Business of Architecture Podcast

Latest Episodes:

626: From Architect to Developer: A Dangerous Move or a Bold New Model? with David Cross of Skyhouse Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

Most architects dream of building their own projects—but when it comes time to raise money, navigate risk, and manage construction, many find themselves stuck. Without the right systems, support, or business model, those dreams quickly fade under the weight of complexity and cost.

David Cross joins Rion Willard to tell the story of how he left a traditional practice to tackle one of the biggest problems in UK housing. In this episode, David shares the bold move that started it all—and the surprising childhood experience that planted the seed. He opens up about the risks, the wins, and what it really takes to build a housing company from scratch.

They explore what's missing in today's housing system and how David's team found a fresh way to solve it. He also talks about the turning point that made him sell his practice and start over. If you've ever wondered how an architect becomes a developer—and why you might want to—you'll want to listen to this.

Discover the planning hack that helped David get early buy-in before he even had land
The little-known reason most architects fail at building their own projects
How a scooter crash inspired a key design test
What to ask before choosing your next funding partner

To learn more about David, visit his:

Website: https://sky-house.co/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/skyhouseco

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

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/w4wRWmNItI8U-MvJt5bayqMBsD8?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!

625: Why Design Talent Won't Win You Clients (and What Will) with Joseph Aniedu of AGA Associates Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Rion Willard speaks with Joseph Aniedu, a seasoned architect with extensive experience across a range of project types and procurement methods. Joseph has led both internal and external design teams in the successful delivery of complex, multi-disciplinary projects, spanning residential, hospitality, and mixed-use sectors.

With a remarkable portfolio that includes award-winning healthcare and hospitality projects in the UK, Joseph's work has contributed to projects totaling nearly £1 billion in value. His tenure as a senior architect for major clients has refined his approach to balancing the critical demands of quality, time, cost, and resource management in each project.

An advocate for collaborative problem-solving, Joseph works seamlessly with design teams, main contractors, specialist sub-contractors, and suppliers, ensuring strategic and detail-oriented solutions for every project. His passion for Building Information Modeling (BIM) underlines his dedication to enhancing workflow and efficiency across all RIBA stages, ensuring smoother and more effective project delivery from start to finish. Please join us in welcoming Joseph Aniedu to the show!

In today's episode, we will be discussing:

Growth in the Healthcare sector
Leadership and strategic vision
Client acquisition

To learn more about Joseph, visit his:

Website: https://www.aga-associates.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aga-associates/mycompany/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AGA-Associates-103902125557367

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AgaAssociates

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/UmC1Qo-GHvT_vhim7SqlS8ZDKSk?tab=chat&view=transcript

► 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!

624: Overlooked Strategies for Profitability Without Working Harder with Enoch & Rion Mar 28, 2025

Show notes

How can you boost your architecture firm's profitability—without taking on more work? In this episode, Rion Willard and Enoch Sears break down an often-overlooked strategy that could transform your business overnight. They discuss how pricing isn't just a number—it's positioning, marketing, and psychology all wrapped into one.

Discover why some firms effortlessly command premium fees while others struggle with clients who push back on pricing. Learn how one simple tweak to your service offerings could create new revenue streams instantly. Plus, get insight into the surprising lessons architecture can take from industries like luxury watches and high-end hospitality.

What luxury brands know about pricing that most architects ignore
A small shift in how you present fees that could dramatically increase your profits
Why certain clients will happily pay more—and how to find them
The hidden danger of "pricing dilution" and how to avoid it

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/Ya3EdEYd3TnNIMbNttEaBz95VU4?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!

623: Why Architects Struggle to Innovate—And How to Fix It with Josh Sanabria of GoArchitect Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

What happens when an architect breaks free from traditional practice and takes an unconventional path? In this episode, Josh Sanabria, founder of GoArchitect, shares how his journey led him from design studios to a unique intersection of software, community engagement, and architecture. His company has found an innovative way to help school districts secure funding for major projects—but it's not what you'd expect.

Josh reveals how a surprising realization forced him to pivot his business model completely, leading to explosive growth. He also discusses the overlooked challenges that architects face when trying to innovate within the industry—and how he overcame them. Plus, he shares a simple yet powerful strategy that took his company from a struggling startup to a nationally recognized platform.

The unexpected business lesson Josh learned from a failed media venture
Why the traditional way of planning school projects is broken—and what's replacing it
How a hidden rule about school funding changed the course of his career
The one email that instantly created demand for his services

To learn more about Josh, visit his:

Website: https://www.goarchitect.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpsanabria/

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/3ToiIKgl98D05o-Yp5kz7XX-zc8?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!

622: How to Charge More Without Losing Clients (And Why They'll Thank You for It) with Enoch Sears & Rion Willard Mar 21, 2025

Show notes

Raising your fees can feel risky, but what if it actually enhances your client's experience? In this episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard dive deeper into the psychology of pricing, client perception, and how creating the right kind of buying experience can make clients more willing to pay premium fees—without resistance.

Rion shares a surprising turn of events from his watch-buying fiasco and how a frustrating purchasing experience almost ruined a sale. The lesson? The process of buying matters just as much as the product. Enoch and Rion also discuss the hidden mindset shifts that separate struggling architects from those who effortlessly command higher fees.

