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

    4D AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 110: Career & documentation Challenges  in  Architecture | Christian Nielsen-Palacios

    12/11/2025

    110: Career & documentation Challenges in Architecture | Christian Nielsen-Palacios

    Christian Nielsen-Palacios, an architect known as the Grouchy Architect. Christian shares his journey from Venezuela to the United States, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced in his architectural career. He emphasizes the importance of practical knowledge, quality control in architectural documents, and the need for architects to redefine success beyond financial metrics. Christian also shares insights on the transition from working in large firms to starting his own business, Opus 2, and offers valuable advice for young architects entering the field. Website: https://thegrouchyarchitect.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiannielsenpalacios/  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

    1h 21m
  5. 109: Latinas in Architecture

    12/04/2025

    109: Latinas in Architecture

    In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier highlights the underrepresentation of Latinas in architecture, discussing the importance of diversity in the field. She features four inspiring Latina architects: Gloria Kloter, Alexandra Chaves, Graciela Carrillo, and Luciana Braga Triplett, sharing their unique journeys and insights into the architecture profession. The conversation emphasizes mentorship, the challenges faced by minority architects, and the value of different experiences in creating better architecture. Enjoy these conversations with Gloria Kloter, Alexandra Chaves, Graciela Carrillo, and Luciana Braga Triplett 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

    1h 6m
  6. 108: Studying Architecture to Owning a Woodworking Business | Casey Schlaegle

    11/26/2025

    108: Studying Architecture to Owning a Woodworking Business | Casey Schlaegle

    Casey Schlaegle, president of Schlaegle Design Build, a custom architectural woodworking company. They discuss Casey's journey from a designer to a CEO, the importance of processes in business, material choices in woodworking, and the significance of cleanliness and organization in the shop. Casey shares insights on managing lead times, the role of shop drawings, and the value of understanding 3D design in architecture. He also offers advice for young professionals entering the industry. Website: https://schlaegle.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-schlaegle  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

    57 min
  7. 107 : You Can Be A 1099 Architect

    11/20/2025

    107 : You Can Be A 1099 Architect

    In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier explores alternative ways to practice architecture, focusing on running lean practices, collaboration among small firms, and leveraging professional support. Featuring insights from three professionals, the discussion highlights innovative approaches to managing architectural projects without the need for full-time staff, emphasizing the importance of community and support in the architecture field. Enjoy these conversations with Jenny Peysin, Erin Fantozz, and Ashton Brooks. 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

    49 min
  8. 106: Lessons Learned from having an Architecture Practice | David Stumpf

    11/13/2025

    106: Lessons Learned from having an Architecture Practice | David Stumpf

    David Stumpf, an architect who shares his journey from starting his career during a recession to launching his own practice. They discuss the challenges faced in the architecture industry, including economic downturns and the importance of networking. David emphasizes the significance of building a personal brand through social media and diversifying income streams. He also shares insights on expanding to new locations, setting long-term goals, and the value of creating beautiful designs. This conversation provides valuable advice for young professionals in the architecture field. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidtstumpf/  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

    1h 11m
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.