Architecture Beyond

Brandon A. Gibbs, AIA NOMA NCARB

Discover the impact and opportunities around the World of Architects hearing stories from talented people in and around the architecture industry influencing the world around us.Stay tuned every two weeks for a new episode about Architecture and the world around us, including guides for making a difference and finding opportunities in the field, Episodes posted on 1st of each month, stay tuned!

  1. SEP 23

    Leading with Design: Chad Polk on Building Joyful Architecture & Strong Communities | AB Ep.33

    What does it mean to lead with design, serve the community, and build a practice with lasting impact? In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with Chad Polk, President of CDP Architecture, to explore his remarkable journey from early mentorship under AIA Fellows to founding one of Nashville’s most respected client-centered design firms. With over 25 years of experience, Chad reflects on the value of mentorship, the evolving role of architects in a growing city, and how purpose, leadership, and collaboration have shaped his projects—from civic landmarks to sacred spaces. He also shares insights into his philosophy of "designing joy" and how CDP Architecture integrates timeless design with modern innovation, including AI and sustainability practices. Whether you’re an aspiring architect, a seasoned designer, or someone interested in how spaces can uplift communities, this conversation offers honest wisdom and inspiration. 🔗 Sponsored by CDP Architecture Looking for a custom-designed commercial space or a high-end modern residence? Visit cdparchitecture.com to see how CDP’s expert team can bring your vision to life. Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    55 min
  2. AUG 3

    Designing for Healing: The Power of Healthcare Interior Design with Giselle Newman AAIA, RID| AB Ep. 32

    “Healthcare design isn’t just about meeting codes — it’s about restoring dignity, supporting care, and shaping outcomes.” — Giselle Newman,  Award-Winning Healthcare Interior Designer  In this inspiring episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with nationally recognized healthcare interior designer Giselle Newman, AAIA, RID whose award-winning work spans hospitals, clinics, and environments that put human well-being at the core of design. Giselle shares her journey from early design ambitions to becoming a leading voice in healthcare interiors — and what it takes to design spaces where healing truly begins. She unpacks her most impactful projects, the evolution of the field, and how collaboration with architects can lead to radically better outcomes. Whether you’re a student exploring design paths or an experienced professional looking to better understand this vital discipline, this episode offers rare insight into one of the most complex and rewarding sectors of our industry. 🧠 What You’ll Learn How healthcare interior design has evolved — and where it's goingThe role of evidence-based design in shaping patient-centered spacesStrategies for effective collaboration between architects and interior designersCareer advice for young professionals pursuing this powerful design pathWhy recognition and awards are just one part of the bigger design legacyWatch @ Iamthestudio: https://www.iamthestudio.com/healthcaredesign/ Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    44 min
  3. JUL 13

    A Practical Guide to Style for Architects | AB Ep. 31

    From Homes to Civic Designs— How to Communicate Style with Clarity and Confidence Episode Overview: In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we unpack what style really means in architectural practice. Too often treated as a superficial label or academic category, style in the real world is a tool—one that can align clients, consultants, and contractors when used well, or derail a project when misunderstood. 🎧 Hosted by Brandon Gibbs, this episode explores: How to define and use style across residential, hospitality, and civic architecturePractical strategies for talking about style with clients, teams, and contractorsA field guide to the most commonly referenced styles (Modern, Colonial Revival, Mediterranean, Industrial Chic, and more)Why architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Kahn, and Tadao Ando created timeless works without being boxed in by stylistic labelsHow to leverage AI tools to explore and visualize architectural style🧰 Resources Mentioned: Style vocabulary checklists for project teamsBooks: What Style Is It?, The Architecture of Happiness, Modern Architecture Since 1900Visual boards: Pinterest, Morpholio, ArchDaily, DezeenAI Tools for Architects course — details below 👇🎓 Learn More: 🚀 Want to explore architectural styles visually with powerful AI prompts?  Start our new course:  👉 AI for Architects – Enroll Now at Iamthestudio This course walks you through using tools like MidJourney and DALL·E to develop style boards, test ideas, and align your vision across teams. Watch Episode @ Iamthestudio.com https://www.iamthestudio.com/architecturalstyle/ Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    41 min
  4. JUN 8

    Built To Last: 2 Years of Ideas Shaping Architecture Beyond | AB Ep. 30

    Celebrating 2 Years and 30 Episodes of Meaningful Design Conversations We’ve reached a major milestone—30 episodes and nearly 2,000 downloads strong! Architecture Beyond has officially made the Feedspot Top 100 Architecture Podcasts, and we’re just getting started. In this special anniversary episode, host Brandon Gibbs takes you on a curated journey through some of the most insightful, inspiring, and industry-shaping conversations we've had over the past two years. Whether you’re an emerging architect, an experienced designer, or a curious creative—this episode is packed with timeless lessons and future-facing ideas. 🎧 Featured Highlights from Top Episodes: How to Become an Architect with Elif Bayram listen hereSustainable Design with Purpose with LEED Fellow Blake Jackson, AIA listen hereThe Revit Guide for Residential Architecture listen hereComputational Frontiers at BIG with Oliver Thomas listen hereModern Interiors, Real Voices with Jerica Michelle Banks & Lorraine Ensley listen hereSketchUp Made Simple for Architects listen hereBusiness Design for Architects with Rachel Gresham, AIA, MBA listen hereDecoding the International Building Code listen here🎓 Sponsored by Iamthestudio Ready to master the tools shaping the future of design?  Get 30% OFF professional courses on Revit, Rhino, AI rendering, Grasshopper, and more at Iamthestudio.com with code beyond30. Learn from expert instructors.  Master the software and skills that drive innovation.  Start growing your career today.Architecture Beyond is an exciting new podcast about life after architecture and the stories of those taking their gifts to impact the world beyond the studio. This is our first series of episodes, and we’re interested in your feedback. Are there some topics you would like to hear, or are you interested in being a guest? Go to Iamthestudio.com and click on ArchBeyond in the menu for more information. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    42 min
  5. MAY 4

