EntreArchitect Podcast with Mark R. LePage

Latest Episodes:

EA575: Julie Flattery - Preparing Architecture Proposals That Win Aug 23, 2024

Show notes

Preparing Architecture Proposals That Win

In this episode, we sit down with Julie Flattery, a marketing and PR expert with a lifelong passion for architecture. Growing up with an architect father, Julie learned early on how the spaces we inhabit shape our emotions and well-being. With over 30 years of experience, she’s honed her craft in helping AEC firms stand out and win business through compelling proposals.

Julie, the owner of Julie Flattery Company and co-owner of Deconstructed Workshops, delves into the art of proposal creation for architects, engineers, and contractors. She shares insights on how to weave storytelling into proposals to resonate with clients and secure projects. Tune in to hear her journey, the strategies that have led to her success, and tips on preparing architecture proposals that win.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Preparing Architecture Proposals That Win with Julie Flattery.

Connect with Julie online at Deconstructed Workshops, and find her on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Go to Betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit https://ARCAT.com to learn more.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA574: Emma Tessler - Which Social Media Platform is Best for Architects? Aug 16, 2024

Show notes

Which Social Media Platform is Best for Architects?

In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Emma Tessler, the dynamic Founder and CEO of Ninety Five Media. With over eight years of experience in digital marketing, Emma has built a reputation for crafting results-driven strategies that connect brands with their ideal clients. Today, she dives into the unique challenges and opportunities architects face in the social media landscape.

Emma shares her expertise on the importance of understanding audience preferences and how to leverage analytics to create compelling and strategic content. She explores the benefits and drawbacks of popular platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter) for architects. Throughout the conversation, Emma emphasizes the need to focus on efficiency, smart scheduling, and active engagement to maximize the potential of each platform.

If you’re an architect looking to expand your online presence, Emma’s insights offer valuable guidance on how to drive better business outcomes through social media.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Which Social Media Platform is Best for Architects? with Emma Tessler.

Connect with Emma online at Ninety Five Media, check out her podcast, and (of course) find her on Instagram and LinkedIn. Website:

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA573: Mark Wald - Good Business Decisions Start with Actionable Data Aug 09, 2024

Show notes

Good Business Decisions Start with Actionable Data

In this episode, Mark Wald—a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and consulting CFO—takes listeners on a journey through the power of actionable data in making smarter business decisions. With roots in Silicon Valley and a passion for efficiency, Mark has spent over a decade building, investing in, and advising startups across a wide range of industries. As the founder of Supercharger, a finance and accounting leadership company, Mark helps small businesses and startups operate like enterprises by leveraging data-driven strategies.

From successful exits to learning from failures, Mark's diverse experience includes co-founding a SaaS company, launching a subscription box business, and serving as a board member and advisor to numerous startups. In addition to his day job, he volunteers as a mentor, serves as Treasurer for the Los Angeles Venture Association and Women Founders Network Foundation, and explores the world of crypto.

Tune in to learn how setting the right expectations with clients and harnessing the power of data can transform your business into a well-oiled machine.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Good Business Decisions Start with Actionable Data with Mark Wald.

Connect with Mark online at SPRCHRGR, and find him on LinkedIn.

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

Special Presentation: Gābl Media Mixer Aug 06, 2024

Show notes

Special Presentation: Gābl Media Mixer

Join us for a special episode recorded live at the first-ever Gābl Media Mixer, held during the 2024 AIA Conference on Architecture in Washington, DC! With over 100 attendees, including members of the EntreArchitect community and loyal Gābl Media podcast listeners, this event was a vibrant celebration of architecture and community.

Hosts from popular podcasts like Spaces, She Builds, Context and Clarity, and EntreArchitect came together to record live episodes, sharing insights and experiences from the conference. This episode delves into a variety of topics, including highlights from the expo floor, the conference atmosphere, and even the weather. They also share personal anecdotes and discuss the significance of the supportive EntreArchitect community. Plus, they give a sneak peek into the upcoming EntreArchitect Community Annual Meeting in Nashville, encouraging small firm architects to join this inspiring and connected group.

