• From Burnout to Balance: How CoXist Studio Transformed Their Practice and Profits | EP649
    Aug 25 2025

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

    Frank and Megan Lin didn’t set out to build a high-profit, award-winning firm. For years, they worked late, chased too many projects, and tried to out-hustle their burnout. Then something happened that changed the entire direction of their practice—and their lives.

    In this episode, they share what it really took to stop grinding and start growing. You’ll hear how they created freedom without sacrificing design, and how they reconnected with their deeper purpose through the business itself. If you’ve ever wondered whether building a thriving firm means giving up your life, this episode is for you.

    Here’s a taste of what you’ll discover:

    • The hiring ritual that saved their culture—and helped eliminate expensive missteps
    • The one mindset shift that turned a draining practice into a design-led enterprise
    • Why most architects stay broke (and the invisible belief keeping them stuck)

    This is one of the most honest, inspiring conversations we’ve had. Don’t miss it.

    To learn more about Frank & Megan, visit their website: https://www.coxiststudio.com/

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    59 mins
  • How Smarter Systems Are Transforming Firm Profitability | EP648
    Aug 18 2025

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

    In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Robert Yuen, CEO of Monograph, to explore how architecture firms can stop running in survival mode and start operating with clarity, cash flow, and confidence. Robert shares insights from Monograph’s latest benchmarking report—revealing what separates the high-performing firms from the rest. You'll hear how new tools and mindsets are helping firm owners shift away from outdated habits that keep them stuck.

    They dive into the quiet killers of profit most architects overlook, and why your billing method might be the reason you're still underpaid. Plus, Robert opens up about the one decision Monograph made that’s quietly revolutionizing how small studios grow. If you’re feeling squeezed by project chaos or cash droughts, this conversation will make you rethink what’s possible.

    Listen to discover:

    • The surprising billing switch that makes firms instantly more profitable
    • A simple habit that separates thriving studios from struggling ones
    • Why some architects earn twice as much—with fewer projects

    Ready to listen?

    To learn more about Robert, visit his website: https://robertyuen.com/

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • How to Track Time, Set Profitable Fees, and Grow with Confidence | EP647
    Aug 11 2025

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

    In this episode of Business of Architecture, host Rion Willard sits down with Mike Linn, the fractional CFO behind some of the most financially secure architecture firms today. They explore why most architects unknowingly sabotage their own profit — and how to fix it without becoming a “numbers person.” If you’ve ever felt stressed about cash flow or unsure about when to hire, this episode will speak directly to you.

    Mike shares the mindset shift that turns messy financials into a tool for freedom, not frustration. He explains how simple changes in how you track time and plan ahead can radically improve the health of your firm. And you’ll hear how real firms are using these tools to confidently grow and reclaim their time.

    You’ll discover:

    • The silent profit leak hiding inside 90% of firms
    • A smarter way to hire — even when cash is tight
    • The real reason your invoicing feels chaotic (and how to fix it fast)

    To get in contact with Mike directly, send him an email at Mike@businessofarchitecture.com

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    58 mins
  • Growing a Multi-Generational Architecture Firm with Vision, Culture, and Grit | EP646
    Aug 4 2025

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

    Running a successful architecture firm for decades is no small feat—especially when it spans three generations. In this heartwarming and high-energy episode, Scott Spector of Spectorgroup shares the story of how his father built a practice that shaped the skyline of Long Island—and how Scott expanded its reach into Manhattan and beyond. The conversation dives into culture, legacy, and what it really takes to build a firm that thrives across time.

    From stories of “visiting dad’s dirt” to lessons learned in lacrosse and leadership, Scott reveals the hidden ingredients that fuel sustainable growth. You’ll hear how he hires with intention, energizes his teams, and strikes the elusive balance between creativity and accountability. It’s a masterclass in positive leadership—with just enough grit.

