Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture Evelyn Lee

Episode 152: Architecture, And: Using Research to Tell The Story of ArchitectureHow can architects use research to advance diversity, equity, and cultural competency within the field while articulating its value to the general public?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Kendall A. Nicholson, a licensed educator, architectural designer, and Senior Director of Research, Equity, and Education at the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), joins us to discuss equity, research, and social justice in architecture. Throughout, he emphasizes the need for diversity and cultural competency in the field and highlights the value of architecture to the world. 
First, Kendall opens up about his career journey, which began with studying architecture, then moving on to teaching, real estate development, and eventually back to architecture. He shares his belief that architecture and design should be viewed as a combination of art and science. 
Then, he stresses the importance of cultural research and representation in the field. Kendall talks about his "Where My People?'' series, which brings attention to the challenges faced by different racial groups in the architecture industry. We also dive into ACSA's efforts to advance equity in architecture, including fellowship programs and accessible resources. 
Social and ecological justice is for the betterment of everyone. When I talk about diversity, cultural competency, or implicit bias, I'm talking about the byproducts of shifting the way we understand and interact as a culture. We often describe architects as world makers or world builders. If we're literally building the world to be a permanent thing, we need to make sure that we've accounted for everyone – the systems that are in play, currently and historically, have not done that. - Kendall A. Nicholson
To wrap up the conversation, we discuss how things like climate change, artificial intelligence, racism, and sexism affect how architects understand and perform their role now and in the future. He also shares his advice for architects looking to further utilize research in their institutions and explains how we can continue to be more inclusive as designers moving forward.
Tune in next week for an episode about AI and ethics in architecture. 
Guest:
Kendall A. Nicholson
Kendall A. Nicholson is a licensed educator, trained architectural designer, and an avid researcher. He works as the Senior Director of Research, Equity, and Education at the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA). He is a graduate of the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia and the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University, winning the M.Des Publics award for outstanding research. His design work, Critical Architectural Practice is focused on the confluence of race, architecture, and education. He has presented research internationally and his research interests surround plantation landscapes, racialized epistemologies, as well as education and curriculum within the discipline of architecture.
📍 Show Links:  
Connect with Kendall on LinkedIn
Check out ACSA
📚Continue Learning:
ACSA Social Justice Shift
Where Are My People? Black in Architecture
a href="https://www.acsa-arch.org/resource/acsa-faculty-fellowship-to-advance-equity-in-architecture/"...

Episode 151: The Built Environment Futures CouncilHow can we thoughtfully integrate AI into the architecture practice and collaboratively shape a sustainable and innovative future for all?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore the work of the Built Environment Futures Council (BEFC) and its mission to thoughtfully integrate artificial intelligence into architecture and infrastructure. We are joined by key members of the BEFC – co-founders Randy Deutsch and Matthew Krissel, along with committee member Amanda Nicole Bridges. Today, they discuss the power and potential of AI in architecture, its impact on industry practices, and the ethics of integrating it into the daily workflow. 
First, Randy and Matthew share how BEFC started and explain how their vision attracted diverse experts from various backgrounds to form a national council.
Then, the panel discusses how architects can embrace AI as a tool for positive change while learning from past trends and highlights the value of diverse perspectives for the future of architecture and design. We also touch on the ever-evolving role of architects, share advice on efficiently using the extra time freed by AI, and present ways to promote collaboration across industries.
If some of what architects currently do can be done through technology, I don't see that as a full job replacement. To me, it's really exciting to think about more people having access to architects. If we don't have as large of a scope of work on every project, and our role is really specifically targeted towards helping clients ask the right questions, then it actually frees us up to work with more clients. It could lower the bar of entry to something that's more affordable and readily available for more people. I don't see how that is a hindrance. I see that as a great aspect that could lead us to live in a better design world. - Amanda Nicole Bridges
To wrap up the conversation, the group shares what the future holds for BEFC, such as exploring various funding streams and unique engagement strategies. They also encourage you to get further involved with the expansion of AI in the field and explain how you could work with BEFC in the future. 
Tune in next week for an episode about using research to tell the story of architecture. 
Guests:
Matthew Krissel FAIA
Matthew is a fellow of the American Institute of Architects and founder and director of Creative Lab 3, design-driven architecture practice working to bring exceptional design to more people and places, inspire change, and transform our collective future. 
Amanda Nicole Bridges, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP
Amanda N Bridges is a licensed architect and educator in San Francisco. She is currently a Senior Architect at Siol Studios, an integrated architecture, interiors, and landscape design practice, and an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University and the University of California Berkeley teaching architecture studio.
Randy Deutsch FAIA
For over thirty years, Randy Deutsch FAIA has been an architect and educator, and in recent years, an author, international keynote speaker, and AI researcher. As a licensed architect, Randy designed over 100 large, complex sustainable projects for which he received the AIA Young Architect Award Chicago.
