability to make change. They challenge the notion that caring about money contradicts having high aspirations in the profession. Additionally, they stress the importance of recognizing the value of money, engaging in marketing, and managing finances in architecture.

Sep 18, 2023 • 42min
483: Is An Architecture Industry Collapse Inevitable? with Enoch Sears and Rion Willard
"Is An Architecture Industry Collapse Inevitable?" is a podcast featuring Enoch Sears and Rion Willard. They discuss the rise and decline of empires, drawing parallels to the architectural industry. The impact of economic shifts, the role of debt, and the importance of economic empowerment and innovation in architecture are explored. Proactivity in the industry, including negotiating contracts and self-development projects, is also highlighted.