mentorDINO

mentorDINO

mentorDINO is the podcast for AEC professionals who want more than just a job title—they want a fulfilling, flexible, and future-ready career. Hosted by Katelyn Rossier, AEC mentor and founder of the mentorDINO Academy, this show features real conversations with architects, engineers, and construction professionals who’ve navigated the twists, turns, and pivots of the industry. Each episode is packed with practical advice, honest insights, and career wisdom you won’t find in textbooks. Whether you’re just starting out, considering a career shift, or looking to level up, mentorDINO gives you the clarity, confidence, and community to take your next step with purpose. You can expect inspiring career stories and pivots from across the AEC world; lessons learned from real-world experience; and actionable advice for exams, firm culture, and career growth. This isn’t just a podcast. It’s your weekly dose of mentorship, momentum, and mindset for building a career you’re proud of. Subscribe now and start shaping your AEC journey with intention.

  1. 118: Why Hourly Billing is KILLING your business | Jonathan Stark

    5D AGO

    118: Why Hourly Billing is KILLING your business | Jonathan Stark

    Jonathan Stark, a former software developer turned business consultant, about the transition from hourly billing to value-based pricing in the architecture and engineering (AEC) industry. Jonathan shares his journey of discovering the pitfalls of hourly billing, the importance of understanding client value, and how to align financial incentives to foster better client relationships. He emphasizes the need for architects and engineers to shift their mindset from being service providers to business owners, and offers practical advice for young professionals looking to establish their own practices. The conversation also touches on the significance of building a mailing list and thought leadership to attract the right clients and create a sustainable business. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstark/ Website: https://jonathanstark.com/ BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing and Motion Graphics: Gus Bernal www.gusbernal.com Instagram: @gus_bernal_film mentorDINO: The Support System Architecture Forgot to Build We’re here to help the architectural industry thrive by providing the training, resources, and community that professionals need to succeed. mentorDINO transforms your firm from training chaos to team competency. We empower your staff with the on-demand technical and documentation skills they need to reduce costly rework and drive firm profitability. Explore how we can support you: For Firms & Individuals: mentorDINO Academy The on-demand training system built to transform operational chaos into competency. With 50+ courses, we help firms reduce costly rework and empower professionals to build confidence and skills they can apply right away. ► Explore the Academy https://academy.mentordino.com/ For Your Career Path: Individual Courses & Coaching Whether you’re just starting out, getting licensed, or feeling stuck mid-career, our targeted, self-paced courses provide the clarity and strategy you need to move forward with confidence. ► See All Courses https://www.mentordino.com/ #architecture #engineering #construction #design #businessowner #Interviews #AEC #podcast #professionaldevelopment

    1h 8m
  2. 117: Built my Practice Series | Alyce Anderson

    APR 2

    117: Built my Practice Series | Alyce Anderson

    Katelyn Rossier introduces her new series 'Conversations That Built My Practice,' sharing how mentorship and personal stories shaped her career and inspired her to start her own architecture practice. She emphasizes the power of conversations, mentorship, and intentional living in building a sustainable career. Alyce Anderson. Ep #17 Lesson : Being an Entrepreneur takes endurance! In your career you will always be between pivot, quit, or don't change regardless if you own your own business or work for someone. BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing and Motion Graphics: Gus Bernal www.gusbernal.com Instagram: @gus_bernal_film mentorDINO: The Support System Architecture Forgot to Build We’re here to help the architectural industry thrive by providing the training, resources, and community that professionals need to succeed. mentorDINO transforms your firm from training chaos to team competency. We empower your staff with the on-demand technical and documentation skills they need to reduce costly rework and drive firm profitability. For Firms & Individuals: mentorDINO Academy The on-demand training system built to transform operational chaos into competency. With 500+ courses, we help firms reduce costly rework and empower professionals to build confidence and skills they can apply right away. ► Explore the Academy https://www.mentordino.com/ #architecture #engineering #construction #design #businessowner #Interviews #AEC #podcast #professionaldevelopment Mentioned in this episode: Practice Series Episodes