📍 Show Links:  
Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn
Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn
Connect with Randy on a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/randydeutsch/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Episode 150: Women Defining AI for ArchitectsHow can we bridge the gender technology gap and ensure ethical development of AI while empowering women and non-binary individuals in STEAM fields? 
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn welcomes Helen Lee Kupp and Nichole Sterling, the co-founders of the Women Defining AI community, to the show. Helen and Nichole are dedicated to bridging the gender technology gap and advocating for ethical AI development by merging their tech expertise. They are on a mission to empower women and reshape the narrative around AI to promote an inclusive technological future.
First, we dive into the beginning of Women Defining AI, which sprouted from their shared passion for accessible AI knowledge. They highlight how their work extends beyond online platforms through a successful in-person event emphasizing the importance of fostering community. Helen and Nichole explore the gender tech gap, especially in STEAM industries, and why women need to be involved in the development of AI. They discuss the importance of understanding the language of AI for the workplace and in daily life and experimenting with its applications. 
Then, they share tips for optimizing AI models, like asking follow-up questions and training them to perform exactly how you want. They also touch on data privacy concerns behind AI, regulatory protocols, the emergence of new job roles in the future of the AI era, and how to leverage human jobs with AI jobs.
It's important that women stay close to AI. When following the developments, we're starting to see different behaviors from workplaces. More workplaces are looking for AI fluency and AI skills. So, there's already a gender gap, right? Just from a STEM perspective. But if now workforces are and workplaces are looking for AI fluency and their skill sets, women are just going to continue to fall behind. - Nichole Sterling
To wrap up the conversation, Helen and Nichole share their perspective on the often hostile mindset architects have surrounding AI and the undeniable fundamental changes AI has on the industry paradigm. They also emphasize the importance of learning and absorbing the model despite initial resistance.
Tune in next week for a special panel discussion on the Built Environment Futures Council and the integration of artificial intelligence into architecture and construction.
Guests:
Helen Lee Kupp
Helen Lee Kupp is the co-founder and creator of Women Defining AI, a community of female leaders tackling the biggest topics of understanding today’s generative AI widespread adoption through experimentation, support, and community learning. She takes a practical approach towards helping leaders navigate the biggest changes in work — both from AI/technology, and the flexible/hybrid work revolution. She is the co-author of WSJ Bestselling book “How The Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives”. She believes in closing the gender technology gap - starting with women at work - to create a future of work that looks and feels fundamentally different for her two kids and the women she mentors. We can & should do better.
Nichole Sterling
Nichole Sterling, co-founder of Women Defining AI, has always been a utility leader blending strategy, marketing, HR, and finance in tech industries. Her impact on company success ranges from returning $4M YOY to field operations teams through corporate learning initiatives, increasing sales pipeline activities by 10 - 30x by establishing a RevOps philosophy, and even driving innovation within local municipal government. Nichole's current focus is on developing AI technologies, leading a stealth company specializing in digital twins and AI agents. A fervent advocate for women in tech, Nichole combines her passion for AI with a commitment to ethical and...

Episode 149: Using Data to Create a Better Employee ExperienceHow can organizations use data to enhance the employee experience and drive positive cultural change within their workplace?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Dr. Serena Huang, a data analytics executive in Fintech, joins us to discuss how organizations can optimize the employee experience by leveraging data and communication strategies in the workplace. As a data analytics executive, Dr. Huang is passionate about leading change, building high-performance teams, and helping business leaders see data as an asset in large organizations. 
First, Dr. Huang defines the employee experience as various aspects of work, from physical environments to manager interactions and digital work capabilities. She emphasizes the importance of measuring employee experience beyond physical space and attendance and suggests surveys and feedback tools to gauge workplace culture and gather recommendations. 
Then, we explore the challenges and apprehensions that can arise when introducing survey data to the workplace, including concerns about legal action and the fear of uncovering uncomfortable truths. For architects, we address the common fear about not being able to afford an immediate solution for desires such as taking time off. Dr. Huang shares advice for effectively communicating with architecture leaders who are reluctant to engage in surveys due to these fears, yet recognize their need for growth. She believes leadership needs timely action, collaborative problem-solving, and transparency to drive change.
It comes down to communication. Fundamentally, as humans, we all need to be heard, whether at home, in a relationship, or at work. For employees to feel heard, instead of ignoring the elephant in the room, why don't we ask about it and then come up with some solutions? It may not be the perfect solution, but I think the leadership team should come from a place of genuine care, communicate that back to the employees and say, "We heard you." - Dr. Serena Huang
To wrap up the conversation, Dr. Huang shares her perspective on employees and leaders navigating their career alongside their mental health management. She advocates for leadership therapy and coaching sessions to enhance self-awareness and emotional well-being.
Tune in next week for an episode about women defining AI for architects.
