Business of Architecture Podcast

Enoch Sears & Rion Willard
  • 4.8 (291)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Business of Architecture Podcast

Discover strategies, tips and secrets for running a fun, flexible and profitable architecture practice. The focus here is simple: discussion of ways for architects to create a dream architecture practice: design what you want, when you want, and get paid well for it.

  1. 583: Leadership Secrets Architects Aren’t Talking About with Rion Willard

    3 HR. AGO

    583: Leadership Secrets Architects Aren’t Talking About with Rion Willard

    Architects often struggle with balancing leadership while managing their practice, where creative vision, profit, and team dynamics can clash. Many find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and stuck in a cycle of decisions, unable to move beyond being the central figure in their business. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard dives deep into an often overlooked aspect of leadership that many mistake as being weak. He challenges common perceptions and offers a new way to think about leading with purpose, rather than letting profit or ego take control. Along the way, Rion introduces ideas from spiritual traditions that can help shift your approach to business leadership. What is the one thing Rion says should take priority over profit in your business? Why does he believe most businesses unknowingly sabotage themselves? Discover the surprising truth behind "ruthless compassion" and how it can strengthen your leadership. Learn how an ancient leadership model could transform your team's success.   Link: https://inaspaciousplace.wordpress.com/2017/02/12/thomas-merton-on-love/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/ys-50gTciPXWTNIBYew0TW0Omro?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    44 min
  2. 582: Don't WORRY About a Recession - Do THIS Instead with Enoch Sears

    4 DAYS AGO

    582: Don't WORRY About a Recession - Do THIS Instead with Enoch Sears

    Architects often face uncertainty and fear when a recession hits. Projects get canceled, clients pull back, and the ripple effect can lead to layoffs and financial strain. In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into these challenges and how architects can navigate them. He shares personal stories from past recessions and explains why architecture is especially vulnerable to these cycles. Instead of worrying about the next downturn, he outlines key skills every architect should master. Discover how to shift your mindset and take proactive steps to secure your practice. Enoch offers a fresh perspective on how to turn challenging times into opportunities for growth. Learn what it takes to build a resilient architecture practice. What surprising event almost derailed Enoch’s early career? Why do some architects suffer from "architectural PTSD"? What is the one mindset shift that can help you thrive in tough times? Which four "savage skills" are crucial for every architect?   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/eRHklwu_RHvsZKZCqP1FXcGRcn4?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    28 min
  3. 581: The Architect's Dilemma: Navigating Tough Clients and Design Decisions with Chris Kempel of Kempel Architects

    OCT 18

    581: The Architect's Dilemma: Navigating Tough Clients and Design Decisions with Chris Kempel of Kempel Architects

    Architects often struggle to balance client expectations, business management, and the creative demands of design. Managing client relationships while ensuring high-quality design work, all within the constraints of time and budget can be overwhelming. Technology adds another layer of complexity but also offers solutions. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard talks with Chris Kempel, an experienced architect who shares his journey from co-founding Rockefeller Kempel Architects to starting his new venture. Chris reflects on the challenges and successes of his 21-year career, offering invaluable insights into managing client relationships, maintaining design integrity, and leveraging technology. He also dives into the lessons learned from his past experiences and how he's shaping the future of his boutique firm. Listen in as Chris reveals how he balances creativity with the practical side of running a business, and find out how he builds strong, lasting client connections. The conversation touches on unexpected insights that might change how you approach projects. What’s one thing that can make or break a client relationship? How can architects effectively juggle design and business management? The surprising role technology plays in creating stunning designs. What Chris looks for when turning down a project.   To learn more about Chris, visit his: Website: https://www.kempelarchitects.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherkempel   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/eb8EbLBCME70vxJEXSbbDAPJVXo?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    57 min
  4. 580: Architects vs. Contractors: Who Really Calls the Shots? with Chris Butler of Walter Lily

    OCT 14

    580: Architects vs. Contractors: Who Really Calls the Shots? with Chris Butler of Walter Lily

    Architects often struggle with balancing leadership roles, managing design integrity, and navigating the complexities of construction development. As project demands increase, they face the challenge of maintaining control while collaborating with contractors who often take on more design responsibility. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Chris Butler, managing director of Walter Lily, to explore his remarkable career journey. Chris shares insights from his 26-year career with a single company, including a surprising start and an unexpected twist that led to his current role. He also touches on the evolution of contractor-architect relationships, the challenges of modern construction, and the importance of nurturing team dynamics. Chris reveals the key strategies he uses to manage a large organization, balance client demands, and foster innovation, all while reflecting on the shifts in the construction industry. His thoughts on leadership, psychology, and building successful teams offer lessons for anyone looking to improve their business. How a chance event altered the course of Chris’s career The surprising shift in the balance of power between architects and contractors The one major change that improved his company’s structure Why Chris believes some critical skills in construction are disappearing   To learn more about Chris, visit his: Website: https://www.walterlilly.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walterlilly1924/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walterlilly1924/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true Twitter: https://twitter.com/WalterLilly1924   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/DFxj8mQhYXPpBFp1LuEqRIxEpZo?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    1 hr
  5. 579: Design vs. Dollars: Striking the Perfect Balance with Brian Wakelin of Public Architecture

