

TRXL
Evan Troxel
Join architect Evan Troxel as he explores important topics surrounding the co-evolution of technology and architecture. Guests from the architectural community and beyond join in long-form conversations about the influence digital transformation is having on the profession with long digressions on leadership, change management, knowledge transfer, where all this may lead to in the future of the building industry, and more.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 8, 2025 • 1h 17min
195: ‘The Freedom to Break the Rules’, with Jesper Wallgren
Jesper Wallgren joins the podcast to talk about his journey from running a design studio in Sweden to building a focused software platform for multifamily residential planning called Finch. We explore the lessons learned from trying to do too much, the power of narrowing scope, how Finch integrates with tools like Rhino and Revit, and why letting architects break the rules is a feature—not a bug.To learn more about Jesper Wallgren, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/195To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.co_____Episode Sponsors:AVAILAVAIL's content management system (CMS) simplifies access to your firm's content in one easy-to-use platform. Search and access files from anywhere, create standards-compliant models, streamline documentation, and onboard new hires faster. Try AVAIL for free and request a demo at https://getavail.comConfluence Events & PodcastJoin AEC industry technology leaders at Confluence, a series of in-person events and a podcast fostering conversations between firms and tech companies to support innovation. Learn more, explore upcoming events, and listen to podcast episodes at https://confluence.getavail.comTRXL Leadership EdgeTRXL's AEC Leadership Edge newsletter delivers insights on architectural practice and technology for busy professionals. Each edition features analysis of podcast conversations, key takeaways for AEC leaders, and concise episode summaries.Ready to gain your leadership edge? Join TRXL+ today and never miss an insight that could transform your practice.-----Sign up to become a TRXL member.Free members get email notifications when new episodes are released and when new posts are published on TRXL.coPaid supporters of TRXL+ get ad-free podcast episodes, full show notes, and exclusive Leadership Edge email newsletters from TRXLProvide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback

10 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 23min
194: ‘CEO as Knowledge Architect’, with Ellen Bensky and Christopher Parsons
Ellen Bensky and Christopher Parsons join the podcast to talk about how Turner Fleischer built a digital twin of their practice. We get into what it means to intentionally work on the firm—not just in it—and how Turner Fleischer has operationalized innovation inside a service-based business. Ellen shares how the firm protects time for internal research, why curiosity and empowerment are foundational to lasting change, and how knowledge management evolved into a strategic priority as the firm scaled from 60 to 250 people. We dive into the tools, teams, and processes behind their KM system, how learning and teaching became part of the firm’s DNA, and how AI is being used not to replace people but to simplify and amplify expert knowledge. Along the way, we unpack some of their most creative internal programs and reflect on the powerful role knowledge management plays not just inside the firm, but across the entire AEC community.To learn more about Ellen Bensky and Christopher Parsons, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/194To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.co_____Episode Sponsor:Knowledge ArchitectureKnowledge Architecture builds knowledge management software for AEC firms. Our flagship software product is Synthesis, the leading Intranet + AI Search solution for AEC firms. Synthesis integrates with common industry software like Deltek, Unanet, Newforma, and OpenAsset. Founded in 2009, Knowledge Architecture is privately-held, employee-owned, and passionate about co-creating and sharing best practices to advance the state of knowledge management in the AEC industry. Learn more at https://www.knowledge-architecture.com/.-----Sign up to become a TRXL member.Free members get email notifications when new episodes are released and when new posts are published on TRXL.coPaid supporters of TRXL+ get ad-free podcast episodes, full show notes, and exclusive Leadership Edge email newsletters from TRXLProvide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback

Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 29min
193: ‘Making Ideas Impactful’, with Darren Brooker
Darren Brooker joins the podcast to talk about how storytelling and visual communication, when used together, can transform the way ideas are received and acted upon. We discuss how architectural concepts are often misunderstood not because they’re bad ideas, but because they’re not communicated in a way that sticks. Darren explains why the key to influence lies in empathy, emotional engagement, and a deep understanding of how humans process information. Whether it’s helping decision-makers “see” the future, winning buy-in for a concept, or navigating the messy early stages of design, he shares lessons drawn from architecture, advertising, Pixar, and more.To learn more about Darren Brooker, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/193To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.co-----Episode Sponsors:AVAILAVAIL's content management system (CMS) simplifies access to your firm's content in one easy-to-use platform. Search and access files from anywhere, create standards-compliant models, streamline documentation, and onboard new hires faster. Try AVAIL for free and request a demo at https://getavail.comConfluence Events & PodcastJoin AEC industry technology leaders at Confluence, a series of in-person events and a podcast fostering conversations between firms and tech companies to support innovation. Learn more, explore upcoming events, and listen to podcast episodes at https://confluence.getavail.comTRXL+ MembershipThis episode of TRXL is brought to you by TRXL+ members! Join our community of supporters to get exclusive benefits like ad-free episodes and our AEC Leadership Edge newsletter. Your support keeps these valuable conversations going. Click here to learn more and become a member today.-----Sign up to become a TRXL member.Free members get email notifications when new episodes are released and when new posts are published on TRXL.coPaid supporters of TRXL+ get ad-free podcast episodes, full show notes, and exclusive Leadership Edge email newsletters from TRXLProvide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback

6 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 26min
192: ‘Building an AI-First Practice’, with Patrick Chopson and Eric Cesal
Patrick Chopson, co-founder of Cove, and Eric Cesal, an architect and post-disaster expert, dive into the potential of AI in architecture. They discuss reimagining architectural workflows from the ground up rather than just adding AI tools to existing processes. The conversation covers the balancing act between innovation and accountability in design, the evolving relationship between architects and AI, and the necessity for education to keep up with technological changes. They also explore the unique opportunities for smaller teams to lead this transformation.

Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 39min
191: ‘The Bastardization of Marketing in AEC’, with Kyle Morck
Kyle Morck joins the podcast to talk about about the widespread misuse of marketing in the AEC industry. We unpack why firms rely on vanity metrics that don’t move the needle, how real marketing success comes from long-term relationship building, and why personal branding inside firms is just as critical as the firm’s brand itself. Whether you’re in a marketing role, a firm leader, or an individual looking to build visibility, this conversation offers practical insights for communicating with purpose and standing out in a noisy industry.To learn more about Kyle Morck, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/191To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.co-----Episode Sponsors:TRXL Leadership EdgeTRXL's AEC Leadership Edge newsletter delivers insights on architectural practice and technology for busy professionals. Each edition features analysis of podcast conversations, key takeaways for AEC leaders, and concise episode summaries.Ready to gain your leadership edge? Join TRXL+ today and never miss an insight that could transform your practice.TRXL+ MembershipThis episode of TRXL is brought to you by TRXL+ members! Join our community of supporters to get exclusive benefits like ad-free episodes and our AEC Leadership Edge newsletter. Your support keeps these valuable conversations going. Click here to learn more and become a member today.-----Sign up to become a TRXL member.Free members get email notifications when new episodes are released and when new posts are published on TRXL.coPaid supporters of TRXL+ get ad-free podcast episodes, full show notes, and exclusive Leadership Edge email newsletters from TRXLProvide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback

May 27, 2025 • 1h 26min
190: ‘AI + KM = Smarter AEC Firms’, with Christopher Parsons
Christopher Parsons joins the podcast to talk about about the evolution of knowledge management (KM) in the AEC industry—from KM 1.0 (knowledge capture) to KM 2.0 (knowledge sharing), to KM 3.0 (knowledge in the flow of work). We explore how AI is catalyzing a shift toward real-time, firm-wide knowledge operations, and why success in this new era isn’t just about better tools—it’s about cultural, process, and operational change. Christopher shares the origin story of Knowledge Architecture, real examples of KM 3.0 in action, and why knowledge is now a team sport that requires clarity, community, and intentional communication to unlock its full value.To learn more about Christopher Parsons, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/190To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.coProvide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback

May 20, 2025 • 1h 32min
189: ‘The Rise of the Balkan Architect’, with Milos Temerinski
Milos Temerinski joins the podcast to talk about his massively popular YouTube channel Balkan Architect, his journey from architecture student to full-time content creator, and how YouTube became a global classroom for Revit and other architectural software. We also talk about the power of self-directed learning, the realities of working with complex BIM tools, and why video is quickly becoming the most effective medium for knowledge transfer in AEC.To learn more about Milos Temerinski, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/189To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.co-----Episode Sponsors:AVAILAVAIL's content management system (CMS) simplifies access to your firm's content in one easy-to-use platform. Search and access files from anywhere, create standards-compliant models, streamline documentation, and onboard new hires faster. Try AVAIL for free and request a demo at https://getavail.comConfluence Events & PodcastJoin AEC industry technology leaders at Confluence, a series of in-person events and a podcast fostering conversations between firms and tech companies to support innovation. Learn more, explore upcoming events, and listen to podcast episodes at https://confluence.getavail.comTRXL+ MembershipThis episode of TRXL is brought to you by TRXL+ members! Join our community of supporters to get exclusive benefits like ad-free episodes and our AEC Leadership Edge newsletter. Your support keeps these valuable conversations going. Click here to learn more and become a member today.-----Sign up to become a TRXL member.Free members get email notifications when new episodes are released and when new posts are published on TRXL.coPaid supporters of TRXL+ get ad-free podcast episodes, full show notes, and exclusive Leadership Edge email newsletters from TRXLProvide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback

12 snips
May 13, 2025 • 1h 14min
188: ‘Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable’, with Gavin Crump
In this discussion, architect and educator Gavin Crump shares his remarkable journey from a hesitant Revit user to a leading voice in AEC technology. He highlights programming as a creative outlet and recounts the emotional thrill of workflow automation. Gavin also addresses the importance of middle-tier roles in architecture, the need for architects to have quality tools, and the balance of introversion and extroversion in networking. His insights on building a public brand rooted in generosity resonate deeply with aspiring professionals.

May 6, 2025 • 1h 18min
187: ‘It’s Just Poly’s on a Map’, with Rob Asher and James Blackwood
Rob Asher and James Blackwood join the podcast to talk about the real-world complexity of designing and delivering projects—and how their work at Giraffe is bridging the gaps between technology, governance, culture, commercial intent, and design.We explore the limits of traditional tools and approach, the pitfalls of over-simplified models, and why real integration requires more than just good geometry. Rob and James share insights from their experience building Giraffe—a collaborative platform that combines design tools, mapping, data, and financial modeling—to empower better, faster, and more informed decision-making across teams and disciplines.Learn more about Giraffe.To learn more about Rob Asher and James Blackwood, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/187To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.co-----Episode Sponsors:GiraffeGiraffe is a powerful, web-based tool that sits in the AEC stack to help architects, planners, and more design beautiful human cities. Giraffe offers two product tiers - Enterprise and Core - to serve different needs in the industry. With a focus on making their tools accessible, Giraffe's Core product is available to architects for just $45/month. Learn more at https://www.giraffe.build/designers?ref=TRXL-----Support TRXL by becoming a member or by making a donation.Click here to subscribe and get the TRXL AEC Tech Newsletter and episode show notes emailed to you when new episodes are released. It’s free!Provide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback

Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 34min
186: ‘Bringing a Bazooka to a Banana Fight’, with Clifton Harness
Clifton Harness joins the podcast to talk about the future of architectural technology, the challenges of competing with established software giants, and the importance of staying true to a focused vision. Clifton shares insights about TestFit's journey, the role of AI in architecture, and why attempting to compete directly with Revit might be missing the bigger opportunity. We also explore the human side of architecture, discussing the industry's spirit, its challenges, and the passionate people who make it what it is.To learn more about Clifton Harness, see the full show notes with links at https://trxl.co/186To get more great conversations with AEC technology leaders on the TRXL podcast please visit https://trxl.co-----Episode Sponsors:AVAILAVAIL's content management system (CMS) simplifies access to your firm's content in one easy-to-use platform. Search and access files from anywhere, create standards-compliant models, streamline documentation, and onboard new hires faster. Try AVAIL for free and request a demo at https://getavail.comConfluence Events & PodcastJoin AEC industry technology leaders at Confluence, a series of in-person events and a podcast fostering conversations between firms and tech companies to support innovation. Learn more, explore upcoming events, and listen to podcast episodes at https://confluence.getavail.comTRXL+ MembershipThis episode of TRXL is brought to you by TRXL+ members! Join our community of supporters to get exclusive benefits like ad-free episodes and our AEC Leadership Edge newsletter. Your support keeps these valuable conversations going. Click here to learn more and become a member today.-----Support TRXL by becoming a member or by making a donation.Click here to subscribe and get the TRXL AEC Tech Newsletter and episode show notes emailed to you when new episodes are released. It’s free!Provide feedback for this episode at https://trxl.co/feedback