Don't miss this engaging and informative episode, filled with great conversations and a strong sense of community!

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Special Presentation: Gābl Media Mixer.

Please visit Our Sponsors

Access free BIM, CAD details, and CSI specifications. Streamline your construction and design process with our comprehensive, easy-to-use tools. Visit ARCAT now for efficient and effective building solutions!

Zweig Group is the number one advocate and trusted partner for top AEC firm leaders. Learn more about these leaders in driving performance and purpose for the AEC industry.

Experience the ease of Construction Administration with a free demo of Part3.

Get instant access to critical business resources, simple system templates, live monthly expert training and a supportive community of small firm entrepreneur architects with EntreArchitect membership.

Join us for The EntreArchitect Community Annual Meeting from October 23 to 25, 2024, in vibrant Nashville, Tennessee; the ultimate “offsite retreat” designed specifically for architect business owners and small firm leaders. This exclusive event offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the past year’s achievements and set crucial objectives for the future.

Get the latest updates on new resources, original content, and high-value insights from our network of architects and other AEC professionals with a Gābl Membership.

SPACES podcast aims to elevate the appreciation for and understanding of how our spaces are evolving.

She Builds is a podcast about women in the design and construction industry throughout history. On it you will hear stories of the life, work, struggles, and achievements of women architects.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA572: Je’Nen Chastain - Guiding Architects Through The Process of Change Aug 02, 2024

Show notes

Guiding Architects Through The Process of Change

In this episode, Je’Nen Chastain, founder of Apostrophe Consulting, shares her journey from architecture school to a consulting career in the Bay Area, where she discovered her passion for business strategy. With a focus on people-first approaches, she helps firms transition to better models and practices, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, questioning assumptions, and creating space for innovation.

As a business strategy consultant and entrepreneur, Je’Nen launched Apostrophe Consulting in 2019 and has since worked with growth-minded AEC leaders across the US. Her expertise in practice management helps clients win more work, build a culture of leadership and trust, and develop emerging leaders.

In 2020, Je’Nen co-created the podcast "Practice Disrupted" under the Gabl Media network, where she explored the evolution of architectural practice with industry thought leaders. With over 140 episodes and 200 diverse guests, the podcast has reached over 40,000 unique listeners.

Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of the architectural profession and lead your firm to success.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Guiding Architects Through The Process of Change with Je’Nen Chastain.

Connect with Je'Nen online at Apostrophe.consulting and find her on LinkedIn.

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA571: Altaf Ganihar - The Collaborative Building Design Platform Jul 26, 2024

Show notes

The Collaborative Building Design Platform

Join Altaf Ghanihar, founder of Snaptrude, as he delves into his journey of developing a revolutionary design tool for architects. With a research background in geometry and computer graphics, Altaf contributed to a large-scale national project focused on reconstructing a UNESCO World Heritage site in 3D. This experience exposed him to the outdated tools and workflows of architects from the 80s and 90s, sparking his desire to assist. Initially creating plugins to address specific workflow needs, Altaf realized that these were mere band-aids for a much larger issue. Over a decade, it became clear that the entire design ecosystem needed an overhaul.

In this podcast, Altaf shares the story behind Snaptrude, a tool that combines the simplicity of SketchUp with the power of BIM. Discover how Snaptrude aims to connect people, data, and tools in a cloud-first environment, creating a single source of truth for design software. Altaf explores the future of design tools, emphasizing collaborative and intelligent design mechanisms and the integration of code analysis and regulations. Tune in to learn how Snaptrude is set to transform the architecture and design industry.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Collaborative Building Design Platform with Altaf Ganihar.

Connect with Altaf online at Snaptrude, and find him on LinkedIn.

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

As an architect or firm owner, you might find yourself swamped with drawings that take up most of your day, leaving you with little time to manage your business. MGS Global Group can lighten your load by handling all your drafting and rendering needs! Visit MGSGlobalGroup.com and book your free consultation today.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA570: Scott Specht - The Windowless Home Jul 19, 2024

Show notes

The Windowless Home

Join Mark as he sits down with Scott Specht, the founding partner of Specht Novak, who brings over 30 years of experience in designing and managing institutional, commercial, and residential projects. Before establishing Specht Novak (formerly Specht Architects), Scott honed his skills as a senior designer at Studio Daniel Libeskind, where he contributed to the winning New York World Trade Center master planning proposal.