Why charging more can actually make clients happier
The subtle shift that makes high-end clients say "yes" to premium fees
How architects unintentionally sabotage their sales conversations
A simple, powerful exercise to overcome your discomfort with money

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/iPUC3GQM0xjP4DJZBpIKvayGm9s?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!

621: What Clients Really Value in Architecture (And What You're Getting Wrong)with Enoch Sears & Rion Willard Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

Think you know what your clients truly value? You might be surprised. In this episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard dive into the hidden psychology behind financial decisions in architecture. They reveal why architects often assume the wrong things about their clients—and how those blind spots lead to pricing struggles, missed opportunities, and frustrating conversations about fees.

Rion shares a personal story about an electrician who completely misread his priorities, leading to a lost sale. This simple mistake mirrors what many architects unknowingly do in their own businesses. Enoch and Rion break down a powerful framework for uncovering what your clients actually care about—and how to position your services so they're eager to invest.

The counterintuitive reason clients might want to pay more (but won't tell you why)
The subtle mistake that shifts every conversation toward price—and how to avoid it
How to make clients excited to invest in high-quality design solutions
A psychological trigger that luxury brands use—and how architects can apply it

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/diTRU7zLTgn6TcxA3cCPVSfb3hQ?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!

620: Why Clients Delay Payments (& How Architects Can Stop Being Manipulated) with Haritos Sofios of bugleLabs Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

What if the biggest challenges in architecture—clients not paying on time and miscommunication disasters—could be solved with one powerful tool?

In this episode, Rion Willard speaks with tech entrepreneur Harry Sofios, founder of Bugle Labs, about his mission to fix the broken architect-client relationship.

Harry shares the eye-opening stories that led him to develop a software platform designed to eliminate cash flow nightmares and reduce project chaos. He reveals how lessons from e-learning technology inspired a smarter way for architects to manage projects, protect their work, and ensure they get paid—without awkward conversations or legal headaches.

The shocking reason architects struggle to get paid (and why it's preventable).
A hidden problem that quietly destroys projects—until it explodes at the worst time.
How a controversial approach to client agreements can save architects from disaster.
A real-life cautionary tale that will make you rethink how you share your work.

To learn more about Haritos, visit his:

Website: https://buglelabs.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haritos-harry-sofios-b4a04a146/

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/UJiTkXhbrQjiDmMImnlblCg1LzM?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!

619: The Ugly Truth About Succession Planning: What No One Tells Firm Owners with Phillip Ross of Anchin Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

Succession planning—it's one of the biggest decisions an architecture firm owner will ever make. In this episode, we sit down with CPA and succession planning expert Phillip Ross to explore the key financial and strategic moves every firm should consider when planning their transition. Whether you're thinking of selling, passing the baton internally, or exploring other options, this conversation uncovers insights most firm owners overlook.

We also discuss how to maximize the value of your firm, the critical mistake that can drastically reduce your payout, and why some firms struggle to transition leadership successfully. With years of experience advising architecture, engineering, and construction businesses, Phillip shares what separates firms that thrive post-transition from those that flounder.

The little-known factor that makes your firm far more valuable to buyers.
Why waiting too long to plan could cost you more than you realize.
The surprising advantage of a growing trend in firm ownership transitions.
One simple step that can keep top talent from walking away at the worst possible time.

Listen now to ensure your firm's legacy and financial future stay intact.

To learn more about Phillip, visit his:

Website: https://www.anchin.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philliprosscpa/

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/ZUjbOG3MruHcbdfCGeI-WM623ZM?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!

618: Why Architects Are the Perfect Developers with Charlie Kaplan of Gluck+ Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

What if architects didn't have to rely on developers to bring their designs to life? In this episode, Rion Willard sits down with Charlie Kaplan, principal at Gluck+, to explore a unique business model that gives architects more control, creativity, and financial upside. They discuss how their firm blurs the lines between architect, builder, and developer, leading to incredible efficiencies and design freedom.

Charlie shares the origins of this approach, from early hands-on projects to scaling up to multimillion-dollar developments. He reveals the key mindset shift architects must make to succeed in this space and the unexpected ways this model benefits not just the firm but also clients and communities. If you've ever dreamed of taking full control of your projects, this conversation will change the way you think about architecture and business.

How a simple shift can prevent budget disasters before they happen
Why some architects fail when they try to take on development—and how to avoid their mistakes
The overlooked skill architects already have that makes them great builders
A surprising real estate opportunity hiding in plain sight

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/WNms8Gjm5fNT2pcHyG_8lmJhULg?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!

Behind the Scenes of a Top Design Firm Feb 21, 2025

Show notes

Hey architecture fans! This week we're giving you a sneak peek at our upcoming film about Brooks & Scarpa, and it's unlike any architecture story you've heard before. No glossy magazine feature here - just raw honesty about what it really takes to build a powerhouse design firm.

From Larry's early days helping his immigrant dad with construction to Angela's mission to transform cities, this power couple shares it all - including why they sometimes have to keep Larry away from construction sites!

Join us for this candid look at the creative breakthroughs, near-disasters, and everything in between that shaped one of LA's most innovative architecture firms.

Length: 90 seconds

Category: Architecture & Design

Series: Storylines of Design

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