Design Development

Rens 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 "abundance mindset" and the importance of self-reflection and openness to growth, while illustrating effective career strategies drawn from his own professional journey. This episode offers a roadmap for leveraging skills and mindsets to achieve career goals, ultimately helping professionals feel less stuck and more empowered in their career trajectories.Throughout the episode, Rens explores core concepts such as the four stages of contribution, viewing oneself as a "business of one," and the critical nature of planning. By understanding these principles, young professionals can more effectively navigate their growth trajectories, manage expectations, and break through hurdles that might otherwise lead to career stagnation or burnout. Key strategies like delivering complete work, owning one's future, and recognizing the compound effect are highlighted, ensuring listeners walk away with actionable insights for immediate implementation.Key Takeaways:Four Stages of Contribution: Understand your progression from being dependent to eventually contributing strategically, and strive to acquire skills to move you independently through your career.View Yourself as a Business: Treat your role as a "business of one" where your sole client is your manager. Focus on delivering value instead of partial efforts.Accountability and Planning: Own your career path and plan your professional development, keeping a clear view of your goals and desired achievements.Continuous Learning: Invest in your growth with daily habits and long-term planning, recognizing the power of compound growth in skill development and career success.Proactive Problem-Solving: Always propose solutions when seeking input from mentors or managers, transforming every question into a learning opportunity.Listen to the full episode for deeper insights and practical advice on advancing your career. Stay tuned to "Design Development" for more valuable content, and embrace the journey towards achieving your professional aspirations.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 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Rens 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 previous guest on "Design Development," Joe is recognized for his insights on agile design and leadership in the architecture industry. Episode Summary:Dive into a captivating exploration of cutting-edge design and structural engineering with Rens Hayes IV on the episode of "Design for an Agile World." In this engaging dialogue with Joe Walker, Rens shares his revolutionary approach to engineering through the H+O Cost Index, a model that aligns design efficacy with economic practicality. Learn how H+O Structural Engineering blends innovative business acumen with top-tier engineering talent to create sustainable value in the construction and real estate industry.Explore the mindset at H+O that drives success in a dynamic industry. Rens shares his philosophy of lifelong learning, applying MBA-level insights to shape H+O's strategic and operational model. He outlines how financial management and enterprise value creation foster balanced organizations, aligning client goals with employee success, and highlights the future of structural engineering's role in real estate development. Key Takeaways:The H+O Cost Index leverages trained personnel and proprietary data to bring efficiency and cost-effectiveness to structural design.Lifelong learning and open book financial management are pivotal to scaling and improving organizational processes.Crafting a "design process" rooted in understanding construction costs can lead to significant client value and project optimization.Aligning business operations with strategic goals allows for sustainable growth and profitability in the design and construction sectors.Embracing technological advancements and AI could revolutionize site planning and the future of architectural design.Resources:Connect with Rens Hayes on LinkedIn: Rens Hayes IV LinkedInLearn more about H+O Structural Engineering: H+O EngineeringPodcast Recommendation: The Game by Alex HormoziBook Mentioned: "Atomic Habits" by James ClearThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Eric 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 this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Eric Sullivan, an entrepreneur and real estate investor, about his journey from software startups to real estate. They discuss his transition into real estate, focusing on condo conversions and boutique hotels in Greater Boston. Eric highlights the importance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and recognizing market opportunities, offering insights on risk management, partnerships, and aligning personal and business goals. A valuable listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and real estate enthusiasts. Key Takeaways:Entrepreneurial Beginnings: Eric Sullivan's journey began in high school with a focus on software development and tech-related ventures, eventually leading to four successful business exits before shifting to real estate.Strategic Real Estate Development: Sullivan Capital's focus is on strategic condo conversions and developing boutique hotels in lucrative markets, demonstrating controlled growth and investment acumen.Importance of Partnership: Eric underscores the necessity of finding complementary partners who add value, emphasizing one plus one equals three.Data-Driven Decisions: The use of financial acumen crucially informs project evaluations, highlighting the significance of thorough market and financial analysis in real estate endeavors.Risk Mitigation: Emphasizes understanding and mitigating risks in entrepreneurship, whether in early business ventures or in real estate investments, reflecting onResources:LinkedIn: Eric SullivanSullivan Capital Website: https://sullivan.capital/Books referenced: "The Compound Effect" and "Atomic Habits"For a full exploration of Eric Sullivan’s entrepreneurial insights and real estate strategies, be sure to listen to the entire episode. Stay tuned to Design Development for more valuable discThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Matt 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, about leadership and the evolution of the architecture and engineering (AE) industry. Matt shares insights from his career at GE Healthcare, Bain Capital, and Serent Capital, highlighting key strategies that shaped his leadership style.He discusses the founding of BQE Software, which serves over 5,000 firms globally with tools for financial management, project accounting, and resource scheduling. Emphasizing a customer-centric mission, Matt introduces