    1h 8m
  3. 115: Building a Remote Structural Engineering Firm | Andy Richardson

    MAR 12

    115: Building a Remote Structural Engineering Firm | Andy Richardson

    Andy Richardson, a structural engineer and owner of 29E6 in Beaufort, South Carolina. Andy shares insights from his 27-year career in structural engineering, discussing the evolution of the industry from a generalist approach to a more specialized focus. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability in engineering, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has allowed for remote work and a broader talent pool. Andy also reflects on his journey of starting his own firm during the Great Recession, highlighting the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, including the necessity of humility and the value of asking questions in a professional setting. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyrich/ Website: https://29e6.co/ BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing and Motion Graphics: Gus Bernal www.gusbernal.com Instagram: @gus_bernal_film mentorDINO: The Support System Architecture Forgot to Build We’re here to help the architectural industry thrive by providing the training, resources, and community that professionals need to succeed. mentorDINO transforms your firm from training chaos to team competency. We empower your staff with the on-demand technical and documentation skills they need to reduce costly rework and drive firm profitability. Explore how we can support you: For Firms & Individuals: mentorDINO Academy The on-demand training system built to transform operational chaos into competency. With 50+ courses, we help firms reduce costly rework and empower professionals to build confidence and skills they can apply right away. ► Explore the Academy https://academy.mentordino.com/ For Your Career Path: Individual Courses & Coaching Whether you’re just starting out, getting licensed, or feeling stuck mid-career, our targeted, self-paced courses provide the clarity and strategy you need to move forward with confidence. ► See All Courses https://www.mentordino.com/ #architecture #engineering #construction #design #businessowner #Interviews #AEC #podcast #professionaldevelopment

    55 min
  4. 114: How Opportunities Define an Architect's Career | Tooba Jalal

    FEB 26

    114: How Opportunities Define an Architect's Career | Tooba Jalal

    Tooba Jalal, an architectural designer based in Austin, Texas. Tooba shares her journey from Pakistan to the United States, detailing her educational background and professional experiences in various cities. The conversation explores the cultural influences on architecture, the challenges faced by unlicensed architects, and the importance of leadership development within the field. Tuba also discusses her involvement in the Women in Architecture initiatives and offers valuable advice for young professionals navigating their careers in architecture. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tooba-jalal/ BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing and Motion Graphics: Gus Bernal www.gusbernal.com Instagram: @gus_bernal_film mentorDINO: The Support System Architecture Forgot to Build We’re here to help the architectural industry thrive by providing the training, resources, and community that professionals need to succeed. mentorDINO transforms your firm from training chaos to team competency. We empower your staff with the on-demand technical and documentation skills they need to reduce costly rework and drive firm profitability. Explore how we can support you: For Firms & Individuals: mentorDINO Academy The on-demand training system built to transform operational chaos into competency. With 50+ courses, we help firms reduce costly rework and empower professionals to build confidence and skills they can apply right away. ► Explore the Academy https://academy.mentordino.com/ For Your Career Path: Individual Courses & Coaching Whether you’re just starting out, getting licensed, or feeling stuck mid-career, our targeted, self-paced courses provide the clarity and strategy you need to move forward with confidence. ► See All Courses https://www.mentordino.com/ #architecture #engineering #construction #design #businessowner #Interviews #AEC #podcast #professionaldevelopment

    55 min
  5. 113: Growing into Leadership at a Large Architecture Firm | Meghan Webster

    FEB 12

    113: Growing into Leadership at a Large Architecture Firm | Meghan Webster

    Meghan Webster, principal and co-managing director of Gensler's Chicago office. They discuss Megan's journey in architecture, the importance of mentorship, and how to navigate career growth within a large firm. Megan shares her insights on the significance of intentionality in professional relationships and offers valuable advice for young professionals starting their careers. The conversation also touches on the transition from project work to leadership roles and the importance of building relationships in the industry. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-webster-78112a17/ BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing and Motion Graphics: Gus Bernal www.gusbernal.com Instagram: @gus_bernal_film mentorDINO: The Support System Architecture Forgot to Build We’re here to help the architectural industry thrive by providing the training, resources, and community that professionals need to succeed. mentorDINO transforms your firm from training chaos to team competency. We empower your staff with the on-demand technical and documentation skills they need to reduce costly rework and drive firm profitability. Explore how we can support you: For Firms & Individuals: mentorDINO Academy The on-demand training system built to transform operational chaos into competency. With 50+ courses, we help firms reduce costly rework and empower professionals to build confidence and skills they can apply right away. ► Explore the Academy https://academy.mentordino.com/ For Your Career Path: Individual Courses & Coaching Whether you’re just starting out, getting licensed, or feeling stuck mid-career, our targeted, self-paced courses provide the clarity and strategy you need to move forward with confidence. ► See All Courses https://www.mentordino.com/ #architecture #engineering #construction #design #businessowner #Interviews #AEC #podcast #professionaldevelopment

