Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture Evelyn Lee
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The evolution of architectural practice has been relatively slow towards change, yet modern shifts in business and design management have prompted today’s leading architects to rethink how they work. On Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee, an architect, design strategist, and Senior Experience Designer at Slack, and architecture business strategy consultant, Je’Nen Chastain, set out to illuminate the future of the profession to help architects remain relevant and valuable in a changing world.
They will explore how technology, cultural shifts, and emerging best practices are prompting firm owners to assess their business models and make adjustments in their studios. Each episode features an industry leader, and together our hosts will explore the new frontier of architectural practice.
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149: Using Data to Create a Better Employee Experience
Episode 149: Using Data to Create a Better Employee ExperienceHow can organizations use data to enhance the employee experience and drive positive cultural change within their workplace?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Dr. Serena Huang, a data analytics executive in Fintech, joins us to discuss how organizations can optimize the employee experience by leveraging data and communication strategies in the workplace. As a data analytics executive, Dr. Huang is passionate about leading change, building high-performance teams, and helping business leaders see data as an asset in large organizations.
First, Dr. Huang defines the employee experience as various aspects of work, from physical environments to manager interactions and digital work capabilities. She emphasizes the importance of measuring employee experience beyond physical space and attendance and suggests surveys and feedback tools to gauge workplace culture and gather recommendations.
Then, we explore the challenges and apprehensions that can arise when introducing survey data to the workplace, including concerns about legal action and the fear of uncovering uncomfortable truths. For architects, we address the common fear about not being able to afford an immediate solution for desires such as taking time off. Dr. Huang shares advice for effectively communicating with architecture leaders who are reluctant to engage in surveys due to these fears, yet recognize their need for growth. She believes leadership needs timely action, collaborative problem-solving, and transparency to drive change.
It comes down to communication. Fundamentally, as humans, we all need to be heard, whether at home, in a relationship, or at work. For employees to feel heard, instead of ignoring the elephant in the room, why don't we ask about it and then come up with some solutions? It may not be the perfect solution, but I think the leadership team should come from a place of genuine care, communicate that back to the employees and say, "We heard you." - Dr. Serena Huang
To wrap up the conversation, Dr. Huang shares her perspective on employees and leaders navigating their career alongside their mental health management. She advocates for leadership therapy and coaching sessions to enhance self-awareness and emotional well-being.
Tune in next week for an episode about women defining AI for architects.
Guest:
Dr. Serena Huang
Dr. Serena Huang is an accomplished thought leader and professional keynote speaker with 150+ speaking engagements covering topics including people analytics, AI, future of work, personal branding, and data storytelling. She regularly guest-lectures at top MBA programs including Kellogg, Wharton, and Haas. Dr. Huang's unique ability to speak to audiences of different cultures and backgrounds, along with her experience in both F100 and startups make her an in-demand speaker. Her 2024 focus is helping organizations realize the full potential of AI through creating a new workforce strategy and improving internal talent mobility.
Prior to founding Data With Serena, Dr. Huang led sizable analytics teams at prominent organizations including PayPal, Kraft Heinz, GE, and Koch Industries. She pioneered the applications of machine learning algorithms to predict absenteeism and turnover and led corporate councils for Ethical AI in these global organizations. Dr. Huang holds a Ph.D. in Economics with specializations in Econometrics and Labor Economics.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Dr. Huang on LinkedIn
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148: The Future of Tech within AEC
Episode 148: The Future of Tech within AECHow can technology, innovation, and sustainable practices transform the architecture, engineering, and construction industry?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I chat with Dave Lemont, the past CEO of Revit and the Executive Chairman of Acelab with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. In our conversation, Dave shares his invaluable insights on scaling software companies, revolutionizing the architecture industry, and the massive potential in the future of digital tools.
First, Dave discusses how his passion for photography and architecture influenced his career path. He also highlights how his entrepreneurial mindset and desire to innovate the industry immensely helped him grow and lead his companies. Dave's expertise lies in identifying product-market fit and creating solutions that address broader market needs rather than niche segments.
As the executive chairman of Acelab, Dave is dedicated to revolutionizing material management in the AEC space, allowing architects to access sustainable building materials efficiently. He touches on the potential of these digital tools in architecture and explains why architects need to be engaged in the evolution of AI.
Architecture is an opportunity to do something for people in the world. Not all the software that I've managed or sold in my life had that potential impact. How this room feels affects me all day. Where you go to school, the efficiency of that building, and how our museums look or how we feel when we walk in – all of those things affect our lives. It's a privilege to be involved in technology that can make that more efficient. - Dave Lemont
To wrap up the episode, Dave shares his recommendations on building your pipeline and adjusting workflow to keep your business afloat amidst the ever-changing and often confusing landscape architects operate within. Dave also shares his perspective on bridging the gap between traditional architectural practices and digital innovation while advising young architects to use a grassroots approach to incorporate new technology into their companies.
Tune in next week for an episode about using people analytics to improve employee engagement.