BQE's CORE values: Customer Obsession, Openness, Respect for Everyone, and Excellence.The conversation addresses common inefficiencies faced by smaller AE firms and how BQE’s solutions improve project-level financial management and operational efficiency. This episode provides a thorough overview of the industry’s challenges and the impact of leveraging the right software for growth and productivity.Key Takeaways:Customer Obsession: Focusing on customer needs and feedback drives BQE Software’s growth.Efficiency in AE Firms: Automating tasks and managing project-level financial data reduces inefficiencies.Leadership Values: The CORE values—Customer Obsession, Openness, Respect, and Excellence—are crucial for organizational success.Industry Challenges: Many small to mid-sized AE firms lack purpose-built software, leading to missed optimization opportunities.Continuous Improvement: Ongoing customer feedback and investment in product development are key to long-term success.Resources:BQE Software Official WebsiteBook Mentioned: The Jolt Effect by Matthew Dixon and Ted McKennaBook Mentioned: The Challenger Sale by Brent Adamson and Matthew DixonBook Mentioned: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. DweckFor more insights and to hear the full conversation, tune into the episode and stay connected for more enlightening discussions on Design Development.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 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Jeffry 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 tailored architectural solutions.Jeffry and Rens explore various topics, including the challenges architects face with fee structures, the importance of communication and speed in architectural practice, and the role of education in developing future architects. Jeffry also highlights some of the firm's notable projects, such as transforming the Denver Museum and designing U.S. embassies, each showcasing their commitment to creating impactful, culturally significant spaces. This episode offers valuable insights into the intricacies of architectural design and the importance of lifelong learning in the profession.Key Takeaways:Machado Silvetti's Design Philosophy: The firm is committed to finding unique conceptual threads in each project and ensuring that every design is uniquely tailored to its context and users.Communication and Speed: These are not just essential skills for architects but the lifeblood of project execution and client satisfaction. The need for speed in completing rote tasks and the power of effective communication cannot be overstated.Fee Structures in Architecture: Understanding the historical context of fee structures is crucial. Architects must navigate the challenge of balancing increasing project demands with stagnant fees, highlighting the urgent need for change in the industry.Balancing Quality of Life: The significance of designing spaces that maximize units and enhance the quality of life and community engagement.Educational Influence: The importance of integrating both practical and theoretical knowledge in architectural education and the value of lifelong learning for professional growth.Resources:Machado Silvetti WebsiteHarvard Graduate School of Design WebsiteBooks Mentioned:How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieThe Story of Practice by Dana CuffNegotiating Architecture by Dana CuffThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

 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 Natale, President of Smarthinking. Mark brings a wealth of experience and insights into how strong branding can significantly impact the real estate sector. This engaging episode unpacks the definition of branding, its importance in the real estate and hospitality industries, and how it influences customer perception and market positioning.Mark Natale shares invaluable knowledge about the role of branding in differentiating products and enhancing customer experiences. He emphasizes that branding is not just a logo or an advertising campaign; it's the container for a customer's complete experience with a product or company. Through vivid analogies and real-world examples, Mark illustrates how every interaction with a brand can either enhance or degrade its value. Tune in to learn about the symphonic application of branding elements, the importance of photorealistic renderings, and how an encyclopedic understanding of the prospect journey can elevate a real estate asset.Key Takeaways:Definition of Branding: "A brand is a container for a customer's complete experience with a product or a company." - Mark Natale.Brand and Customer Identity: People choose brands that resonate with their identity and values, such as their lifestyle or social status.Importance of Operations: Effective branding extends beyond advertising to include the overall customer experience, from initial interaction to service delivery.Role of Storytelling: Crafting a compelling narrative helps align team efforts and attracts the right customers to the brand, ensuring consistency across all touchpoints.Comprehensive Services: Smart Thinking offers a full range of branding services, from initial concept development to ongoing customer engagement strategies.Resources:Smarthinking, Inc. (Note: 1 ‘T’)Setting the Table by Danny MeyerDamn Good Advice by George LoisWhatever You Think, Think the Opposite by Paul ArdenThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Zach 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+O Structural Engineering, the focus is on real estate development, design, construction, and professional liability insurance. Zach Waters, CEO of Black Swan Risk Management, shares his expertise on liability insurance, risk management, and essential contract details for AE firms. Zach begins with riveting examples of professional liability insurance cases, such as the Millennium Tower incident and a devastating bicycle accident, showing how exposure can lead to unforeseen liabilities even in seemingly unrelated events. The discussion transitions to emphasize the importance of understanding and negotiating contract languages like limitation of liability and the notable differences between 'at fault' and 'exposure'. He stresses the importance of understanding contract language, like limitation of liability, and the risks of poorly reviewed agreements. Zach also covers cyber insurance, construction risk management, and the significance of clear scopes of work. Key Takeaways:Exposure vs. Fault: Understanding that exposure to claims can lead to significant financial burdens even without direct fault.Importance of Limitation of Liability: How capping your liability through specific contract clauses can protect