    52 min
  6. 112: From Architect to Brand Ambassador | Dory Azar

    JAN 29

    112: From Architect to Brand Ambassador | Dory Azar

    Dory Azar is a licensed architect in Ontario and Michigan. He started his education in Windsor and later pursued his bachelor's and master's degrees. Dory ran his own architectural practice for 14 years before transitioning to a brand ambassador role. He emphasizes the importance of pursuing your passion in architecture, especially in residential design. Dory learned valuable lessons about hiring and managing a firm, particularly regarding administrative support. Social media played a significant role in Dory's career transition and growth. He encourages young professionals to design their careers like they would design a building. Dory believes architects possess valuable problem-solving skills applicable in various industries. Networking through social media has allowed Dory to connect with professionals worldwide. He advises those feeling stuck in architecture to explore adjacent opportunities. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dory-azar-5515679/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dory.azar.architect/ BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing and Motion Graphics: Gus Bernal www.gusbernal.com Instagram: @gus_bernal_film mentorDINO: The Support System Architecture Forgot to Build We’re here to help the architectural industry thrive by providing the training, resources, and community that professionals need to succeed. mentorDINO transforms your firm from training chaos to team competency. We empower your staff with the on-demand technical and documentation skills they need to reduce costly rework and drive firm profitability. Explore how we can support you: For Firms & Individuals: mentorDINO Academy The on-demand training system built to transform operational chaos into competency. With 50+ courses, we help firms reduce costly rework and empower professionals to build confidence and skills they can apply right away. ► Explore the Academy https://academy.mentordino.com/ For Your Career Path: Individual Courses & Coaching Whether you’re just starting out, getting licensed, or feeling stuck mid-career, our targeted, self-paced courses provide the clarity and strategy you need to move forward with confidence. ► See All Courses https://www.mentordino.com/ For Community & Mentorship: The mentorDINO Network Sometimes the office isn’t enough. The Network is our private community where you can connect with peers, find mentors, and get real support from professionals at every stage of their careers. ► Join the Network https://www.mentordino.com/network/ #architecture #engineering #construction #design #businessowner #Interviews #AEC #podcast #professionaldevelopment

    51 min
  7. 111: Last Episode of 2025

    12/18/2025

    111: Last Episode of 2025

    In this episode of the MentorDino podcast, Katelyn Rossier reflects on the 2025 season, sharing lessons learned, personal updates, and future plans for the podcast and MentorDino Academy. She discusses the challenges of podcasting while navigating motherhood, the successful launch of the Academy, and her transition to becoming a firm owner. Katelyn emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community support as she looks forward to 2026.  BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing and Motion Graphics: Gus Bernal www.gusbernal.com Instagram: @gus_bernal_film mentorDINO: The Support System Architecture Forgot to Build We’re here to help the architectural industry thrive by providing the training, resources, and community that professionals need to succeed. mentorDINO transforms your firm from training chaos to team competency. We empower your staff with the on-demand technical and documentation skills they need to reduce costly rework and drive firm profitability. Explore how we can support you: For Firms & Individuals: mentorDINO Academy The on-demand training system built to transform operational chaos into competency. With 50+ courses, we help firms reduce costly rework and empower professionals to build confidence and skills they can apply right away. ► Explore the Academy https://academy.mentordino.com/ For Your Career Path: Individual Courses & Coaching Whether you’re just starting out, getting licensed, or feeling stuck mid-career, our targeted, self-paced courses provide the clarity and strategy you need to move forward with confidence. ► See All Courses https://www.mentordino.com/ For Community & Mentorship: The mentorDINO Network Sometimes the office isn’t enough. The Network is our private community where you can connect with peers, find mentors, and get real support from professionals at every stage of their careers. ► Join the Network https://www.mentordino.com/network/ #architecture #engineering #construction #design #businessowner #Interviews #AEC #podcast #professionaldevelopment

    15 min
5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

mentorDINO is the podcast for AEC professionals who want more than just a job title—they want a fulfilling, flexible, and future-ready career. Hosted by Katelyn Rossier, AEC mentor and founder of the mentorDINO Academy, this show features real conversations with architects, engineers, and construction professionals who’ve navigated the twists, turns, and pivots of the industry. Each episode is packed with practical advice, honest insights, and career wisdom you won’t find in textbooks. Whether you’re just starting out, considering a career shift, or looking to level up, mentorDINO gives you the clarity, confidence, and community to take your next step with purpose. You can expect inspiring career stories and pivots from across the AEC world; lessons learned from real-world experience; and actionable advice for exams, firm culture, and career growth. This isn’t just a podcast. It’s your weekly dose of mentorship, momentum, and mindset for building a career you’re proud of. Subscribe now and start shaping your AEC journey with intention.