Most Podern Podcast

Minkoo Kang, Libo Li, and Alex Yuen
  • 5.0 (9)
  • DESIGN
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The podcast about the Built Environment, with the minds shaping it, for the people living in it. Why does the built environment feel broken — and what would it take to fix it? Most Podern is about how the built world really works. We dig into the systems shaping architecture, urbanism, housing, and public spaces, and talk with the people actually building change: architects, planners, developers, and urban thinkers.

  1. Why 12 Million Tons of Glass Goes to Landfills Every Year (And How We're Stopping It)

    JAN 21

    Why 12 Million Tons of Glass Goes to Landfills Every Year (And How We're Stopping It)

    Every year, 12 million tons of architectural glass from skyscrapers and office buildings ends up in landfills. Even though you diligently put your glass bottles in the recycling bin, only 30% of collected glass actually gets recycled back into glass. Sydney Mainster, VP of Sustainability at The Durst Organization, is on a mission to change that. After watching hundreds of tons of perfectly recyclable glass from a 40-story building go to waste, she pioneered a partnership to recycle skyscraper windows across New York City. In this episode, Sydney and David Entwistle (Director of Major Projects at Saint-Gobain Glass) reveal: - Why glass is the ONLY material recyclers lose money on - The hidden contamination problem that shuts down $40M furnaces - How "sneaky sustainability" is making glass recycling standard practice - Why interior office glass is the secret to scaling this solution - The roadblocks preventing this from going national Sydney and David are completely reimagining how we handle one of our most valuable building materials. 🔗 Connect with Sydney Mainster: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smainster/🔗 Connect with David Entwistle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-entwistle-b51b2531/ Chapters 00:00 Circular Economy in Glass Recycling00:37 Roles and Responsibilities in Sustainability00:54 The Glass Recycling Challenge07:37 Understanding Architectural Glass vs. Container Glass16:15 Origin Stories of Glass Recycling Programs27:03 Collaboration and Learning in the Industry31:30 The Journey of Deconstruction and Sustainability33:37 Overcoming the Status Quo in Construction35:12 Convincing Stakeholders for Sustainable Practices38:40 The Role of Case Studies in Advocacy40:19 Scaling Challenges in Sustainability43:46 Looking Forward: The Future of Sustainability

    54 min
  2. An Architectural Answer to how Cities can Turn Down the Heat

    12/18/2025

    An Architectural Answer to how Cities can Turn Down the Heat

    What if a powerful climate solution in cities isn’t a new building, but the roof that’s already there? As heat waves intensify across Europe, architect and MIT-trained educator Olivier Faber explains how his firm, Roofscapes is transforming overlooked rooftops into cooling, accessible, green infrastructure. Starting with Paris’s iconic zinc roofs, the conversation unpacks why existing buildings are misaligned with today’s climate, how shading and vegetation can dramatically reduce indoor temperatures without air conditioning, and why renovation and adaptation may matter more than new construction in the decades ahead. Along the way, Olivier reveals the political, technical, and cultural battles behind testing climate solutions in historic cities, and why climate adaptation is about changing how we value the buildings we already have. Thumbnail Image courtesy of Roofscapes Subscribe to Most Podern on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern Keywords architecture, climate change, renovation, urban design, sustainability, Roofscapes, green roofs, preservation, adaptation, building practices, Paris, urban design, heat island effect Chapters 00:00 Background and Journey into Architecture 00:51 Exploring Alternative Architecture Practices 03:52 Introducing Roofscapes and Its Mission 06:17 Physical Adaptation: Before and After 07:16 The Challenges of Zinc Roofs in Urban Design 10:29 Innovative Solutions for Urban Heat Management 11:34Pitching Green Roof Solutions to Building Owners 14:08 Navigating the Complexities of Building Regulations 17:14 Measuring the Impact of Climate Adaptation Projects 24:09 Future Directions for Climate Adaptation in Architecture Links Olivier Faber - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivier-faber Roofscapes - https://www.roofscapes.studio/MITx - https://mitxonline.mit.edu/