your business from massive financial hits.Contract Language: The critical role of precise contract language in ensuring your insurance policy covers potential liabilities.Cyber Insurance: The growing importance of cyber insurance in safeguarding against modern digital risks and how even small firms are vulnerable.Risk Management Practices: Integrating comprehensive risk management strategies within firms to avoid long-term detrimental impacts.Resources:Black Swan Risk Management: Black Swan Risk Management WebsiteZach Waters' LinkedIn: Zach Waters on LinkedIn'The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable' by Nassim Nicholas Taleb'Atomic Habits' by James Clear'Start with Why' by Simon SinekThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Tony 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, the Executive Managing Director at Newmark. Tony's exceptional career spans 17 years in commercial real estate, focusing on industrial and logistics sectors. Tony navigates us through his robust journey from initial sales roles to landing significant deals with giants like Amazon and FedEx.Tony shares critical insights on the complexities of the Boston industrial real estate market, including the challenges of land scarcity and entitling projects, explained through noteworthy deals like the redevelopment of an old Lucent Technologies site and transforming the AstraZeneca campus for Amazon Robotics. We also get a glimpse into Tony's personal life, learning how his competitive edge was honed through collegiate and family hockey experiences.Key Takeaways:The Complex World of Industrial Real Estate: Tony discusses the intricacies of brokering deals for clients like Amazon and FedEx, highlighting the challenges in a congested market like Boston.Entitlement and Redevelopment: The importance of identifying underutilized sites, entitling them, and successfully redeveloping them for high-value use, impacting community and logistics.Skills from Sales to Real Estate: Tony's transition from tech sales at EMC to real estate, demonstrating the pivotal role of cold-calling, persistence, and strategic networking in building his career.Personal Background: How Tony's experience as a D1 hockey player and his tight-knit, competitive family life shaped his professional approach.Real Estate Dynamics and Trends: The shift in industrial real estate from underappreciated assets to critical components in supply chain optimizations given rising e-commerce demand.Resources:NewmarkAll In Podcast (available on major podcast platforms)Mention of Hillwood Development Company LLCTony Coskren on LinkedIn: Tony CoskrenThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Jordan 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 with tax expert Jordan Wilson from Corporate Tax Advisors. The episode aims to demystify the often-confusing landscape of taxes for business leaders, especially those in real estate development, design, and construction.Jordan elucidates the foundational aspects of tax credits, focusing on how these can supercharge a company's capital for growth. With an emphasis on real estate design and construction, the conversation touches on R&D tax credits, energy tax credits, cost segregation studies, and training and development credits. Architects, engineers, contractors, and business owners in these verticals will find actionable insights to maximize their financial efficiency and foster innovation within their organizations.Key Takeaways:Understanding R&D Tax Credits: R&D tax credits incentivize U.S.-based employers to innovate and improve products or processes, offering significant financial advantages for businesses involved in design and development.Difference Between Tax Experts: General accountants and specialized tax consultants serve different roles; specialized consultants focus on high-value tax credits and strategies that generalists might overlook.Impact of Section 174: The new 174 legislation requires amortizing R&D expenses over five years, significantly influencing corporate cash flow and tax strategies.Cost Segregation Studies: Accelerating depreciation through cost segregation can drastically improve short-term cash flow for commercial real estate owners.Energy Tax Credits: With evolving green energy regulations, architects and engineers can use energy-efficient designs to capture significant tax deductions, thereby reducing project costs.Resources:Corporate Tax Advisors: WebsiteBooks Mentioned:Intangible Enterprise by KP ReddyAs a Man Thinketh by James AllenContact Jordan Wilson: jordanw@corporatetaxadvisors.comThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Justin 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 MacEachern, Vice President and Business Unit Leader at Gilbane, about his unique career journey and valuable insights into the construction and real estate development industry. MacEachern, who started with a focus in biomedical engineering, shares how he transitioned into construction and developed a passion for the field.They discuss key projects like Shattuck Hospital and Arsenal Yards, exploring the complex balance of schedule, budget, and stakeholder management in large-scale developments. MacEachern also emphasizes the importance of understanding the perspectives of both developers and general contractors.The conversation further delves into leadership, the significance of company culture, and the role of training in sustaining Gilbane's small-company feel despite its global presence. MacEachern offers advice for industry newcomers, stressing the value of persistence, mentorship, and continuous learning.Key Takeaways:Empathy and Curiosity: Understanding the pressures and challenges faced on both sides of the GC and developer relationship can lead to more successful project outcomes.Culture of Trust: Gilbane prioritizes creating a family-like atmosphere, empowering employees to make decisions without fear of reprisal.Strategic Planning: Effective strategic planning, which involves forecasting future trends and maintaining market diversity, is crucial for sustained business success.Job Readiness: Young professionals should show eagerness to learn and grow, demonstrating their ability to absorb information and adapt.Gilbane University: Continuous training and development are integral parts of Gilbane’s strategy to keep employees up-to-date with industry advancementsResources:Gilbane: WebsiteSimon Sinek: Leaders Eat LastFor more valuable insights into real estate development, design, and construction, make sure to listen to the full episode and stay tuned for additional episodes of Design DeThank 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 comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/