Guest:
David Lemont
David Lemont is an accomplished business leader, go-to-market strategist, and advisor with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. David has extensive experience in SaaS business applications with keen expertise in construction tech. Helped five companies to successful exits to high-tech leaders such as Autodesk, Trimble, HP, Oracle, etc.
He is best known for his role as CEO of Revit; the predominant way buildings are designed in 3D today. Dave is currently the Executive Chairman of Acelab.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Dave on LinkedIn
Explore Acelab’s free specification workflow tools
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147: The Power of Copywriting for Architects
Episode 147: The Power of Copywriting for ArchitectsHow can architects use copywriting techniques to communicate their value, connect with their ideal clients, and improve their marketing?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I'm excited to share my very special conversation with Nikita Morell, an expert copywriter who specializes in working with architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words. In this episode, Nikita discusses the importance of effectively communicating our ideas and embracing our humanity as architects and shares advice for crafting copy to help you market your value as an architect.
First, Nikita explains the science and art behind copywriting and emphasizes the need for intentional, research-based writing tailored to your ideal client. She also shares tips on making architecture copy more accessible to a broader audience by replacing heavy jargon with conversational words and phrases.
Then, Nikita highlights her approach to copywriting, focusing on tone of voice and audience connection. She also encourages architects to work collaboratively with the copywriting community and learn exactly how to prompt AI tools and use them as a starting point for specific copy.
A good way just to start is to really take a step back and just make your copy a little bit more conversational. Try and remove some of that jargon. A lot of architects, when they don't really know what they're trying to say, sometimes hide behind a little bit of jargon that makes them sound smart. - Nikita Morell
To wrap up the episode, Nikita offers you an opportunity to work with her in person and gives a sneak peek at her proven framework for gathering, utilizing, and optimizing a client testimonial.
Tune in next week for an episode about the future of technology within the architecture, engineering, and construction industry.
Guest:
Nikita Morell
Nikita Morell is a copywriter for only architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words.
Nikita specializes in making architecture websites sound more human, less robot—so architects can get a steady stream of ridiculously good projects. Nikita analyzed 663 architecture websites, you can see the results on her website.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Nikita on LinkedIn
Learn more about Nikita
Check out Nikita’s Architects WordShop
Check out Nikita’s resources
📚Continue Learning:
Learn more about the 2024 AIA Conference on Architecture and Design in Washington D.C.
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146: Architecture, And: Design Crises, Past and Future
Episode 146: Architecture, And: Design Crises, Past and FutureAs architects, how can we adapt to technological advancements like AI and be proactive in the face of disasters and climate change?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, renowned designer, educator, writer, and post-disaster expert Eric J. Cesal discusses being an architecture optimist within the current landscape, how technology is evolving, where the opportunities lie, and what architects need to focus on going forward. Eric is recognized for leading reconstruction efforts after major disasters like the Haiti earthquake and Superstorm Sandy.
First, Eric highlights his journey to becoming a disaster architecture expert. He talks about completing his degrees amidst Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 recession, which deepened his appreciation for design.
Then, we shift the conversation to the impact of automation on architecture and the disruptive potential of AI. Eric shares where he is already seeing the impact of AI and offers perspectives on how we can get proactive in using it. He suggests that architects should be involved with the evolution of AI from the beginning so that our voice is included in the process.
Half of the world's cities are going to be underwater by 2100. We're gonna have to redesign or relocate most of the world's major cities. It’s going to be horrible, but it’s a really exciting design challenge. The more proactively we engage that opportunity, the more architects put themselves out in front, and the better the outcomes for everybody else. I think that it's central to my optimism that behind every crisis is an ability to build something better than what existed before. - Eric J. Cesal
To wrap up the episode, Eric shares advice for young architects looking to design for an AI-first future. He encourages designers to "design themselves," diversify their knowledge, be proactive, and stick to their values.
Tune in next week for an episode about the power of copywriting for architects.
Guest:
Eric J. Cesal
Eric J. Cesal is a renowned designer, educator, writer, and post-disaster expert, recognized for leading reconstruction efforts after major disasters like the Haiti earthquake and Superstorm Sandy. Trained as an architect, he possesses expertise in international development, economics, and design futurism. Cesal, often referred to as “Architecture’s First Responder,” headed Architecture for Humanity’s post-disaster programs (2010-2014) and is a prominent voice in discussions on disaster resilience, having contributed to multiple leading publications.
Cesal has lectured across the world, and has taught at top design schools worldwide, including UC Berkeley and Harvard, focusing on disaster reconstruction, resilience, and sustainable design. Cesal authored “Down Detour Road, An Architect in Search of Practice” and hosted the groundbreaking podcast Social Design Insights for the Curry Stone Foundation. He co-founded Design for Adaptation and is involved in projects at the nexus of design, climate change, and AI. He holds a B.A. in Architectural Studies from Brown University and advanced degrees in Architecture, Construction Management, and an M.B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Eric on LinkedIn
Follow Eric on Twitter/X
Learn more about Eric
Check out Eric’s Substack Life as a Disaster
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145: The Psychology of Architecture
Episode 145: The Psychology of ArchitectureHow can we use architecture and design to address loneliness, promote well-being, and foster inclusive and supportive work environments in the field?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I am joined by Erin Peavey, an architect with a background in psychology, to explore the importance of connection, the power of healing, and the role of mental health in the culture of architecture workspaces. Erin is the Health & Well-being Design Leader at HKS and believes in incorporating research on health, well-being, and community engagement into design initiatives.