Guest:
Dr. Serena Huang
Dr. Serena Huang is an accomplished thought leader and professional keynote speaker with 150+ speaking engagements covering topics including people analytics, AI, future of work, personal branding, and data storytelling. She regularly guest-lectures at top MBA programs including Kellogg, Wharton, and Haas. Dr. Huang's unique ability to speak to audiences of different cultures and backgrounds, along with her experience in both F100 and startups make her an in-demand speaker. Her 2024 focus is helping organizations realize the full potential of AI through creating a new workforce strategy and improving internal talent mobility.
Prior to founding Data With Serena, Dr. Huang led sizable analytics teams at prominent organizations including PayPal, Kraft Heinz, GE, and Koch Industries. She pioneered the applications of machine learning algorithms to predict absenteeism and turnover and led corporate councils for Ethical AI in these global organizations. Dr. Huang holds a Ph.D. in Economics with specializations in Econometrics and Labor Economics. 
📍 Show Links:  
Connect with Dr. Huang on LinkedIn
a href="https://www.linkedin.com/learning/the-data-analytics-of-diversity-inclusion-and-well-being/the-business-case-of-diversity-inclusion-and-well-being-at-work" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Episode 148: The Future of Tech within AECHow can technology, innovation, and sustainable practices transform the architecture, engineering, and construction industry?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I chat with Dave Lemont, the past CEO of Revit and the Executive Chairman of Acelab with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. In our conversation, Dave shares his invaluable insights on scaling software companies, revolutionizing the architecture industry, and the massive potential in the future of digital tools. 
First, Dave discusses how his passion for photography and architecture influenced his career path. He also highlights how his entrepreneurial mindset and desire to innovate the industry immensely helped him grow and lead his companies. Dave's expertise lies in identifying product-market fit and creating solutions that address broader market needs rather than niche segments.
As the executive chairman of Acelab, Dave is dedicated to revolutionizing material management in the AEC space, allowing architects to access sustainable building materials efficiently. He touches on the potential of these digital tools in architecture and explains why architects need to be engaged in the evolution of AI. 
Architecture is an opportunity to do something for people in the world. Not all the software that I've managed or sold in my life had that potential impact. How this room feels affects me all day. Where you go to school, the efficiency of that building, and how our museums look or how we feel when we walk in – all of those things affect our lives. It's a privilege to be involved in technology that can make that more efficient. - Dave Lemont
To wrap up the episode, Dave shares his recommendations on building your pipeline and adjusting workflow to keep your business afloat amidst the ever-changing and often confusing landscape architects operate within. Dave also shares his perspective on bridging the gap between traditional architectural practices and digital innovation while advising young architects to use a grassroots approach to incorporate new technology into their companies. 
Tune in next week for an episode about using people analytics to improve employee engagement. 
Guest:
David Lemont
David Lemont is an accomplished business leader, go-to-market strategist, and advisor with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. David has extensive experience in SaaS business applications with keen expertise in construction tech. Helped five companies to successful exits to high-tech leaders such as Autodesk, Trimble, HP, Oracle, etc.
He is best known for his role as CEO of Revit; the predominant way buildings are designed in 3D today. Dave is currently the Executive Chairman of Acelab.
📍 Show Links:  
Connect with Dave on LinkedIn
Explore Acelab’s free specification workflow tools
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Episode 147: The Power of Copywriting for ArchitectsHow can architects use copywriting techniques to communicate their value, connect with their ideal clients, and improve their marketing?
On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I'm excited to share my very special conversation with Nikita Morell, an expert copywriter who specializes in working with architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words. In this episode, Nikita discusses the importance of effectively communicating our ideas and embracing our humanity as architects and shares advice for crafting copy to help you market your value as an architect. 
First, Nikita explains the science and art behind copywriting and emphasizes the need for intentional, research-based writing tailored to your ideal client. She also shares tips on making architecture copy more accessible to a broader audience by replacing heavy jargon with conversational words and phrases. 
Then, Nikita highlights her approach to copywriting, focusing on tone of voice and audience connection. She also encourages architects to work collaboratively with the copywriting community and learn exactly how to prompt AI tools and use them as a starting point for specific copy. 
A good way just to start is to really take a step back and just make your copy a little bit more conversational. Try and remove some of that jargon. A lot of architects, when they don't really know what they're trying to say, sometimes hide behind a little bit of jargon that makes them sound smart.  - Nikita Morell 
To wrap up the episode, Nikita offers you an opportunity to work with her in person and gives a sneak peek at her proven framework for gathering, utilizing, and optimizing a client testimonial. 
Tune in next week for an episode about the future of technology within the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. 
Guest:
Nikita Morell
Nikita Morell is a copywriter for only architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words.
Nikita specializes in making architecture websites sound more human, less robot—so architects can get a steady stream of ridiculously good projects. Nikita analyzed 663 architecture websites, you can see the results on her website.
📍 Show Links:  
Connect with Nikita on LinkedIn
Learn more about Nikita
Check out Nikita’s Architects WordShop
Check out Nikita’s resources 
📚Continue Learning:
Learn more about the 2024 AIA Conference on Architecture and Design in Washington D.C.
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