    • The unusual team system that unlocked surprising productivity
    • How to grow a firm without killing your creativity—or your culture
    • Why this firm says "no" to cookie-cutter hires—and how it pays off

    To learn more about Scott, visit his website: https://www.spectorgroup.com/

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    56 mins
  • Choosing an Entity Structure and Paying Less Taxes | EP645
    Jul 28 2025

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

    Most architecture firm owners don’t realize how much money they’re leaving on the table. In this episode, financial experts Tal and Rachel Richards, CPA, reveal some of the most common — and costly — mistakes architects make when it comes to taxes. They also offer powerful insights on how to build long-term wealth with the income you’re already earning.

    Whether you’re just starting out or have a small team, this conversation will change how you think about profit, planning, and even partnerships. Enoch guides the discussion toward real-world scenarios so you can apply these lessons today. But be warned — what you don’t know might already be hurting you.

    In this episode, you’ll discover:

    • A legal setup most architects choose — and why it could quietly wreck your margins
    • The surprising place many firm owners hide thousands (without knowing it)
    • How smart architects turn business income into tax-free personal wealth

    Tune in — your future self will thank you.

    To learn more about Tal & Rachel, visit their website: https://www.joingelt.com/

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    40 mins
  • Digital Marketing Strategies for Architects: SEO, Branding, and Getting Found Online | EP644
    Jul 21 2025

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

    In this episode of Business of Architecture, we dive into a sharp, honest conversation with Elias Christeas, founder of Lighthouse Digital Marketing, about what really works—and what doesn’t—when architects try to grow their firms online. From digital visibility to long-term reputation, Elias pulls back the curtain on common traps and powerful strategies architects often overlook. Whether you're fighting to stand out in a crowded market or dreaming of building a lasting legacy, this episode offers an eye-opening perspective.

    Elias shares stories from the field, busts a few myths, and reveals how to pivot marketing tactics to match your goals—and your personality. Don’t be surprised if you start rethinking your entire website before the show ends.

    • The surprising website mistake that’s costing you leads, without you realizing it.
    • Why most SEO strategies fail before they even begin.
    • What elite firms do after they stop chasing clients.

    To learn more about Elias, visit his website: https://lighthouse-digitalmarketing.com/

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    55 mins
  • How to Prepare Your Architecture Firm for a Successful Ownership Transition | EP643
    Jul 14 2025

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

    What really happens when it’s time to step back from your architecture firm? In this eye-opening episode, Enoch Sears and Ryan break down the hidden traps and quiet wins that make or break firm transitions. If you think a buyout or equity plan is all it takes, think again.

    This isn’t just about handing over the reins—it’s about what really drives a thriving business when you're no longer in the driver's seat. You'll hear behind-the-scenes stories of success, failure, and everything in between. Some will hit a little too close to home.

    Whether you're five years in or ready to exit, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, trust, and legacy.

    • The silent killer inside most transition plans (and how to see it coming)
    • Why your identity might be the biggest threat to your firm’s future
    • The one overlooked factor that separates firm freedom from firm failure
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    48 mins
  • SmithGroup: Leading with Vision, Legacy, and Values | EP 642
    Jul 7 2025

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

    What does it take to lead one of the oldest architecture firms in America—and keep it thriving? In this episode, Troy Thompson and Roxanne Malek pull back the curtain on how legacy, leadership, and long-term thinking come together inside SmithGroup. But don’t expect the usual corporate jargon—this is a rare look into the mindset behind real, lasting success.

    From navigating ambiguity to balancing profit and purpose, they share lessons learned from decades of growth. You’ll hear how they make bold decisions without losing their soul—or their sanity. And why true leadership in architecture today means designing much more than buildings.

    Listen now to discover:

    • The one trait no architecture school teaches—but every top leader needs
    • Why "more money" isn’t the real goal (and what actually is)
    • How to scale a firm without becoming a soulless machine

    This episode will challenge how you see success—and how you lead.

    To learn more about Roxanne & Troy, visit their:

    Website: www.smithgroup.com

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    1 hr and 1 min