First, Erin shares her journey from studying social work to architecture and highlights key takeaways from her HKS report on loneliness, titled “Connecting in Strange Times: The Antidote to Loneliness.” Erin advocates for inclusivity and diversity in the field of architecture and addresses the lack of consideration for diverse perspectives in design while providing practical solutions.
Then, Erin touches on the forgotten aspects of designing for people with disabilities and discusses how to prevent burnout and overwork in the field. Erin shares her hopes for a shift towards prioritizing well-being and support for co-workers over consistent productivity.
I hope that in architecture, we recognize that because we are creating spaces for people outside of the norm, we need to embody those people in the profession. When you think about who is drawn to architecture, there are heavy feelers, sensors, and people with heightened perception. We need all of the variety to bring in those perspectives and that value. - Erin Peavey
To wrap up the episode, Erin suggests that firm leaders need to encourage their teams to create healthy spaces. She also emphasizes the value of giving hype and praise to our co-workers. Plus, Erin invites you always to seek areas for self-improvement while giving grace for imperfection and failure.
Tune in next week for an episode about design crises, past and future.
Guest:
Erin Peavey
Erin Peavey is an Architect and a Health & Well-being Design Leader at HKS. Erin’s passion for
creating environments that support health, happiness, and well-being drives her evidence-based, user-centered approach to design. In her leadership role at HKS, she helps integrate research and practice to advance design for health, combat loneliness, and foster resilience across the globe.
Erin is dedicated to giving back to the design for health community as a Cornell Industry Scholar, an editorial board member of the Health Environments Research and Design Journal, a Fellow with the Centre for Conscious Design, and co-lead of the Foundation for Social Connection’s taskforce on the built environment.
Erin was named Best Under 40 in Architecture for Health by the American Institute for Architects (2015), 40 Under 40 by Building Design and Construction (2020), a Top Young Professional by Engineering News Record (2021), and a Rising Star by Healthcare Design Magazine (2019).
She delights in sharing knowledge and makes insights accessible to a wide audience. Erin uses her platform and network to advance understanding of how to design places and lives that catalyze mental well-being and belonging. Erin’s work focusing on the power of place to help us live happier, healthier, more connected lives is featured on BBC, NBC-Texas Today, Psychology Today, TEDx, SXSW, Metropolis, NPR/KERA, Architect Magazine, Healthline, her own podcast, Shared Space.
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144: Power of Podcasting in Architecture
Episode 144: Power of Podcasting in ArchitectureHow can architects effectively leverage podcasting as a platform for storytelling, personal branding, and connecting with their clients?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I am excited to share my conversation with Lauren Popish, founder of The Wave Podcasting, Project Manager at Google, and former Design Strategist at Gensler. Today, Lauren shares her valuable insights into the intersection of storytelling, podcasting, and architecture, offering inspiration and practical advice for both new and experienced podcasters.
First, Lauren opens up about her past challenges with public speaking and how podcasting helped her overcome them and build confidence. This inspired her to found The Wave Podcasting to help others find their voice. She also highlights the value of diverse skills and experiences in finding the perfect role for you.
Then, we discuss the importance of storytelling and individuality in podcasting. Lauren emphasizes how podcasting offers a unique opportunity to build personal connections with your audience and guests, especially in the architecture industry, where it can showcase an architect's personality and work process.
A common reason people don't start podcasts is because they believe that it is saturated or that someone is already out there doing the thing they want to be doing…it's not about creating a podcast concept that is totally different from anything else that exists. It's about bringing a perspective that no one else has. You as an individual have lived a life that no one else has lived. - Lauren Popish
To wrap up the episode, Lauren encourages aspiring podcasters to start without waiting for perfect equipment or timing. She suggests focusing on the "why" behind your podcast and embracing your unique perspective. Lauren also shares her expert advice for anyone who wants to grow their podcast and how her company can assist.
Tune in next week for an episode about the psychology of architecture.
Guest:
Lauren Popish
Lauren Popish is the founder of The Wave Podcasting, a company that helps women start and grow podcasts through online educational resources, affordable podcast editing services, and digital community. The Wave launched The Wave Editing, the first podcast editing service for women by women in 2021. The Wave Editing pairs female audio engineers with female podcasters so they can grow their shows by outsourcing the tedious tasks that prevent many podcast hosts from building their audience. Learn more at thewavepodcasting.com.
The Wave is an award-winning podcast company and was founded in 2019 with the goal of helping women share their stories through podcasting. What started as a real estate company providing highly-stylized podcast studio space for women has since become a major online educational hub. The Wave offers free educational resources including over 100 blog posts, YouTube videos, and a weekly newsletter that has amassed a cult following.
📍 Show Links:
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn
Learn more about The Wave Podcasting
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