Business of Architecture Podcast

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework
Most architects fear that free work devalues their profession. But what if there was a way to offer pro bono design without losing money—and even turn it into projects that fuel your practice?
In this episode, Enoch Sears speaks with Chris Bryant, founding director of Alma-Nac. Together, they explore a bold approach that mixes generosity with business sense and how it has led to opportunities that would never have appeared otherwise.
Chris shares lessons from the early days of "free architecture" to a structured model that now supports communities, wins trust, and even sparks funding. Along the way, you'll hear stories of risk, trial, and surprising payoffs.
In this episode, you'll discover:
The overlooked move that turned "free" sketches into serious work.
Why a simple outreach strategy was harder than expected—but worth it.
How one pro bono project unlocked resources beyond anyone's guess.
To learn more about Chris, visit their website: alma-nac.com

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework
This episode drops you into a live AIA New York "Risk" event, where architects, developers, and legal experts get brutally honest about what it really takes to build in today's world. You'll hear how risk actually moves through a project, and why the current system keeps architects stuck at the bottom of the food chain.
The panel shares real stories of projects that almost died, then turned around when someone was willing to take on a different kind of risk. You'll also hear how some architects stepped into development, pricing, and early strategy without blowing up their careers.
If you've ever felt like "just a consultant," this conversation will hit home.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
The moment one firm realized their "safe" approach was the real danger
How a risky first project became the seed for a whole company
A simple shift that helped architects stop racing to the bottom on fees

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 Dominic McAndrew, Head of Architecture and Design at CBRE Design Collective for the UK and Ireland. What's it like to run a high-performing design team inside one of the world's largest real estate companies? Dominic shares a rare behind-the-scenes look at how he's growing a profitable practice—without following the traditional path of starting his own firm.
You'll hear how his team doubled revenue, secured a more diverse client mix, and gained leadership traction—all while staying embedded within a global corporate machine. But this isn't about selling out. It's about showing up differently, playing smarter, and tapping into a deeper well of opportunity most architects miss.
Tune in to discover:
Why being small inside something big might be your best bet
The one internal shift that sparked team-wide growth
How to lead with value—even when the client holds all the cards
To learn more about Dominic, visit his website: https://www.cbre.com/services/design-and-build/design

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework
Michele Grace Hottel sits down with Enoch Sears, founder of Business of Architecture, for a talk on what practice ownership can quietly take from you—and how it doesn't have to. Enoch shares stories from behind the "awards and accolades" and points to the hidden patterns that keep firm owners stuck, even when they love the work.
From a hard truth an accountant once delivered, to why outside coaches can change the game, the conversation moves from money to meaning without turning into a lecture. They also wander through early architectural memories, a few iconic buildings, and a view of how architects could shape the next era of communities.
The "one sentence" an accountant said that made a successful architect rethink everything.
The unexpected reason Enoch says most firms stay trapped—even when they're busy.
A small habit from studio days that reveals a bigger advantage most people miss.
To learn more about Michele, visit her website: https://www.mgharchitect.com/

End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework
What happens when AI meets the business of architecture? In this episode, Rion sits down with Dr. Sam Zolfagharian—co-founder of YegaTech—to explore how AI is reshaping the AEC industry. Sam shares insights from years of experience in structural engineering, construction tech, and leading-edge AI.
But this isn't just about tools and tech. It's about mindset, risk, and what happens when firms approach AI the wrong way. Sam unpacks how small firms can gain a huge edge—without chasing every shiny new tool.
You'll also hear why AI isn't here to replace architects—but it will change who thrives and who gets left behind.
In this episode, you'll discover:
The most dangerous question firms ask when starting their AI journey
How one engineer cloned herself—and why your next hire might not be human
The quiet revolution happening inside clients' minds (and how it could change your fee structure forever)
To learn more about Sam, visit her website: https://yegatech.com/