    32 min
  3. A New Era for Sprawl

    12/10/2025

    A New Era for Sprawl

    The American suburban dream is unsustainable—but we're not giving up on it. David Kooris, Executive Director of the Connecticut Municipal Development Authority and lecturer at Yale, explains why sprawl no longer works as an economic engine and how we can retrofit existing suburbs to be more prosperous, walkable, and sustainable. In this episode, we explore:✓ Why the suburban development model is fiscally unsustainable✓ How to transform aging strip malls into thriving town centers✓ The art of community engagement that builds consensus (not opposition)✓ Why making car-dependent places walkable has more impact than you think✓ Planning concepts everyone should understand about their built environment https://www.wearecmda.com/ Chapters 00:00 The Impetus for Urban Planning00:00 Understanding the Role of Municipal Development00:00 Examples of Community Engagement00:00 David Kooris's Background and Insights00:41 The Importance of Long-Term Planning00:41 Retrofitting Suburban Landscapes00:41 Strategies for Community Improvement00:41 Engaging Future Residents in Development Conversations00:41 The Importance of Diverse Stakeholder Engagement00:41 Overcoming Community Resistance to Change00:41 Planning 101: Essential Concepts for Community Engagement00:41 Understanding the Complexities of the Built Environment00:41 Streamlining Community Engagement in Planning00:41 Innovative Approaches to Municipal Development00:41 Reflecting on the Current Era of Urban Planning

    42 min
  4. Planning Coachella - Reiko Wei

    12/03/2025

    Planning Coachella - Reiko Wei

    What hidden design choices make a 125,000-person festival feel effortless—and what happens when being off by just one foot throws everything into chaos? Why do some festivals become cultural icons while others collapse spectacularly? And how did one architect watching the Fyre Festival documentary suddenly realize, “I could do this a million times better”—and then actually go do it? In this episode, Reiko Wei, design production manager at Goldenvoice (the team behind Coachella & Stagecoach), pulls back the curtain on the invisible systems, political negotiations, spatial puzzles, and human-centered decisions that shape the world’s most iconic music festivals. She reveals how a show built on 1200 acres needs precision down to a single foot, why the fire marshal has the ultimate power, how Gen Z is reshaping festival culture, and why physical spaces for real connection matter more than ever in a post-COVID world. If you’ve ever wondered how a “giant party” becomes a safe, seamless, deeply human experience—or why these events still matter—this conversation will change how you see every festival you attend. https://goldenvoice.com/ https://www.coachella.com/ https://www.stagecoachfestival.com/ Chapters 00:00 Understanding Coachella: The Festival Experience03:19 The Role of Logistics in Event Planning06:41 Reiko's Transition from Architecture to Event Planning10:10 Collaboration with Authorities and Stakeholders13:35 The Evolution of Coachella: Adapting to Change17:00 Designing for Experience: The Importance of Flow21:15 The Art of Curation in Festivals25:02 Shifting Audience Dynamics Post-COVID27:11 The Importance of In-Person Connections30:43 Navigating Loneliness and Community31:51 Reflections on the Current Era

    35 min
  5. America can't Build. Can Modular Construction be the Answer?

    11/26/2025

    America can't Build. Can Modular Construction be the Answer?

    How do we build faster, smarter, and more affordably in a world running out of patience and running short on skilled labor? Tom Hardiman, Executive Director of the Modular Building Institute, joins Alex Yuen and Libo Li to explain how modular construction can reshape the built environment. From cutting construction timelines in half to reducing waste and expanding access to housing, Tom shows why modular is not a trend but a practical tool for a more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive future. The conversation unpacks the realities behind factory based building, the politics that slow adoption, and how modular can help cities facing affordability and capacity challenges. Subscribe to Most Podern on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern Keywords modular construction, prefab housing, offsite construction, Modular Building Institute, MBI, Tom Hardiman, affordable housing solutions, housing crisis, construction technology, manufacturing in construction, sustainable building, prefabricated buildings, industrialized construction, factory-built homes, housing innovation, construction efficiency, future of construction, how to build faster, Most Podern podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Modular Construction 00:53 Defining Modular Construction 02:02 Benefits of Modular Construction 04:59 The Ecosystem of Modular Construction 06:51 Coordination in Modular Projects 08:20 Cost Considerations in Modular Construction 09:53 The Importance of Time in Construction 11:30 Architects and Modular Construction 12:53 Successful Modular Projects 14:38 Addressing Design Concerns in Modular Construction 17:32 Standardization vs. Customization 19:45 Regulatory Challenges in Modular Construction 20:50 Education and Resources for Modular Construction 21:13 The Role of Education in Modular Construction 24:27 Attracting Young Talent to Modular Construction 28:32 Barriers to Adoption of Modular Construction 30:56 Navigating Politics and Labor Relations 34:51 Integrating Traditional and Modular Construction 37:52 The Future of Modular Construction 40:12 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement Links Tom Hardimanlinkedin.com/in/tomhardiman Modular Building Institute (MBI) https://www.modular.org/ World of Modular Conference https://www.modular.org/wom/ MBI Research and Resources https://www.modular.org/resources/