    OCT 11

    579: Design vs. Dollars: Striking the Perfect Balance with Brian Wakelin of Public Architecture

    One of the biggest challenges architects face is managing a growing team while ensuring design quality doesn't suffer. As firms expand, architects often struggle to balance creative vision with the demands of business growth. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Brian Wakelin, co-founder of Public Architecture, to discuss the evolution of his firm and its unique multidisciplinary approach. Brian shares how his background, unexpected opportunities, and key partnerships helped shape the firm's direction. Brian offers some unexpected insights on how architects can influence larger organizations and navigate complex client relationships. He also touches on the importance of saying no to certain projects and learning to let go of tasks as a firm grows. How Brian’s surprising encounter led to a long-standing client relationship. The key to growing a firm while keeping design integrity intact. Why some projects aren’t worth taking on—even with a great client. One role that transformed the way Public Architecture operates.   To learn more about Brian, visit his: Website: https://www.publicdesign.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/publicdesignvancouver/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/public-architecture-communication   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/cyvRA2RPC-jq9w-H2WiRI-fNCdA?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    56 min
  6. 578: Hiring Hacks Every Architect Needs to Know with Jamie Van Cuyk of Grow Your Team

    OCT 7

    578: Hiring Hacks Every Architect Needs to Know with Jamie Van Cuyk of Grow Your Team

    Architects often face unique challenges when trying to grow their team, from hiring talent with the right skills to managing the overwhelming demand for new projects. Finding the right fit in a competitive market can feel like an uphill battle, leaving many firms struggling with staffing issues. In this episode, Rion Willard talks with Jamie Van Cuyk, a small business hiring strategist and owner of Growing Your Team. Jamie shares her unique journey from corporate life to becoming a hiring expert and provides valuable insights for small business owners struggling to find the right talent. You'll hear tips on avoiding common hiring mistakes and how to make your hiring process more effective, but with a fresh perspective that may surprise you. Jamie also discusses some unexpected challenges businesses face when trying to find the right fit and offers advice on making smarter hiring decisions. She shares practical strategies on how to bring in the right team members and ensure they succeed from day one. What are the hidden challenges small businesses face when hiring? Why might your job posts be the reason you're not getting good candidates? How can you ensure your new hire fits in right away? What common hiring mistake could be holding your business back?   To learn more about Jamie, visit her: Website: https://growingyourteam.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrowingYourTeam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growingyourteam/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamievancuyk   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/SEnkBtYZzY8zCy0ijzUqbEOIMHk?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    54 min
  7. 577: 7 Habits of Highly Ineffective Firm Owners with Enoch Sears

    OCT 4

    577: 7 Habits of Highly Ineffective Firm Owners with Enoch Sears

    In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into the habits that could be holding your architecture firm back. He highlights the common mistakes firm owners make without even realizing it. By following these patterns, you may be working harder but not seeing the results you deserve. What if avoiding just a few key habits could lead to better clients, more time, and more money? Enoch’s advice might be the game-changer you need. Discover how making small changes could help you step off the hamster wheel and into a more rewarding practice. Are you unintentionally underpricing your work? Why is focusing on the wrong tasks costing you big time? What’s one thing you’re doing that keeps clients from valuing your designs? Could a simple shift in mindset help you win more business?   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/MjuOVj__hZ9IrypbsUiOLZpqWm4?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    30 min
  8. 576: 3 Success Principles for Leading a Firm with Erika Moody of Helix Architecture + Design

    SEP 30

    576: 3 Success Principles for Leading a Firm with Erika Moody of Helix Architecture + Design

    Join us for this episode, where Enoch Sears sits down with Erika Moody, president of Helix Architecture + Design and current IIDA president, to explore the qualities that make for effective leadership in architecture. Erika shares valuable insights on navigating challenges in leadership, managing ego, and adapting to client demands. She also reflects on her experience as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, offering candid advice for younger architects. Throughout the conversation, Erika emphasizes the importance of patience, mentorship, and community involvement for long-term career success. What are the three key behaviors that can make or break a leader’s success? Discover how embracing client surprises can lead to unexpected design breakthroughs. Erika reveals a powerful strategy that helps her stand out in a room full of men. Learn the one career-building tip that every young architect should know but rarely follow.   To learn more about Erika, visit her: Website: https://www.helixus.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helixKC/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/helix-architecture---design Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helix_kc/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/CrkF-O4zJ2sNBc_9AsbeQITkruc?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

    25 min
See All (628)

4.8
out of 5
291 Ratings

About

Discover strategies, tips and secrets for running a fun, flexible and profitable architecture practice. The focus here is simple: discussion of ways for architects to create a dream architecture practice: design what you want, when you want, and get paid well for it.

Information

  • Creator
    Enoch Sears & Rion Willard
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2024
  • Episodes
    628
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Business of Architecture
  • Show Website
    Business of Architecture Podcast

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada