Business of Architecture Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Tired of Scraping By While Developers Get Rich? Listen to This | EP636 Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework

Many architects dream of doing their own developments, but the fear of financial risk, inexperience with construction, and lack of support can stop them before they start. Becoming your client sounds empowering until you're staring down zoning codes, contractor bids, and bank meetings.

In this episode, architect and developer Kevin Hittle shares how he bridged that gap. Kevin started as a laborer, became an architect, and eventually wore all three hats: architect, developer, and contractor. It's a story of sweat equity, smart deals, and building something both beautiful and profitable.

You'll learn how one small project sparked a bigger vision—and how being deeply involved at every stage of the process changed the way he now designs for others. His practical insights offer a grounded, no-fluff view of what it really takes to make development work as a solo architect. And he's clear about the one piece of experience every architect should get.

Listen to learn:

How he built a $1.8M project with less than $30K in cash
The rare zoning loophole that changed everything
Why being "the maintenance guy" made him a better architect
The unexpected thing he now regrets not upgrading

To learn more about Kevin, visit his:

Website:www.SSH-Arch.com

3 Weeks From Payroll Panic? Fixing a Cash Flow Crisis Fast | EP635 May 26, 2025

Show notes

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework

When your pipeline dries up, clients vanish without paying, and payroll is looming with no cash in sight—what do you do? In this episode, we dive into a real-life scenario where an architecture firm faces a $52K quarterly loss, $215K in overdue invoices, and only three weeks of cash left.

What happens when your firm hits a financial wall—hard—and you've got just weeks of cash left? This episode pulls back the curtain on a real architecture practice facing exactly that. You'll hear a raw, behind-the-scenes look at a business in crisis—and how smart billing, strategic thinking, and community insight begin to turn the tide.

You'll meet an architect pushed to the brink—no new projects, massive unpaid invoices, and a crushing cash flow crunch. But within the pressure, unexpected strategies emerge. From ancient Roman wheels to outsourcing breakthroughs, this episode isn't just theory—it's a survival guide.

In this episode, you'll discover:

The surprising mindset shift that instantly changes how cash flows into your firm
A little-known outsourcing trick that could save your practice six figures
Why one ancient invention still haunts your billing system—and how to break free

Ready to uncover what you don't even know is costing you?

No Trust Fund. No MBA. Just a Hustling Designer Who Developed a 3-Unit Project | EP634 May 19, 2025

Show notes

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework

What happens when a young designer stops waiting and just starts building? In this episode, we meet Shane Curry—a 30-year-old designer who decided to take the leap into development, without a roadmap, and without waiting for the perfect moment. What followed is a story of risk, grit, and surprising wins in one of the most expensive housing markets in the world.

Shane shares how he navigated his first project, convinced partners to jump in with him, and found a way to make the numbers work. He talks about how he's grown a design studio without ads, and why he refuses to do copy-paste architecture. His approach is raw, action-focused, and full of lessons for anyone tired of sitting on the sidelines.

Listen in to learn:

The unusual way Shane landed his first real estate deal
Why "being just dumb enough" might be your best strategy
How he turned $0 in marketing into a pipeline of projects
The mindset shift that made risk feel exciting—not scary

To learn more about Shane, visit his: Website: https://www.studio1904.com/

Build Wealth Without More Clients: The Architecture Hack No One Talks About May 12, 2025

Show notes

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework

Many architects dream of launching their own firm, but few do it with the level of preparation and insight that Matthew Arnold brings to the table. After nearly 15 years at a celebrated architecture practice, Matthew made a bold move, one inspired by a surprising encounter with two iconic projects in the Arizona desert. What followed was a shift not only in career, but in how he sees the role of architects in shaping their own futures.

In this heartening and practical conversation, Rion explores what made Matthew take the leap, what he did beforehand to prepare, and how he now blends the roles of designer and developer. Listeners will hear about the surprising lessons from famous architects of the past, and the critical detail that helped Matthew win a key development deal without breaking the bank.

Listen to learn:

What a legendary gala tradition reveals about the business of architecture
Why one dinner in the desert changed everything
The mistake Matthew made selling a unit too early and how it backfired
How one overlooked seller need gave him a development deal no one else could win

To learn more about Matthew, visit his:

Website: www.matthewdarnold.com

How Passion and Process Built a Thriving Global Firm May 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Business of Architecture, we meet Tima Bell, founder of Bell Design Group—a firm with global reach and an unexpected twist on what it means to practice architecture. With studios across Los Angeles, Madrid, and Argentina, Tima shares how his journey from hospitality design to managing a 50+ person team has shaped a unique approach to leadership, delegation, and culture.

You'll hear how one of his biggest challenges turned into a multi-business solution, helping not just his firm but others in the industry. He opens up about the real cost of passion, how to spot when a project is truly worth saying yes to, and when it's not. And if you've ever wondered what it really takes to grow a firm while still loving the work, this conversation offers an inspiring glimpse behind the curtain.

Listen to learn:

What most architects miss that keeps their firm stuck
A surprising way to build international credibility without a big name
How to get clients without "selling"
What happens when you let go and trust your team to rise

To learn more about Tima, visit his:

Website: www.belldesigngroup.com

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tima-bell-577b177/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_belldesigngroup

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/9gbmgfvPiEW34QNfpO0Q-wd1nJ0?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!

Forget Clients—Build What You Want and Own It Too Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

Architects often feel stuck in a cycle of underpaid work, long hours, and limited creative control—especially when dealing with the pressures of traditional practice. Many wonder if there's another path, one that offers both freedom and financial reward without leaving architecture behind.

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard sits down with Amanda Baillieu and Gus Zogolovitch, the co-founders of Developer Collective. They open up about their mission to help architects take control of their future—and why now may be the best time to make a bold move.

You'll hear the story behind how Developer Collective started, and what inspired Gus and Amanda to build something that's shaking up the status quo. They also touch on the unique skills architects already have—ones that developers deeply need—and why those talents may be more valuable than most realize.

Listen to this episode, to learn:

Why an overlooked skill architects already have might be their biggest asset
The one thing that could unlock hidden sites across London—and beyond
A surprising reason why finding money may not be the real problem
What some developers now envy about architects (and won't admit)

To learn more about Gus & Amanda, visit their:

Website: www.developercollective.co

LinkedIn: tch/https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-zogolovi

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/xcW77ZXCRSCIkd7CniAnRpJDpc4?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!

The (Surprising) Essential Skill for Architecture Firm Freedom Apr 25, 2025

Show notes

Running an architecture firm can feel like being stuck—overwhelmed, overworked, and unsure how to get free. In this episode, Geoff Hoover, principal at Business of Architecture, shares what's really holding firms back. Geoff's path from engineering to sales and lifeguarding has given him a unique ability to spot the hidden issues firm owners often miss.

You'll hear powerful stories that reveal why great design isn't enough to build a successful business. Geoff shares the mindset shifts and leadership patterns that separate the firms that thrive from the ones that merely survive. This episode is packed with insights that could unlock a whole new way of working without giving up your weekends.

What you'll discover:

What a lifeguard can teach you about running a business
Why "delegation" isn't as easy as you think
The silent trap many successful firm owners fall into
A single sentence that could change your firm for the next 10 years

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/84J4DHRLa20Gw8sgCjKCPkVPmQI?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!

The Shocking Truth About Selling Your Architecture Firm (Most Owners Have No Idea) Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

Architecture firm owners are increasingly burdened by succession planning, talent shortages, and the pressure to scale in a competitive market. Many are unsure how to exit gracefully, grow beyond 50 people, or prepare their business for long-term success, let alone navigate the complex world of mergers and acquisitions.

In this eye-opening episode, Rion Willard sits down with the founders of Stone Mill Partners, a specialist M&A firm serving the AEC industry. They peel back the curtain on how architectural firms are being bought, sold, and merged—often with surprising motivations behind each move.

The conversation reveals how cultural fit is the secret weapon in a successful acquisition—and how missing it can spell disaster. You'll also hear about the rise of private equity in architecture and what that might mean for your firm's future. Whether you're building for legacy, scaling fast, or preparing for exit, this episode gives you a glimpse of what's possible.

Why senior staff shortages are now one of the biggest drivers of firm acquisitions
The "Tinder for businesses" method of matching architecture firms with the right buyer
What really happens when private equity steps into the design world

To learn more about Stonemill Partners, visit their:

Website: https://stonemillpartners.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-neal-b6417857/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stonemillprtnrs

Instagram: ers/https://www.instagram.com/stonemillpartn

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/0NbjDwcotXBJas9bRCt_cAs1Cug?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!

628: An Architect Developer's Surprising Advice For Small Firm Owners with Zeke Freeman & Enoch Sears on The Radical Hospitality Podcast Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

Most architects start their own firms for more freedom. But too many end up overwhelmed, overworked, and underpaid. Why does this happen, and how can you break free?

In this episode, Enoch Sears speaks with architect and developer Zeke Freeman about the unseen barriers that hold back small firm owners. They uncover the surprising mindset shifts that can unlock real profitability. Plus, they explore the key difference between struggling firms and those that scale beyond $1M.

You'll also hear why some firms hit a ceiling while others break through. And if you've ever wondered whether outsourcing is the future, this episode might change how you think about remote teams.

The costly mistake most architects don't realize they're making
Why pricing your services like everyone else is a dangerous trap
The hidden fear stopping firm owners from delegating
What it really takes to go from $1M to $10M (hint: it's not what you think)

To learn more about Zeke, visit his:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/zfreeman1?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAab33UMAna1cq9m3n-cF7T9PYyFtIDL9LJJnjicA5QQDWW7ZX5YCl7g8qWU_aem_J8cHlehc-BEHqPCEu7Q0_g

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/F2LPis8AojDlLrfM5oeucoGe9xY?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!

627: A Game-Changing Framework For Escaping The Grind & Getting Your Time Back with Jason Pond & Rion Willard on The Small Business Breakthrough Podcast Apr 11, 2025

Show notes

Many architects start their firms with a vision of creative freedom, only to find themselves buried in endless work, stretched too thin, and struggling financially. In this episode, Rion Willard joins Jason Owens to reveal why so many architects hit this wall—and what they must do to escape it.

You'll hear how business structures, delegation, and financial strategies play a hidden role in shaping success. Ryan also shares personal stories of his own struggles, the game-changing moment that shifted everything, and how he and Enoch Sears built a framework to help architects reclaim their time, energy, and profits.

If you've ever wondered how to step out of the day-to-day grind, refocus your business, and actually enjoy running your practice, this episode is a must-listen.