    46 min
  6. Why Affordable Housing Isn’t Affordable

    11/11/2025

    Why Affordable Housing Isn’t Affordable

    Why does building “affordable” housing cost so much in the built environment? From land prices to loan rates, construction inflation to endless permitting, Alex and Libo break down the true costs of creating homes and why the system often works against the very people it is meant to help. They unpack how financing, regulation, and risk collide, what makes America’s housing model unique, and what simple reforms could unlock more livable and affordable cities for everyone. Subscribe to Most Podern on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern Keywords affordable housing crisis, built environment, housing policy, real estate development, construction costs, architecture, urban design, cities, zoning reform, housing finance, interest rates, pro forma explained Chapters 00:00 Understanding Affordable Housing Costs02:29 The Role of Pro Forma in Housing Development05:49 Financing Affordable Housing Projects09:58 Impact of Rising Costs on Housing Development16:18 Government's Role in Affordable Housing20:29 Streamlining the Permitting Process23:13 Changing Perspectives on Housing Development

    26 min
  7. Design School for The Displaced - With Scott Key

    11/04/2025

    Design School for The Displaced - With Scott Key

    What happens when you run an architecture studio inside a refugee settlement — and let refugees lead it? Scott Key (founder/CEO of Every Shelter) is back to break down how a 10-week “design school” in Nakivale turned buzzwords like “co-creation” into actual, working solutions — cow-dung bricks that survive soaking, shelter-wide mosquito netting, and quality water that families can afford. Why it matters: Refugees are displaced for 20+ years — which means they need permanent, local, extremely affordable building solutions. This episode shows how design unlocks what’s already on the ground: clay, ag waste, community trust, and good design. LinksDonate to Support Every Shelter’s WorkEvery Shelter Our Last Episode with Scott Youtube*:* https://youtu.be/60d198yrKcY?feature=shared Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3iVzLi6aF5SV1K7WaVayT4?si=P2-DFU3_QNKP9c_XFxUEFQ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/designing-dignity-how-scott-key-and-every-shelter-are/id1725756164?i=1000702692254 Chapters 00:00 Running an Architecture Studio in a Refugee Camp02:53 Pitching the Idea to Students and Stakeholders02:53 Introduction to the Program and Partnerships05:13 Setting the Stage: The First Day of Design School07:54 Curriculum and Transformation: Learning by Doing10:20 Innovative Projects: Cow Poop and Mud Bricks12:41 Community Engagement: Addressing Local Needs15:30 Water Quality Solutions: BioSand Filters18:18 Empowerment through Entrepreneurship: Offer Letters and Business Models20:39 Feedback and Iteration: Learning from the Community22:51 The Role of Donors and Future Directions25:08 Looking Ahead: Optimism for Human Connection

    39 min
  8. The Architect Who Healed NYC After 9/11

    09/24/2025

    The Architect Who Healed NYC After 9/11

    In this conversation, Kevin Kennon, reflects on his experiences surrounding the events of 9/11, particularly his involvement in the Ground Zero viewing platform and the subsequent World Trade Center competition. We discusses the emotional impact of architecture, the importance of community and collaboration in design, and the lessons learned from revitalizing Lower Manhattan. Kennon emphasizes the need for architects to articulate their vision and the role of travel in enhancing one's understanding of the built environment. He concludes with thoughts on the future of architecture and the importance of fostering a sense of hope and connection through design. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkennonarchitect/ https://www.kdcaia.com/ Chapters 00:00 Ground Zero: A Catalyst for Change 07:47 The Power of Architecture in Crisis 15:05 Collaboration and Competition: Redesigning the World Trade Center 23:55 Revitalization: Lessons from Lower Manhattan 31:10 The Future of Architecture: Optimism and Collaboration

    41 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

The podcast about the Built Environment, with the minds shaping it, for the people living in it. Why does the built environment feel broken — and what would it take to fix it? Most Podern is about how the built world really works. We dig into the systems shaping architecture, urbanism, housing, and public spaces, and talk with the people actually building change: architects, planners, developers, and urban thinkers.

Information

  • Creator
    Minkoo Kang, Libo Li, and Alex Yuen
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Minkoo Kang, Libo Li, and Alex Yuen
  • Show Website
    Most Podern Podcast

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