    Decoding The International Building Code | AB Ep 29

    Why Tune In? Every design idea eventually meets the plan reviewer. In this 55‑minute master‑class, host Brandon Gibbs turns the IBC from creativity‑killer into design jetpack—perfect for ARE candidates, project architects, and anyone who wants code fluency without the snooze factor. What You’ll Hear: Segment Highlights Cold‑Open Challenge | Five‑story atrium face‑off—prove it’s safe, elegant, and code‑compliant in 30 seconds.Code in Context | From three regional codes to one global rulebook—and why “performance” language fuels innovation.Anatomy of the IBC | Chapters 3–11 mapped directly onto programming, massing, and material choices.Exam Power‑Ups | Color‑coded flash‑card hacks and Cornell note tweaks for instant recall.Frank Lloyd Wright’s Seismic Triumph | How the Imperial Hotel rode out a 7.9 quake and rewrote risk‑based design.Smart Code Sheet Workflow | Live demo: Revit + ChatGPT = automated egress, fire‑rating, and ADA tables—no Dynamo required.Lightning Q‑A | Six curveballs, four minutes, zero sweat.Key Takeaways | Three habits that turn constraints into catalysts.Get started with the Complete Revit Guide today with code "decoding25"  Find free resource downloads here: https://www.iamthestudio.com/abbuildingcode/   Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    49 min
  6. APR 6

    A Lesson on Original Design & Thoughtful Product Selection with Betsy Lindell, LEED AP | AB Ep 28

    What happens when a designer crosses over to the world of product representation? In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with Betsy Lindell — designer, founder of BetsyLindell.me, and product specialist — to explore the often-overlooked relationship between original design and thoughtful product selection. From specifying systems in fast-paced studio environments to advocating for solutions that truly serve the people who use them, Betsy brings a rare and refreshing perspective. Her path from architecture to product advocacy challenges us to look beyond aesthetics and ask: What makes a design truly original? And how can we specify better, together? 🎧 What You'll Learn: Why product selection is design thinking in actionHow original design is rooted in user awareness and not just formBehind-the-scenes stories of bridging the gap between designers and manufacturersHow to balance creativity with the reality of systems, reps, and code constraintsAdvice for emerging architects on working smarter with product reps 🛠️ Bonus for Our Listeners Take your skills further with courses in BIM, AI rendering, Rhino, Revit, and more at Iamthestudio. Use coupon code: aboriginal2025 at checkout for 15% off any course. 👉 Start Learning at Iamthestudio Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    45 min
  7. MAR 2

    2025 Tax Tips For Design Professionals | AB Ep 27

    Episode Overview Welcome to this dynamic episode of Architecture Beyond, where we dive into two game-changing topics every design professional needs to know: Smart Tax Strategies: Uncover actionable tips for maximizing deductions, leveraging tax credits, and planning for sustainable growth. Learn how strategic financial planning can empower your career and fortify your firm's success.Revit Phases for Renovation Workflows: Discover how to streamline your renovation projects by mastering Revit phases. Get practical insights on setting up templates, importing scanned models, and coordinating with your project team for optimal results.Key Takeaways Transform Your Financial Strategy: Understand the nuances of tax planning tailored for architects and designers. Unlock hidden savings and reinvest for long-term growth.Streamline Renovation Projects: Leverage Revit phases to manage complex projects efficiently, from initial scans to final permit sets.Actionable Resources: Gain access to expert insights, downloadable guides, and tools designed to help you navigate both tax planning and technical design challenges.Exclusive Offer from Our Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Iamthestudio, the leading professional resource for mastering design, BIM, and CAD software. Special Bonus: Get started with Iamthestudio’s comprehensive Revit Phases Guide today.Exclusive Discount: Use code "abtaxes2025" at checkout for a 25% discount on courses. Download resources and see video episode here: Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    35 min
  8. FEB 2

    New Years Resolutions for Architects | AB Ep 26

    🚀 Set Your 2025 Resolutions for a Thriving Architecture Career 🎉 The new year is here, and it’s time to level up! In our first episode of the year, Architecture Beyond is helping architects set powerful resolutions to learn new skills, expand opportunities, and position themselves for success in 2025. 🎙️ Episode Highlights: ✅ Key Skills for Architects in 2025 – Master 3D modeling, AI-powered design, parametric workflows, and more. ✅ Professional Organizations to Join – Learn how AIA, NOMA, and CSI can elevate your career. ✅ Positioning Yourself for New Opportunities – Build your brand, grow your network, and set career-changing goals. ✅ Resources to Help You Get There – Explore top courses from Iamthestudio to support your learning journey. 🔊 Tune In & Take Action! Don’t miss this essential episode to start your year strong. Subscribe now and be the first to listen! 📢 Follow & Stay Updated: https://www.instagram.com/iamthestudio/ 📚 Explore Resources: Iamthestudio Course Catalog 💡 Let’s make 2025 the year of growth, innovation, and new opportunities in architecture! Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    25 min

About

Discover the impact and opportunities around the World of Architects hearing stories from talented people in and around the architecture industry influencing the world around us.Stay tuned every two weeks for a new episode about Architecture and the world around us, including guides for making a difference and finding opportunities in the field, Episodes posted on 1st of each month, stay tuned!