In this episode, Scott delves into the significance of experimental projects in architecture and how they have influenced his practice. He shares insights from his latest venture, the Next American House—a groundbreaking windowless house design that uses internal courtyards for natural illumination. Scott explains the innovative concept behind this project and its potential as a prototype for future developments. He also emphasizes the importance of documenting and promoting experimental projects to gain recognition and enhance business growth.

Scott’s independent design work has been showcased in prominent exhibitions, including two SoHo gallery shows, Yale University, the Van Alen Institute, the Municipal Art Society of New York, The University of Texas at Austin, and the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. Additionally, he has shared his expertise as a featured TEDx speaker and co-authored the book "Coffee Lids" for Princeton Architectural Press.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Windowless Home with Scott Specht.

Connect with Scott online at Specht Novak, and find him on LinkedIn.

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA569: Steve Griggs - The Secret to Happy Clients Jul 12, 2024

Show notes

The Secret to Happy Clients

Join Steve Griggs, New York's premier landscape designer, on a journey through the world of landscape design and client satisfaction. In this episode, Steve shares his insights and experiences on keeping even the most demanding clients happy. Discover the importance of hard work, honesty, and taking extreme ownership of projects.

Steve emphasizes the power of handling crises head-on and the significance of referrals and word-of-mouth marketing in growing his business. Learn why architects need to follow through on their promises and take full responsibility for their projects.

Steve's approach is unique—he collaborates closely with clients to understand their visions and transform ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary masterpieces. With a portfolio that includes lush gardens, waterfalls, swimming pools, and outdoor chef kitchens, Steve continues to redefine outdoor living.

Whether you're a homeowner, a designer, or simply an enthusiast, tune in for expert advice on creating happy clients and stunning outdoor spaces.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Secret to Happy Clients with Steve Griggs.

Connect with Steve online at Steve Griggs Design, and find him on LinkedIn.

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA568: Ryan Sullivan - Financial Planning for Architects Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

Financial Planning for Architects

In this episode, Mark sits down with Ryan Sullivan, PE, the founder and lead financial planner of Off the Beaten Path Financial. Ryan's unique journey from mechanical engineer to financial planner equips him with a distinct perspective on managing finances in the architecture industry.

Ryan shares his insights on the critical importance of understanding how money works and the necessity for architects to educate themselves on personal finance. He emphasizes the need to find trusted advisors who prioritize their clients' best interests. Throughout the discussion, Ryan highlights the significance of creating effective systems to manage cash flow and differentiating between variable and fixed expenses.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on planning for the future and building a business that can be either sold or passed on. With a strong belief that cash flow is the cornerstone of financial stability, Ryan helps architects ensure their money aligns with their values, providing peace of mind, financial clarity, and better decision-making.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Financial Planning for Architects with Ryan Sullivan.

Connect with Ryan online at OBP Financial, subscribe to his newsletter, and find him on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault

EA567: Ray Brown - Business Foundations for Architects Jun 28, 2024

Show notes

Business Foundations for Architects

Join Ray Brown, an experienced business coach and entrepreneur, as he delves into the essential business fundamentals that architects need to master. In this podcast, Ray breaks through the myth that architects aren't trained in business, offering insights on how to specialize, systematize, and scale architectural practices for success.

Discover the importance of strategic monthly board meetings, understand the crucial difference between cash and profit, and learn how to build a profitable, sustainable business without compromising on design standards. With a background in coaching startups, major banks, and top executives, Ray brings his expertise to the world of architecture through Archibiz, an educational platform tailored for ambitious architects.

Tune in to transform your practice with actionable business strategies and expert guidance.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Business Foundations for Architects with Ray Brown.

Connect with Ray online at Archibiz, check out the courses, and find him on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Referenced in this Episode

EA444: Ray Brown – Business Coaching for Architects

Please visit Our Platform Sponsors

Go to https://betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Mentioned in this episode:

Design Vault